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Houston, Texas is worth exploring despite its association with the oil industry and towering skyscrapers. The city boasts lush parks, diverse art galleries, a thriving art scene, and downtown Tex-Mex restaurants that are sure to capture your attention. Houston is also known for its excellent shopping opportunities, with the renowned Galleria being a must-visit destination. Moreover, there are numerous comfortable hotels available, and families can enjoy attractions like the zoo and the children’s museum. Space enthusiasts have the chance to delve into NASA’s program at Space Center Houston, while science lovers can explore the extensive Museum of Natural Science. Despite its vast size, with a population exceeding 2.3 million, Houston offers pleasant weather throughout the year, hosts captivating festivals, and provides an abundance of activities. Don’t miss out on discovering this vibrant city!
Houston offers pleasant weather and affordable hotel prices throughout the year, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The best times to visit are from February to April or from September to November. During spring and fall, temperatures are comfortable, and there are numerous festivals to enjoy. While summer may offer good deals due to residents leaving for cooler destinations, you’ll need to endure high temperatures and humidity. Although winters in Houston are mild with rare snowfall, temperatures drop after sunset, so it’s advisable to pack layers if you’re traveling in December or January.
Here are some of our recommended things to do in Houston. Choose your favorite!
One of the largest urban wilderness preserves in the U.S. is Armand Bayou Nature Center, where you can find a rich variety of plants and animals. This nature center covers over 2,500 acres and is home to forests, wetlands, and prairies. You’ll be …
A trip to Texas wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a rodeo, and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the ultimate destination for that. This incredible event combines thrilling rodeo performances with captivating musical acts. In the past, …
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is located in the former residence of Ima Hogg, a well-known local philanthropist. Here, visitors have the opportunity to explore an impressive collection of American decorative arts and paintings. The museum’s Bayou …
Let me clarify things so it’s easier to understand. “Buffalo Bayou” is the name of a 52-mile waterway that begins in Katy, Texas, and flows towards the Houston Ship Channel. One particular section, Buffalo Bayou Park, spans 10 miles from Shepherd …
Children’s Museum Houston Welcome to this wonderful museum designed specifically for young children! It’s called the Little Ones Museum, and it has a range of exciting exhibits that will capture the imagination of your little tots. Let me tell you …
The Cockrell Butterfly Center is a captivating attraction within the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It has its own unique charm and showcases a three-story glass structure with a magnificent 50-foot waterfall. Inside this enchanting setting, …
Discovery Green is an urban park situated in downtown Houston, serving as a hub for people of all ages and backgrounds. It began as two large parking lots but has blossomed into a vibrant 12-acre space offering numerous activities and amenities. The …
Welcome to the Downtown Aquarium in Houston! This amazing attraction is located in the historic Houston Fire Station No. 1 and Central Waterworks Building, covering a spacious 6-acre area in downtown Houston. With a special emphasis on providing an …
Welcome to the extraordinary Marriott Marquis Houston! Prepare to be amazed by our incredible rooftop oasis, featuring the world’s largest lazy river in the shape of Texas. Located on the sixth floor, the Altitude Rooftop & Pool offers not only the …
Looking for an educational daytrip? Consider visiting the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, situated around 100 miles northwest of Houston. This museum is located on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. It …
Houston’s Uptown neighborhood boasts the iconic Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, which has captivated visitors since its completion in 1985. This postmodernist-designed masterpiece stands tall at 64 feet and impressively releases 11,000 gallons of …
For those who want to experience the local vibe, a visit to Hermann Park in Houston is a must. This expansive 445-acre park has something for everyone, with its beautiful green spaces and various attractions. You can explore a peaceful Japanese …
The Holocaust Museum Houston, which is the fourth-largest Holocaust museum in the U.S., underwent renovation in 2019 and now occupies three stories and spans 57,000 square feet. It features four permanent galleries and two changing exhibition …
