42 Things To Do In Houston in 2023

What’s special about this place?

You’ll find the famous Houston Museum of Natural Science nested in Hermann Park where it’s surrounded by greenery and fountains. Home to an impressive collection of space station models, mineral specimens, and dinosaur fossils among other historical objects, it’s the must-visit spot in town.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re fascinated by history, you’ll want to put this museum high on your list of places to visit when in Houston. Paleontologists, biologists, engineers, and everyone in between will likely enjoy spending a few hours here too. Even kids who’re easily impressed by dinosaurs and sparkling gems won’t be bored at this museum.

What to do here?

Even though every exhibit — both temporary and permanent — is worth checking out, visitors tend to highlight the Hall of Ancient Egypt, the Cockrell Butterfly Center, and the Burke Baker Planetarium the most. Check the website to find out what temporary exhibitions the museum offers prior to coming to Houston and make notes of them for when you’re here.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day from Monday to Sunday, the Houston Museum of Natural Science can get quite busy on the weekends. If you’re planning on visiting on a Saturday or Sunday between 12 PM and 3 PM, expect it to be crowded. The rest of the week there aren’t nearly as many people at the museum.

Learn more about Houston Museum of Natural Science here!

What’s special about this place?

This go-kart track is a crowd favorite thanks to the variety of activities it offers. At Speedy’s Fast Track, you can play arcades, an 18-hole mini-golf, 2.525-square-foot laser tag, and kart race with your kids too. Whether it’s your first time in Houston or you’re vacationing here regularly, allocating some time to have fun here at the “Best Amusement Center” is a must.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Kids, adults and everyone else who’s competitive enough to keep playing until he wins is welcome to spend a Sunday afternoon at Speedy’s Fast Track. You’re guaranteed to laugh and perhaps even advance your kart racing skills if you give it your all. Don’t forget to bring your kids with you — they’ll be disappointed if you decide to play arcade games without them.

What to do here?

Take the two-seater kart and dive into the unknown or rather the racing track where everyone competes with each other. Check out the mini-golf and challenge your loved ones to hit as many balls into as many holes as they can. Once you’re ready for a break, plunge into the pool they have onsite.

Best Time to Visit

Speedy’s Fast Track is open Sunday through Thursday from 12 PM to 10 PM and on Fridays and Saturdays from 12 PM to 12 AM. If you want to avoid crowds, don’t plan on coming here on the weekends. It’s usually packed on Saturdays and Sundays from 3 PM until 10 PM.

Learn more about Speedy’s Fast Track here!

What’s special about this place?

Having started as a catering business in 2009, CorkScrew grew to a full-on Barbecue restaurant that’s now serving thousands of clients. Will and Nichole Buckman, the owners of the locale, are known for cooking delicious, homemade meals that are fresh for every client. Dressings and sides are all made from the finest ingredients while meats along with sides and sauces are MSG- and Gluten-free.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Meat lovers and BBQ enthusiasts will find CorkScrew BBQ ideal for a late afternoon pick-me-up. Even if you’re not planning on dining at the restaurant, you can get an order of whole meats and sandwiches and devour them from the comfort of your Airbnb. One thing is guaranteed — you won’t remain hungry.

What to do here?

Take a seat at one of the semi covered picnic tables and savor a portion of tacos with your choice of meat topped with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, and green chile ranch. Or, get a plate of 5-6 smoked pork spare ribs that come with two sides of your choice. Kids can choose between ribs and mac-n-cheese served with chips and a soda, juice, or water.

Best Time to Visit

CorkScrew BBQ is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM till 4 PM. This relatively small window means that the restaurant gets busy during the weekend and you might even have to wait in line to get your BBQ fix for the day. If you aren’t looking forward to queuing for ribs, consider coming earlier in the day on Wednesday or Thursday.

Learn more about CorkScrew BBQ here!

What’s special about this place?

Serving as an official visitor center of NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, this museum was opened in 1963. It has since collected over 400 artifacts to showcase to every curious visitor. Here, you can get a glimpse into the life of astronauts and learn how they prepare for their journeys, what interstellar equipment they have to wear, and what spacecraft they use for flying.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re someone who often finds themselves looking up information about space and daydreaming about flying to the moon, visiting Space Center Houston is a must for you. Here, you’ll be able to see space aircraft in real life and even chat with real astronauts if you’re lucky enough. Kids interested in all things cosmic will enjoy exploring the museum too.

What to do here?

Apart from hundreds of space-related exhibits that showcase the remarkable past of the country’s flight industry, Space Center Houston also hosts plenty of interactive events. These include meet-ups with NASA astronauts every Friday and Saturday, family-friendly experiences that allow you to navigate your own space exploration journey, and member mornings where guests can explore the center before it opens to the public.

Best Time to Visit

No matter when you’re in town, you can count on the Space Center Houston to be open. With no days off, it welcomes visitors from 10 AM until 5 PM (until 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays). The afternoon on the weekend tends to be the busiest time at the museum.

Learn more about Johnson Space Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in Rice University, James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace is a sensory experience unlike anything else. It serves as a venue for musical performances and a laboratory for the Shepherd School of Music due to its immaculate acoustics. The LED show at dawn and dusk makes it a worthy place to visit when in Houston.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re an architect or an admirer of sophisticated art in all of its forms, you’ll have to carve out some time to stop by James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace. Its sound design along with the pyramid shape makes you wonder who’s the one responsible for engineering it (the artistic genius James Turrell himself). It’s also where you can catch an event if your favorite artist is scheduled to perform here.

What to do here?

Arrive an hour before sunrise or sunset to witness the light sequence display at James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace. This is the time when the lights are aligned with those of the sky so that you get the full experience of the technical miracle aided by nature. You don’t need to dedicate much time to the event venue either — half an hour is more than enough to gaze at it and take a few photos.

