Katy's town motto describes life here perfectly: "small-town charm with big-city convenience." With a population of about 20,000, Katy is a classic Southern small town, but Houston is only a 30-minute drive away. Locals get to enjoy Houston's attractions, such as Space Center Houston and The Houston Museum of Natural Science, then come home to a quiet, country neighborhood.

James Oliver Thomas founded the town of Katy in 1895. The town grew around the local train stop for the MKT Railroad Company. Throughout the early 1900s, it was a farming town known for growing rice. When Interstate 10 opened in 1966, the area began to grow and develop as part of the expanding Greater Houston. Now, Katy has its own urban areas and independent school district.

In addition to the ones nearby in Houston, Katy has attractions for locals to appreciate. They have several beautiful parks, including Mary Jo Peckham Park, which is perfect for families with children. There is also the small WFDD Central Green Park, where people often gather for live concerts or outdoor movies. Katy has its own museums, as well. At Katy Heritage Museum, visitors can experience what local life was like 100 years ago. Katy Veterans Memorial Museum houses a collection of military memorabilia from World War I through the modern era. Some of Katy's most popular spots are its shopping centers. The biggest one, Katy Mills, has 175 stores ranging from high-fashion brands to dine-in restaurants. The outdoor shopping center LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch often hosts events such as farmers markets or live music.

Katy also has places for families wanting a little excitement and adventure. They can beat the summer heat at Typhoon Texas. This 25-acre waterpark features 33 water slides, a lazy river, and live entertainment during the summer. Katy is also home to the Great Southwest Equestrian Center, which hosts horse riding shows for locals to watch or take part in.

For such a small town, Katy has a surprisingly diverse food and nightlife scene. One local favorite spot for dinner is Da Vinci Ristorante Italiano. Many people also enjoy Ephesus Mediterranean Grill, which serves authentic Turkish food. For classic Texan fares, try Perry's Steakhouse & Grille or the southwestern Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant. For drinks and nights out on the town, Katy has bars and lounges such as Mo's Place, Bar Louie, and Toddy Oaks Winery Brewery & Distillery. The crown jewel of drinking spots in Katy, though, is No Label Brewing, a family-owned and operated brewery with original blends on tap.

With all of Katy and nearby Houston to explore, you don't have time to worry about your home's landscape. Let LawnStarter take care of your yard for you. All you have to do is download the app, enter your ZIP code, and describe what services you need. Then, LawnStarter will find the best local landscaping pros for your specific job. Whether you need a new flower garden, a custom water feature, or a yard cleanup, LawnStarter has you covered. All that's left is for you to relax and enjoy your free time with friends and family.