West University Place, TX

West University Place, commonly known as West U, is a small city located in Harris County, Texas. It is bordered by the cities of Bellaire and Houston. The history of West University Place goes back to the early 20th century.

The area where West University Place stands today was initially part of a Mexican land grant awarded to John and Thomas West in the early 1830s. However, it wasn't until the 1880s that the land started being developed. At that time, the land was primarily used for farming and ranching.

In 1890, the Southern Pacific Railroad extended its tracks into the area, making it more accessible. This encouraged settlement and sparked residential development. A streetcar line was introduced in the early 1900s, connecting West University Place to downtown Houston.

The suburb of West University Place was officially incorporated in 1924. The name "West University Place" was chosen due to its proximity to Rice University, which is located just east of the city. West University Place was initially developed as a residential community and has maintained its primarily residential character ever since.

Over the years, West University Place has become an affluent area known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained properties, and sense of community. The city has established a reputation for having strong schools, with some of the best public schools in Texas. Its location near downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center has also made it an attractive place to live for professionals and families.

In recent decades, West University Place has undergone some changes and renovations to accommodate the needs of its residents. The city has put a focus on maintaining a high quality of life, with parks, recreational facilities, and community events. Additionally, West U's proximity to major highways and amenities has made it a desirable location for those looking for an urban-suburban hybrid lifestyle.

Today, West University Place continues to serve as a vibrant and affluent city within the Houston metropolitan area. Its rich history, well-planned layout, and community-focused developments have contributed to its status as an attractive place to live and raise a family.

Colonial Park

A large park with facilities for various recreational activities such as baseball, tennis, basketball, and a playground.

Friends Park

A community park with a playground, picnic areas, and open green spaces for relaxing and outdoor activities.

Houston Maritime Museum

Located nearby, this museum showcases the rich maritime history and culture of the area through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.

Rice Village

A popular shopping district with a wide variety of boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Just a short drive away, this world-class museum features extensive exhibits on natural history, space exploration, interactive displays, and a butterfly center.

Houston Zoo

Situated nearby, this impressive zoo houses a diverse array of animals from around the world and provides educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Hermann Park

A beautiful urban park with vast green spaces, a Japanese garden, a miniature train for rides, and the Miller Outdoor Theatre, which hosts free performances during the summer.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Located within a short distance, this internationally recognized museum features an extensive collection of artworks from various periods and cultures.

Menil Collection

A renowned art museum that houses a diverse assortment of art ranging from antiquities to contemporary works, located in the nearby Montrose area.

Buffalo Bayou Park

An expansive park offering walking and biking trails, a dog park, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and various sculptures and art installations along the bayou.

West University Place, located in Harris County, Texas, has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The climate is influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.

Summers in West University Place are long, hot, and humid. Average high temperatures in June, July, and August range from the low to mid-90s Fahrenheit (32-35°C). It is not uncommon for temperatures to exceed 100°F (38°C) during heatwaves. Humidity levels are usually high, making the temperatures feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months, providing temporary relief from the heat.

Winters in West University Place are relatively mild compared to other parts of the United States. Average high temperatures in December, January, and February range from the upper 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (15-17°C). Overnight lows usually drop to the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (7-10°C). Snowfall is extremely rare, but the region can experience occasional freezes, especially in January.

Spring and autumn in West University Place are characterized by mild to warm temperatures. Spring is typically pleasant with temperatures gradually warming up, ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-27°C). Autumn starts off warm but progressively becomes cooler, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit (21-30°C) in September, gradually dropping to the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-26°C) in November.

The region experiences high humidity throughout the year, with occasional rainfall. The wettest months are usually May and June, with July and August also receiving significant rainfall. August and September are typically the rainiest months due to the influence of tropical systems and hurricanes that sometimes affect the Gulf Coast.

Overall, West University Place, TX, has a warm and humid climate with hot summers, mild winters, and a relatively high average annual precipitation.

West University Place, often referred to as West U, is a small city located in Harris County, Texas, within the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan area. Despite its small size, West U is known for its affluent community and central location. Here are some of the neighborhoods within West University Place:

Pemberton

Situated in the northern part of West U, Pemberton is one of the older neighborhoods known for its beautiful and historic homes. Many of the properties here date back to the 1920s and 1930s, displaying stunning architectural styles.

College View

Located in the eastern part of West U, College View is named for its proximity to Rice University, one of the top universities in Texas. The neighborhood has a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments, catering to both families and students.

Colonial Terrace

Situated in the western part of West U, Colonial Terrace offers a range of housing options, including traditional single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and well-maintained properties.

Sunset Terrace

Just south of Colonial Terrace, Sunset Terrace is another popular neighborhood in West U. It is a highly sought-after area due to its close proximity to Rice Village, a vibrant shopping and dining district. The neighborhood is characterized by its attractive homes and well-kept gardens.

Bissonnet Place

Located in the southwestern corner of West U, Bissonnet Place offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is known for its peaceful atmosphere and easy access to major roadways.

Tangley Terrace

Situated in the southeastern part of West U, Tangley Terrace is a smaller neighborhood known for its well-preserved homes and manicured lawns. It offers a mix of architectural styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary.

West University Place Town Center

This area serves as the heart of West U, featuring the city hall, various shops, restaurants, and community spaces. It is a vibrant hub where residents can come together and enjoy the amenities offered within the city.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up West University Place. Each area has its own unique charm, but collectively they contribute to the overall appeal of this upscale city known for its strong sense of community and excellent quality of life.