The Galleria area is Houston's premier upscale shopping and dining district, anchored by the Galleria mall - the largest in Texas with 400+ stores including Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

About Houston Galleria / Uptown

The Houston Galleria is the largest shopping center in Texas and the seventh-largest in the United States, a 2.4-million-square-foot complex with over 400 stores, two hotels (Westin and The Post Oak), and a full-size indoor ice rink. Anchored by Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Macy's, it is Houston's ultimate retail destination.

The surrounding Uptown/Galleria district is Houston's most upscale neighborhood, with high-rise luxury condos, fine dining (Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Nobu, Uchi), and a concentrated business district along Post Oak Boulevard and Westheimer Road. The area functions as Houston's second downtown, particularly for oil and gas executives and international business visitors.

Uptown is also the gateway to the affluent River Oaks neighborhood, home to some of Texas' most expensive real estate, and the River Oaks District—an open-air luxury shopping center with Hermès, Tom Ford, and Dior. The Uptown Park mixed-use development adds European-style outdoor dining.

Nearby Landmarks

Houston Galleria River Oaks District Uptown Park Waterwall Park Post Oak Boulevard

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost USD 30-50
Time 25-40 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost USD 22-35
Time 25-40 minutes

Rideshare pickup at terminal ground level

Step-by-Step Directions

1. METRO Bus 102 to downtown. 2. Transfer to Bus 82 Westheimer. 3. Exit at Galleria stop.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi USD 30-50 25-40 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare USD 22-35 25-40 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis and rideshares operate 24/7 from IAH. A nighttime ride to the Galleria costs $35-50. The Galleria closes at 9 PM (8 PM Sunday). Uptown restaurants and bars stay open until 10-11 PM. There is no direct public transit from IAH to the Galleria.

Luggage Tips

Taxis and rideshares handle shopping and travel luggage easily. The Galleria has valet parking but no luggage storage for travelers. Hotels in the area (JW Marriott, Westin Galleria) offer luggage storage for guests.

Accessibility

IAH airport is fully ADA accessible. Rideshares can provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles (request through the app). The Galleria is fully accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms. Uptown's sidewalks along Post Oak are wide and accessible. Wheelchair-accessible taxis should be requested.