things to do in downtown houston
Downtown Houston is a vibrant and diverse area with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some things to do in downtown Houston:
Space Center Houston: Located just outside of downtown, Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Explore the history of space travel, see real-life spacecraft and artifacts, and even take a tram tour of the NASA facility.
Discovery Green: This 12-acre park in the heart of downtown offers a variety of activities, including outdoor concerts, festivals, and fitness classes. It’s also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s annual festival.
The Galleria: While not exclusively a downtown attraction, The Galleria is a popular shopping and dining destination that’s within walking distance of many downtown hotels. With over 400 stores and restaurants, it’s a great place to spend the day.
Houston Museum District: Downtown Houston is home to several world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Children’s Museum of Houston, and the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
The Houston Tunnel System: This network of underground tunnels connects many of downtown’s office buildings, hotels, and restaurants. It’s a great way to explore the area without getting wet in the rain.
Downtown Aquarium: Located in the heart of downtown, the Downtown Aquarium features a 500,000-gallon shark tank, as well as a variety of other marine life and interactive exhibits.
The George R. Brown Convention Center: This massive convention center hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, festivals, and conferences. Even if you’re not attending an event, it’s worth taking a tour of the building.
Kemah Boardwalk: Located just outside of downtown, the Kemah Boardwalk is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Take a stroll along the waterfront, ride the Ferris wheel, or try your luck at the slot machines.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: While not exclusively a downtown attraction, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of the largest and most famous rodeos in the world. It takes place in March and features live music, rodeo events, and a carnival midway.
Downtown Houston Food Tours: Explore the diverse culinary scene of downtown Houston on a guided food tour. Sample dishes from around the world, from Tex-Mex to Vietnamese cuisine.
The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center: This 155-acre nature preserve is located just outside of downtown and features walking trails, gardens, and a variety of wildlife.
The Menil Collection: This unique museum features a collection of art and cultural artifacts from around the world, including works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Rothko.
The Houston Symphony: The Houston Symphony performs at the Jones Hall for the Performing Arts, which is located in the heart of downtown. Catch a concert or show to experience the city’s rich cultural scene.
The Downtown Houston Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning, the Downtown Houston Farmers Market sets up shop in the heart of downtown. Sample local produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods, and meet the farmers and artisans who make it all possible.
- The Houston Rockets and Texans: Catch a game by the Houston Rockets (NBA) or the Houston Texans (NFL) at the Toyota Center or NRG Stadium, both of which are located in downtown Houston.
These are just a few of the many things to do in downtown Houston. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse city.
