Things To Do In Houston For Every Visitor

Train with the astronauts, witness a rocket launch, and experience the wonder of space exploration at Space Center Houston. Take a guided tram tour of the Johnson Space Center, where visitors can see historic mission control centers, training facilities, and astronaut training areas.

Activities to do in Houston Space Center include exploring the massive shuttle carrier aircraft, NASA 905, and the high-fidelity replica space shuttle, Independence. Experience what it's like to pilot a space shuttle with the shuttle simulator, offering a realistic simulation of launch, orbit, and re-entry.

This sprawling urban park offers trails, gardens, a Japanese Tea Garden, and even a pedal boat lagoon for a relaxing escape within the city. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll, a moderate workout, or a challenging trek, Hermann Park has the perfect path for you.

Among the many free things to do in Houston, this one tops the list. As you hike through the trails, keep your eyes peeled for the lush greenery, feathered friends, sculptures, and art installations.

From melt-in-your-mouth brisket to smoky ribs, savor authentic Texas barbecue at renowned spots like Franklin Barbecue, Gatlin's BBQ, Killen's Barbecue, or Pinkerton's Barbecue.

Houston's barbecue joints offer a variety of meats, but some of the most popular options include brisket, pork ribs, sausage, pulled pork, and more. Don't forget to try classic Texas barbecue sides like coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and cornbread, which perfectly complement the smoky flavors of the meat.

As dusk settles, casting long shadows across the Buffalo Bayou, millions of Mexican free-tailed bats erupt from the crevices of the iconic Waugh Drive Bridge, painting the sky in a mesmerizing ballet of wings.

The bats, their movements synchronized in an intricate aerial ballet, twist and turn as they take flight. Among the popular activities to do in Houston TX, arrive early as the viewing area can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season (May-October).

Home to 19 museums within a walkable area, this district showcases everything from natural history and science to art and African American culture.

You can expect to find institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Children's Museum of Houston, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Houston Museum of Natural Science, The Menil Collection, the Rothko Chapel, The Jung Center, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, and many more at the Houston Museum District.

Paddle through the heart of Houston, discovering hidden waterways and diverse wildlife along the way. The bayou teems with diverse plant and animal life. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles basking on logs, fish darting in the shallows, and an abundance of bird species soaring overhead.

Several launch points are available along the bayou, including the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, Woodway Oates Reservoir, and Sabine Street Bridge. Choose one that best suits your desired route and accessibility

Explore Houston's diverse culinary scene, from Vietnamese pho in Midtown to authentic Mexican dishes in the East End. From casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, visitors can embark on a culinary journey around the world without ever leaving the city limits.

Whether you're craving spicy Thai curry, hearty German sausages, or authentic Caribbean jerk chicken, Houston's diverse culinary landscape offers something to satisfy every palate.

Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience at this iconic mall if you are out of stuff to do in Houston TX. The Galleria features 375 stores, 30 restaurants, two hotels, and a full-sized ice rink, spread across 2.4 million square feet of space.

It caters to a wide range of shoppers, from luxury aficionados seeking high-end designer brands. You'll find stores specializing in jewelry, accessories, electronics, home decor, sporting goods, books, toys, and much more. 

Uncover the fascinating history and traditions surrounding death and funerary practices around the world. Located within the National Museum of Funeral History in Houston, Texas, the Heritage exhibit provides a comprehensive overview of various funeral traditions, rituals, and customs spanning different cultures and periods.

As visitors enter the Heritage exhibit, they are greeted with a diverse array of artifacts, displays, and interactive exhibits that illuminate the rich tapestry of funeral customs from ancient civilizations to modern times.

Observe over 200 species of birds amidst diverse habitats within this urban oasis. With nearly 200 species of birds documented over the years, Edith L. Moore boasts an impressive avian diversity.

From vibrant songbirds like the Northern Cardinal and Yellow-rumped Warbler to majestic raptors like the Great Egret and Green Heron, the sanctuary provides a haven for birds year-round. The sanctuary's varied habitats, including wooded areas, dense thickets, shallow ponds, and a dripper system, cater to a wide range of birds. 

