52 Best Things to Do in Houston, Texas

Houston, Texas, often dubbed “Space City,” blends cosmopolitan charms with Southern hospitality, making it one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the U.S. As the nation’s fourth-largest city, Houston offers an eclectic mix of historic landmarks, cutting-edge technology, fine dining, and a thriving arts scene. It’s a city where towering skyscrapers coexist with cultural districts, and where global cuisines are just as celebrated as Texas barbecue. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, foodie, or family traveler, Houston presents something for everyone.

Visitors will find countless opportunities to engage with the local culture, learn about space exploration, wander through lush green parks, and immerse themselves in art and history. To help you make the most of your trip, here’s a guide to 52 of the best things to do in Houston, including iconic sites, hidden gems, and family-friendly points of interest.

1. Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, is a must-visit for space enthusiasts. Home to captivating exhibits, historic artifacts, and interactive programs, this site offers visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into space exploration.

Highlights:

NASA Tram Tour: Offers guided access to Mission Control, where human spaceflight missions are managed.
Independence Plaza: Marvel at a full-size shuttle replica mounted on a Boeing 747 aircraft.
Moon Rocks: Get up close with authentic lunar samples brought back from the Apollo missions.

The Space Center also hosts interactive exhibitions where guests can experience what it feels like to be an astronaut, making it a great learning experience for visitors of all ages.

2. Museum District

Houston’s Museum District is a cultural treasure trove, housing 19 museums spanning art, science, and history. Highlights include:

Houston Museum of Natural Science: A colossal museum featuring everything from dinosaur skeletons to gems and minerals.
The Menil Collection: A notable free museum featuring works ranging from surrealism to tribal art.
Museum of Fine Arts: Housing vast collections of artwork from around the globe.
Holocaust Museum Houston: This institution focuses on educating visitors about the Holocaust and human rights.

Each museum holds its own appeal, and many of them offer free entry on specific days, ensuring that this cultural district pleases every budget.

3. Hermann Park & Japanese Garden

A serene retreat in the heart of Houston, Hermann Park offers sprawling green spaces, elegant lakes, and family-friendly activities.

Japanese Garden: Visitors seeking tranquility can stroll through the meticulously landscaped Japanese Garden, featuring waterfalls, bridges, and koi ponds.
McGovern Lake: Rent pedal boats or hop on the miniature train that takes passengers throughout the park.

The proximity of the park to other attractions, such as the Houston Zoo, makes it a great centerpiece for any day out in the city.

4. Houston Zoo

Covering 55 acres with over 6,000 animals, the Houston Zoo is one of the nation’s most visited zoos. The African Forest exhibit features giraffes, while the Kipp Aquarium allows visitors to come face to face with exotic marine life.

Not only is the zoo entertaining, but it’s also deeply committed to conservation, offering numerous ways to engage with wildlife education programs.

5. Discovery Green

Located in the heart of downtown Houston, Discovery Green is a year-round community gathering spot hosting events, fitness classes, art installations, and entertainment.

Outdoor Activities: Participate in yoga classes, paddle on the lake in rented kayaks, or simply unwind in the expansive green spaces.

Frequent festivals and events, such as free concerts and seasonal ice skating, ensure there’s always something exciting happening in Discovery Green.

6. Buffalo Bayou Park & Waugh Bat Colony

Stretching along the banks of the Buffalo Bayou, this expansive park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, biking, or kayaking along the river.

Waugh Bridge Bat Colony: One of the park’s most unique sights is the colony of 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats which emerge at dusk, creating an awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

The park’s scenic trails and beautifully designed green spaces make it one of Houston’s most loved outdoor areas.

7. The Galleria Mall

For those seeking retail therapy, The Galleria is Texas’ largest shopping mall and a premier shopping destination. With over 375 stores, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci, the mall also boasts an indoor ice-skating rink and a variety of dining options to suit any palate.