The Houston Botanic Garden is a delightful destination that spans over 130 acres along the Sims Bayou. It offers visitors an array of beautiful walking trails and captivating horticultural displays to explore. Although it is a relatively new …
Since 1941, the Houston Farmers Market has been a go-to place for fresh produce. It has attracted not only local chefs but also food enthusiasts for many generations. Over time, the market has grown in both selection and size. Now covering more than …
With its impressive collection of museums, Houston’s Museum District stands out as a prized cultural gem. It holds a special place among the must-visit attractions in Texas. This district encompasses 19 museums divided into four easily navigable …
Located in Hermann Park and the Museum District of Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is a popular attraction that offers a wide range of exhibits. Founded in 1909, the museum boasts an impressive permanent collection with over 1.5 …
The Houston Zoo is a popular destination, attracting numerous visitors as the second most visited zoo in the United States. It houses over 6,000 animals and showcases various exhibits. One notable exhibit added in 2023 is the Galápagos Islands …
James Turrell, an American artist, has created an art installation at Rice University that focuses on light, space, and the sky. Called Twilight Epiphany Skyscape, this installation enhances our perception of the morning and evening sky by using …
When the Apollo 13 crew experienced a spacecraft explosion while en route to the moon, they radioed Mission Control at the NASA space center located approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown Houston. This is where the iconic phrase “Houston, …
Situated on the scenic Galveston Bay, you’ll find a delightful 35-acre theme park that offers an array of attractions. Prepare to be thrilled by exciting rides, indulge in delicious meals at various restaurants, explore charming shops, and have fun …
Memorial Park, the largest urban park in Texas, offers a tranquil escape within the city limits. While it may not have as many activities as Hermann Park, its sprawling 1,500 acres are adorned with beautiful flora that steal the show. With over 30 …
For a century, the Miller Outdoor Theatre has delighted both Houston residents and tourists. Spanning over 7 acres in Hermann Park, this beloved theater offers a generous seating capacity of over 1,700 seats, including 20 spaces for wheelchairs. …
Houston’s Minute Maid Park, the home of the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball, is a real hit when it comes to summertime fun. With over 40,000 seats, this ballpark has something special to offer. Can you believe it has a replica of an …
Discover the National Museum of Funeral History, a remarkable institution housing an extensive collection of historical funeral service artifacts. This museum proudly boasts the largest assortment of its kind in the entire country! Within its …
Post HTX, located in the city center, is a versatile complex that offers various amenities to its visitors. Originally known as the Barbara Jordan Post Office and established in 1961, this building showcases a modern architectural style. It has …
Rice University, established in 1912, is a top-ranked institution known for its unique architecture. Apart from admiring the buildings, there are numerous activities to enjoy during a visit. The Department of Visual and Dramatic Arts organizes …
The San Jacinto Battleground holds a significant place in history, particularly for those fascinated by the past. This State Historic Site witnessed a crucial battle in 1836 that played a pivotal role in Texas’ quest for independence. During the …
When the Texas heat becomes too much to handle, look no further than Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown. This amazing water park covers 40 acres and boasts over 2 million gallons of refreshing water. It’s widely regarded as one of the top water …
Galveston, an appealing daytrip destination for those visiting Houston, is conveniently located about 50 miles southeast of the city. Positioned on the Texas Gulf Coast, this barrier island showcases extensive stretches of sandy beaches, an …
Houston is adorned with murals that can be spotted in various places like boutiques, restaurants, parking lots, and yoga studios. These public artworks come in a wide array of styles, making them truly special. Some murals are beautifully simple, …
The Galleria is the biggest shopping mall in Texas. It has over 400 stores and restaurants, including luxury brands such as Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. There are also budget-friendly options like H&M, Urban …
Originally from France, John and Dominique de Menil fled to Houston during World War II. They embarked on a remarkable journey as art collectors, amassing an impressive collection of approximately 19,000 artworks. Today, this renowned collection is …