Tour the beautiful green spaces, buzzing theatre district and professional sports arenas nestled beneath a dramatic cityscape of gleaming skyscrapers.

Visitors to the Bayou City flock to Downtown Houston for its varied mix of urban parks and art, culinary delights and performing arts attractions. Discover historic landmarks, museums and theatres set along walkable streets in this 400-square-block neighbourhood. Cheer on some of Texas’ biggest sports teams in Downtown Houston.

The area’s parks present opportunities for both relaxation and recreation. Riverfront Allen’s Landing Park is where the city was founded. Discovery Green has kayaking, live music, public art and seasonal ice-skating. Relax at the grassy lawns and pools of Tranquility Park and follow the wide promenade of Sesquicentennial Park along the Buffalo Bayou. At Sam Houston Park, The Heritage Society has a collection of 19th-century houses.

If sports are high on the agenda, watch a Houston Astros baseball game at Minute Maid Park. The Houston Rockets play NBA basketball at the Toyota Centre. Spot sharks and other sea life at Downtown Aquarium and browse exhibits on law enforcement at Houston Police Museum. Experience the city’s spiritual life at the 180-year-old Christ Church Cathedral.

Live entertainment abounds in the Houston Theatre District. Among its many venues are the Alley Theatre, Jones Hall for the Performing Arts and the Hobby Centre for the Performing Arts. Attend performances by the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera at the Wortham Theatre Centre. Watch concerts and stand-up comedy at Revention Music Centre.

Houston’s culinary scene features hundreds of dining locations, which range from hole-in-the-wall barbecue joints to Michelin-star restaurants. Find many set around Market Square Park. La Carafe occupies the city’s oldest commercial property and is said to be haunted. Delight in dozens of food, retail and nightlife options at GreenStreet mall.

Many of Downtown Houston’s attractions are within a short walk of the city’s extensive light rail system. Escape the heat and showers by using the Downtown Houston Tunnel System. This 6-mile-long (10-kilometre) system of subterranean walkways links 95 city blocks. Take time to enjoy the food courts and retail outlets along the tunnels.