Best Time to Visit

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM till 5 PM, this place offers plenty of time for you to drop by when you’re visiting a site nearby. Since the number of those arriving right before sunrise and sunset is high, expect there to be quite a few people during those times.

Learn more about Rice University here!

What’s special about this place?

This 445-acre urban park bordering several city neighborhoods boasts several lakes, gardens, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It’s also home to a railroad ride designed for kids, pedal boats, and trails. The free admission makes it an attractive location for visiting on a sunny Saturday when you don’t have anything planned.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families with and without children, couples, elderly — the list of those who’d benefit from spending a day at Hermann Park goes on and on. If you want to show your kids a good time, this is the perfect place for that. From picnics to bike rides and golf courts, there isn’t a shortage of activities to partake in no matter how old you are.

What to do here?

Watch a play at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, learn more about tree species at McGovern Centennial Gardens, and look at wild animals at the Houston Zoo. Take a ride on the pedal boat and have a picnic afterward. The best part — there are sufficient free parking spots available for you to park your car and not worry about having to move it somewhere else midday.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day from 6 AM till 10 PM, Hermann Park is hands down the most sought-after place in town. This is particularly true for weekends when it gets crowded between 12 PM and 3 PM. If you want more solitude, consider visiting during the working week instead.

Learn more about Hermann Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Downtown Aquarium is a 6-acre tourist attraction that combines dining and entertainment. Featuring a massive, 500.000-gallon aquarium filled with sharks, fish, and touch pools, it’s the place where you can see marine creatures that aren’t displayed anywhere else. It’s often the attraction that’s included in the Houston city tours.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

For obvious reasons, Downtown Aquarium in Houston is the go-to place for curious kids. They’re the primary audience for the onsite Shark Voyage adventure train and the aquatic carousel. That said, adults won’t be bored here either. There’s an upscale bar, a shopping center, and a restaurant to hang out at that appeals to a more mature crowd.

What to do here?

Stroll through the Aquarium Adventure Exhibit covering Rainforest, Sunken Temple, Shipwreck, and Texas Bayou among others. There are over 300 species of aquatic life from around the globe and a handful of rides to help you explore them all in detail. When you get hungry, drop by the restaurant and have a bite of Calamari Fritto Misto before you head back to your hotel.

Best Time to Visit

Both exhibits and the restaurant are open to the public every day of the week. They operate for an extra hour and a half on the weekends when the number of guests is at its highest. If you’re visiting with kids, skip Saturdays and Sundays in favor of one of the weekdays.

Learn more about Downtown Aquarium here!

What’s special about this place?

Also known as RodeoHouston, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the largest exhibition in the world. The competition season that includes bull riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, and steer wrestling among other activities typically occurs between late February and early March. There are also calf scrambles, horse shows, and livestock auctions involved.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Some call Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo the amusement park of the American West and we can see why. If you’ve always wanted to experience the true Texas atmosphere consisting of exciting games, adventurous rides, and finger-licking foods, it’s worth planning your trip to Houston around the dates when HLSR is happening.

What to do here?

Bring your kids with you and make memories with them at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Book your tickets in advance and expect to be entertained by the musical concerts featuring A-list singers, barbecue contests, parades, and fun rides. There’s also a petting zoo your kids are likely to enjoy.

Best Time to Visit

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo happens once a year only. It’ll take place between February 28th and March 20th in 2022, so keep an eye out for tickets that go on sale very soon. If you don’t make it next year, consider attending the event the year after that; it pays to experience a Houston Rodeo at least once in your lifetime.

Learn more about Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo here!

What’s special about this place?

As the name suggests, Children’s Museum is a top destination for the little ones that’s been consistently ranking high among Houston museums. It was founded in 1980 by a group of parents aiming to improve childhood development in the community. The museum has since accumulated multiple interactive exhibits with themes ranging from history and culture to technology, science, and biology.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Kids as young as two years old are welcome to explore all that the museum offers. Those who are a little older are also free to learn more at the engineering workshop and participate in the Invention Convention. The indoor and outdoor area is packed with activities like a SECRET Spy Game and turtle-watching.

What to do here?

The range of exhibits at the Children’s Museum includes a Tot*Spot that’s appropriate for kids aged 0-2, Ecostation designed to teach children more about plants and woodland area, and a Challenge Course helping to develop stamina and balance through a seven-obstacle test. There are many more exhibits similar in style that allow kids to put their brains to work.

Best Time to Visit

Open Tuesday through Saturday, Children’s Museum is a popular spot in town. This means that there are times when it gets particularly busy like on Saturday between 12 PM and 4 PM. Tuesday and Wednesday are typically less crowded which makes for good days to spend 2-3 hours without having to wait for your turn to use the 3D printer.

Learn more about Children’s Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Nested between Greater Heights and Houston Heights, The Original Kolache Shoppe is the signature Czech pastry shop that’s been operating since 1956. It offers a variety of pastries including the famous kolaches, kiolbassa, turnovers, and twists among others. When paired with freshly brewed coffee, you set yourself up for a productive day of sightseeing.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Those with a sweet tooth and those without will equally enjoy a pastry or two from The Original Kolache Shoppe. It’s also a treat that kids will be happy to devour after they finish their main meal. You can even bring a few kolaches back home with you to share with your friends and family.

What to do here?

Pick a sunny morning and stop by to get a breakfast-style spinach, egg, and cheese bun and a Vietnamese cold brew to go with it. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, an apricot- or a poppy seed-filled kolache will do the trick. Get a Kiolbassa Polish-style sausage with jalapeno and cheese to-go.

Best Time to Visit

The Original Kolache Shoppe is open every day of the week except for Mondays. It welcomes guests Tuesday through Friday from 6:30 AM till 12:30 PM when it’s not as busy and from 7 AM till 1 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Note that the bakery tends to get crowded on the weekends.

