The Belmont residents and staff love the location, and all our apartment community offers. After moving in, you will understand why. 

What Makes the Upper Kirby Area So Popular?

Considered one of the best places to live in Texas, Upper Kirby stands out as a popular place for those seeking a diverse urban experience. The area has a modern vibe with lots of greenery. 

Nestled southwest of downtown Houston, the Upper Kirby area provides easy access to major highways, allowing residents to navigate the city with relative ease. The location is particularly appealing to those who work downtown, in the Texas Medical Center, or at one of the local universities, including Rice and the University of Houston. 

Beyond its strategic location, this area near Rice Village and West University offers an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafés, and shops. Residents can explore a diverse range of culinary options, from trendy eateries to classic diners, in addition to an array of museums and art galleries, as well as parks and recreational opportunities. 

Danille, a resident of The Belmont, says she loves the location. It is one of the top reasons she enjoys living at The Belmont apartments. 
"Being single, I’m within 10–15 minutes from lounges, bars and one-of-a-kind restaurants," she says. A few of her favorite restaurants include On the Kirb, and Hungrys.  Under the Volcano and Trendy Dumpling are among other recommended restaurants nearby.   

As for local attractions, Danille recommends the museums and Hermann Park. The Museum District with multiple world-class museums in addition to Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are only minutes from The Belmont apartments. 

Located in a highly walkable area, The Belmont is ideal for residents without a car. Many people ride bikes and scooters in the area, and METRO stops at the entrance to The Belmont property, making public transportation easy.

More Reasons to Choose The Belmont Apartments

The Belmont is a friendly, positive apartment community with modern, upscale amenities and unique one- and two-bedroom floor plans. If you prefer high ceilings, try to get an apartment on the third floor. 

The Belmont is also very pet friendly. We love our furry residents, and occasionally host events and contests for them with special treats. 

An Area with Great Schools

Families with young children will appreciate that The Belmont Apartments is zoned for West U Elementary, a highly rated public school with above average test scores. You can also find several private schools in the area. 

Why Residents Say The Belmont Stands Out Among Area Apartments

We asked Danille what sets The Belmont apart from other apartments in the area. In addition to the location, she loves the size of our apartment bedrooms and closets. The Belmont staff is "extremely helpful," she adds.

"You can tell they like seeing us (residents) come in," she says.   

Knowing that some of her neighbors and part of the maintenance team have been at The Belmont for nearly 20 years also makes The Belmont stand out, says Danille. 

While other apartment communities in the area offer similar amenities, Danille says The Belmont staff "goes above and beyond" with resident events. A couple of favorites include the annual Christmas party and summer pool party. Many residents participate in social events, especially those events with lots of good food and entertainment. 

Come Home to The Belmont

If The Belmont sounds like a place you would like to live, find your ideal floor plan and contact us to schedule your tour. We look forward to welcoming you home!

The post Why Live at The Belmont Apartments appeared first on The Belmont Blog.

That’s why it’s important to prepare and plan ahead to ensure your pet is happy and comfortable in their new home, and you’ve taken steps to minimize any problems that could arise. Grace, a resident of The Belmont, provides pet friendly apartment living tips here to help.

Grace shares her apartment with an Australian Shepherd, Freya, and her cat, Fletcher, so she’s experienced the joys and challenges of living in an apartment with both.

Tips to Help Avoid a Pet's Stress When Moving to a New Apartment  

Moving to a new apartment can be a stressful experience for both dogs and cats. Grace recommends introducing them to the new environment gradually. Put them in one room to acclimate and then slowly introduce them to the rest of the apartment. 

"Let them smell the area, and check it out," she says. As they become comfortable, slowly introduce them to other areas, people, and pets within the apartment community.

To help make the move less stressful for a dog, Grace says you can also put a chew toy or their favorite blanket in their kennel. This will help them feel more at home in the new environment.

Kennels are Important for Dogs in an Apartment

When asked what someone should know before moving to an apartment with a pet, Grace said "kennels are important, and dog bags." She says teaching your dog to be kenneled when not home helps avoid damage a dog may cause to the apartment. 

There are several other reasons why someone might choose to put their dog in a kennel when they are away from home. For instance, a well-constructed kennel provides a safe and secure environment for dogs, especially when their owners are away. Having this comfortable place to rest and relax can help reduce the stress and anxiety dogs may experience when their owners are away. Kennels can help teach them to be comfortable alone for extended periods, useful for dogs that struggle with separation anxiety.

