18 Best Things to Do in Houston, Texas

Houston is a massive metropolis – the fourth largest in the United States – which has drawn people from all over the world for its rich music, food, and business offerings. However, don’t let Houston’s size fool you; it isn’t all hustle and bustle. Consequently, the city maintains a diverse, down-to-earth, and inclusive vibe with all sorts of cultural, scientific, and outdoor experiences throughout H-town. Here are 18 of the best things to do in Houston.

1. Visit the Houston Space Center

When Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon on July 20, 1969, he famously said, “Houston, the Eagle has landed.” He was referring to the dedicated staff at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston. Today, you can visit Space Center Houston, where history was made, and learn all about the moon landing and humanity’s exploration of space. This official visitor center welcomes 1.25 million visitors each year, featuring the largest collection of spacesuits and Moon rocks in the world, along with over 400 space artifacts.

2. Explore Neighborhood-Specific Cuisines

Houston is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States, reflected in its cuisine. Taste your way through 70 different countries across approximately 10,000 restaurants in the Houston metro area. Food enthusiasts will delight in exploring Houston’s diverse neighborhoods for cuisines ranging from Korean in Spring Branch, fabulous Chinese in Chinatown, Vietnamese in Midtown, to the best Venezuelan food in Katy. Moreover, the recent launch of POST Houston, a huge food hall featuring live music and event spaces, showcases the culinary scene in Houston.

3. Walk the Museum District

Culture buffs should head to the Houston Museum District, which is home to 19 different institutions. The district has been conveniently separated into four walkable zones to enhance your experience. In the first zone, encounter collections of paintings, sculptures, and rare books at the Menil Collection, followed by a visit to the Houston Center for Photography.

The second zone hosts the most museums, including significant ones like the Holocaust Museum Houston and the Houston Museum of African American Culture. In the third zone, you will find the Contemporary Arts Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, while the fourth zone includes amazing attractions like the Children’s Museum of Houston and the Houston Zoo.

4. Experience the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

Texas is famous for its cowboy culture, which you can experience firsthand at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. This long-standing event, which began in 1932, takes place over a few weeks in February and March and is renowned for hosting the world’s largest livestock show. Watch cowboys and cowgirls compete in rodeo events, enjoy carnival games, shop for local crafts, dine on delicious BBQ, and attend concerts featuring top musical acts.

5. Choose Your Own Adventure, with 580 Parks

Houston boasts 580 parks that span 66,000 acres, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities in various parks, like kayaking or hiking along the Buffalo Bayou, which offers a stunning view of the Houston skyline from the water. Outdoor adventures never felt this good!

6. See a Ball Game

Join the local sports fans and experience the excitement of hometown teams. Head downtown to witness the Houston Astros in action or cheer for the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center. Soccer enthusiasts can watch the Houston Dynamo or the Houston Dash, while football fans will want to catch the Houston Texans playing in the AFC South division. Houston is even home to a professional rugby team, the Houston SaberCats, making it a sports lover’s paradise.

7. See the Waugh Bridge Bats Year-Round

Waugh Bridge is home to around 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats, which can be seen flying out at dusk. Unlike Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony, Houston’s bats reside here full-time, providing an opportunity to observe them year-round. You can view them from the Waugh Bridge itself or across the Buffalo Bayou.

8. Spend a Day at the Beach

While Houston doesn’t have a beach directly in the city, it’s only an hour’s drive to the Gulf of Mexico. With Sylvan Beach Park being the closest option, you’ll find it well-regarded for its swimming conditions. Alternatively, visit El Jardin Beach for a more serene atmosphere or take the drive to Surfside Beach, known for its natural beauty and peaceful settings.

9. Try Extreme Sports

For adventure seekers, Houston offers exhilarating activities such as riding bowls at the 30,000-square-foot Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark or wakeboarding at the Wake Nation cable park. You can also try your hand at indoor skydiving at iFly Houston or outdoor skydiving at Skydive Spaceland, ensuring a day filled with adrenaline.

10. Visit the Houston Farmers Market

The Houston Farmers Market serves as an excellent introduction to the city’s diverse food landscape. Spanning 18 acres, this historical market, housed in a modern setting, showcases fresh produce, local eateries, and cultural dish offerings reflecting Houston’s culinary heritage. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by live music and opportunities for a self-guided tour.

11. Photograph the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park features an iconic sculpture fountain dubbed the “waterwall,” which stands 45 feet high and recycles an impressive 11,000 gallons of water per minute. This park has been a popular destination since 1983, not only for its scenic beauty but also for its suitability for Instagram-worthy photos.

12. Get Introspective at the National Museum of Funeral History

Houston is unique in hosting the National Museum of Funeral History, blending history, science, and culture. This intriguing museum offers exhibits that cover everything from embalming to the cultural significance of funerals in different societies, including vibrant New Orleans jazz funerals.

13. See Dinosaurs at the Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a must-visit for those fascinated by the natural world. With a history dating back to 1909, the museum educates visitors on a wide range of topics, including dinosaurs, human anatomy, and more. Located in Hermann Park, it features stunning exhibits along with the Burke Baker Planetarium and Giant Screen Theater for a full-day experience.

14. Visit the Animals at The Houston Zoo

One of Houston’s most beloved family-friendly destinations, the Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals across 55 acres of outstanding exhibits. It’s the second most-visited zoo in the U.S., welcoming more than 1.6 million guests each year, and features state-of-the-art exhibits like the Galápagos Islands.

15. Have a Fun Night Out at Truck Yard

A vibrant outdoor entertainment hub, Truck Yard offers a rotating selection of food trucks, drinks, live music, and stunning views of downtown Houston. With a laid-back atmosphere and diverse dining options in a quirky courtyard setting, it’s an excellent spot to unwind after a long day.

16. See the Heart of the City

Located in downtown Houston, Discovery Green is the city’s premier urban park, featuring playgrounds, a lake with boat rentals, putting greens, fountains, and art installations. Summer is an especially vibrant time to visit, as the park hosts numerous events, including outdoor yoga, live music, and cultural celebrations.

17. Explore a Nature Sanctuary

The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center spans over 150 acres and offers a serene escape within the city. This urban park features diverse habitats and various trails for all fitness levels, allowing visitors to connect with nature without venturing far from Houston’s skyline. Admission is free, with a small fee for parking except on Thursdays.

18. Take a Free Boat Tour

Experience a unique perspective of downtown Houston with a Port Houston Boat Tour. This 90-minute cruise along the Houston Ship Channel departs from Sam Houston Landing and provides an insightful view of the waterfront, making it a memorable outing for families and visitors alike.

Start planning your trip to Houston now and uncover the wide array of attractions this vibrant city has to offer!