Learn more about The Original Kolache Shoppe here!

What’s special about this place?

Buffalo Bayou is a 2.3-mile municipal park offering 160 acres of picturesque landscape. Situated along the banks of Buffalo Bayou not too far from downtown Houston, it’s a sought-after place for a chill stroll on a Sunday morning. There’s a skate park, a picnic pavilion, and a dedicated space for your dog to roam for hours on end.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families, couples, and everyone else is welcome to have a morning jog or a picnic here at the Buffalo Bayou Park. It’s a dog-friendly place too which means that dog owners can come to the park with their furry friends and not have to leave them behind. Sunset lovers should also stop by the park as it offers impressive skyline views in the evening.

What to do here?

Let your kids get wild at the park’s playground while you grab a bite at one of the food trucks. If you’re a skateboarder, bring your board and hone your skateboarding skills. Expect a live event on the weekends where everyone gathers to listen to some good tunes or watch a performance.

Best Time to Visit

Not only is Buffalo Bayou Park free to visit, but it’s also open to the public every day from 6 AM till 11 PM. This gives you plenty of time to check every attraction there is in the park and have a picnic mid-afternoon too. Unlike some other parks in the city, this one gets busier during the week than it does on the weekends.

Learn more about Buffalo Bayou Park here!

What’s special about this place?

The many iconic murals like this one give Houston character and make it an appealing destination for both artsy tourists and history enthusiasts. Houston Graffiti Building is one of them. Located among the old industrial structures where the majority of the walls is covered in catchy slogans and Instagrammable murals, it tells the story of the town via colorful art.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re not too far from the BBVA Compass Stadium, you might want to stop by and investigate every piece of art without any rush. While checking out the graffiti isn’t necessarily much fun for the young kids, teenagers will likely find it fascinating.

What to do here?

Houston Graffiti Building is easy to fit in any 2-3 day trip to the city. Even if you’re not an active social media user who shares pictures with friends on a regular basis, you’ll still get a kick out of coming here. If you look closely, there’s a good chance that you’ll even discover some cultural significance behind all the graffiti.

Best Time to Visit

Open to the public 24/7, this grouping of industrial buildings with art of all kinds is never too crowded. The only exception is Saturday and Sunday from 3PM till 6PM when locals leave their houses in search of something fun to do on the weekend.

What’s special about this place?

‘Serving the Finest Texas Hospitality since 1977’, Taste of Texas is known for dishing out huge steaks that come from the on-site butcher shop. Tripadvisor rates it as the third-best restaurant in Houston. But there’s more to it — the restaurant regularly hosts one-of-a-kind tours you can find all about under the ‘News and Events’ tab on their website.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If finger-licking steaks along with flavorsome fried chicken sound good to you, visiting Taste of Texas should be on top of your list of things to do in Houston. This might not be the spot for vegans and vegetarians, but if you’re a meat-eater, it pays to visit the restaurant with your friends and family or even on your own.

What to do here?

Make a reservation at the restaurant and check the menu beforehand. We’d suggest you try their Jalapeno Stuffed Shrimp for a starter and Tomahawk Ribeye for main. They also have a highly-praised salad bar that leaves customers craving more. For a dessert, you have a few options with some of the most enticing ones being the Texas Pecan Pie A La Mode and Apple Dumplings.

Best Time to Visit

Expect to spend at least an hour and a half here. With the restaurant open every day of the week, there’s no missing your chance to savor the greatest Southern steak of your life. Note that Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are the most crowded at the Taste of Texas.

Learn more about Taste of Texas here!

What’s special about this place?

This 60-acre Texas Gulf Coast theme park located 30 miles southeast of downtown Houston is a prime spot for tourists and locals alike. Built along the shorelines of the Clear Lake and Galveston Bay, it’s more than just a waterfront dining experience — it’s a weekend destination.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Whether you’re in Houston with your friends or your partner only, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your time at the park regardless. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, you have to include Kemah Boardwalk in your itinerary. Families with children are also encouraged to check this place out.

What to do here?

See if you can handle the Boardwalk Beat ride that speeds up to 40 mph. If not, try out the Aviator and the 65-foot Ferris wheel rides. Play arcade games, get a few souvenirs from the Treasure Chest shop and The Candy Box, and dine at The Bayside Grill or the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Aquarium Restaurant.

Best Time to Visit

Kemah Boardwalk is open to guests every day from noon. If you want to skip queuing for rides, avoid coming on the weekends. That said, Saturdays and Sundays are when the majority of the fun events including street performances and live shows are taking place.

Learn more about Kemah Boardwalk here!

What’s special about this place?

Sprawling across 2.4 million square feet of space, The Galleria is a gigantic mall housing 400 stores and restaurants. This seventh largest shopping mall in the country is home to upscale shops like Gucci, Chanel, Christian Louboutin, and more affordable stores like Gap and Forever21. It’s also where you can have a nice dinner and a few cocktails.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe, The Galleria is the perfect spot for that. You can splurge on the more luxurious statement pieces or save money by hitting the more budget-friendly shops. Since shopping can get tiring, there are several restaurants and cafes to fuel yourself before doing some more damage.

What to do here?

Shop till you drop and fill your stomach with the best meals at The Galleria. Before grabbing your favorite cheesecake at The Cheesecake Factory, do a few laps on the indoor ice skating rink that’s open all year long. You won’t notice how quickly the time will pass at the shopping mall before it’s time to head home.

Best Time to Visit

The Galleria is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 AM to 8 PM, Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM, and on Sunday from 11 AM to 7 PM. It’s the most crowded at midday on the weekends, so keep this in mind when planning your visit here.

Learn more about The Galleria here!

What’s special about this place?