Indulge in kolaches, a local favorite pastry filled with sweet or savory fillings, at this iconic bakery. Traditional kolaches consist of a soft, slightly sweet dough filled with fruit preserves, cheese, or poppy seeds. However, Kolache Heaven takes things a step further with creative fillings and flavor combinations.

It also offers a variety of other baked goods and treats, including muffins, cookies, cinnamon rolls, and croissants. Customers can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee, espresso drinks, and other beverages to complement their pastry selection.

Immerse yourself in the cowboy culture and thrilling rodeo action at the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. NRG Stadium transforms into a thrilling arena during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, held for three weeks each year from late February to mid-March.

This iconic event and one of the best Houston stuff to do is dubbed the "world's largest rodeo," and attracts over 2 million visitors annually, eager to witness a spectacle of cowboy culture, adrenaline-pumping competition, and family-friendly entertainment.

Witness world-class dancers interpret classical and contemporary ballets at the Wortham Theater Center. Whether it's a timeless classic like "Swan Lake" or a contemporary masterpiece like "Sylvia," the Houston Ballet's productions are known for their stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and breathtaking choreography.

With world-class production values and attention to detail, each performance transports audiences to a world of beauty, grace, and emotion. This is among the best things do in Houston Texas for couples on a date night.

Explore this converted underground reservoir transformed into a unique bike path with stunning light installations. If you enjoy combining outdoor activities with unique cultural experiences, "Biking the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern" is definitely for you.

Start your adventure by exploring Buffalo Bayou Park on your bike. The park offers several miles of scenic trails, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise before your Cistern visit. Opt for a guided walking tour to delve into the history and architecture of the Cistern.

Several restaurants in Houston are housed within historic buildings, each with its own unique story and charm. Enjoy a delectable meal at Brenner's, a culinary landmark.

Brenner's Steakhouse on the Bayou is housed in a renovated farmhouse dating back to the 1930s, surrounded by lush gardens, waterfalls, and winding pathways. Diners can enjoy premium steaks, seafood, and cocktails while overlooking the bayou from the restaurant's elegant dining rooms or outdoor patio.

Embark on a spooky underground adventure, exploring the network of abandoned tunnels beneath the city with a ghost tour. These tunnels, remnants of the city's past, beckon thrill-seekers and ghost hunters alike with the promise of encounters with the otherworldly.

Several companies offer ghost-hunting tours in the Houston tunnels, catering to the curious and the brave. Among activities to do in Houston Texas, these tours typically involve exploring the tunnels, learning the history, and ghost-hunting activities

Explore vibrant murals and hidden gems painted by talented artists, transforming Houston's streets into an open-air gallery. From colorful murals adorning building facades to striking graffiti art hidden in alleyways, Houston's street art reflects a wide range of artistic styles, themes, and influences. 

Some of the best neighborhoods for street art in Houston include Downtown, Midtown, EaDo (East Downtown), the Heights, and the Museum District. Bring along a camera or smartphone to capture photos of the street art you encounter along the way.

Immerse yourself in Galveston's natural beauty, exploring rainforests, pyramids, and even an aquarium, just a short drive from Houston. With its lush tropical gardens, captivating wildlife exhibits, and thrilling attractions, Moody Gardens offers an extraordinary experience.

It is open year-round, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. If you want to avoid crowds, weekdays and shoulder seasons are ideal. However, if you enjoy festive events and cooler weather, the holiday season is a magical time to visit.

Discover Houston's booming craft beer scene with a tour of local breweries, sampling unique brews, and learning about the brewing process. With a growing number of breweries scattered throughout the metropolitan area, a brewery tour in Houston promises a fun experience for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. 

Start your brewery tour at Saint Arnold Brewing Company. Next, head to 8th Wonder Brewery and Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company. Head northwest to Karbach Brewing Co.,  and wrap up your brewery tour at Eureka Heights Brew Co.

Experience the electrifying atmosphere of a MLB game, rooting for the Houston Astros. Stuff to do Houston for sports fans, the roar of the crowd, and the thrill of a home run soaring out of the ballpark is an experience that goes far beyond just watching a baseball game.

Buzzing concession stands offer ballpark staples like hot dogs and nachos, while vendors hawk Astros gear, adding to the festive atmosphere. Feel the ground shake as Minute Maid Park erupts after a home run, fireworks paint the sky, and the train chugs around the outfield wall.