Fact: Texas used to be its own republic. Fact: Houston was named after the man who served as president of the Republic of Texas at the time of its inception. Fact: Houston is the biggest city in Texas. Fact: In terms of Fortune 500 companies, only New York has more. Houston also has the Johnson Space Center, the Astrodome, and one of the two busiest ports in the United States. And Beyoncé.

You want Texan proportions, Texan pride, and Texan metro-sprawl? Come to Houston. Nothing about this city is understated (except, interestingly, the housing prices). Though it's an extremely multifaceted commercial and industrial center, it also has a thriving tourism sector. The Houston Museum District is a big draw, and families love the Houston Zoo and the Museum of Natural Science. The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo is the world's largest—and the biggest event in Houston's calendar year. It takes place in March.