A stopover in Houston
United's big gateway to Latin America, about 35 minutes by car from downtown.
Last reviewed November 2026.

| Airport to the centre | about 35 min |
| Typical central 3–4★ hotel | ~$150 / night |
| Airline stopover program | None, but split tickets often work |
With 24–48 hours
- Space Center Houston
- The Museum District and the Menil Collection
- Buffalo Bayou Park
Eat: Viet-Cajun crawfish, or Tex-Mex fajitas.
Tips
- Leave big bags at the airport's left-luggage desk or your hotel so you can explore right away.
- With separate tickets, give yourself at least one night between flights.
- Check whether your passport needs a visa or travel authorisation to leave the airport.
Houston stopover: questions
How long does it take to get from the airport into Houston?
About 35 minutes to the centre. United's big gateway to Latin America, about 35 minutes by car from downtown.
How much is a hotel for a Houston stopover?
Plan on roughly $150 a night for a well-reviewed, central 3–4★ hotel. Prices rise with events and peak season, so check the live rate for your dates.
Is there a free stopover program in Houston?
No airline runs a stopover program here, but two separate tickets through Houston often work. Leave at least one night between flights.
What can you do in Houston with 24 hours?
Space Center Houston. The Museum District and the Menil Collection. Buffalo Bayou Park.
What should I eat on a Houston stopover?
Viet-Cajun crawfish, or Tex-Mex fajitas. With one night, make dinner the local meal and keep breakfast near the hotel so you're not rushed back to the airport.
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Houston?
It depends on your passport. Check whether you need a visa or an electronic travel authorisation for USA before you book, and allow time for immigration and security on the way back.
Routes where Houston is on the way
Heading to Houston?
Add where you're flying from and see where you could stop on the way.
Find stopovers on your trip to Houston