Like any major city, Houston has safe and unsafe areas; stay in well-lit, populated districts.

Yes, Houston is a very spread-out city and public transit is limited outside the core.

What is the best airport?

George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is the primary international gateway.

How long is the drive?

Expect 12 to 13 hours of actual driving time excluding stops.

Yes, the Sam Houston Tollway and other routes require an EZ TAG.

Merriam

Houston

Flight Driving

Merriam to Houston

Updated: 29 May 2026

Traveling from Merriam to Houston covers roughly 1,100 kilometers. The most common driving route involves taking I-49 south through Missouri and Arkansas before connecting to I-45 in Texas. Alternatively, direct flights are available from Kansas City International to George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The drive is significantly longer than the Dallas route and requires careful planning for overnight stops. Houston is a sprawling metropolis, so having a vehicle is highly recommended for local mobility.

Total Distance: 1,100 km driving distance; 950 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from MCI to IAH is the fastest method, taking under 3 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical choice for solo travelers or families.

Compare Merriam to Houston Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	12 hours
Avg Price	$200-$400	$120-$180 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MCI to IAH	I-49 South to I-45 South.
Tip	IAH is a major hub; allow extra time for navigating the large terminal complex.	Stop in Little Rock, Arkansas, to break up the long drive.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Houston traffic is notoriously heavy; use navigation apps to find alternate routes around the 610 Loop.
Humidity
Prepare for high humidity levels, which can make the air feel much hotter than the thermometer suggests.
Public Transit
METRORail is useful for getting between downtown, the Museum District, and the Medical Center.
Dining
Explore the diverse culinary scene in the Montrose and Heights neighborhoods.
Parking
Most attractions have dedicated parking garages, but they can fill up quickly on weekends.

Safety Tips

Flood Awareness
Avoid driving through flooded underpasses during heavy rain events.
Vehicle Security
Never leave valuables in your car, especially in high-traffic tourist areas.
Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of local emergency numbers for the various counties you pass through on I-49.
Sun Protection
The Texas sun is intense; wear sunscreen even when driving for long periods.