Welcome to Montrose
Unconventional and effortlessly hip, this popular neighborhood is an urban gem brimming with creative minds.
The neighborhood of Montrose is a refreshing contrast to some of Houston’s more business-oriented, high-end communities, and welcomes residents with a promise of exciting diversity. A place of celebrating the arts, food, and culture, Montrose delights all who visit with its quirky personality and endless entertainment.
Directly southwest of Downtown, Montrose is also within walking distance of the energetic buzz of Houston’s vibrant, sophisticated core. The neighborhood was established in the early 1900s and takes up a mere 4-block radius. However, the small size of Montrose is what contributes, in part, to its status as Houston’s most walkable neighborhood — putting everything locals could desire within a short distance of home.
Just like its residents and businesses, the real estate market of Montrose is incredibly diverse. A long, rich history contributes to the architectural variety of the neighborhood’s abodes, which can range from early 20th-century bungalows and Victorians to brand-new contemporary, single-family homes and modern townhouses.
What to Love
- Colorful spirit and inclusive mindset
- Upbeat and active day-to-day
- Just 12 minutes from Downtown Houston
Local Lifestyle
From its lively cantinas and indie nightclubs to its inclusive bars and quieter residential streets, Montrose offers its residents the chance to experience a one-of-a-kind melting pot of lifestyles. Local is king in Montrose, and independently owned businesses take precedence over the standard national brand.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Westheimer Road is the commercial and dining heart of Montrose, and along its picturesque stretch, visitors will encounter a blend of mom-and-pop shops, boutiques, specialty stores, antiques, and award-winning restaurants. Lo-Fi Vintage, for example, is the go-to for retro fashion, while Space specializes in remarkable, distinctive gifts.
A gastronome’s paradise, Montrose contains a multitude of excellent, unique dining options. At Barnaby’s Cafe, the menu is overflowing with creative options spanning several cuisines. Georgia James embodies all that a fine-dining steakhouse should be, from its glamorous interior to its world-class cuts of meat.
For authentic Mexican fare, Hugo’s stands supreme. Hand-shaken margaritas and a chef-driven menu rich with flavor ensure that customers never leave unsatisfied. Date nights can be elevated with a trip to Anvil Bar for innovative cocktails, or an after-dinner ice cream treat at Milk + Sugar.
Things to Do
It isn’t surprising that a neighborhood so saturated in creative types would also abound in cultural institutions and festivals. In Montrose, even the streets themselves are a testament to the arts, thanks to public creations like the Montrose Paint Wall.
Among the top activities in Montrose for the arts, the Houston Cinema Arts Festival never fails to deliver on its promise of fun. Hosting revered film competitions, live music performances, and entertainment, this dazzling event is certain to make an impression. If one annual event isn’t enough to satiate the artistic appetite, residents can also check out The Menil Collection, which spans more than 30 acres and includes several different museums.
Montrose is also well-equipped to serve outdoor enthusiasts and contains several beautiful park spaces. Mandell Park expands for only one acre, but its bountiful community garden is a cherished resource for all who live in the neighborhood. A respite from all things urban, Buffalo Bayou Park is a staggering 160 acres of heavenly nature.
Schools
Montrose is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
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William Wharton K-8 Dual Language Academy, highly rated public elementary and middle school
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St. John’s School, K-12, highly rated private school ranked as the #2 best in the state
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Carnegie Vanguard High School, 9-12, highly rated public high school ranked as the #5 best in the state