Both dogs and cats may feel lonely when left alone in an apartment. Grace recommends giving them something with your scent on it. She does this for Fletcher and Freya, "an item that smells like me, something I slept in / with."

More Pet Friendly Apartment Living Challenges & Tips

While a kennel is not typically used for pet-proofing an apartment with a cat, your cat will need lots of options to scratch that doesn’t include your furniture. You can get tips on how to control where your cat scratches at Preventative Vet.  Grace also recommends always keeping litter clean and finding the right area to keep the litter box. 

"My bathroom has a chair spot in the counter, but I put my cat’s litter box there," she says as an example.  

Since most dogs don't use a litter box, soiling can be a problem in an apartment. Grace said her friend had an issue with his pet urinating on their carpet. He kenneled the dog while away and set a water drinking schedule. Those two measures solved the issue.

Noise complaints are another common challenge pet owners face when living in an apartment. To keep a dog from barking and disturbing other residents while you’re away, Grace recommends training and sound exposure. Leaving your dog with familiar sounds such as a radio or TV can help relieve the anxiety felt when left alone. The American Kennel Club provides more tips here. 

Best Dogs for Apartment Living

If you are moving to a pet-friendly apartment with plans to adopt a new dog, Grace recommends looking for a small or medium sized furball. They don’t have as much energy or make as much floor noise as a larger one. A potty-trained, low energy breed is also the best option for someone who works away from home for hours most days. 

Low-energy breed dogs have a more relaxed and calmer demeanor. They also require less exercise than high-energy breeds. 

As an example, Pugs are small, affectionate furbabies known for their low energy levels. They don’t require a lot of exercise and will be happy to spend their time snuggled up on the sofa with you. Basset Hounds and Bulldogs have a laid-back, easygoing temperament and will also be content to lounge around the apartment most of the day.

It's important to note that even low-energy dogs still require daily exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their health and wellbeing.

Looking for a Pet Friendly Apartment in Houston's Upper Kirby Area?

Consider The Belmont. We offer one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent with up to two pets, dogs and cats only. While we do have a 40-pound weight limit for pets in second and third-floor apartments, if you rent an apartment on the first floor, there are no weight or breed restrictions. See our pet policy to learn more and contact us to schedule a tour.   

The post Pet Friendly Apartment Living Tips from The Belmont appeared first on The Belmont Blog.

(Updated June 2025) Summer is here and there is no better time to go out and enjoy your time off with friends and family. Living in The Belmont Apartments, you don't have to go far to enjoy the best activities Houston has to offer. From charming bars and restaurants to local events and upscale shopping areas, the options are nearly limitless!

Don't get overwhelmed. To help you narrow down the choices, here are the top 4 fun things you can do now around the Belmont. 

Enjoy Music Under the Stars at Miller Outdoor Theatre 

Exciting and romantic activities don't have to be expensive. In fact, you can enjoy a night full of stars and finest symphonies completely FREE! The annual Summer Symphony Nights will return to Miller Outdoor Theater with four performances produced by the Houston Symphony, beginning July 11, 2025. Experience masterpieces from composers such as Dvořák, Tchaikovsky and Beethoven performed by known talents and rising stars in the classical world. 

Visit the concession stand and get your fixes before the performance, or just bring your own food and beverages. Either way, the concert will surely please your family and leave you wanting more. To get free tickets for covered seating or learn more about the location and concerts, visit Miller Outdoor Theatre.

Not a fan of classical music? Worry not! The Miller Outdoor Theater also offers a diverse set of performances, including jazz, dance, pop, or any genre that you can think of. Just go to the Performance List and pick your jam.

Go on a Bike Ride at Brays Bayou Greenway Trail 

Popular to many locals, the Brays Bayou Trail spans across southwestern Houston, offering access to countless beautiful attractions, neighborhoods, and parks. If you are new to the area, you don't want to miss out on this gorgeous trail.

Along the way, you'll get to enjoy many natural wildlife and plants, and some of the most iconic locations in Houston such as the Houston Zoo, the city's museum district, and the famous Japanese Garden in Hermann Park.

No matter your fitness level, there is always something for everyone. Challenge yourself with an 8-miles run or just access the trail from Hermann Park and enjoy a relaxing 30-minute ride. 

Check Out Houston's World-Class Museums 

Living near the Houston Museum District, you can enjoy endless opportunities for entertainment, education, and inspiration only minutes from home. This cultural destination offers world-class collections, interactive exhibits, and more in a walkable area for you to explore. Some of the district’s 19 museums offer free admission days and rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new to experience.

A.A.Murakami's 'Floating World' in Houston

Put this at the top of your list of things to do this summer! 