Motorsports Park is a real-life Need for Speed car racing track that hosts drag races, oval races, and street meet-ups. Located just outside of Houston in Baytown, this quarter-mile dragstrip is where the engines are revving and fans are yelling for the car they bet on to win.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you remember yourself as a child playing car racing video games days on end, coming to the Motorsports Park might just be the dream come true. Motor enthusiasts and car nerds will get a thrill out of standing next to the racing track and watching the vehicles reach impossibly high speeds in hopes to finish first.

What to do here?

Check the race calendar posted on the Motorsports Park’s website and make sure you don’t miss out on the race you’re most interested in. Get your tickets at the front gate and meet other sports cars addicts who manage to create communities at these weekly gatherings. And, if you have a driving license, you can challenge yourself to a race too.

Best Time to Visit

Typically happening in the second half of the day, races at the Motorsports Park are in high demand. The weekends tend to be the most crowded — that’s when the races are happening. Bring your snacks with you and get ready for an evening full of exciting sounds of revving engines.

Learn more about Motorsports Park here!

What’s special about this place?

You’ll find Axelrad Beer Garden inside the historic Axelrad building right next to Retrospect Coffee and Luigi’s Pizza in midtown Houston. It’s equipped with a huge outdoor area filled with hammocks and neon trees. People are drawn here because of the beer garden’s friendly ambiance, live music, and beer that always stays cold.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Everyone looking for a green space to chill and have a good time whilst drinking craft beer should add Axelrad Beer Garden to their must-visit list. The laid-back outdoor setup makes for a cozy atmosphere that allows guests to relax after a long day of sightseeing and have a slice of pepperoni pizza.

What to do here?

Enjoy the spacious garden whilst sipping your Texas Spritzer and having a laugh with the strangers you just met. If you’re lucky, you can catch a live music performance or a movie night to enjoy under the stars. Feel free to bring your dog with you to the beer garden.

Best Time to Visit

The opening hours are Monday through Thursday from 2 PM till 12 AM and Friday through Sunday from 12 PM till 2 AM. The busiest time at the Axelrad Beer Garden is from 8 PM till 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. There’s a good chance that you’ll have to wait for up to 45 minutes to take a seat if you arrive during these hours.

Learn more about Axelrad Beer Garden here!

What’s special about this place?

The Houston Astros from Major League Baseball gather huge crowds when they play at the Minute Maid Park. No wonder — the 41,000-capacity stadium makes for a noisy fan base that never misses a game during the April-October season. Featuring a real grass field and a retractable roof, it’s the place to be when you can feel the spirit of the competition in the air.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Baseball fans will have FOMO if they don’t make it in time for the finals. The air-conditioned space makes it a suitable spot for spending a few hours in the summer rooting for Houston Astros. If your kids are baseball fans, take them with you to the Minute Maid Park too.

What to do here?

Catch a game on a Friday night when there’s a fireworks show at the stadium. To not get hungry during the lengthy game, get yourself some nachos or hot dogs or a healthy alternative like a salad at one of the food booths. Be on the lookout for off-season concerts and other events if that’s more relevant to you.

Best Time to Visit

Depending on when the game takes place, you might want to plan your trip to Houston around those dates. Do arrive early if you want to secure your spot before the game starts. It also helps when you don’t want to disturb others to let you through when trying to find your seat at the stadium.

Learn more about Minute Maid Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Compiling over 17,000 pieces of art including paintings, sculptures, photographs, sketches, books, and drawings, The Menil Collection is a 30-acre museum founded by Dominique and John de Menil. The couple collected every artwork and displayed it at one location where guests can spend hours examining the exhibits.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re a photographer, a painter, or a sculptor, you’ll want to stop by The Menil Collection when you have some spare time. Covering decades of surrealism, impressionism, and other artistic movements, it draws everyone’s attention and makes you stop and wonder what was the inspiration behind each artwork.

What to do here?

Explore the fluorescent lights-themed installation by Dan Flavin at the Richmond Hall and check out the oil-based paintings crafted by Cy Twombly at the Twombly Gallery. Don’t overlook the pop art collection featuring works of Robert Rauschenberg and Mark Rothko. Once you’re done strolling through the museum, visit the Rothko Chapel nearby that’s a work of art itself.

Best Time to Visit

The museum welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 AM till 7 PM. The entrance is free, which often leads to big crowds dropping by on the weekends. If you want to have the museum mostly to yourself, consider visiting right when it opens or when it’s about to close down for the day.

Learn more about The Menil Collection here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Cockrell Butterfly Center is a walk-through rainforest habitat that houses hundreds of species of butterflies and insects. The real butterflies reside in the Rainforest Conservatory featuring a 50-foot waterfall while the interactive exhibits along with the life-size models occupy the Butterfly Center’s Brown Hall of Entomology.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

You can take your date here or spend an hour showing your kids the many exotic butterflies inhabiting the museum. There’s no way whoever you bring to the Cockrell Butterfly Center won’t be impressed by the wide variety of insects flying and crawling all around the museum. If you’re spending a romantic evening here, visit the space with real butterflies.

What to do here?

Stroll through the three-story glass building exploring the many tropical plants and over 60 species of the world’s most unique butterflies. Whether it’s cockroaches or mantises that draw your interest the most, you’re guaranteed to leave the Cockrell Butterfly Center knowing more about them.

Best Time to Visit

Visitors tend to spend around an hour gazing at the eye-catching butterflies here at the Cockrell Butterfly Center. If you want to avoid big crowds, consider skipping Saturdays and Sundays and coming during the working week instead. Or, if the weekend is the only viable option for you, arriving right when the museum opens is the best thing to do.