8. Minute Maid Park (Home of the Houston Astros)

Home to the Houston Astros, Minute Maid Park is an essential destination for sports fans. Visitors can enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium or, better yet, experience the excitement firsthand by attending a live game during baseball season.

The park’s retractable roof ensures year-round comfort, making it a prime venue for baseball games as well as concerts.

9. Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium offers a selection of family-friendly attractions, including aquatic exhibits, a Ferris wheel, and interactive touch pools. Main attractions include:

Shark Voyage: A train ride that travels through a glass-enclosed tunnel beneath a shark tank.
Aquatic Exhibits: Explore sea life from around the world, including stingrays, colorful tropical fish, and playful river otters.

The Downtown Aquarium also offers an amusement park-like atmosphere with carnival games, restaurants, and rides, appealing to visitors of all ages.

10. Children’s Museum Houston

Ranked among the top children’s museums in the country, the Children’s Museum Houston offers hands-on exhibits for kids that are both educational and fun. Interactive exhibits such as the mini-city Kidtropolis, water engineering at FlowWorks, and the science-fueled How Does It Work? stimulate curiosity and creativity at every corner.

Designed to let kids explore in a safe and nurturing environment, the museum makes for the perfect family outing.

11. The Heights Neighborhood & Historic Sites

A charming, historic neighborhood, The Heights is known for its beautifully preserved Victorian homes, eclectic shops, and community feel. Wander down Heights Boulevard to discover local artwork, coffeehouses, antique shops, and renowned eateries.

History buffs will appreciate the well-preserved architecture and landmarks that tell the story of Houston’s early days.

12. Galveston Day Trip from Houston (Beaches & Historic Sites)

Located just an hour from Houston, Galveston offers a beachside escape rich in history and filled with family-friendly attractions:

Strand Historic District: A quaint historic downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and 19th-century charm.
Moody Gardens: Featuring aquarium pyramids, a rainforest biome, and a golf course.
Victorian Architecture: The Bishop’s Palace stands as a testament to grand Victorian design, offering tours of its lavish interiors.

Be sure to enjoy the sun and surf at Galveston’s beaches before taking a scenic ferry ride to watch the dolphins.

13. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (Seasonal)

Held every March, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of the city’s most anticipated events. The rodeo showcases professional bull riding, calf scrambles, and barrel racing with all the excitement of rodeo competitions.

In addition, fantastic live concerts, carnival rides, and livestock exhibitions create an unforgettable experience that draws visitors from across Texas and the world.

14. Art Car Museum & Beer Can House (Quirky Attractions)

For travelers in search of something unusual, Houston has some quirky attractions like the Art Car Museum, where old vehicles have been transformed into elaborate works of art. Nearby, the Beer Can House offers an equally quirky experience, a folk-art home covered in beer cans!

These eccentric sites highlight Houston’s creative spirit and are an offbeat addition to any itinerary.

15. The Menil Collection & Rothko Chapel (Art Lovers)

Explorers of modern and contemporary art will be absorbed in the treasures found at The Menil Collection. This beloved museum features works spanning various periods and genres, including surrealism, Byzantine art, and post-war modernism.

Adjacent to the Menil is the Rothko Chapel, a non-denominational space created by artist Mark Rothko. This minimalist chapel offers quiet reflection, making it a soulful experience for art and spirituality lovers alike.

16. Shopping in Rice Village & Highland Village Districts

If high-end boutiques and stylish eateries are your thing, head to Rice Village and Highland Village. Rice Village offers a collection of local, eclectic shops alongside recognizable brands, while Highland Village entices with luxury labels and fine dining experiences. Both areas promise a memorable shopping spree in an upscale setting.

17. Eleanor Tinsley Park (Outdoor Activities)

Part of the Buffalo Bayou Park system, Eleanor Tinsley Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual picnic, a bike ride along its scenic paths, or swinging by for the city’s annual Fourth of July fireworks, this park offers incredible views of Houston’s skyline and ample green space for relaxation.