The Museum of Fine Arts Houston currently features A.A.Murakami's 'Floating World' exhibition, the acclaimed Tokyo/London-based artist duo’s largest presentation, and first solo museum show in the U.S. Custom designed for the MFAH, this immersive exhibit unfolds across four different rooms where a fusion of art, science, and nature create a sensory experience that leaves visitors of all ages in awe. 

This special exhibition, located on Level 1 of the Beck Building, is on view at the museum through September 21, 2025. Visit the MFAH to learn more. 

Wyrex, the T-Rex & Dinosaur Discoveries at HMNS

Are you a fan of dinosaurs? Embark on a prehistoric adventure through the Morian Hall of Paleontology at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. This isn't just a museum visit, and it isn't a place where fossils sit quietly behind glass. It's a journey through time where massive skeletons of long-extinct beasts, including Wyrex, the T. Rex, come to life in fierce, action-packed poses.

In the museum's Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, you can experience the story of Wyrex and discover the dangers this apex predator faced from hatchling to adulthood. Movie buffs will also love "Dinosaur Discoveries", a 45-minute holographic adventure shown on the big screen. Using cutting-edge 3D holographic technology and video mapping, the film brings life-size dinosaurs and over 140 years of paleontological discoveries to life for an immersive, captivating experience. 

With a plethora of attractions, the Houston Museum of Natural Science will provide a day full of fun activities, away from the heat for your family. 

Drink A Cold Beer at Little Woodrow's in Rice Village

Located in Rice Village, Little Woodrow's , the official game day headquarters for the Rice Owls, is known for its drink specials and Trivia Tuesday with the big 22 oz. beers. Enjoy happy hour Monday through Friday from 3pm to 7pm with $4 domestic beers, $4 well drinks, and $3 house wines. 

Watch a game on one of 15 HD TVs or choose a spot on their lovely patio and have a great time with your friends! Plus, bring your student ID if you're from Rice University to receive a discount on shots and beers. Little Woodrow's address is 5611 Morningside DR Houston, Texas 77005.

Living at The Belmont Apartments in West University 

There are many more places to be discovered when living at The Belmont. Not only that, but the walkable Upper Kirby neighborhood makes it very convenient to run errands, spend time outdoors, and visit local businesses.  

With a great location and amazing amenities, The Belmont offers an ideal place for you to work and raise a family in a thriving community. Come explore The Belmont Apartments. Take a virtual or in-person tour and find your new home. To learn about current lease specials and schedule a tour, contact us now!

The post Things to Do Near Belmont Apartments in West University this Summer, 2025 appeared first on The Belmont Blog.

Twinkling lights, magnificent trees wrapped in colorful ribbons, and the tantalizing aromas of hot cocoa and freshly baked sugar cookies. As the classic song goes, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Here in Houston, there is a full stocking’s worth of family-friendly things to see and do that will make your 2025 holiday season one to remember. Located in the Upper Kirby area at West University, just west of Downtown Houston, The Belmont is an easy sleigh ride from many of Space City’s finest festivities. Get the most out of your holiday season by checking out these Christmas events near you.

Experience Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo

From the new Wild Wonder Lights, a dazzling display created with projection mapping technology at the front plaza, to strolls through the spectacular Enchanted Forest, there’s nothing like Zoo Lights. During this special season, the Houston Zoo transforms into a wonderland of yuletide cheer just as ideal for family evenings out as it is for a romantic date night.

The Holiday Grove returns, and this year you'll be dazzled by colorful dancing fountains under the great oak trees wrapped in lights. Also new is an Iridescent Immersion experience in the Great Ape Gallery. Children will love playing at the new Neon Playground, and adults can enjoy sipping holiday drinks at the Yuletide Lodge pop-up bar, also new for 2025.  Eventually, you'll come across Santa Claus at his workshop, where you can stop and take a photo with him through December 23. With the entire zoo decked out with holiday decor, you’ll want to take your time to admire it all.

Zoo Lights is open from 5:30-10:30 p.m. (last entry at 9:30 p.m.) November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (closed on Dec. 3, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day). For those with sensory sensitivities, there will be a Sensory Inclusive Zoo Lights on Monday, December 1.  

You must purchase tickets for Zoo Lights online; they will not be sold at the gate. Visit the site to learn more about each event and buy tickets. 

Have some old or broken holiday strings? Help save wildlife by bringing those holiday lights with you to the zoo for recycling! Simply drop them in the collection bin at the main entrance. Lights can be donated through Jan. 5, 2026.

