Westbranch - Houston, TX

Westbranch was established by Homeowners Association Affiliated Capitol Corp in 1976. With the first 70 homes built by Doyle Stuckey Homes in 1978, USHomes added 380 more units by 1980. After USHomes filed for bankruptcy in 1989, Wu Land Developers purchased 164 lots from USHomes, with the remaining lots purchased by Legend Homes. Constant growth defines the community, as residents take great pride in ownership and unity.

Holding annual events such as the Westbranch Community Holiday Party, Community Yard Sale and National Night Out to promote crime prevention, Westbranch brings its residents together.

The San Jacinto Museum and Highway Patrol Museum promote the arts-friendly culture in Westbranch. Located just a short distance away from the neighborhood, they allow residents to better educate themselves on the values, history and sacrifices of those who came before them in the great state of Texas.

In Westbranch, you can treat yourself to a wonderful meal out without having to leave the comfort of your own neighborhood.

Try Tacos la Bala on Gessner Road for an authentic Mexican feast. The small-town, cafe-like atmosphere is perfect for munching on fresh-made, traditional Mexican dishes such as Huevos con Chorizo, Torta de la Barda or the Quesadilla Grande de Harina. Wash it down with an ice-cold bottle of Mexican cerveza. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Tacos la Bala welcomes you any time for your south-of-the-border fix.

If you're in the mood for some down-home BBQ, try Virgie's Bar-B-Que, also on Gessner Road. First opened in 1965 as Virgie's Place by Jessie and Virgie Handsborough, this place was later reopened in 2005 by their son Adrian, who turned it into a BBQ restaurant. With pork and beef slow-cooked to perfection, generous side portions of corn bread and macaroni and cheese, all served in the spirit of Southern hospitality, you'll feel right at home.

For more traditional American fare, visit Burger Tex on Gessner Road. Daily specials and dine-in or take-out options add to the high-quality burgers and outstanding French fries and onion rings. With buns made from scratch and a burger made plain, you get to dress it up any way you like by taking advantage of the restaurant's always fresh condiment bar.

Nightlife near Westbranch can include anything from dancing the night away to relaxing with friends while catching the latest game on TV.

For a laid-back experience, head over to Sporting News Grill on Westway Park Boulevard. Here you'll find tasty pub treats, including sliders and a catfish po' boy sandwich, daily drink specials, a large selection of beers and fine liquors, and 11 high-definition screens to catch your favorite game with your pals. At Sporting News Grill, they treat you like family.

With easy access to Interstate 90 and Interstate 290, getting around Westbranch couldn't be easier.

If you prefer to leave your car at home, several public transportation services provide comfort, ease and reasonable rates. The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County provides commuters with numerous routes, while smart phone users can take advantage of the Uber app to connect with a driver in minutes.

Traveling locally for work or play through beautiful Westbranch is a treat for cyclists thanks to the many designated bike lanes and trails in the area.

Downtown Houston has plenty of public parking available for commuters who wish to find a secure spot for their vehicles, whether all day or just a few hours. If you choose Allright Parking of Texas on Rusk Street, you can expect to pay about $4 per hour.

Westbranch has an expansive park within the community that includes an impressive play structure for kids and those who are young at heart. There, gather together for picnics and BBQs, or a take a leisurely walk with your dog.

Kid- and pet-friendly Bane Park on W Little York Road has something for everyone. The play structures, swing sets, and hiking and biking trails, along with its gorgeous landscape and stunning wide-open spaces, set this park apart from the rest.

Life in Westbranch carries a moderate price for homeowners, with plenty of leasing and rental opportunities available. Renters can expect to pay about $650 for a standard one-bedroom apartment, while luxury one-bedroom apartments cost around $1,100 per month.

A pint of beer at the local pub generally sells for $6, while gas prices typically fall about one percent below the national average. A ride on the metro costs $1.25 to $4.50, with discounted rates available to those who qualify.

With various shopping options available just a few minutes from Westbranch community, you'll have no trouble finding everything you need.

Check out the sales at the trusted name-brand department stores located inside Memorial City Mall before visiting the popular American Girl store, or top off a meal at the Cheesecake Factory with some power skating at the indoor ice rink. When it comes to variety, this mall has something everyone will enjoy.

If boutique shopping is more your speed, try bevello on Town and Country Boulevard. The boutique's personal stylists will have you looking your best in no time with their selection of the latest fashion trends.

During the summer months, a trip to downtown Houston will be worth your while for the city's great selection of farmers' markets. Show your support for the local economy and stock up on fresh, locally grown produce from Spring Branch Farmers Market, and grab an on-the-go meal, prepared with organic ingredients, if you don't feel like cooking but still want to eat healthy.

For your everyday grocery needs, H-E-B on Katy Freeway has what you're looking for, including fine fresh produce, organic food selections, top-quality meats, and a terrific wine and beer selection. For your convenience, H-E-B also has a drugstore and pharmacy inside.