50 Things to Do in Houston Texas

Houston, Texas, is a sprawling metropolis with a rich history, diverse culture, and a seemingly endless array of attractions and activities. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a long-time resident looking to explore more of what the city has to offer, there’s always something new and exciting to do. Here’s a list of 50 must-do activities in Houston that will help you experience the best of this vibrant city.

1. Visit the Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Explore interactive exhibits, see real spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration. Don’t miss the tram tour that takes you behind the scenes at NASA.

2. Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the most popular museums in the country. It features fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, gems and minerals, ancient Egypt, and more. The Burke Baker Planetarium and the Cockrell Butterfly Center are also must-see attractions within the museum.

3. Walk Around the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is one of the largest art museums in the United States, housing an impressive collection of over 70,000 works of art. The museum’s diverse collection includes everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.

4. Stroll Through Hermann Park

Hermann Park is a 445-acre urban park that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to the Houston Zoo, the Miller Outdoor Theatre, and a beautiful Japanese Garden. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or paddle boating on McGovern Lake.

5. Visit the Houston Zoo

Located within Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world. The zoo offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs, making it a great destination for families.

6. Catch a Show at the Miller Outdoor Theatre

The Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park offers free performances ranging from concerts and dance to theater and movies. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a night of entertainment under the stars.

7. Take a Boat Tour at Buffalo Bayou

Buffalo Bayou is a scenic waterway that winds through the heart of Houston. You can explore it by taking a boat tour, which offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and natural beauty. The tours often include commentary on the history and ecology of the area.

8. Discover the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the largest event of its kind in the world. Held annually, the rodeo features livestock competitions, rodeo events, concerts by major artists, and a carnival with rides and games. It’s a must-attend event if you’re in Houston during the spring.

9. Explore the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center offers a 155-acre urban sanctuary where you can enjoy walking trails, wildlife observation, and educational exhibits. It’s a great place to reconnect with nature without leaving the city.

10. Visit the Menil Collection

The Menil Collection is a world-renowned art museum located in the Montrose neighborhood. It houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko, as well as ancient artifacts. The museum is free to the public, making it accessible to everyone.

11. Experience the Houston Symphony

The Houston Symphony is one of the country’s leading orchestras, offering a range of classical and contemporary performances. Catch a concert at Jones Hall and experience the power of live orchestral music.

12. Wander Through the Houston Botanic Garden

The Houston Botanic Garden is a beautiful green space that showcases a wide variety of plants from around the world. The garden is designed to inspire and educate visitors about the importance of plants in our lives.

13. Shop at The Galleria

The Galleria is Texas’s largest shopping mall and a premier shopping destination. With over 375 stores, including high-end retailers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, The Galleria offers something for everyone. The mall also features an ice skating rink and a variety of dining options.

14. Visit the Holocaust Museum Houston

The Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the dangers of hatred, prejudice, and apathy. The museum features exhibits on the Holocaust and other genocides, as well as programs aimed at promoting human rights.

15. Explore the Kemah Boardwalk

Located just outside of Houston, the Kemah Boardwalk is a popular destination for families. The boardwalk features amusement rides, games, restaurants, and live entertainment, all set along the scenic Galveston Bay.

16. Discover the San Jacinto Monument and Museum

The San Jacinto Monument, located near Houston, commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto, a decisive victory in Texas’s fight for independence from Mexico. The museum at the base of the monument offers exhibits on Texas history, and the observation deck provides stunning views of the area.

17. Take a Walk Through Discovery Green

Discovery Green is a 12-acre urban park in downtown Houston that offers green space, public art, and a variety of events throughout the year. The park is a hub of activity, with everything from yoga classes to outdoor concerts.

18. Visit the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston (CAMH) is dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national, and regional art. The museum’s exhibitions change regularly, offering new and thought-provoking experiences each time you visit.

19. Attend a Houston Astros Game at Minute Maid Park

Cheer on the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park, one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the country. The stadium features a retractable roof, making it a great place to catch a game regardless of the weather.

20. Explore the Houston Heights

The Houston Heights is a historic neighborhood known for its beautiful Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant arts scene. Explore the area’s boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique charm.

21. Visit the National Museum of Funeral History

The National Museum of Funeral History offers a fascinating look at the history and traditions of funerals from around the world. The museum’s exhibits include everything from hearses and caskets to presidential funerals and pop culture.

22. Discover the Children’s Museum Houston

The Children’s Museum Houston is a hands-on learning environment where kids can explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts in a fun and interactive way. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities for children of all ages.

23. Visit the Houston Grand Opera

The Houston Grand Opera is one of the world’s leading opera companies, known for its innovative productions and commitment to new works. Attend a performance at the Wortham Theater Center and experience world-class opera in an intimate setting.

24. Take a Day Trip to Galveston Island

Galveston Island is a popular day-trip destination from Houston, offering beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and a variety of attractions. Visit the historic Pleasure Pier, explore the Strand Historic District, or relax on the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

25. Explore the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

Bayou Bend is the former home of Houston philanthropist Ima Hogg and is now a museum showcasing American decorative arts and paintings. The property includes 14 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

26. Experience the Houston Art Car Parade

The Houston Art Car Parade is the largest event of its kind in the world, featuring over 250 art cars, motorcycles, and other wheeled creations. The parade is a celebration of creativity and individuality, attracting artists and spectators from around the globe.

