5 Things I Learned About Houston During My Rodeo Trip

Houston isn’t just a city—it’s an experience. I’ve known this for a while though. My older sister, Terri, was born there. She and my parents lived there for a couple of years before they moved to Mississippi and I was born. I spent a lot of time in Houston as a kid and as an adult in my travels. But it had been decades since I went to the BIGGEST rodeo in the world, there in the city.

During my trip to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, I thought I knew what to expect: cowboy hats, live music, and a whole lot of barbecue. And while I did find all of that (in true Texas-sized fashion), I also uncovered a Houston that’s dynamic, diverse, and full of surprises.

Here are five things I learned about the city that make it a must-visit—not just during rodeo season, but year-round.

1. The Rodeo is a Cultural Melting Pot, Just Like the City

Houston’s rodeo isn’t just about bull riding and deep-fried everything. It’s a reflection of Houston itself—a city where cultures collide in the best way possible. Walking through the NRG grounds, I met trail riders who’ve been making the trek for generations, sampled Houston-established rodeo drinks, and even stumbled upon a Zydeco stage that felt like a nod to Houston’s deep Louisiana ties. The rodeo may be rooted in Texas tradition, but its heart beats with the rhythm of Houston’s diversity.

In a behind-the-scenes conversation with Dwight Boykins, former Houston City Commissioner and one of the few Black board members of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, I gained a deeper appreciation for just how impactful this event is. Boykins shared the rodeo’s rich history and its staggering contributions—over $600 million raised for Texas youth agricultural education. But beyond the numbers, he emphasized the vital role of Black cowboys, calling them the very heartbeat of cowboy culture not just in Texas, but across the Southeast U.S. His insights reinforced a powerful truth: the rodeo isn’t just preserving history; it’s ensuring that future generations know the legacy of Black excellence in Western heritage.

2. Barbecue is an Art Form—And Houston is the Louvre

Sure, Texas is known for barbecue, but Houston takes it to another level. I went in thinking I’d find the usual brisket-and-ribs combo, but instead, I found a city redefining what it means to cook with smoke and fire.

Nowhere is that more evident than at Lucille’s, the award-winning restaurant helmed by Chef Chris Williams. Chef Chris, who has made it his mission to blend Southern tradition with global influences, gave me a personal tour of his restaurant, garden, and property—the land he and his brother proudly own.

He squeezed me in for a coveted Sunday brunch, where I indulged in a massive piece of perfectly fried catfish alongside croissant French toast and a perfectly sweet Bellini.

Brunch at Lucille’s in Houston’s Third Ward is a must. Chef Williams recenlty recived a Michelen nod for his ingenious pallete and culinary talent.

Over a massive Bloody Mary in a quick chef’s cheers, Chris dove deep into stories of his culinary journey, his dedication to giving back, and the deep Houston roots that shape his cooking.

Then, in true Houston hustle fashion, he rushed off—not to another restaurant, but to tend to his barbecue pit at home. Because in this city, food isn’t just something you eat. It’s something you live.

3. Cowboy Culture is Alive and Well—And It’s for Everybody

Before my trip, I thought cowboy culture was mostly for the die-hard rodeo crowd. Turns out, it’s a way of life that welcomes everyone. At the rodeo, I saw Black cowboys riding with pride, women dominating the barrel racing circuit, and urban cowboys in fresh Air Jordans, blending street style with Western tradition. Even in the city, places like The Ranch Houston offer a chance to ride, rope, and reconnect with the land. Houston’s cowboy culture isn’t stuck in the past—it’s evolving, and everyone has a place in the saddle.

4. The City is Built for Night Owls and Early Risers Alike

I expected long rodeo nights, but I didn’t expect Houston to keep up the energy well beyond the rodeo grounds. After the concerts let out, I found myself bar-hopping at some fun spots like Notsuoh, a multi-level, art filled club. Me and friends brought in daylight savings time at Off The Record where the DJs kept the party going even after they turned the lights on on us.

But Houston doesn’t just cater to the night crowd. The next morning, I was up semi-early for a rooftop Pilates class with SYNCD, a Black-owned boutique Pilates studio. The class was held at the popular food hall Post Hoston, where they host regular Pilates pop-ups throughout the year.

5. Houston’s Hospitality is as Big as Texas Itself

If there’s one thing I’ll never forget, it’s how Houston shows up for its visitors. The Visit Houston team made sure I experienced the city like a local and co-curated a 4-day stay in the city.

Me at my first day of Houston Livestock & Rodeo

I was greeted by strangers who offered up their best rodeo tips (like, “Never wear new boots to the rodeo”), and I felt welcomed at every turn. Houston doesn’t just invite you in—it makes sure you never want to leave.

This unforgettable trip was made possible by the incredible team at Visit Houston, who curated an experience that went far beyond the rodeo. From exclusive culinary deep dives to behind-the-scenes moments with some of the city’s most influential tastemakers, every detail was thoughtfully planned to showcase the very best of H-Town. Their unmatched hospitality, insider access, and deep love for their city made this #Hosted adventure one for the books. If Houston wasn’t already on your travel list, consider this your sign to pack your bags—because this city is full of surprises, and Visit Houston knows exactly how to reveal them.

Here’s my final Thoughts: More Than Just a Rodeo Town

Houston is many things—bold, diverse, unexpected, yet familiar for me as a south Mississippi/New Orleans girl—but above all, it’s a city that knows how to leave an impression. My rodeo trip started as a bucket-list experience, but it ended with a new appreciation for a city that’s full of stories, flavors, and people who make it unforgettable.

And if you’re thinking about making the trip? Trust me—Houston is ready for you.