NP Full-time
MD Anderson Cancer Center Texas

Advanced Practice Provider (APRN or PA) - Colon & Rectal Surgery

MD Anderson Cancer Center Texas Houston, TX, US
$117,500 - $176,500 / year
The Colon & Rectal Surgical Oncology department at MD Anderson is a high-volume, fast-paced clinical setting with a strong culture of teamwork and collaboration. Our APP team is deeply integrated into patient care and clinical decision-making and benefits from excellent retention, continuous professional development, and opportunities to lead initiatives in QI, research, and APP-led clinics.

Our department is experiencing rapid growth and offers an exceptional environment for Advanced Practice Providers (APPs). We are committed to ensuring APPs can practice at the top of their license, supported by a collaborative, team-based model that pairs APPs with faculty while still promoting autonomous clinical practice.

We prioritize ongoing professional development, providing access to dedicated APP leadership, structured mentorship, and meaningful opportunities for career advancement. Our culture empowers APPs, values their contributions, and invests in their long-term success.

The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.

Join Our Colon & Rectal Surgery Team as an Advanced Practice Provider - Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or Physician Assistant (APRN/PA)

The ideal candidate will have prior experience, procedural and/or surgical experience, and consistent work history. For APRN candidates, RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assistant) certification is required, as this position includes support in the operating room.

Shift: Monday - Friday 8-5 pm. No weekends. No on call. Alternative work schedule once fully trained in OR and Inpatient.

Salary Range: Minimum $117,500.00 - Midpoint $146,500.00 - Maximum $176,500.00

Experience

New graduates will be considered; however, prior APP experience is preferred in a critical care environment or surgical experience.

RNFA for APRNs is required.

Key Responsibilities

  • Takes responsibility for patient assessment, triage, and therapeutic management of patient needs as an integral part of an interdisciplinary team.
  • Performs procedures, prescribes treatment, and signs prescriptions in accordance with institution and state requirements.
  • Screens physician calls to educate patient/family on care and resources.
  • Manage pre-operative and post-operative patients in coordination with the attending physician and Fellows.
  • An in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology of both cancer as well as surgical process and wound healing is necessary.
  • Provide patient focused care demonstrated in communication, personalization of interaction, regulation of emotions, and proactive problem solving.
  • Obtains medical history, and performs physical examinations and psychosocial assessments.
  • Demonstrates his/her impact on the system of care.
  • Reviews and interprets physical exam findings, laboratory and/or radiographic test results and formulates a plan for further diagnosis and therapeutic management in collaboration with the attending physician.
  • Documents all pertinent information within the patients' medical record per institutional policy.
  • Performs admission and discharge responsibilities.
  • Manage systems, toxicities and complications related to the patient's disease and/or treatment in collaboration with attending physician.
  • Order consultations, diagnostic tests or procedures as indicated.
  • Provides education to patients and their families which requires good interpersonal skills and a working knowledge of colorectal oncology.
  • Participates in clinical research, assisting with eligibility assessments.
  • Monitors for side effects of toxicities associated with investigational treatments, and documents according to protocol requirements.
  • Participates in on call rotations, if needed, in the event of an institutional shutdown.
  • Collaborates with physician and team in the management of Colorectal Surgery patients in one or multiple areas of the department, and demonstrates population-based competencies that cross the continuum of care.
  • Communicates verbally and in writing with physicians, multi-disciplinary team members, and external care providers.
  • Facilitates communication between patient/family, primary and/or multi-disciplinary team.
  • Demonstrates medical knowledge and possess proficiency in the care and management of Colon and Rectal Surgery patients.
  • Maintains licensure and continuing education as dictated by the provider's license and clinical appointment.
  • Participates in on-going learning and demonstrates application of it in his/her role.

REQUIRED: Degree requirements as defined by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) or Texas State Board of Physician Assistant Examiners (TSBPAE) as required for clinical licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or Physician Assistant.

Licensure/Certification

REQUIRED: Written authorization from the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) or Texas State Board of Physician Assistant Examiners (TSBPAE) to function as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or Physician Assistant. Related authorization must be consistent with clinical practice area and patient population. Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. MAY BE REQUIRED: Eligible to be granted limited prescriptive authority by the State of Texas.

PREFERRED: American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS), ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) or PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) certification as required by patient care area

Experience

Required: None.

