University Place - Houston, TX Area Guide

Part of West University, this area formed as a portion of Rice University. Developed in 1917, the streets are named after literary greats, such as Chaucer and Shakespeare. No cultural shifts have occurred here, as the area has always attracted largely the same residents throughout its existence.

The Museum District lies right next to University. Within the boundaries of the neighborhood lies The Contemporary Arts Museum, which focuses its efforts on presenting contemporary art to the public. Featuring exhibits from local and international artists, this museum has events for students, families and educators. Other local museums include The Museum of Natural Science, The Museum of Fine Arts and The Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts.

Find an assortment of restaurants along the streets of University Place. Choose from fine or casual dining, including Chinese, Italian, American and Southern comfort food options. With so many choices, deciding on a restaurant for the evening may be one of the most difficult tasks for residents of this neighborhood.

Make a point to stop by Little Bigs, and try a hot dog slider with cheese fries and a vanilla shake. Located on Montrose Boulevard close to Highway 59, this eatery received accolades as one of the best new burger restaurants by Bon Apetite Magazine. Little Bigs also serves frozen alcoholic beverages and wine.

Try the Sunday Blues Brunch at Danton's Gulf Coast Seafood, or visit during lunch or dinner. This family friendly establishment has reasonably priced entrées. Indulge in the blackened catfish enchiladas or stuffed redfish for a real treat, or keep it simple by ordering a grilled chicken sandwich.

Be sure to head to Morningside Drive and stop at Punk's Simple Southern Food. Order shrimp and grits or seafood poboy for a taste of the gulf. The Houston Chronicle named the joint as one of the best fried chicken restaurants in Houston thanks to its famous fried chicken. Every dish comes with a hearty side of Southern hospitality. Two other local gems include The Raven Grill and Antica Osteria.

The hip and trendy nightlife scene attracts local university students and young professionals alike. Open daily until 2 a.m., The Ginger Man has more than 100 beers from which to choose. The bar hosts regular events, including live music nights that feature local bands. Grand Prize Bar typically hosts a younger, more casual crowd, and it also has a vast selection of craft beers. Kelvin Arms, Houston's only Scottish bar, has a large selection of beer, whiskey and scotch to enjoy on the large patio.

Most residents drive to get around, but considering the close proximity to the university, several pedestrians can be found throughout the streets as well. Sidewalks make walking convenient, and biking lanes make the streets safer for those getting around on bicycles.

Uber operates in the area, and cabs can be hailed as well for those looking to grab one on the go. Cabs can be found near bars and clubs on weekends and evenings, but the most convenient method would be calling and scheduling a pick up.

Public parking on the streets does come at a fee in some parts of the neighborhood, but other locations offer it free of charge. Most establishments have huge parking lots and valet, with rates that depend on the length of time ranging from $2 to $10.

Accessing highways easily depends on where you are in the area, but Highway 59 and 288 surround the entire neighborhood, allowing residents quick interstate access.

Metro bus routes also allow access to downtown and other major parts of the city, and the light rail runs through the city as well. Both options prove to be an affordable method of travel, with day passes available for as low as $7. These passes allow patrons to ride the bus or metro light rail all day and with an unlimited number of transfers.

The Bell Park on Montrose covers 1.15 acres and attracts those who work nearby or museum victors in need of picnic space. This historical park does not have any fees associated and does not host any annual events. Despite this, patrons can enjoy historical features such as statues and a water fountain. Another nearby park is Fleming Park, which has basketball courts, tennis courts and plenty of green space to get in some exercise or just relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.

The University area residents have an average income of $150,000, so they don't necessarily mind that the cost of living soars well over the national average by more than 100 points and sits at almost twice the rate of Houston.

One-bedroom apartment prices range from $1,200 to $1,500, with the median rent coming in at around $1,375. Getting to the city costs between $2 to $4 via Metro bus or light rail, but those who prefer to drive will be pleased to note that gas prices actually come in around 5 percent lower than the national average. A beer costs between $2 to $4, averaging around $3 and sometimes less in the event of a happy hour special.

Major shopping areas in Houston include the Galleria, but a closer option would be the shops in Rice Village. Home to stores such as Urban Outfitters and Hemline, this outdoor shopping center attracts hundreds of guests every weekend.

Located on Kelvin Drive, Grace Anna's Boutique has chic and edgy clothing for the sophisticated woman. Browse through the colored jeans, swanky tops and blouses, and choose from various trinkets for the home, such as jewelry holsters and signage.

The Class Room possesses men's clothing and accessories for the stylish male. Known for its modernity and efforts to educate men on style, this store has designers such as 3SIXTEEN and Bellroy. Grab a nice pair of loafers and socks to show off in.

Local grocery options include Whole Foods, Randall's, and Kroger. Residents also enjoy the Houston's Farmers' Market at Rice University, which opens on Tuesdays. This market hosts vendors such as Brenham's Kitchen, which sells nuts and fruits, and Juice Girl, a mobile smoothie and juice bar.