Learn more about Cockrell Butterfly Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Saint Arnold Brewing Company is the oldest craft brewery in Texas. It’s where beer is brewed, filtered, kegged, and bottled so that visitors would enjoy the refreshing beverage when they visit the brewery. There are both seasonal and all-year-around beer kinds you can try out when coming for lunch or a tour.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

This establishment is a classic destination for every beer lover. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be one, chances are you’ll become a convert after visiting the Saint Arnold Brewing Company. The different types of brewing techniques combined with the finest raw materials will leave a nice aftertaste in your mouth that’ll make you crave for more.

What to do here?

See how the beer is made and learn more about the brewing process at the Saint Arnold Brewing Company. You’ll get to watch the entire process from start to finish and have the opportunity to taste the beer too. Besides, you can also grab a bite to eat with the menu featuring filling options like burgers and pizza.

Best Time to Visit

The brewery is open Monday through Sunday from 11 AM till 9 PM (till 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays). It gets crowded after 6 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, so keep this in mind if you’re planning on visiting the brewery on these days.

Learn more about Saint Arnold Brewing Company here!

What’s special about this place?

For original comedy sketches, you can’t miss out on stopping by The Music Box Theater. Having been operating for years, this performing arts theater has a chill club-like atmosphere that turns every show into a masterpiece that’s fun and easy to watch. From Christmas shows to Easter specials, there’s always something going on here.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Whilst not for kids, The Music Box Theater is a must-visit for older teenagers and adults who’re into live musical reviews and comedy sketches. They’ll appreciate the performers’ relatable sense of humor and have a good laugh with strangers who share the same passion for good jokes.

What to do here?

Grab your friends and book your tickets for the show you’re most excited about. There’s a limited number of tables available at a specially reserved seating price for each show, so be quick. When at the theatre, have a glass of wine or a beer with nuts to keep you full and satisfied.

Best Time to Visit

Happening in the evenings only, the shows get sold out quickly. This is because locals are aware of this gem of a theater and never miss an opportunity to spend their Saturday evening surrounded by their friends and witty comedians. That said, the relatively crowded space doesn’t take away from the experience but only adds to it.

Learn more about The Music Box Theater here!

What’s special about this place?

If you’re already in Hermann Park, you might as well stop by the Houston Zoo. This 55-acre zoological park is home to roughly 900 species of animals. It’s the second most visited zoo in the country for a good reason — there are over 6000 animals to check out and make memories with.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Being one of the most exciting family-friendly places to visit in Houston, this zoo is just as enticing to adults as it is to kids. Apart from offering a wide range of intimate animal encounters, the zoo also has an interactive kids’ section and a summer camp. And as if this wasn’t enough, the on-site aquarium with over 2,000 types of fish is worth visiting too.

What to do here?

Purchase your tickets online and sign up for unique to the Houston Zoo activities including alligator and giraffe feeding, sea lion painting, cheetah walking, and the sloth meet-and-greet. There’s also a water park for your kids to hang out at and a 4D cinema aimed at educating you about animals.

Best Time to Visit

Open Monday through Sunday from 9 AM till 5 PM, Houston Zoo is easily accessible to everyone. No matter what time of the year you’re traveling to Houston, chances are you’ll be able to spend a couple of hours at the zoo exploring all it has to offer. Christmas and Thanksgiving are the only holidays when it’s either closed or has different hours of operation.

Learn more about Houston Zoo here!

What’s special about this place?

The spacious Miller Outdoor Theatre takes up 7.5 acres of land in Hermann Park. This is more than enough to accommodate hundreds of people who come here to watch a movie, see a play, or witness a dance performance completely free of charge. The warm atmosphere makes for a great way to end the day exploring the park.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The wide range of shows at the Miller Outdoor Theatre appeals to every single age group. While Houston Symphony and Queen tribute bands are aimed at an older audience, the daytime children’s programming features more kid-friendly activities. ‘The Adventures of Pinocchio’ is a prime example of a family-friendly show.

What to do here?

Bring a blanket or a folding chair and enjoy the show together with your loved ones. You can also take a couple of sandwiches and perhaps even a few beers to accompany the evening play. With everyone coming to Hermann Park for the same reason, it’s easy to make friends here.

Best Time to Visit

The Miller Outdoor Theatre tends to host performances in the evening. Fridays and Saturdays are the most crowded as everyone including locals drives down to the park to get cultured or entertained. This shouldn’t be an issue though — the bigger the crowd, the more welcoming the ambiance at the theatre.

Learn more about Miller Outdoor Theatre here!

What’s special about this place?

This indoor rock climbing and bouldering gym located in West Houston helps every visitor push their boundaries and test their resistance. It offers over 14,000 square feet of surface that can be climbed including 42 top ropes, 5 auto belays, and a lead arch along with a separate area for bouldering.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The gym has climbing walls designed for both adults and kids. To ensure that everyone is safe climbing them, everyone is equipped with a harness and watched by the trained staff. If you’ve always wanted to try bouldering, this is the best place in town for putting your stamina to use.

What to do here?

Take the gym’s safety orientation and belay training class before putting a harness on yourself to climb the walls. Once you’re familiar with the basic rules and regulations, you can start bouldering. If you’re still hesitant about giving indoor rock climbing a try, there are on-site yoga classes you can take instead.

Best Time to Visit

Texas Rock Gym is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM till 10 PM. On Sunday, the least busy day of the week, it’s open until 6 PM. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the gym is crowded between 6 PM and 8 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s at its busiest in the afternoon.

Learn more about Texas Rock Gym here!

What’s special about this place?

Topgolf is a top entertainment venue in Houston featuring a high-tech driving range and a swanky lounge with drinks and games. But there’s more to it than just players hitting balls into holes. This place takes it to the next level with microchipped golf balls shot at targets on outfields and electronic scoring mixed in.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

This golf experience is as family-oriented as it gets. It’s fun, competitive, and challenging enough to make everyone feel involved. With over 8 million yearly visitors, Topgolf takes pride in being an all-inclusive destination for every visitor regardless of age or hobbies. It can even be a fun spot for a date if you’re both up for it.

