best things to do in houston texas
Houston, Texas, is a vibrant and diverse city with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Houston:
- Space Center Houston: The official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where you can tour the historic Mission Control Room and see real-life spacecraft and artifacts.
- Houston Museum District: A collection of 19 museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Children’s Museum of Houston, and the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
- Houston Zoo: Spread over 55 acres, the Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world, including giraffes, rhinos, and big cats.
- Downtown Aquarium: An aquarium featuring a 500,000-gallon shark tank, stingray touch tanks, and a variety of marine life.
- Kemah Boardwalk: A popular amusement park with rides, games, and attractions, located on the Gulf Coast about 30 miles southeast of Houston.
- Discovery Green: A 12-acre park in downtown Houston with public art installations, a lake, and plenty of green space for picnics and outdoor activities.
- The Galleria: A massive upscale shopping mall with over 400 stores, an ice skating rink, and a variety of dining options.
- Houston Arboretum and Nature Center: A 155-acre nature preserve with walking trails, gardens, and a variety of plant and animal species.
- Buffalo Bayou Park: A 160-acre park with hike and bike trails, kayaking, and stunning views of the Houston skyline.
- The Original Farmers Market on Airline: A bustling marketplace with fresh produce, meats, and international cuisine.
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: One of the largest rodeos in the world, held annually in March.
- Take a stroll through the Heights: A charming neighborhood with historic homes, boutique shops, and a small-town feel.
- Visit the Rothko Chapel: A non-denominational chapel featuring 14 large-scale paintings by Mark Rothko.
- Explore the Street Art scene: Houston has a vibrant street art scene, with many murals and graffiti adorning buildings throughout the city.
- Attend a sports game: Houston is home to several professional sports teams, including the Texans (football), Astros (baseball), Rockets (basketball), and Dynamo (soccer).
Some popular events and festivals in Houston include:
- Houston International Festival: A celebration of international culture, music, and food.
- Houston Food Festival: A showcase of the city’s diverse culinary scene.
- Houston Pride: A parade and festival celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
- Houston Jazz Festival: A celebration of jazz music with performances by local and national artists.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Houston. With its rich cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and wide range of attractions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant Texas city.