Discover Galaxy Lights

As one of Houston’s top attractions, Space Center Houston is always worth visiting. That’s especially true during Galaxy Lights, one of the most interactive and technologically advanced light displays in the Lone Star State that you can catch now through January 4, 2026 (closed Nov. 27, Dec. 10, 24 & 25). Monday, Jan. 4 is a low sensory night for a less stimulating experience.  

Start at the Main Plaza, where dozens of suspended lights “dance” to music in a show of dazzling shapes and patterns. Watch “Holidays in Space,” a short film starring current and former astronauts recounting their experiences of celebrating the season in space. Walk under the stars in the Deep Space Backyard and then grab a seat to experience a spectacular crystal fireworks display. Explore interactive exhibits and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa as you make your own smores. The cosmic journey will take at least 90 minutes, and most light displays are outdoors, so dress for the weather. Gather your family and head out to Space Center Houston to spend an evening amongst the stars this holiday season!

Climb Aboard The Christmas Train

It’s not every day you get to ride an old-fashioned train. At Victory Camp in nearby Alvin, it’s all part of the fun. This family-friendly adventure takes you on a journey past hundreds of thousands of lights and eye-catching displays. While The Christmas Train is the main attraction, it’s by no means all there is to do here. Snap a photo with Santa, watch The Great Elf Show, browse all the goodies in the gift shop, and put pedal to the metal at Santa’s Speedway Go-Kart Track. Whether you’re fulfilling your need for speed or savoring holiday joy with your family, you’ll find something to enjoy at Victory Camp. Open dates include Nov. 28 –29 and Dec. 4-6, 11-13, and 15-23, 2025.

Glide on the Discovery Green Ice Rink

Set among the high-rise buildings of Downtown Houston, Discovery Green’s ice rink is one of the coolest places to skate in town. Admissions tickets give you 75 minutes on the ice, skate rental included, so you can savor the experience at your own pace. Once you’re done, walk around Discovery Green to take in all the Christmas decorations and public works of art. Can’t wait to hit the ice? You’ll need to purchase tickets in advance, which you can buy here.

City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic

The Ice at Discovery Green skating rink is one of several Signature Experiences you don't want to miss this holiday season. You can also see a one-of-a-kind light show at the Brown Foundation Promenade through Jan. 4 and listen to  Carols on the Green with the Houston Grand Opera on the Anheuser-Busch Stage Saturday, Dec. 13.

Journey Through Magical Winter Lights

With its towering columns and impressive gate, the immaculately lit castle at Magical Winter Lights is just one of the many astonishing things you’ll see here. Consisting of thousands of lanterns within 60 displays, this is not your average light show.

Start in The Kingdom, where the castle looms over a fountain of light and whimsical figures of birds and plants. Your tour continues through places like The Village, a section inspired by European town squares framed around a fully lit Christmas tree. In the Houston section, you’ll come across fixtures dedicated to the fourth-largest city in the country. Along with admiring all the exhibits, head on over to the carnival to savor all the tasty fare food and to ride the 87-foot-tall gondola Ferris wheel and the other attractions for all ages.

Ready to experience all this winter wonder? Magical Winter Lights, located this year at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg, is open through Jan. 5, including holidays. Visit the website to learn more and purchase tickets. 

Enjoy Holiday in the Gardens

Explore pathways bathed in blue, yellow, red, and white lights, soar down an Arctic Slide, catch a classic Christmas flick in 3D and 4D, and see an exhilarating live show. Located just an hour away from The Belmont, Moody Gardens is a holiday destination all its own.

Known as Holiday in the Gardens, this event stars a multitude of attractions all in one venue. During the day, explore the pyramids that take you through the world’s rainforests and oceans, ride on an old-fashioned paddlewheel boat, and watch films on Texas’ largest screen. Once the sun sets, tour the gardens for Holiday Lights, a showcase of more than two million lights and displays synchronized to some of your favorite holiday tunes. 

Held through Nov. 22- Jan. 3, Holiday in the Gardens is well worth the day trip.

Watch a Holiday Show

Nothing beats going to the theater, especially if you’re going to see a Christmas classic performed on stage. Drive a few minutes from The Belmont and you’ll have your pick from some of the best holiday shows in Texas, starting with the Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker, which you can see at the Wortham Theater Center Nov. 28 – Dec. 28. Meanwhile, the Alley Theatre’s production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (Nov. 16 – Dec. 28) reinterprets this holiday story so that it shines on the Hubbard Theatre’s intimate stage. Finally, savor a breathtaking performance of tunes like "O Come, All Ye Faithful," "Carol of the Bells," and "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer"  at the Houston Symphony’s Very Merry POPS concert on Dec. 11- 14. The Symphony will also perform a holiday concert for kids on Dec. 13. During this special concert event, children can sing along to favorites like "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Joy to the World," visit with Santa Clause, and enjoy arts and crafts plus an Instrument Petting Zoo.

