Houston Historic Walk

Alive with energy and rich in diversity, Houston is a dynamic mix of imagination, talent and first-class attractions that makes it a world-class city. Home to a vibrant economy, beautiful surroundings, and a population full of optimism and spirit, it's no wonder that Houston is a popular international destination. Besides that, Downtown Houston is rich in history, and we invite you to embark the journey with us with this tour application which is designed to be mobile friendly. The Historical Landmarks on Main St. is found on "Landmarks Along Main Street" section. This fun walk which starts at the Heritage Society of Sam Houston Park and proceeds to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Then, you can return to Main Street to discover a comprehensive view of Main Street's landmarks. First stop Heritage Society of Sam Houston Park.

This fun walk which starts at the Heritage Society of Sam Houston Park and proceeds to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Then, you can return to Main Street to discover a comprehensive view of Main Street's landmarks. First stop Heritage Society of Sam Houston Park ..

II. Self-Guided Map Tour of the Houston Downtown District along Texas Avenue to Main Street.

III. The Six Historical Sites along Travis Street (facing Market Square Park, and along the left and right on Travis.

When the founders established the town of Houston in 1836, they centered the town plat at the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou. This resulted in a street grid that ran approximately northeast to southwest. Main Street ran perpendicular to Buffalo Bayou and directly in line with White Oak Bayou. The earliest ships carrying cargo and pioneering residents to Allen's Landing (Allen's Landing Memorial Park) arrived at the foot of Main Street. During the two years Houston served as the capitol of the Republic of Texas, the capitol building stood at Main Street and Texas Ave.

Allen's Landing led to Main Street which was always an anthill of activity. Steamboats parted the bayou as they dock to deliver everything from steel pipes to fresh coffee. At the turn of the century, literally hundreds of Houston manufacturing facilities used the landing on Main Street. Flush with newfound oil wealth, brought Houston's growth with goods that was brought in from all over the world and Houston's ambitious entrepreneurs made the most of them. Soon Main Street was buzzing of trolleys, automobiles, and pedestrians made for a busy thoroughfare. Early activities show rapid development and redevelopment of Main Street near the bayou as the city’s growth and architectural improvements. Histories gather on Main.

Houston History Walk StoryMap by HITS-GIS SERVICES, City of Houston.

Last Update: January 16, 2025

I. Introduction

II. Self-Guided Map Tour of the Houston Downtown District along Texas Avenue to Main Street.

III. The Six Historical Sites along Travis Street (facing Market Square Park, and along the left and left on Travis)

IV. Historical Sites Along Main Street

GIS MapService Layers includes:

• Guided Map Tour
• Web Map of the historical sites at Market Square Park (focus of Travis Street)
• Web Map of the historical sites along the historical Main Street

© 2025. All rights reserved. City of Houston.

We hope that you will find this tour helpful. To learn more about Houston histories, visit the Houston Annexation History map journal at  http://arcg.is/2p4uDIL  , or the Houston Annexation StoryMap at  https://arcg.is/OW5Wz 

For a comprehensive details of HAHC's designated landmarks in Downtown Houston, please visit. Houston Historic Sites & Landmarks -  https://arcg.is/1qH5vL