As one of the biggest events in the country, planning a trip to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) can bring lots of stress and anxiety, even for native Houstonians. And considering how much the rodeo seems to only be growing in popularity year after year, things don’t seem like they’ll be easing up anytime soon.

Which brings me to what I learned at my own first-time experience during this year’s rodeo, and what you should keep in mind if you’re in the same boat I was just a few weeks ago.

1. Take a shuttle there!

Public transportation will be your best friend.

It saves you lots of money by not having to pay for parking at the rodeo’s overcrowded lots, as well as helps you avoid the bulk of the complicated traffic that’s bound to happen at any large event. 

METRO/METRORail are two forms of public transportation around Houston that I highly recommend to use for the rodeo for the following two reasons: it’s affordable, and much more convenient than struggling through traffic.

There are also locations all around Houston. All you have to do is just search up “Park & Ride” on your device’s map application (as shown here with Apple Maps) and you’ll be shown the various routes and options to choose from.

2. Do NOT wear new boots! 

The rodeo is HUGE, so I really suggest wearing comfortable shoes if you don’t like the idea of having an aching pain in sore muscles (or worse, blisters) from all the walking you’ll be doing there.

New boots are not to be worn to a first time event that consists of a lot of walking. Breaking in your pair of new boots before the rodeo will save you a lot of pain and discomfort.

It’s one piece of advice I should’ve listened to.

3. Try various foods! 

A point of pride for the HLSR and all those who love it is the insane variety of very diverse foods available for attendees to try. 

A wide selection of drinks are also available for purchase, such as a Michelagua, an agua fresca (fresh flavored water) with chamoy on the rim and frozen mango on top. Delicious! 

And because we’re in Houston, Mexican foods like Quesabirria, which is a quesadilla and taco in one, can be found at a number of different stands. The one I had was extremely tasty and came with some rice alongside a dipped broth.  

But if Mexican Food isn’t your thing, that’s okay! There’s a little something for everyone, including the southern comfort lovers, with options like BBQ Baked Potato, Brisket, and Giant Turkey Legs all around.

4. Ride at least one ride or play a game at the Carnival! 

Besides the livestock and food, the HLSR also has a carnival, and it’s got a respectable amount of rollercoasters and games for visitors to enjoy.

Although tickets to the attractions do cost money, those who can afford even just a few rides are sure to enjoy their time there. It is always fun to try something new and who knows, you may find yourself enjoying it more than you first thought!  

5. Go watch a concert! 

Towards the end of each rodeo day there’s an artist or band set to perform for that one night.

While country artists are big at the rodeo, you can find different genres represented throughout, including some artists performing on themed days (like Pepe Aguilar performing for Go Tejano day).

If you do not know anyone on there, I’d suggest going to one anyways and putting yourself out there.

The HLSR is quickly becoming a cultural touchstone beyond even just the state of Texas, so who knows? One of your favorite artists might even end up playing a night at next year’s rodeo. Just keep an eye out early next year, when the lineups are always released in advance.

For more information on the HLSR, you can check out their official Rodeo Houston website.