Preferred: One year procedural and/or surgical experience, consistent work history.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html

Additional Information

  • Requisition ID: 180813
  • Employment Status: Full-Time
  • Employee Status: Regular
  • Work Week: Days
  • Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 117,500
  • Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 146,500
  • Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 176,500
  • FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
  • Fund Type: Hard
  • Work Location: Onsite
  • Pivotal Position: Yes
  • Referral Bonus Available?: Yes
  • Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes

Share this job

Share to FB Share to LinkedIn Share to Twitter

Related Jobs

NP ICU Full-time
Memorial Hermann Health System

Nurse Practitioner, Critical Care, Nights, Katy

Memorial Hermann Health System Katy, TX
At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team. Job Summary Position responsible for providing serving as expert clinician, educator, consultant, case manager, and researcher; in collaboration with the medical and nursing staff, monitors the clinical care of patients and provides clinical support to improve patient care and patient outcomes. Job Description Minimum Qualifications Education: Masters degree in Nursing with certification by the American Nurse Credentialing Center or the Pediatric Nursing Certification in area of intended practice Licenses / Certifications: Current State of Texas license to practice professional nursing Certified in Basic Life Support; current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or obtains certification within three (3) months of hire Experience / Knowledge / Skills: Three (3) years clinical nursing experience in area of intended practice; two (2) years experience in an Advanced Practice role Principal Accountabilities Role of Clinical Expert Develops and assists in the implementation of nursing care plans and standards specific to the age/needs of the patient/population served. Assists and provides direction to nursing staff with clinical decision-making and priority setting; models excellence in nursing practice through the utilization of advanced concepts in the areas of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation of perceived, actual or potential problems that occur in a variety of patient populations. Functions as a facilitator and innovator for state-of-the-art nursing care with direct involvement in implementing and evaluating new techniques and equipment for safety, cost-effectiveness, and benefits related to nursing practice. Completes history and physical on patients as indicated; writes medical orders per established protocols; provides approved clinical services, including removal of sutures, and complex wound care. Performs daily rounds on assigned physician patients. Assesses the health status of assigned patients by collecting and analyzing patient data and evaluating the appropriateness of care. Role of Educator Assists patients, their significant others, and families in the acquisition of information related to health and wellness, including the prevention of illness and injury; develops and implements educational information, materials, and programs for discharge planning and teaching of healthcare consumers. Serves as a resource to nursing staff, nursing students, and other health care personnel in the acquisition of knowledge and skills related to nursing knowledge. Contributes to professional nursing literature by publishing scholarly works; contributes to nursing education as a faculty member. Role of Researcher Expands the scientific base of nursing practice by conducting and facilitating nursing research; disseminates research findings through presentations and publications. Critically analyzes current nursing research methods and results for utilization in the expansion and improvement of patient care and patient outcomes. Role of Consultant Collaborates with clinical nurses and other members of the health care team to problem solve complex clinical situations for specialty needs of patients. Collaborates with clinical nurses and other members of the health care team to problem solve complex clinical situations for special system needs. Ensures safe care to patients, staff and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management, productivity and quality of service. Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education and skills competency; supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor and resource to less experienced staff. Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards by providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and colleagues. Other duties as assigned.
NP Urgent Care Per Diem
GoHealth Urgent Care

Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant

GoHealth Urgent Care Spring, TX
It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they are doing! We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business. Memorial Hermann - GoHealth Urgent Care Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant - Per Diem Due to our growth and expansion, Memorial Hermann - GoHealth Urgent Care is seeking experienced Physician Assistants or Nurse Practitioners who have urgent care or emergency room experience, treating both adult and pediatric patients. Join our welcoming and diverse community of providers to work in our North Region Centers as a Per Diem Provider! North Region Centers: Bridgeland, Cypress Market, Kingwood, Magnolia Place, The Woodlands, Willis, Springwoods Village, Steeplechase, Rock Creek, Marekt Street- Woodlands, Louetta, Tomball, Harpers Preserve Our Advanced Practitioners (NP/PAs) provide a wide variety of clinical services including treatment of acute episodic conditions such as sore throats, colds, flu-like symptoms, cuts, sprains and minor infections. It is essential to have excellent assessment skills in order to recognize more serious conditions and direct the patient to the emergency room for advanced care when necessary while going above and beyond to deliver an unparalleled patient experience. A career with Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care offers: Work in our beautiful state-of-the-art centers that are patient-friendly and equipped with imaging, and labs More autonomy with mentoring and support when you need it. Our patient satisfaction scores validate our focus on quality of care Work Experience: 2-5 years of post-residency experience required PA/NP: 1 or more years of Full-Time experience in an Urgent Care or Emergency Medicine setting required Experience treating both pediatric and adult patient populations. Comfortable with minor procedures (sutures, casts, splints, etc.), reading EKGs and X-rays. Education: Bachelor’s Degree required for Physician Assistants Master’s Degree required for Nurse Practitioners Required Licenses/Certifications: National Certifications Active state medical licensure Additional Knowledge Skills & Abilities Preferred: Knowledge and experience with Electronic Medical Records Ability to be attentive with strong listening skills Strong communication and customer service skills We are Committed to Quality Care Our Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care locations have been accredited by the Urgent Care Association. The only program of its kind, this accreditation was awarded for GoHealth Urgent Care's excellence in both certification and quality and safety standards. This accomplishment signifies our continued dedication to the patients we serve. Set up email alerts as new job postings become available that meet your interest! All qualified persons are granted an equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, genetic information, medical condition, family care leave status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, otherwise qualified disabled or veteran status. The company will comply with all fair employment laws in each of the jurisdictions where we conduct business.
NP Outpatient Full-time
CVS Health

