Overview

Art and medicine join forces to make up the Museum & Medical Districts within Houston’s Inner Loop. This hub, located just Southwest of Downtown, is known for its cutting-edge innovation as much as its eclectic real estate – contemporary townhomes and pert bungalows thrive right alongside traditional garden homes in this culturally rich area.

History

In 1945, a businessman with a vision put down roots and a simple $1,000 check to start what is known today as the Texas Medical Center – the largest medical center on Earth. More heart surgeries are performed in this area than anywhere else in the world and its medical institutions have continued to expand just as progressively as its museum counterpart.

Schools

Schools in this area are zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD). A standout favorite of residents in the area is Poe Elementary School, which offers bilingual programs and a magnet program to cultivate students’ fine arts skills.

Shopping

Rice Village

A direct neighbor of the Medical & Museum Districts is West University, widely loved for Rice Village District shopping center. This open-air mall, sandwiched between Kirby Drive and Morningside Drive, provides over 35 popular retail stores to meet shoppers’ needs, like J. Crew, Kendra Scott, and Athleta. 

Eat and Drink

It’s easy to pop in for a bite in Rice Village District. Residents can choose a trendy burger from Hopdoddy’s or a beef kabob platter at localvore favorite, Istanbul Grill. Bar options are also packed into this area, turning it into a mini Main Street after hours with neighborhood staple like Little Woodrow’s and The Gingerman. 

Recreation

Hermann Park

Spanning over 400 acres is Hermann Park, the most visited public park in the city. Residents can choose from an array of attractions within this sprawling green space like The Houston Zoo, the Japanese tea garden near the reflection pool, and Miller Outdoor theatre. In addition, the Hermann Park Conservancy exists to upkeep and protect this beloved park through high-scale renovation projects.

Museums

More than 20 museums of all styles and sizes in this district allows it to take full title as the cultural hub of Houston. Anchoring the scene is the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. This establishment is known as one of the largest museums in America, boasting around 64,000 pieces of artwork from six continents.  In addition to full-scale museums, residents also enjoy more intimate galleries like the cozy Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and the spiritual Jung Center.