What to do here?

Featuring 100+ climate-controlled hitting bays, a Toptracer shot tracer, and an Angry Birds game, you can rest assured that you’ll never run out of things to do at Topgolf. There are over 2000 HDTVs, a rooftop terrace with a fire pit, and even a full-service restaurant where you can fuel yourself to win the next game.

Best Time to Visit

Lucky for those wanting to include Topgolf in their list of places to visit, it’s open every day of the week. There aren’t too many guests from Monday to Thursday, but Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are usually packed with people. Keep this in mind when planning your visit to Topgolf.

Learn more about Topgolf here!

What’s special about this place?

Allegedly the best Tex-Mex joint in Houston, The Original Ninfa’s Uptown has been welcoming guests since 1973. Back then, it was just a small taco stand in a tortilla factory. Today, it’s a full-blown restaurant that offers not only tacos but also enchiladas, tamales, fajitas among other foods.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, coming to The Original Ninfa’s Uptown for an antojito and a fajita plate is a must. The locale has a happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 PM till 6 PM where you can get acquainted with several signature Southern meals at once without spending too much on a single dish.

What to do here?

See what all the hype is about and book a table at this Tex-Mex restaurant when coming to Houston. Get an order of homemade beef tamales, Ninfa’s ‘Award-Winning’ fajita burger, or a chef’s special Tacodillas de Barbacoa consisting of a Mexican BBQ brisket, Monterey cheese, and Consome de Res. If you arrive during the happy hour, go for carnitas and the original Ninfarita, Houston’s most famous margarita.

Best Time to Visit

Open Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM till 10 PM and Friday through Saturday from 10 AM till 11 PM, The Original Ninfa’s Uptown restaurant is always happy to feed customers with some of the best Mexican food in town. It does get busy on Friday and Saturday evenings, so keep this in mind when reserving a table on the weekend.

Learn more about The Original Ninfa’s Uptown here!

What’s special about this place?

Houston’s Arboretum & Nature Center is a 155-acre area that’s home to meadows, ponds, and forests where turtles, frogs, and birds reside. It’s an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life that allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level. Operating as a non-profit organization, it offers free admission to the Nature Center and the trails.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families, couples, and everyone else you can possibly think of will enjoy spending an hour or two hiking the forests and exploring the many exhibits at the Arboretum & Nature Center. If you consider yourself a workaholic, this might be just the place you need to visit to let loose and get your mind off of your never-ending to-do list.

What to do here?

Wear your athletic gear and go hiking or take the time to check out the interactive exhibits like the Learning Tree and the Discovery Room. Or do both. Stroll through the meadows and the forests and watch turtles and frogs peacefully swimming in the ponds. You can also bring a dog with you to the trails.

Best Time to Visit

The Arboretum Nature & Science Center is open to visitors every day from 7 AM till 8 PM. It gets particularly busy on Saturdays and Sundays when everyone is out in nature with their kids and dogs. The rest of the week it’s relatively empty.

Learn more about Arboretum & Nature Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Just down Westheimer road, there’s a 24-hour pie place where you can satisfy your craving for something sweet and have a late dinner too. This family-owned bakery and diner has been operating for over 45 years now. The old-fashioned methods of baking and the freshest homemade ingredients make it stand out from all the other bakeries in Houston.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, you can count on House of Pies to serve you a scrumptious cheesecake or a filling bowl of soup. Locals love this place for the extensive menu that even the pickiest eaters will appreciate. This is partly the reason why it’s always packed with a diverse crowd ranging from kids to the elderly.

What to do here?

If you’ve got time, sit at one of the tables inside the bakery and dig into the signature pecan pie, a lemon meringue, or a Dutch apple pie. You can also try their breakfast menu with corned beef hash and eggs being one of the most filling options or go for the Monterey Fajita Steak if you’re starving and it’s dinner time.

Best Time to Visit

Due to the popularity of House of Pies, expect there to be customers at any time of the day. You might even have to wait up until 15 minutes to get your pie if you come on a Saturday or a Sunday morning. The rest of the week the bakery isn’t as crowded.

Learn more about House of Pies here!

What’s special about this place?

The Art Car Museum is quite self-explanatory — it’s a space filled with vehicles that are decorated and painted to look unique. Nicknamed ‘Garage Mahal’, it opened in 1998 and has since managed to acquire a variety of exhibits including artsy cars, sculptures, photography, and modern art.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Every car fanatic should add the Art Car Museum to their must-visit list when in Houston. Ranging from police cruisers to derby racers and hippie vans, there are dozens of vehicles worth investigating for an hour at the very least. You can even combine visiting the Buffalo Bayou Park with this museum to save time for exploring other attractions.

What to do here?

Check out the vintage vehicles that include peculiar items like a Vapirilla car built from stainless steel panels and a bejeweled low-ride sports car. Exhibits change every 3-4 months which allows you to witness different cars every time you visit the museum. To see an even bigger collection of cars, come in April when the Art Car Parade is held.

Best Time to Visit

Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM till 6 PM, Art Car Museum is never too busy. It can get a little crowded on a Saturday afternoon and at around 3 PM on Sunday, but it’s not nearly as crowded during the week.

Learn more about Art Car Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site was awarded the title of a national landmark in 1960. It honors those who fought for the independence of Texas as it stands as the world’s tallest memorial. Located off the Houston Ship Channel in unincorporated Harris County, this site tells the story of the state better than any other monument in Texas.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Texas and the Battle of San Jacinto in particular, you should allocate some time to visit this attraction. It’ll give you an insight into the well-deserved win over the Mexican troops that came with many sacrifices including the loss of around 630 human lives.

What to do here?

Take an elevator ride to the top of the monument and look at the historic downtown area along with the north, east, and west parts of the city with ship canals. You can also drop by the museum located inside the monument to gain some more knowledge about the battle.

