If you’re looking for a diverse and exciting city to visit, Houston, Texas, is the perfect place for you. From world-renowned museums to delicious restaurants, there are endless fun and exciting things to do in Houston, Texas.
The Museum District is home to 19 museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Funeral History. If you’re interested in science, you can’t miss the Space Center Houston, which offers the NASA Tram tour of the Johnson Space Center. And no trip to Houston would be complete without sampling some of the city’s delectable cuisine. You’ll find everything you’re craving in Houston.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Houston, Texas today!
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1. Space Center Houston Science Museum
Space Center Houston is one of the top science museums in the country and a must-see for anyone visiting Houston, Texas. The museum is home to a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs that focus on space exploration. Visitors can learn about the history of spaceflight, see artifacts from NASA’s Apollo program, and even take a simulated ride on a space shuttle.
The museum also offers hands-on opportunities to experience what it’s like to be an astronaut, including a chance to train in a mockup of the International Space Station. Space Center Houston is sure to please you whether you’re a space enthusiast or just looking for fun things to do in Houston. Click here to purchase tickets.
2. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
When visiting Houston, check out the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest art museums in the United States. With over 300,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, the Museum of Fine Arts is sure to please the eye.
From ancient Egyptian relics to contemporary installations, you’ll find it all here. And with a calendar full of special events and exhibitions, there’s always something new to see. So, add the Museum of Fine Arts to your list whether you’re a lifelong art lover or just looking for something to do on a rainy day.
3. Houston Museum of Natural Science
Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of Houston’s most popular tourist attractions. Located in the heart of downtown, the museum offers various exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.Â
In addition to its world-class exhibitions, the museum offers a planetarium, IMAX theater, and butterfly garden. From dinosaurs and fossils to space exploration and Native American culture, the entire family will enjoy their time at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. You can purchase tickets here.
4. National Museum of Funeral History
The National Museum of Funeral History in Houston, Texas, is dedicated to preserving the history of funeral practices and rituals worldwide. The museum’s extensive collection includes coffins and funeral programs to hearses and urns.
Visitors can learn about how people have been laid to rest throughout history and how funeral practices have changed over time. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, such as workshops on coffin-making and traditional embalming techniques.
So if you’re interested in learning about death customs from around the world or just want to see one of the most unique museums in Texas, the National Museum of Funeral History is definitely worth a visit.
5. Taste of Houston Food Tours
Are you looking for something fun and delicious to do in Houston? Then you need to check out the Taste of Houston Food Tours! They offer fantastic walking tours that take you to some of the best restaurants in the city. You’ll get to sample delicious dishes from various cuisines, and their knowledgeable guides will tell you all about the history and culture of Houston’s food scene.
6. See a Show at the Houston Grand Opera
The Houston Grand Opera is among the most respected opera companies in the United States. Founded in 1955, the company has produced some of the most memorable operas in history. Today, the Houston Grand Opera remains a cultural force, presenting innovative productions and world-renowned performers.
If you’re looking for things to do in Houston, seeing a show at the Houston Grand Opera is a must. Located in downtown Houston, the Opera House is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The beautiful building is home to three state-of-the-art performance spaces, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable opera experience.
If you’re a fan of classical music or just looking to expand your cultural horizons, a visit to the Houston Grand Opera is sure to be an enjoyable and enriching experience.
7. See a Show at the Alley Theatre
There’s always something exciting happening at the Alley Theatre. Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, the Alley is one of the most prestigious regional theaters in the country. Each season, the Alley presents various plays and musicals, ranging from original works to classics.
Whether you’re looking for a night of laughs or an evening of drama, you’re sure to find a show that will leave you entertained. The Alley also offers a variety of educational programs, making it the perfect place to learn about theatre. Visit their website today to see what’s playing and purchase your tickets. You won’t regret it.
8. Catch a Houston Astros Game
One of the best things to do in Houston is to catch a Houston Astros game. The Astros are a Major League Baseball team that plays in the American League West Division. They have won the World Series three times; their most recent victory was in 2017.
The team plays its home games at Minute Maid Park in downtown Houston. The ballpark has a retractable roof, so Astros games can be played even when it’s hot outside. Minute Maid Park also has a pool so that you can cool off after the game. If you’re visiting Houston, make sure to catch an Astros game!