Advance Practice Provider NP/PA

CVS Health Kingwood, TX
$46.06 - $99.14 / hour
We’re building a world of health around every individual — shaping a more connected, convenient and compassionate health experience. At CVS Health®, you’ll be surrounded by passionate colleagues who care deeply, innovate with purpose, hold ourselves accountable and prioritize safety and quality in everything we do. Join us and be part of something bigger – helping to simplify health care one person, one family and one community at a time. This is a full time position (30-35 hours/week) at our Kingwood clinic. Hourly Payrate Range for this position and location is $66.50-77.50/hr based on experience plus shift differentials and quarterly incentive plan. A Brief Overview As the largest retail health care provider in the nation and a Fortune Top 10 industry leader, MinuteClinic offers a unique opportunity to deliver affordable, accessible, and comprehensive high‑quality care to patients, families, and communities. Our providers are empowered to practice holistically with strong clinical support, collaborative resources, and a unified “one store, one team” approach. This is a clinic-based role focused on delivering the highest-level quality in-person patient care. Virtual care visits may be conducted from the clinic during periods of lower onsite patient volume and when doing so does not delay or interfere with in‑person care. MinuteClinic is proud to hold the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Pathway to Excellence® designation, recognizing our commitment to a healthy work environment through Transformational Leadership, Quality, Safety, Shared Governance, Well-being, and Professional Development. What Our Providers Enjoy Autonomy to manage your practice with dedicated collaborative and organizational support Flexible scheduling and strong work–life balance Exceptional tools, training, and clinical resources Evidence‑based guidelines and access to leading assessment and treatment planning tools Opportunity to deliver both in‑person and virtual care, driven by in‑clinic patient volume Ability to practice at the top of your license with comprehensive clinical team support Significant career growth and professional development opportunities Charting and follow‑up completed during your scheduled shift—no work taken home What you will do Deliver evidence‑based primary and family care, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute and chronic conditions Provide both in-person and virtual visits (from the clinic) to support positive patient health outcomes Perform diagnostic testing, preventive counseling, treatment of injuries and illnesses, and coordination of care with other healthcare professionals Engage patients in wellness services, chronic disease management, and preventive health screenings Complete essential clinic operations including inventory management, clinic opening/closing, patient follow‑up, insurance verification, and payment collection Support a safe and efficient care environment through routine examinations and timely patient appointment management Education Nurse Practitioners: Master’s degree from an accredited Family Nurse Practitioner program Current national board certification (AANP or ANCC) Active, unrestricted state APRN license Physician Associates: Master of Science in Physician Assistant/Associate Studies or health‑related master’s degree plus Bachelor of Science in PA Studies Current NCCPA certification Active, unrestricted state PA license Essential Qualifications Nurse Practitioners (NPs): One year of NP experience preferred; qualified new graduates may be considered Active, unrestricted Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) license in good standing Ability to provide holistic, evidence‑based care including counseling related to pregnancy prevention, STI prevention, and safer sex practices Ability to order/administer vaccines and injections (COVID‑19, influenza, TB testing, Depo‑Provera, etc.) DOT certification exam completed within 30 days of employment Bilingual proficiency may be required depending on market needs Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification Ability to pass a respirator FIT test Physical presence at assigned clinic required Physician Associates (PAs): Prior PA experience preferred; qualified new graduates considered Active, unrestricted state PA/Physician Associate license (or eligibility to obtain upon hire) DOT certification exam completed within 30 days of employment Active BLS certification Ability to pass a respirator FIT test Physical presence at assigned clinic required Physical Requirements Ability to perform duties involving prolonged standing, walking, bending, and reaching Ability to perform Basic Life Support Preferred Qualifications Experience with the EPIC electronic health record Prior MinuteClinic precepting rotation (if less than one year of provider experience; preferred but not required) Experience conducting patient assessments and exercising sound clinical decision‑making in a virtual care environment Familiarity with digital health tools and virtual communication technologies Pay Range The typical pay range for this role is: $46.03 - $99.14 This pay range represents the base hourly rate or base annual full-time salary for all positions in the job grade within which this position falls. The actual base salary offer will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education, geography and other relevant factors. This position is eligible for a CVS Health bonus, commission or short-term incentive program in addition to the base pay range listed above. Our people fuel our future. Our teams reflect the customers, patients, members and communities we serve and we are committed to fostering a workplace where every colleague feels valued and that they belong. Great benefits for great people We take pride in offering a comprehensive and competitive mix of pay and benefits that reflects our commitment to our colleagues and their families. This full‑time position is eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the physical, emotional, and financial well‑being of colleagues and their families. The benefits for this position include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, retirement savings options, wellness programs, and other resources, based on eligibility. Additional details about available benefits are provided during the application process and on Benefits Moments . We anticipate the application window for this opening will close on: 05/31/2026 Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with all federal, state and local laws.
NP Outpatient Full-time
CVS Health

