Rodeo shows, record breaking dinosaur attraction and historical Space Center mean Houston is out of this world

“ONE small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” the speaker rumbles.

I wasn’t alive the first time these words were broadcast, but hearing them now nearly brought me to tears.

From February to April, you can join thousands of locals and tourists at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – a celebration of the cowboy way of life and Texan traditionRODEO HOUSTON

I was at the Space Center in Houston, Texas, watching the moon landing in an immersive experience that simulated what would have seen in July 1969PR SUPPLIED

PR/MOODY GARDENSDinosaurs at Moody Park[/caption]

I was at the Space Center in Houston, Texas, watching the moon landing in an immersive experience that simulated what Nasa employees and the astronauts’ families would have seen in July 1969.

The original control room here was nam­ed a national historical landmark in 1985.

Almost all items are original, from the monitors to the ashtrays and even some cigarette butts found under the carpets.

It’s an emotional experience, knowing you are in a spot of real historical importance.

Visitors can also learn about Nasa’s current space programme, Artemis — with 2022’s Artemis 1 the first in a series of missions to build a long-term human presence on the moon.

A further landing is scheduled for September next year.

There are mind-boggling facts to pick up too, like one space suit costs $24million (£19million).

And that a lot of everyday items originated due to space research — including baby formula, cancer-detection equipment, and even Velcro.

But the Space Center wasn’t the only reason I was here, and there’s a world of fun to be had in Houston.

From February to April, you can join the thousands of locals at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

This celebration of the cowboy way of life and Texan tradition draws crowds from around the world.

The Texans take great pride in the show, with 35,000 volunteers ensuring things tick along smoothly — from bull-riding to barrel-racing.

There is amazing food from seemingly endless stalls (try the mouth- watering barbecue), and sheep rides, where I saw six-year-olds holding on for dear life.

Needless to say, you’ll also find more cowboy hats and boots worn here than anywhere else on the planet.

After the rodeo, each night there’s a performance by a star — I experienced country-and-western royalty Brooks & Dunn.

The locals have a saying: “Everything is bigger in Texas.”

It’s definitely true when it comes to this show — and to the food, too.

The city is the fourth biggest in the US, and the most diverse — and this has had a wonderful effect on the local cuisine.

In the name of research, I dug into authentic Mexican food at Xochi, and enjoyed a mezcal margarita, which got a big thumbs-up from everyone in my group.

Feeling adventurous, I tried a dish featuring ants and grasshoppers. It was surprisingly tasty.

If Mexican isn’t your thing, I’d recommend a trip to Post Houston.

The former post office has become a destination point for foodies, with something to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

It also has a 5,000-capacity music hall and a huge rooftop park, with great views of the Houston skyline.

The perfect spot for an Instagram snap.

Feeling thirsty after your meal?

The ­Rustic has a backyard bar with a big selection of beers and free live music from Thursday to Sunday.

Or try Angel Share for a bar where you can do good while having fun.

A share of the profits goes to charities and with every drink bought, you receive a ticket to vote for one of the nominated non-profits.

The more you drink, the more you can help — so have another beer and give yourself a pat on the back. Well done you.

If you’re seeking culture, the Museum of Natural Science is a must. The Hall of Ancient Egypt and the Hall of Gems and Minerals are brilliant — but head straight to the Morian Hall of Paleontology, which is the largest display of its kind in the US.

Dinosaur skin

It features some of the world’s most complete dinosaur skeletons, and the T-Rex with the best-preserved feet and claws ever found.

We even saw some dinosaur skin.

After some beach fun?

The coastal resort and port of Galveston is on the Gulf of Mexico, less than an hour away.

While there, visit conservation centre Moody Gardens.

Its pyramid structures house a tropical forest and an aquarium.

You can even spot animatronic dinosaurs there and enjoy the Palm Beach waterpark.

Then wander down the Strand for great bars and restaurants, with live music in almost every venue.

There’s excellent food to be found in Galveston — chicken and waffles at the Gumbo Diner, dinner at Riondo’s and Sunday brunch at the Grand Galvez hotel, with bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys.

I’ll raise a glass to you, Houston.

Kim Christensen PhotographyCombine dinosaurs with a trip to the Palm Beach waterpark[/caption]