The Space City's five-terminal airport serves 23 airlines and has 650 daily departures, as well as being United Airlines' largest hub. Bonus: The airport offers free Wi-Fi.

BEST GUILT-FREE HAPPY HOUR Order a cocktail like the piña mescal, made with freshly squeezed juices, and it's easy to argue that the indulgence is good for your health. At the Fruteria y Botanero in Terminal B, rethink your idea of Mexican food: From the ceviche tostada with creme and guacamole to the seared-tuna sandwich, there's not a gut-bomb in sight. chefjohnnyhernandez.com

BEST PRE-FLIGHT FILL UP Street food might not be top of mind prior to a long flight, but Urban Crave, in Terminal C near gates 29 to 33, offers ingredients as fresh as the menu concepts. The inside-out burgers bury toppings like mushrooms and cheese inside the patty, and the Sonoran "haute" dog is loaded with mayo, mustard, ketchup and salsa verde. craveurbancrave.com

BEST LOCAL OUTFITTER You might not need a Stetson hat at your dive destination, but that doesn't make it any less fun to try them on at Stelzig Ranch, a clothing, boot and accessory store specializing in all things Texas. Choose from two locations, one at Terminal C near security, and the other in Terminal D near D7. stelzigranch.com

EARLIEST DETOUR From Terminal C's south side, you can catch the Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority's bus 102 for the downtown area, home to the Downtown Aquarium and the Lucky Strike bowling alley and lounge, among other attractions. The 27-minute ride costs $1.25. ridemetro.org

BEST VIEW Despite the name, CK's Revolving Rooftop Restaurant doesn't actually revolve, but it does grant views of the surrounding area. Find it in the Marriott Houston Airport, serving Cajun fare including po-boy sandwiches and shrimp etouffe. The lunch buffet offers Texas-size portions – and one of the airport's quiet escapes. marriott.com

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