Advanced Practice Provider NP/PA

CVS Health Kingwood, TX
$66.50 - $77.50 / hour
We’re building a world of health around every individual — shaping a more connected, convenient and compassionate health experience. At CVS Health®, you’ll be surrounded by passionate colleagues who care deeply, innovate with purpose, hold ourselves accountable and prioritize safety and quality in everything we do. Join us and be part of something bigger – helping to simplify health care one person, one family and one community at a time. **This is a full time position (30-35 hours/week) at our Kingwood clinic** Hourly Payrate Range for this position and location is $66.50-77.50/hr based on experience plus shift differentials and quarterly incentive plan. Position Summary: As the largest retail health care provider in the nation, and an industry‑leading Fortune Top 10 company, MinuteClinic offers the unique opportunity to deliver affordable, accessible, comprehensive, high‑quality care that meets the needs of our patients, their families, and our communities. You’ll be empowered to provide holistic patient care with support, guidance, collaboration, and a “one store, one team” mindset. MinuteClinic has been awarded the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Pathway to Excellence® designation, recognizing organizations committed to healthy work environments through Transformational Leadership, Quality, Safety, Shared Governance, Well‑being, and Professional Development. Our Providers Enjoy: Autonomy to run your own practice with dedicated collaborator and organizational support Flexible scheduling Strong work–life balance Exceptional tools, training, and clinical resources Evidence‑based guidelines and access to assessment and treatment planning tools Ability to practice at the top of your clinical license with support from the clinical care team Significant career growth and development opportunities Charting and follow‑up completed during your scheduled shift—no work taken home You Will: Provide evidence‑based primary and family care, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, management of acute and chronic conditions, health counseling, and disposition planning Complete administrative duties such as inventory management, opening/closing the clinic, patient follow‑up, insurance verification, and payment collection Manage patient appointments and perform routine examinations supporting strong health outcomes Perform diagnostic testing, provide preventive counseling, treat injuries and illnesses, and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals Promote patient engagement through screenings, wellness services, and chronic disease management Required Qualifications: For Nurse Practitioners (NPs): Minimum one year of NP experience is preferred; however, qualified new graduate NPs will be considered Active Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) license in good standing Ability to provide holistic, evidence‑based care including counseling around pregnancy prevention, STI prevention, and safer‑sex practices Ability to order/administer vaccines and injections (COVID‑19, influenza, TB testing, Depo‑Provera, etc.) Completion of DOT certification exam required within 30 days of employment Bilingual proficiency may be required depending on market Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (CPR/AED) Ability to pass a respirator FIT test For Physician Associates (PAs): Minimum one year of PA experience is preferred; however, qualified new graduate PAs will be considered Master of Science in Physician Assistant/Associate Studies, or another health‑related master's degree together with a Bachelor of Science in PA Studies/Physician Associate Studies Current NCCPA National Board Certification Active state license to practice as a Physician Associate in the state of employment (or eligibility upon hire) Completion of DOT certification exam required within 30 days of employment Active BLS certification (CPR/AED) Ability to pass a respirator FIT test Education Requirements: Nurse Practitioners: Master’s Degree from an accredited Family Nurse Practitioner program Current National Board Certification (AANP or ANCC) Active state APRN license Physician Associates: Master of Science in Physician Assistant/Associate Studies OR other health‑related master’s degree plus Bachelor of Science in PA Studies/Physician Associate Studies Current NCCPA certification Active state PA/Physician Associate license Preferred Qualifications: EPIC EHR experience preferred Pay Range The typical pay range for this role is: $46.03 - $99.14 This pay range represents the base hourly rate or base annual full-time salary for all positions in the job grade within which this position falls. The actual base salary offer will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education, geography and other relevant factors. This position is eligible for a CVS Health bonus, commission or short-term incentive program in addition to the base pay range listed above. Our people fuel our future. Our teams reflect the customers, patients, members and communities we serve and we are committed to fostering a workplace where every colleague feels valued and that they belong. Great benefits for great people We take pride in our comprehensive and competitive mix of pay and benefits – investing in the physical, emotional and financial wellness of our colleagues and their families to help them be the healthiest they can be. In addition to our competitive wages, our great benefits include: Affordable medical plan options, a 401(k) plan (including matching company contributions), and an employee stock purchase plan . No-cost programs for all colleagues including wellness screenings, tobacco cessation and weight management programs, confidential counseling and financial coaching. Benefit solutions that address the different needs and preferences of our colleagues including paid time off, flexible work schedules, family leave, dependent care resources, colleague assistance programs, tuition assistance, retiree medical access and many other benefits depending on eligibility. For more information, visit https://jobs.cvshealth.com/us/en/benefits We anticipate the application window for this opening will close on: 04/12/2026 Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with all federal, state and local laws.
NP Full-time
HCA Healthcare

