Things to Do in Houston

The first and foremost thing to do in Houston, Texas, is to visit Hermann Park for a tranquil paradise. The 445-acre park offers green spaces and attractions that appeal to all the tourists. Hermann Park boasts a Japanese garden, the Friendship Pavilion from Taipei, a golf course, a miniature train, an edible vegetable, herb, citrus, fruit garden, a sculpture walk, lakes, fountains, pedal boats, and trails. What's more, the park is also home to the Houston Zoo. Yes, you heard that right! You can come here with your kids who love interacting with the animals. Aside from the zoo, the McGovern Centennial Gardens and the Miller Outdoor Theatre are some of the park's most popular points of interest. If you are looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, then this is your go-to place. 

The Johnson Space Center is NASA's staffed spacecraft center, the hub for the astronaut corps, and the home of International Space Station Mission operations. The 1,700-acre complex has been integral to NASA operations since the Mercury program. Still, it operates as one of the country's major space centers for personnel training, research, and more, one of the top things to do in Houston. The space museum invites visitors to explore more than 400 space artifacts, including the world's largest collection of moon rocks. You can explore Space Center Houston's interactive exhibits and learn about the current human spaceflight program in "The Artemis Exhibit.” Various other exhibits include the Mission Mars exhibit, SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster, exhibits of spacesuits, Mission Control tours, and the International Space Station Gallery.

There are several attractions within the Buffalo Bayou Park, including a 30,000 square-foot in-ground skate park, a nature-inspired playground and picnic pavilion, the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony, a 2-acre dog park, the Houston Police Officers' Memorial, and plenty of hiking and biking trails. It's a popular hub for outdoor events, performances, and food trucks. You will also find the Cistern here, Houston's first underground drinking-water reservoir converted into a public space with guided tours. And if you'd like to get out on the waters of the Buffalo Bayou, you can also enjoy kayaking here. Not only is the park great for outdoor activities, but it's also a prime place for stunning photo-ops of the Houston skyline, which attracts lots of tourists. 

Minute Maid Park, home to Major League Baseball's Houston Astros, is a popular place during the summer months in Houston. In addition to housing more than 40,000 seats, the park also features a replica of a 19th-century locomotive that runs about 800 feet along the west side of the ballpark and lights up and makes sounds when the team first takes to the natural grass field when an Astros player scores a home run and when the team wins. The air-conditioned stadium is a wonderful relief from hot summer days. Yet the stadium also has a fully retractable roof, allowing fresh air on cooler days. Even when the roof is closed, a glass section keeps the city's skyline visible. Catching a game on a Friday fireworks night at this park is one of the fun things to do in Houston. Those on the lookout for unique ballpark eats won't be disappointed either. 

Looking for fun things to do with your kids in Houston? This museum exhibit includes the Tot*Spot for babies up to 24 months old, complete with a toddler-sized dress-up area, a scarf blower, and an outdoor balcony with pedal cars. Older kids will enjoy exhibits like the Invention Convention, a miniature engineering workshop, or EcoStation. In this indoor/outdoor area, kids can observe turtles and other animals in the pond, make leaf rubbings, and identify animal footprints. Then, there's the outdoor FlowWorks interactive exhibit, where kids can play water games and stand in the middle of an 18-foot cauldron (perfect for those hot summer days). Meanwhile, Kidtropolis, USA, is a mini-city for kids, run by kids, that mimics a real city. Children can get a job, receive a paycheck, go grocery shopping, and more. 

Discover an art and culture treasure trove at The Menil Collection in Houston. This renowned museum offers diverse artwork housed in a stunning architectural setting, from ancient to contemporary. Its free entry policy allows visitors to explore the impressive collections without cost. Housing over 17,000 works spanning various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography, The Menil Collection offers a captivating journey through art history and human creativity. Marvel at works by artists like Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock. The museum's tranquil atmosphere provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, visiting The Menil Collection is a must when exploring things to do in Houston. 

Embark on an artistic adventure through the vibrant streets of Houston with a tour of its mesmerizing murals. Houston's urban landscape is transformed into an outdoor gallery, showcasing an eclectic mix of street art that reflects the city's diverse culture and creative spirit.From colorful abstract designs to thought-provoking social commentary, each mural tells a unique story, inviting viewers to explore the depths of imagination and expression. Discover towering portraits of local heroes, whimsical street scenes, and captivating abstract compositions adorning the city's walls. A guided tour is one of the best things to do in Houston, TX. It offers insight into the artists behind these captivating works, shedding light on their inspiration and creative process. 

Welcome to the wild wonderland of the Houston Zoo, where adventure awaits everywhere! Nestled within Hermann Park, this sprawling 55-acre zoo is a paradise for animal lovers of all ages. Home to over 6,000 exotic animals representing over 900 species, the Houston Zoo offers a thrilling journey through diverse ecosystems from around the globe. From majestic lions to playful sea otters, you can observe these magnificent creatures up close and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation. Engaging exhibits such as the African Forest, Gorilla Habitat, and Tropical Bird House provide immersive experiences transporting guests to distant lands. Families can enjoy interactive attractions like the Wildlife Carousel and the Texas Wetlands exhibit, while the little ones can explore the Children's Zoo and petting zoo.

Since its inception in 1923, this iconic outdoor venue has been a beacon of artistic expression, hosting various captivating performances that celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of the city's cultural scene. With its picturesque setting and open-air amphitheater, the Miller Outdoor Theater provides a unique stage for various events, including musical concerts, dance performances, theatrical productions, and community festivals. From classical symphonies to lively Broadway-style shows, there's something for everyone to enjoy under the starlit sky. Best of all, entry to most performances at the Miller Outdoor Theater is free, making it one of the fun things to do in Houston. A visit to the Miller Outdoor Theater promises an unforgettable experience filled with music, laughter, and the magic of live entertainment.

Situated in the city's heart, this vibrant district boasts an impressive array of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, offering something for every curious mind. Explore the universe's wonders at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring displays bring the natural world's mysteries to life. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of fine art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, home to a vast collection spanning centuries and continents. From the inspiring exhibits at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston to the thought-provoking displays at the Holocaust Museum Houston, the district's diverse offerings showcase the rich tapestry of human experience. With its pedestrian-friendly streets, lush green spaces, and eclectic dining options, the Houston Museum District invites visitors to embark on a cultural journey.