Know Before You Go: Houston Edition!

Being less than 30 days away from Dream Con, the anticipation for the ultimate weekend is grand! Even more so with having a new home going into its 7th year at George R. Brown Convention Center at one of the biggest cities in the country, Houston, Texas. People know Houston for its food, diverse cultures, and vibrant nightlife. Here is a guide on how to prepare for the Houston scene!

Weather

In case you didn’t know, Houston is built on top of a swamp … somewhat. With that knowledge in tow, it's best to know that you will sweat. A lot. Dress very light and comfortable. Bring a hat to give yourself a bit of shade for the glaring sun and comfortable shoes for the ample amount of walking you will be doing. The convention center is huge! 

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Cosplayers should bring repair tools in case things fall apart because of the heat. Be sure to stay hydrated and rest in your room or the convention center where there is plenty of air conditioning. There could be a chance of rain, so bring an umbrella as well as Houston’s weather is unpredictable, like Clefairy’s metronome ability. 

Food

Houston is greatly known for its vast food choices. Whatever you can think of, Houston has it. A wide variety of dining options are available, including upscale steakhouses, traditional Southern cuisine, contemporary taco restaurants, and innovative Asian fusion restaurants. Many dining establishments, including Grotto, Pappadeaux’s, and The Rustic, are conveniently within walking distance of Avenida Houston, next to the Convention Center. 

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For those seeking a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, our diverse menu caters to all preferences. Oh, and I forgot to mention food trucks that will be outside out the convention center for ease of access. 

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Travel

To get around downtown, Houston’s METRO transit system has the METRORail and buses. In addition, there are readily available scooter rentals and extensive sidewalks which provide for easy downtown Houston traveling. The Convention District boasts convenient access to numerous hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Ample ridesharing like Lyft, Uber and taxi services are available, and parking facilities are dispersed conveniently throughout the area. 

A 30-minute drive from either George Bush Intercontinental or Hobby Airport follows air travel to the venue. But if you’re flying from IAH, you can also take advantage of METRO’s new 500 IAH Downtown Direct, which will take you straight to and from the George R. Brown Convention Center and IAH Terminal C for just $4.50 one way!

Activities

Numerous events and activities are regularly scheduled near the George R. Brown Convention Center. Discovery Green park features a regular schedule of outdoor events, musical performances, and art exhibitions. Among the features of this district are public art, a bustling nightlife, and walkable proximity to Houston's Theater District. Throughout the year, the nearby Toyota Center and Daikin Park host major concerts and sporting events, during which there will also be a series of home games played nearby by the Houston Astros. Go Astros!

Dream Con will be time for you to make plenty of memories for you and your crew. Just be sure to be prepared to not put a damper on those memories and have the best time ever here in Houston, Texas!

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