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    world-class recognition

    Houston airports soar with first-class awards in international rankings

    Eric Sandler
    Apr 18, 2024 | 4:30 pm
    IAH art car Freddie Mercury

    Houston airports display world-class art.

    Courtesy of Houston Airports

    Houston may be known for its museums, but that’s not the only place to enjoy works of art. Turns out anyone passing through one of the city’s airports should stop and look around a bit.

    During the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards in Frankfurt, the Houston airport system earned several prestigious honors, including a third consecutive five-star rating.

    Skytrax is the leading international air transport rating organization; they determine their ratings based on annual audits of every airport. The awards are based on surveys of airport passengers that were taken between August 2023 and March 2024. Airports do not pay to be included in the survey, a press release notes.

    For the second year in a row, the Houston airport system won Best Airport Art & Entertainment Program. Introduced last year, Houston Airports beat out Mumbai International Airport and Singapore Changi International Airport for the award. As part of its commitment to arts programming, Houston Airports recently partnered with the Orange Show to feature an art car at each airport.

    "Houston Airports is dedicated to creating a 5-Star global air service gateway that celebrates the magic of flight. We carefully invest in and curate art that reflects our city and the diverse global community we serve," Houston Airports director of aviation Jim Szczesniak said in a statement. "It's an honor to know that our unique arts program resonates with our passengers and the thoughtful ways we delight and entertain create positive and lasting memories. The arts have a special power, and with creativity and innovation, Houston Airports continues to elevate the airport arts experience to new heights.”

    Overall, William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) maintained its five-star rating for the third year in a row. It is one of 20 total five-star airports in the world, but the only one in North America to earn the prestigious rating.

    Hobby also earned Best Regional Airport in North America for the third consecutive year and ranked among the top eight in the world for best staff.

    George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) maintained its four-star classification for the seventh year in a row. It was also named in the top 10 for Best Airport Dining Experiences.

    “Hobby and Bush help us put our best foot forward for people traveling for leisure or business and The Skytrax honors confirm the dedication to detail and commitment to customer service prioritized by Houston Airports and its 1,200 city employees,” Houston Airports COO Kelly Woodward added. “Another year of 5-Star and 4-Star ratings is proof that Houston Airports is moving in a positive direction where safety, cleanliness, and efficiency are prioritized and our airports mirror the signature experience of our global city — an experience rooted in warmth, hospitality and a celebration of all cultures.”

    More information about the awards can be found on fly2houston.com.

    ----

    Amber Heckler contributed to this article.

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    Texas coasts as 6th best summer road trip destination in America

    Amber Heckler
    Jun 22, 2026 | 11:15 am
    Petrified Wood Station
    Courtesy photo
    Set up a good playlist, find your destination, and let's get cruising.

    Those planning a good old-fashioned road trip this summer will be happy to know that the Lone Star State is cruising as one of the 10 best road trip destinations in the U.S. this year.

    Texas ranks 6th in WalletHub's latest study, "Best & Worst States for Summer Road Trips," which compared all 50 states based on their affordability, scenery, safety, and fun. The survey analyzed factors that road trippers prioritize for their vacation plans, such as the average price for gas, traffic congestion, the type of attractions in each state, among others.

    Minnesota reigned as the No. 1 best road trip destination for 2026, followed by Utah (No. 2) and Louisiana (No. 3).

    Nearly three quarters of Americans are planning a road trip this year, and traveling affordably is a big priority no matter where the destination, the report found.

    "While deciding to travel is easy, choosing the right destination — and staying within budget — can be more challenging," the report said. "Gas prices remain a concern, with the national average still above $4.50 per gallon."

    Gas prices will vary depending on the city, but AAA reports the statewide average price for gas is $3.42 for regular, $4.26 for premium, and $4.42 for diesel in June.

    This is how Texas performed across the three main categories in the study:

    • No. 5 – Activities
    • No. 15 – Costs
    • No. 39 – Safety
    There's no shortage of things to do around the state this summer, from going camping, indulging in as many food festivals as you can handle, taking the kids to a new theme park, or taking a trip down to the coast for a sun-filled getaway.
    WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said the best destinations for road trips are the places that similarly value affordability while "providing the best driving experience and most fun activities."
    "Taking a summer road trip can be a very exciting way to experience a new place, but with the prices of gas, food and accommodations still impacted by inflation, you’ll want to be in a state that makes this type of vacation affordable," Lupo said. "Safe roads are also key, and so is having plenty of worthwhile attractions to stop at along the road."

    The top 10 best states for road trips in 2026 are:

    • No. 1 – Minnesota
    • No. 2 – Utah
    • No. 3 – Louisiana
    • No. 4 – New York
    • No. 5 – Florida
    • No. 6 – Texas
    • No. 7 – Maine
    • No. 8 – Georgia
    • No. 9 – North Carolina
    • No. 10 – Ohio
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