9. Go on a Shopping Spree at The Galleria
The Galleria is one of Houston, Texas’s most popular shopping destinations. With over two million square feet of retail space, it is home to more than 400 stores, including high-end retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
In addition to its impressive array of shops, the Galleria also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, making it the perfect place to spend a day with family or friends. Whether you are looking for a new outfit, a special gift, or simply a place to relax and unwind, the Galleria is sure to have something for all your needs.
10. Stroll the Houston Botanic Garden
Located on the shores of Lake Houston, the Houston Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city. With more than 600 species of plants, it’s a great place to learn about native Texas flora. The gardens are also home to a variety of wildlife, including hummingbirds, butterflies, and dragonflies. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot an alligator or two! Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a place to relax, the Houston Botanic Garden is definitely worth a visit.
11. Take a Stroll Through Discovery Green
Why not take a stroll through Discovery Green, a 12-acre park in downtown Houston. Its the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air and beautiful scenery. The park features a lake, numerous walking trails, a playground, and a variety of events throughout the year. So if you’re looking for a place to relax or explore, be sure to add Discovery Green to your list of things to do in Houston.
12. Hiking at the Armand Bayou Nature Center
A bustling metropolis, things to do in Houston are plentiful. But sometimes, you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy some time in nature. That’s where Armand Bayou Nature Center comes in.
This 2,500-acre nature preserve is located just outside of Houston and offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. With over 10 miles of trails winding through forest, prairie, and marshland ecosystems, Armand Bayou has lots to see. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the resident alligators or bald eagles.
13. Take the Kids to the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is a great place to take the kids. With over 6,000 animals, the Houston Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country. Located in Hermann Park, it is home to elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, and many other animals. The zoo also has a variety of educational programs, including a summer camp and an after-school program.
In addition, the Houston Zoo offers opportunities to get up close and personal with the animals. For example, you can feed the giraffes or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the elephant exhibit. The Houston Zoo is a great place to learn about animals and have a fun day out with the family.
14. Visit the Downtown Aquarium
The Houston Downtown Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city for families. Situated in downtown Houston, the Aquarium offers visitors a chance to see a wide variety of marine life up close. In addition to countless fish and other sea creatures, the Aquarium also features an interactive dolphin exhibit, a stingray petting pool, and a rainforest environment.
Visitors can also take advantage of the Aquarium’s many dining options, including a lounge and a more upscale seafood restaurant. Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity or a romantic evening out, the Downtown Aquarium is sure to be a good time.
15. Visit the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
Looking for something unique to do in Houston? Check out the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern! This one-of-a-kind structure was previously used as an underground drinking water reservoir. Today, it’s been transformed into a public space with awe-inspiring acoustics and impressive lighting displays. Visitors can explore the Cistern on their own or take a guided tour. Either way, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. So if you’re looking for things to do in Houston, be sure to add the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern to your list!
16. Williams Tower Observation Deck
The Williams Tower Observation Deck is one of the top things to do in Houston, Texas. With stunning 360-degree views of the city, visitors can see all of Houston’s significant landmarks, including the Space Center, Minute Maid Park, and the Museum District. The Observation Deck is also a great place to watch the sunset or enjoy a meal from one of the deck’s restaurants. Whether you’re a local looking for a new perspective on your city or a visitor seeking a fantastic view, the Williams Tower Observation Deck is sure to please.
17. Tour the Saint Arnold Brewing Company
As the first craft brewery in Texas, the Saint Arnold Brewing Company has been brewing quality beer since 1994. Today, the brewery offers tours of its facilities, allowing guests to see firsthand how its beer is made. The tour includes visiting the brewhouse, fermentation cellar, and packaging hall. Guests will also learn about the brewery’s history and taste some of its best-selling beers. So if you’re a beer lover or just looking for new things to do in Houston, a tour of the Saint Arnold Brewing Company is sure to be an exciting experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to visit, you can’t go wrong with Houston, Texas. Whether you’re taking a road trip, flying, or taking the Amtrak train, you won’t be bored during your visit to Houston. From world-class museums and restaurants to big-time sports and endless shopping, there’s really something for everyone in Houston.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States.Â
Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.