Best Time to Visit

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site is open every day of the week from 9 AM till 6 PM. It’s recommended that you visit during the week to avoid crowds that gather at the monument on the weekends. It typically gets busy between 12 PM and 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

Learn more about San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site here!

What’s special about this place?

Situated near the Texas-Louisiana border, Sabine National Forest is 656 acres worth of land that outlines the 5th largest man-made reservoir in the country known as Toledo Bend Reservoir. There’s a wide range of recreational activities available to visitors including camping, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding among others.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

This hidden gem is heaven on earth for nature lovers who tend to get tired of the big urban cities like Houston. It’s an escape from reality that locals and tourists alike would benefit from. If you like exploring new scenic routes, Sabine National Forest is the place for you.

What to do here?

Take a day trip to the Sabine National Forest and indulge in all that nature has to offer. If you’re into boating, rely on the Toledo Bend Reservoir to supply you with some of the best fishing and scenic shorelines. If you like hiking, there’s a 28-mile trail between the Lakes hiking trail that extends from Lakeview Recreation Area to make use of. Hunting, camping, and picnicking is possible here too.

Best Time to Visit

It’s best to explore the Sabine National Forest in the warmer months when the weather is good and none of the trails are closed down. You would also have more opportunities to catch fish and camp during the entire weekend without freezing in the night.

Learn more about Sabine National Forest here!

What’s special about this place?

This traditional Hindu temple located in southwest Houston is one of a kind in the United States. Built by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in just 28 months, it spreads over 22 acres and includes a cultural center haveli along with the Understanding Hinduism exhibition. The magnificent facade of the temple alone makes it worth a visit.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Even though the temple is aimed at the Houston Hindu community, everyone regardless of their beliefs is welcome here. It helps with familiarizing yourself with Hinduism while also serving as a remarkable piece of architecture that you can’t miss when visiting the city.

What to do here?

Stroll through the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple and get acquainted with Italian marble and Turkish limestone building open to visitors for daily worship. If you practice Hinduism, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in Mandir activities including devotional hymns, Hindu heritage classes, and even Gujarati language training. There’s also an in-house cafeteria serving hot tea and authentic Indian food you can check out.

Best Time to Visit

Closed on Sunday, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple welcomes guests twice per day. You can visit either between 8 AM and 10 AM or from 4 PM till 6 PM. If you decide to stop by on a Saturday, remember that it might get crowded at around 4 PM.

Learn more about BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir here!

What’s special about this place?

Established in 1948, Harry’s Restaurant remains to be the top spot in town for a hearty breakfast or lunch in Greek style. It’s conveniently located in the Montrose district where locals know it as a locale with authentic European, Southern, and Latin dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re looking for breakfast or lunch options that would fill you up for the rest of the day, consider popping into Harry’s Restaurant. Serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, it accommodates every customer no matter the food preferences. There’s also a kids’ menu for those under 12 that’ll keep your little ones satiated and happy.

What to do here?

Come early and get a Baklava french toast that comes with two scoops of Greek-style yogurt ice cream made in-house. If you’re here for lunch, get an order of their signature Pork Gyro and wash it down with a Mimosa. Your kids will love the grilled cheese sandwich from the brunch menu.

Best Time to Visit

Harry’s Restaurant is open every day from 7 AM till 2 PM. If you visit on a Saturday or a Sunday, it’ll stay open until 3 PM. But be early if you’re here on the weekend as this is the busiest time at the restaurant.

Learn more about Harry’s Restaurant here!

What’s special about this place?

Houston Funplex is an amusement park with hundreds of games and activities like trampolines, arcades, go-karts, and rides among others that appeal to everyone. Based in Houston, the park is just a short drive from Sugar Land and Missouri City where your hotel might be located. It’s also not far from Arthur Storey Park where you can jog and practice Tai Chi.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Parents and children, teenagers and young adults — there’s virtually no one who wouldn’t find spending a day at the Houston Funplex thrilling. Not only can you let your inner child run wild here but you can also challenge your friends and family to a competitive racing or an arcade with prizes.

What to do here?

Go on a VR roller coaster and check out the Inflatable Laser Maze. Let your kids run loose at the PlayPort playground and take them to the Rock n’ Bowl bowling center later. Don’t miss the Ferris Wheel and Fireball rides along with the trampoline that are just $5 per person. Finish the day off with a Tuscan Chicken Pizza and a Brownie Sundae at The International Office Sports Bar & Grill.

Best Time to Visit

Hooray — Houston Funplex is open every day of the week. You can visit it Monday through Friday from 5 PM till 10 PM (11 PM on Friday) and from 11 AM till 10 PM on the weekend (till 11 PM on Saturday). The amusement park gets particularly crowded on Saturdays and Sundays between 4 PM and 8 PM.

Learn more about Houston Funplex here!

What’s special about this place?

Formerly Texas Commerce Tower, JP Morgan Chase Tower is a 75-story skyscraper in Downtown Houston that offers some of the best views of the city. It stands tall at over 1,000 feet which makes it the tallest building in Texas and the 13th tallest building in the country. Getting to the observation deck on the 60th floor will give you the best overview of Texas.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Every tourist should mark JPMorgan Chase Tower as a point of interest that can’t be missed. You get to look at the city from a bird’s eye view which none of the other buildings in the city can offer. Architects will also appreciate the building too as it has an art deco design.

What to do here?

Take a quick elevator ride to the 60th floor where the observation deck is and enjoy the view that opens in front of you. Take a couple of minutes to take it in and capture the city on your smartphone or a DSLR camera. You can also see if you can spot your hotel or Airbnb from up there.

Best Time to Visit

The observation deck is open Monday through Friday from 6 AM till 6 PM. Check whether it’s open to the public and plan your visit here right when it opens or before it closes. Afternoons tend to be the busiest at JPMorgan Chase Tower.

