The days when cows and oilmen roamed the streets of Houston are long gone. Today, the fourth-largest city in the US is a sprawling metropolis of highrises, malls and parking lots. Hot, humid and flat, Houston may not be Texas' premier travel destination, but it has much to offer, including great museums, beautiful parks, a hip young urban population and a variety of excellent excursions. Houston dominates southeastern Texas, thanks to a historic commitment to growth unfettered by zoning and other planning restrictions. The result is a sprawling city confusing to visitors and residents alike. However, most areas of interest are within a few miles of downtown, and seeing the sites won't take more than a day or two.