18. Kayaking on Buffalo Bayou & Sunset Skyline Tours

For adventure-seekers, kayaking down Buffalo Bayou provides a unique way to explore Houston’s natural beauty. Several outfitter services offer kayak rentals for guided or self-guided tours where you’ll paddle past scenic trails and take in views of the city’s skyline.

Sunset Skyline Tours: If you opt for a sunset tour, you’ll witness the city bathed in golden light, offering some of the best panoramic views available of downtown Houston.

19. Toyota Center (Home to the Houston Rockets)

Sports fans and concertgoers alike will want to visit the Toyota Center, home to NBA’s Houston Rockets. Attending a live basketball game is a high-energy experience, complete with fast-paced action and roaring fans. The venue also hosts concerts and entertainment events throughout the year, making it a popular stop for visitors.

20. McGovern Centennial Gardens & Miller Outdoor Theatre (Outdoor Attractions)

McGovern Centennial Gardens is a beautifully landscaped 15-acre space perfect for a nature retreat. Take a peaceful walk through the rose gardens, sculpture walks, or tree-lined trails.

Adjacent to the gardens is Miller Outdoor Theatre, an open-air venue that offers free performances ranging from ballet to Shakespeare, making it one of the most versatile entertainment spaces in the city.

Additional Lesser-Known Attractions (21 to 52)

21. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

This haven for nature lovers features winding trails through forested landscapes, offering excellent bird-watching opportunities. A spot ideal for getting back to nature.

22. Houston Graffiti Building

Art aficionados will appreciate the Houston Graffiti Building, where vibrant murals by talented street artists turn outdoor walls into evolving canvases.

23. Market Square Park

Historic charm meets contemporary vibes at Market Square Park, a resting spot downtown with public art, dining choices, and outdoor movie screenings.

24. Houston Underground Tunnel Tours

Explore a lesser-known side of the city by heading underground—Houston’s downtown contains a vast network of underground tunnels connecting office buildings, shops, and restaurants.

25. Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens

Step back in time at this former estate, now a museum dedicated to American decorative arts housed amid stunningly manicured gardens.

26. San Jacinto Monument

History buffs won’t want to miss the San Jacinto Monument, the tallest monument in the U.S., honoring Texas’ independence from Mexico.

27. Big Rivers Waterpark

This waterpark just outside of Houston offers splash-packed thrills for all ages, with water slides, lazy rivers, and family-friendly attractions.

28. Saint Arnold Brewing Company

Enjoy a local brew at Saint Arnold Brewing, Texas’ oldest independent craft brewery, offering tours and tasty samples for beer lovers.

29. Memorial Park & Golf Course

One of the largest urban parks in Texas, Memorial Park features miles of trails and recreational facilities. It’s also home to a championship golf course.

30. The Beer Can House

This truly quirky attraction turns folk art into home decor. Covered in over 50,000 beer cans, this whimsical home is a Houston institution.

31. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

This striking water installation is one of Houston’s favorite cool-off spots, with its cascading water walls standing at over 60 feet tall.

32. We Love Houston Sign

Snap an iconic photo in front of the colorful “We Love Houston” sign, an Instagram-worthy mural that encapsulates the city’s pride.

33. National Museum of Funeral History

A one-of-a-kind museum exploring funeral customs and memorabilia, tracing the evolution of mourning traditions and ceremonies throughout history.

34. Battleship Texas

A visit to this mighty battleship offers a glimpse into naval history. The USS Texas served in both World Wars and now stands as a floating museum.

35. Houston Symphony at Jones Hall

Visit Jones Hall to enjoy performances from the Houston Symphony, recognized for its world-class concerts spanning classical, pop, and family-friendly repertoires.

36. Fire Museum of Houston

Housed in a historic fire station, the Fire Museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs detailing the history of firefighting in Houston.