Orthopaedic Surgery Advanced Practice Provider

HCA Healthcare Webster, TX
Description Specialization: Orthopaedic Surgery Job Summary: HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake is seeking an orthopedic surgery PA with first assist interests or experience to assist a busy, employed Orthopedic surgeon in southeast Houston, TX. Position is open to new grad PAs interested in orthopedic surgery. Qualified candidates: The surgeon will train a new grad or will welcome a PA with orthopedic surgery experience. Certification as a PA Ability to obtain or maintain an active Texas medical license New grad PAs will be considered - but must have strong orthopedic experience or passion for orthopedic surgery. Responsibilities: Run independent clinic alongside Attending Orthopedic Surgeon Evaluate independent Orthopedic Consults in Emergency Department and on Floor at two facilities Assist in the Operating Room with procedures, positioning, and closure Assist in clinical setting with patient issues and prescriptions Exposure to teaching and sport coverage opportunities if desired Incentives/Benefits Package: In addition to unmatched potential for flexibility and career growth and a competitive salary with incentives, a comprehensive benefits program is available for full-time colleagues. This includes: Paid malpractice Coverage for medical, behavioral health, prescription drugs, dental and vision Wellbeing resources, including free counseling Life insurance 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions Time off, including disability coverage Supplemental health protection plans Flexible spending accounts Financial wellbeing resources Family-focused and voluntary benefits About HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake: HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake ranked No. 10 in the greater Houston region (U.S. News & World Report 2024-2025 edition of Best Hospitals) 532-bed, full-service acute care hospital Comprehensive Stroke Center Level II Adult Trauma Center 42-bed ICU 8-cardiovascular ICU beds 14-cardiac care beds 20-ORs Pediatric Emergency Department staffed with pediatric sub-specialists 42-bed Level III NICU 10-bed PICU 24/7 services include hospitalists, radiology, lab, pharmacy and anesthesia GME---an Internal Medicine and a General Surgery residency program Proclaimed as the nation’s fourth-largest city, Houston is a vibrant metropolis and home to the world-famous Texas Medical Center (22 miles away). When it comes to entertainment and recreation, Houston has much to offer, to include professional sports teams, a theater district and a museum district, hundreds of clubs and live music venues. The largest mall in Texas, The Galleria, is a shopper’s paradise. Houston’s sunny climate makes it easy to enjoy the city’s municipal parks, jogging paths, and bike trails. Less than an hour away are piney woods, area lakes, Galveston Bay, and sunny Gulf Coast beaches that offer an abundance of activities. Boasting more than 100 different nationalities, Houston is one of the country’s most diverse cities.