Two Perfect Days in Houston
With roughly 6 million residents in the city and surrounding areas, Houston is more than just one of the most populous cities in the United States — it’s also one of the largest. The metropolitan area of Houston encompasses a greater square mileage than the state of New Jersey. With so many things to see and experience, fully exploring the Bayou City in a short time can be a challenge.
However, if you have just 48 hours in the city, you can still savor some of its most delightful highlights. Make the most of your visit with this detailed itinerary.
Houston: Day One
3 p.m.: Check into your hotel. When you’re short on time, staying in or near downtown is an excellent choice as it offers greater access to public transit options.
If you appreciate historic charm, consider The Lancaster Hotel located in Houston’s Theater District. This boutique hotel provides numerous perks, including complimentary car service within a three-mile radius, and even hosts a nightly Wine Hour for guests to relax.
For those who prefer a modern, luxurious experience, the Marriott Marquis near the George R. Brown Convention Center is a fantastic option with its famous Texas-sized lazy river and upscale accommodations. This hotel caters to business travelers, so visiting on a weekend can yield quieter rates.
4 p.m.: Explore Discovery Green, a dynamic 12-acre park with various features including a lake, putting green, interactive water elements, and playgrounds. During the week, guests can enjoy free activities, such as outdoor movies and live performances.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, consider visiting the Houston Downtown Aquarium. Not only does it feature exotic aquatic animals, but it also houses rare white tigers and provides a thrilling train ride through a tunnel surrounded by sharks.
6 p.m.: Indulge in an early dinner at one of downtown’s popular restaurants. For an elegant Italian experience, Perbacco is a favorite among locals. It’s conveniently located near various theaters, making it an ideal pre-show dining option.
Alternatively, for a unique culinary twist, try Peli Peli. This Euro-South African restaurant is renowned for its fusion dishes, like the delectable bobotie.
8 p.m.: Experience a performance in Houston’s Theater District, which features various resident companies for ballet, music, opera, and theater. The Houston Opera is notably the only company worldwide to have won Emmy, Grammy, and Tony awards, and the Houston Symphony ranks among the state’s oldest orchestras.
Houston: Day Two
9 a.m.: Begin your day by taking the METRORail Red Line to the Museum District stop, then walk to Barnaby’s Cafe for breakfast. This local favorite offers a delightful patio experience, perfect for enjoying the weather and indulging in their famous green eggs, which are made with spinach and gooey cheese.
11 a.m.: Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science, one of the city’s finest cultural sites. Expect engaging exhibits covering chemistry, physics, and a fascinating butterfly garden. Family visitors may prefer the Children’s Museum of Houston, which is highly interactive and perfect for young ones.
1 p.m.: Treat yourself to a Tex-Mex lunch at Bodegas Taco Shop, known for its delicious burritos and queso. Alternatively, the Pinewood Cafe in Hermann Park offers a scenic spot for sandwiches and plenty of outdoor seating.
3 p.m.: Satisfy your artistic cravings at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, home to over 65,000 pieces of art and a variety of traveling exhibitions. For families, the Houston Zoo offers numerous engaging activities and indoor areas for extreme weather conditions.
6 p.m.: Stroll through McGovern Centennial Gardens, which feature an array of gardens, sculptures, and a stunning hill that overlooks fountains and waterfalls.
7 p.m.: Dine at Lucille’s, known for its upscale Southern cuisine. Enjoy seasonal dishes such as Lobster Cobb salad and fried green tomatoes while relaxing in their serene outdoor patio.
9 p.m.: Unwind at one of Houston’s downtown bars or eateries, like The Conservatory, an underground beer garden, or OKRA Charity Saloon, which supports local charities.
Houston: Day Three
9 a.m.: Experience a delightful brunch at Kitchen at the Dunlavy located in Buffalo Bayou Park. This venue boasts a picturesque atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the park and stunning crystal chandeliers adorning the dining area.
11 a.m.: Rent bikes through Houston’s bike share program, BCycle, and enjoy the scenic route along the Buffalo Bayou Park. This pathway showcases Houston’s beautiful skyline and features significant park attractions, including the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern.
1 p.m.: Conclude your Houston adventure with a culinary experience at either Original Ninfa’s on Navigation or Irma’s Original, both celebrated for their exceptional Tex-Mex cuisine. With savory fajitas, cheesy queso, and luscious guacamole, you’re sure to finish your visit with a satisfying meal.