Of course, you don’t have to go anywhere to celebrate the holiday season. Live at The Belmont and you can start your day relaxing with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa in your spacious and beautifully appointed one- or two-bedroom apartment. Later, soak up some of the late fall sunshine by our resort-style pool and spa or entertain friends and family by our outdoor kitchen and grill. When you are ready to head out, you’ll be just minutes away from many of Houston’s best holiday things to see and do.

Looking for your next home? Check out our amenities and floor plans, or contact us to learn about current lease specials and to schedule a tour.

The post 8 Magical Holiday Events near The Belmont Apartments in Houston appeared first on The Belmont Blog.

Want to live in one of Houston's Upper Kirby apartments in a walkable area? Come to The Belmont Apartments. Located in a one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Houston, The Belmont is perfect for those who generally prefer walking over driving, or who don't drive at all.
 
The Belmont's Walk Score is 79, which is "Very Walkable". That means most errands can be accomplished on foot. Many public transportation options are also nearby, as well as some bike infrastructure.
 
You will appreciate of the convenience of living next to an HEB grocery with Kroger in walking distance. Many residents consider it an extra amenity of The Belmont. 

The Kroger grocery store anchors the Plaza in the Park shopping center on Buffalo Speedway, where you can take care of multiple errands and grab a bite to eat near home. There's a Starbucks nearby, too. 

Living at The Belmont Apartments in Houston's Upper Kirby District

Living on Bissonnet in the vibrant Upper Kirby District, minutes from Greenway Plaza, the Texas Medical Center, the Museum District and Downtown Houston, you can find just about everything you're looking for right outside your door. Trendy boutiques, a variety of popular eateries, entertainment, service offerings and more are located within the Upper Kirby District. 

When you want to spend time outdoors, the award-winning Levy Park is only a mile from The Belmont Apartments. There's lot of green space at the park where you can relax and enjoy a picnic or participate in one of the many events. Kids love the Children's Park filled with fun things to do, and you can watch your furry friend play unleashed at the dog park. 

For days when you prefer to stay home, your amenities at The Belmont offer options. You could take a refreshing dip in the resort-style pool or hot tub, work out in the fitness center, play a game of shuffleboard, or read a good book in the Library.  

Come explore The Belmont Apartments. Take a virtual or self-guided tour and find your new home. To learn about current lease specials and schedule a tour, contact us now. 

The post The Belmont’s Houston Upper Kirby Apartments in Walkable Area appeared first on The Belmont Blog.

If you are looking to find pet friendly apartments near Rice University, come to The Belmont. Located on Bissonnet, only 1.5 miles from the Rice campus, The Belmont Apartments provide upscale inner city living convenient for Rice students and staff, and their furry friends are welcome. 
 
The Belmont team loves being a pet-friendly community, evident by photos on our social media pages, so don't be surprised if you see furbabies at social events. We consider them residents and strive to provide a welcoming environment for them within The Belmont community. 

The Belmont Apartments Pet Policy

Like most pet-friendly apartments, The Belmont's pet policy includes a limit of two dogs or cats per apartment, in addition to breed restrictions. There is also a 40-pound maximum weight limit per pet in apartments on the second or third floor. If your furry friend weights over 40 pounds, you will need to find an apartment on the first floor. However, we do allow designated assistance animals in accordance with applicable fair housing regulations.
 

Offering 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments for Rice University Students & Staff

The Belmont, a gated community, offers a variety of beautifully designed
floorplans for one and two bedroom apartments, ideal for Rice University students and staff. The well-appointed apartments feature sunlit rooms with nine-foot ceilings, gourmet kitchens, deep soaking bathtubs, full sized washer and dryer, oversized private balconies and much more. 

Residents also enjoy a host of shared amenities such as the resort-style pool and spa, a game lounge with pool tables and shuffleboard, an outdoor kitchen, and business center. And, with an onsite fitness center, you won't need a gym membership. See what other amenities can be yours as a resident. 

We invite you to come take a tour of our pet friendly apartments and community. We know you and your furry friend will love living here! 

CONTACT US NOW if you have questions or want more information. 

The post The Pet Friendly Apartments Near Rice University appeared first on The Belmont Blog.