Learn more about JPMorgan Chase Tower here!

What’s special about this place?

Just a 2-minute walk from the Children’s Museum of Houston, The Health Museum is a place for learning more about the human body. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, it offers plenty of exhibits covering the nature of the human brain, body, diseases, and pandemics that have occurred in the history of humanity.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’ve always been curious about how our bodies work, visiting The Health Museum will give you all the answers to your questions. You’ll get to explore family science labs, see real organ dissections, and even learn how people fight epidemics. Kids are welcome here too — there’s a cell lab where they can carry out cool experiments.

What to do here?

Get your tickets and check out the exhibits that interest you the most. It can be the ‘Your Body, Your Air’ exhibit where the main focus is on the four types of air pollutants and their impact on our bodies. Or, it can be the ‘Beautiful Minds – Dyslexia and the Creative Advantage’ exhibit displaying the different tools and resources for diagnosis and treatments.

Best Time to Visit

The Health Museum is closed on Mondays. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM till 5 PM (7 PM on Thursdays) and from 12 PM till 5 PM on Sundays. With people typically spending about two hours at the museum, plan your visit accordingly. To avoid crowds, skip Thursdays when it’s busy at the museum.

Learn more about The Health Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Washed by the Gulf of Mexico on both sides, Galveston Island is that idyllic beach destination that draws in every tourist. It’s only 50 miles away from Houston which makes for a fun day trip filled with rollercoasters, swims, and ice creams. Even though it’s quite compact, there are plenty of thrill rides, water rides, and arcade games to check out.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families and couples visiting Houston should allocate a day to spend exploring the island. While adults will most likely enjoy the alcohol-friendly East Beach along with beaches lining the 8-mile seawall protecting the island from raging winds and waters of the Gulf of Mexico, kids will have fun at the aquarium and the Schlitterbahn Waterpark.

What to do here?

Rent a car and drive down to Galveston on a sunny day. Stroll through the Historic Pleasure Pier where the arcades are located and ride the Ferris Wheel. If you’re with kids, let them go on the carousel and a water ride. There’s also Moody Gardens with a golf course and an aquarium and a Galveston Island State Park where you can go fishing and hiking.

Best Time to Visit

An hour of commute shouldn’t scare you away from visiting the island — the anticipation of having fun riding roller coasters makes up for it. We recommend you arrive here early in the morning if you want to score a good spot on the beach and depart before the sun sets to avoid traffic.

Learn more about Galveston Island here!

What’s special about this place?

Formerly known as the Williams Waterwall or the Transco Waterwall, Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is a mix of an engineering miracle and the right artistic choice. This postmodernist sculptural fountain is 64 feet tall which makes it one of the tallest man-made waterfalls in Texas. It pours out as much as 11,000 gallons of water per minute that beautifully cascades down its facade.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

To experience nature in the city, come to The Galleria and spend some time gazing at the waterfall. Apart from taking a few pictures with it in the background, there’s also a space to organize a picnic and let the kids run wild. Feel free to bring your entire family to the Gerald Hines Waterwall Park.

What to do here?

This iconic Houston landmark is a must-visit on a hot summer day. Locals often come here to sit under the sprays coming from the fountain to cool off and catch a breath of fresh air. You can also bring some picnic essentials to make the drive here worth it (and to fuel yourself after a long day of sightseeing).

Best Time to Visit

The park is open every day from 8 AM till 9 PM. It gets busy on the weekend between 2 PM and 6 PM which is when locals leave their homes to take a stroll. Combine visiting the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park with visiting Houston Arboretum & Nature Center to kill two birds with one stone.

Learn more about Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Located an hour away from Houston, Blessington Farms offers family-friendly activities that are both fun and educational. People come here to pick blueberries and strawberries in the summer and pumpkins in the fall. There’s also a harvesting festival happening every October you can attend if you visit Houston during this time of the year.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re looking for an unconventional way to explore Houston, a trip to Blessington Farms will do the trick. It’s also the go-to place for every nature enthusiast who easily gets tired of the hustle and bustle associated with big cities. The picnic areas make it suitable for bringing kids too.

What to do here?

Mazes, slides, rides — the list goes on. It’s not just berry picking you can do here, but also fishing, interacting with farm animals, riding a train, and searching for fossils. Kids will have a blast playing on a mountain of tires filled with sand, climbing the spider webs, and racing with their friends whilst driving the pedal cars.

Best Time to Visit

Blessington Farms is open Friday through Sunday from 9 AM till 4 PM (2 PM on Fridays). Depending on the activity you’re after, you might want to visit it during a certain season. Pumpkin picking takes place in October whereas berry picking is strictly a summertime activity.

Learn more about Blessington Farms here!

What’s special about this place?

Carrying the title of the top entertainment complex in the theater district in Houston, The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts has been open to the public since 2002. Its facade features 60-feet high glass walls that open up the view of the city with its many skyscrapers and parks. It’s also home to Humphrey’s School of Musical Theater offering stage acting lessons.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Whether you’re a fan of musicals, theatrical plays, or opera concerts, you’ll remember your visit to The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. The plush seating along with the decent legroom adds to the already attractive spot for getting cultured. Check to see if there’s a children-friendly play before you bring your kids to the theater.

What to do here?

Buy tickets for the performance that caught your eye and get some snacks before you make your way to the theater room. The website is constantly updated with new shows so be on the lookout for them when you’re planning a trip to Houston.

Best Time to Visit

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is closed on weekends. It’s not as crowded on Mondays and Fridays whereas Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are the busiest days here. That said, the theater can get busy even on a Friday morning if there’s a popular Broadway musical scheduled on that day.

There you go! the Best things to do in Houston.

If you are looking for inspiration before your trip read these Travel Quotes!