27. Visit the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is one of Houston’s most iconic landmarks, featuring a 64-foot-tall semi-circular fountain that pumps thousands of gallons of water over its surface every minute. The park is a popular spot for photos and a peaceful place to relax.

28. Discover the Houston Maritime Museum

The Houston Maritime Museum offers exhibits on the history of maritime exploration, navigation, and industry. The museum’s collection includes ship models, navigational instruments, and artifacts from famous maritime events.

29. Enjoy a Night Out in Midtown

Midtown Houston is one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods, offering a mix of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner, craft cocktails, or live music, Midtown has something to offer for everyone.

30. Explore the Houston Museum District

The Houston Museum District is home to 19 museums within a 1.5-mile radius, making it one of the largest cultural districts in the country. Spend a day exploring the district’s world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Menil Collection.

31. Take a Ghost Tour of Houston

Explore Houston’s haunted history with a ghost tour that takes you to some of the city’s most eerie and mysterious locations. Learn about the city’s legends, ghost stories, and paranormal activity as you explore its historic sites.

32. Visit the Beer Can House

The Beer Can House is one of Houston’s most unique attractions, featuring a house covered in thousands of flattened beer cans. The house was created by John Milkovisch, who began decorating his home with beer cans in the 1960s. Today, it’s a quirky and beloved local landmark.

33. Attend a Houston Texans Game at NRG Stadium

Football fans won’t want to miss the chance to see the Houston Texans play at NRG Stadium. The stadium is known for its electric atmosphere, and Texans games are a major event in the city.

34. Discover the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

The Houston Center for Contemporary Craft is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to showcasing contemporary craft in various media, including ceramics, fiber, metal, wood, and glass. The center features exhibitions, a retail gallery, and artists’ studios where visitors can watch craft artists at work.

35. Explore Memorial Park

Memorial Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering over 1,500 acres of green space for outdoor activities. The park features jogging trails, a golf course, tennis courts, and a variety of other recreational facilities.

36. Visit the Houston Fire Museum

The Houston Fire Museum offers a look at the history of firefighting in Houston. The museum is housed in a historic fire station and features exhibits on firefighting equipment, techniques, and the lives of firefighters.

37. Take a Bike Ride on the Buffalo Bayou Trail

The Buffalo Bayou Trail offers over 15 miles of scenic trails for walking, running, and biking. The trail winds through the heart of Houston, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and access to parks, public art, and historical landmarks.

38. Explore the Heights Hike and Bike Trail

The Heights Hike and Bike Trail is a popular trail that runs through the historic Houston Heights neighborhood. The trail is lined with public art, parks, and unique shops and restaurants, making it a great way to explore one of Houston’s most charming neighborhoods.

39. Discover the Orange Show

The Orange Show is a folk art environment created by Houston postman Jeff McKissack in the 1970s. The site features a maze of walkways, mosaics, and sculptures, all dedicated to McKissack’s favorite fruit, the orange. It’s a quirky and colorful attraction that’s unlike anything else in the city.

40. Visit the Asia Society Texas Center

The Asia Society Texas Center is a cultural institution dedicated to promoting understanding and appreciation of Asian cultures and arts. The center hosts exhibitions, performances, and educational programs, making it a hub for cultural exchange in Houston.

41. Experience a Performance at the Alley Theatre

The Alley Theatre is one of Houston’s premier performing arts venues, offering a wide range of productions from classic plays to contemporary works. The theater is known for its innovative staging and world-class performances, making it a must-visit for theater lovers.

42. Discover the Armand Bayou Nature Center

The Armand Bayou Nature Center is a 2,500-acre nature preserve located just outside of Houston. The center offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

43. Explore the Rothko Chapel

The Rothko Chapel is a non-denominational chapel and art space featuring 14 large paintings by abstract expressionist Mark Rothko. The chapel is a place for contemplation and meditation, and it’s open to people of all faiths and backgrounds.

44. Visit the Texas Rock Gym

The Texas Rock Gym offers indoor rock climbing for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. The gym features a variety of climbing walls, bouldering areas, and fitness facilities, making it a great place to get active and have fun.

45. Attend the Houston International Festival

The Houston International Festival, also known as iFest, is an annual celebration of global cultures held in downtown Houston. The festival features live music, dance performances, international cuisine, and cultural exhibits, offering a unique opportunity to experience the world without leaving Houston.

46. Explore the Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens in Galveston, just outside of Houston, is a popular destination for families. The complex features a rainforest pyramid, an aquarium pyramid, a 3D theater, and a variety of other attractions, making it a great place for a day trip.

47. Visit the Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction featuring a variety of marine life exhibits, interactive displays, and a restaurant with underwater views. The aquarium is home to more than 200 species of aquatic animals and offers fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

48. Discover the Lone Star Flight Museum

The Lone Star Flight Museum at Ellington Field is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of aviation. The museum’s collection includes over 40 aircraft, from World War II bombers to modern jet fighters, as well as exhibits on the history of flight.

49. Visit the Sam Houston Park

Sam Houston Park is Houston’s oldest park, offering a glimpse into the city’s past with its collection of historic homes and buildings. The park is home to the Heritage Society, which offers tours of the historic structures and exhibits on Houston’s history.

50. Enjoy a Concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Located in The Woodlands, just north of Houston, the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts by top artists from around the world. The pavilion offers a great venue for live music in a beautiful natural setting.