37. 19th Street in The Heights

For a funky shopping experience, head to 19th Street in The Heights. From boutiques and vintage stores to art galleries, it’s the perfect blend of creativity and commerce.

38. Memorial Hermann Ironman Sports Medicine Institute

This wellness center located within the Texas Medical Center offers athlete services for physical health, making it a premier destination for those seeking recovery and fitness training.

39. BBVA Stadium (Home of Houston Dynamo & Dash)

Catch a soccer game at this state-of-the-art stadium and cheer for the Houston Dynamo (MLS) or the Houston Dash (NWSL) during their season.

40. Lone Star Flight Museum

Featuring an impressive collection of restored vintage aircraft, the Lone Star Flight Museum is the perfect stop for aviation enthusiasts.

41. Lawndale Art Center

The Lawndale Art Center is an exhibition space devoted to contemporary art in Houston, providing a platform for regional artists to showcase their latest creations.

42. Sam Houston Park

A historic park within downtown that showcases preserved houses dating back to the 1800s, providing a historical lens into early Houston life.

43. Houston Center for Photography

Part gallery and part educational center, the Houston Center for Photography is the spot to admire contemporary photography or take a workshop in the art of the camera.

44. The Music Box Theater

Located in the heart of Houston, The Music Box Theater delivers nightly energetic performances combining live music, comedy sketches, and immersive theater.

45. Houston Livestock Show and Carnival

During March, you can’t miss this iconic event featuring a full-blown rodeo spectacle, barbecue competition, and carnival amusements.

46. Gulf Greyhound Park

It’s thrilling to watch the greyhound races at this long-established venue near Houston, perfect for an adrenaline-packed outing.

47. George Observatory

Explore the cosmos and partake in public stargazing events at the George Observatory, where high-tech telescopes open up the night sky.

48. Cockrell Butterfly Center

Step into this stunning habitat at the Houston Museum of Natural Science to witness countless vibrant butterflies flitting through a tropical rainforest atmosphere.

49. Twilight Epiphany Skyspace at Rice University

This installation by James Turrell is an extraordinary light and space experience that transforms the sky at sunrise and sunset into a breathtaking visual performance.

50. iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Experience the sensation of skydiving—without jumping out of a plane! Perfect for adrenaline seekers, iFLY offers safe indoor wind tunnels simulating freefall conditions.

51. Saint John’s Market

One of the city’s oldest farmers’ markets, Saint John’s Market offers visitors access to locally grown produce and quirky local finds.

52. Houston National Cemetery

Pay tribute to fallen service members at the Houston National Cemetery, featuring serene pathways and grand monuments that honor veterans and military service.

FAQs Section

What is Houston best known for?

Houston is best known for being home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, its diverse culinary scene, thriving arts culture, and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

What are fun things to do in Houston with kids?

Houston offers numerous kid-friendly attractions, such as the Children’s Museum of Houston, Houston Zoo, Space Center Houston, the Downtown Aquarium, and Hermann Park.

What is there to do in Houston for free?

Visitors can explore Buffalo Bayou Park, Hermann Park, witness the Waugh Bat Colony at dusk, or visit museums on free-admission days. Discovery Green also hosts complimentary events year-round.

Where should I go if I only have one day in Houston?

Start your day at Space Center Houston, followed by shopping or lunch at The Galleria, then explore Hermann Park and the Museum District before catching a sunset over Buffalo Bayou Park.

Conclusion

Houston is a city where arts, science, and Southern comfort fuse together seamlessly. From its prominent Space Center to museums and delicious cuisine, the city has become a dynamic travel destination that caters to an array of interests. Whether you’re kayaking along Buffalo Bayou, exploring historic neighborhoods, or soaking in the local art at museums and galleries, Houston’s diverse range of activities ensures lasting memories for every visitor.

So next time you’re in Texas, give yourself plenty of time to explore Space City—you won’t regret it!