Stories That Shaped the City
From 1837–1839, the site served as the Capitol of the Republic of Texas. The Rice Hotel opened in 1913 and expanded in 1925. On November 22, 1963, President Kennedy stayed here before his assassination. After closing in 1977, the landmark was restored, converted to residences, and renamed The Rice in 2014.
Crystal Ballroom
The 7,000-square-foot Crystal Ballroom is a fully restored historic space featuring original woodwork, cast plaster details, and oil murals, following a $1 million renovation. Over the decades, it hosted major Houston events, six U.S. Presidents, iconic entertainers, NASA astronauts—including Neil Armstrong—and notable moments such as Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1963 speech and George H.W. Bush’s 1967 event for Vietnam servicemen.
Downtown Houston Is Calling. A Historic Address.
Welcome to your key to the city. Downtown has so much to offer and The Rice makes everything incredibly walkable. You’ll appreciate the thriving professional climate that includes the Houston Chronicle, Harris County Courts, and Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Chevron Corporation, Ernst & Young, the JPMorgan Chase Tower, and Deloitte. Start your day with a freshly brewed cup at Minuti Coffee. Meet colleagues for tasty lunch at Chipotle or Subway. Catch an exciting game at Minute Maid Park. Join friends at Shay McElroy’s Irish Pub or the Four Seasons for cocktails. Have a picnic lunch or take your dog for a play date at popular Market Square Park. Celebrate any special occasion at The Rice’s very own Crystal Ballroom. Get up close with nature at the Downtown Aquarium. Pick up fresh organic produce for dinner at the Houston Farmer’s Market. Check out the latest movies at upscale Sundance Cinemas or a live band at Sambuca. Do some research at the convenient and beautiful Houston Public Library. Treat yourself to fine dining at The Grove, Benihana or McCormick & Schmick’s. Explore our interactive map and discover why downtown life at The Rice is Houston at its most immediate, innovative and fascinating.
