Fun & Unusual Things To Do In Houston Texas
If we forget about big ol Alaska up north, were left with Texas claiming the throne for the biggest state in the US of A.
And while the likes of Dallas and Austin would love to compete, the reality is they dont make em any bigger than Houston as youre about to see, the list of visitor-friendly activities is as big and exciting as the city itself.
With so many riveting things to do in Houston, from the vibrant Theater District to the fascinating Museum District, to nearby theme parks, craft breweries, and a diehard sporting culture, there really is something for everyone in Space City.
So, what do you say, its time we started planning our trip, right?
Cultural Offerings In The Bayou City
Houston Center for Photography In contrast, if youre looking for an immersive cultural experience, take a class at the Houston Center for Photography. These classes run all summer long for photographers of all levels from beginner to advanced. Shoot sharp and your work could be featured in an exhibition!
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center Nature lovers will delight in exploring the 155-acre Arboretum & Nature Center. Certainly, with more than five miles of nature trails featuring forest, pond, wetland and meadow habitats, the Arboretum is a favorite place for Houstonians to wander.
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Museum of Fine Arts One of the largest museums in the U.S., the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston boasts more than 60,000 pieces of fine art to inspire you. In addition, its a wonderful place to check out edifying art, music and foreign film gems you wont find in mainstream theaters.
In summary, this guide provides highlights of cool attractions, but start exploring and youll find treasures at every turn. No doubt, fun things to do in Houston are everywhere! For free activities, check out 7 Things To Do in Houston For Free | Houston for the Budget-Conscious.
If youd like more information about the University of St. Thomas, just fill out this form to get info about our degree programs and how we can support you in becoming a leader of faith and character.
Explore The Universe At Space Center Houston
Touch a moon rock, get a behind-the-scenes tour of NASA and mission control, try on a spacesuit or take the famed tram ride around the Space Center campus. Plan to spend an entire day at this fun family attraction near Houston because there is much to explore. For those feeling more adventurous, try a bite or two of freeze-dried space food to harness your inner astronaut.
Space Center Houston
Recommended Reading: Places To Go In Mystic Ct
Hang Out At Discovery Green
Downtown Houston is home to another oasis of sorts: Discovery Green. Situated across the street from the George R. Brown Convention Center, Discovery Green is a popular social spot where you can listen to musicians perform on the stage, see a movie outdoors, let Fido play in the dog park, or simply go for a stroll. Don’t miss testing out the Unique Listening Vessels, two stone sculptures featuring concave interiors that focus sound waves, allowing you to have a quiet conversation with someone from 70 feet away.
Check Out The Houston Museum Of Natural Science
Arguably Houstons most impressive museum, the Museum of Natural Science dishes up four floors worth of permanent exhibits with a range of interactive displays across the entire complex.
Through dedicated areas like the Wiess Energy Hall and Hall of Ancient Egypt, expect to uncover tens of thousands of artifacts spanning everything from Native American culture to paleontology, seashells, and local wildlife.
While you can spend hours on end exploring the above sections, the crowd favorites are undoubtedly the Cockrell Butterfly Center, the George Observatory and the Burke Baker Planetarium.
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Minocqua
Ride The Swings At Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier
Initially constructed in the 1940s and subsequently destroyed by Hurricane Carla in 1961, this family-friendly amusement park experience was rebuilt and opened in 2012, and was quickly named one of the world’s best seaside parks in 2013. Perfect for a summer day, Pleasure Pier boasts midway games, shops and restaurants. There are also 16 amusement rides, including several that go over Galveston Bay and the Texas Flyerthe tallest swing ride in the state.
Enjoy Nature At Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
4501 Woodway DriveHouston, TX 77024713.681.8433
The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is located on the western border of Memorial Park and provides an opportunity to get away from the rush and bustle of city life. People of all ages can learn about nature at this 155-acre non-profit urban nature sanctuary. Its a critical part of keeping the citys native plants and animals safe from development in the heart of the metropolis. An educational non-profit, the Houston Arboretum, operates on city property. houstonarboretum.org
Also Check: Things To Do In Germantown Nashville Tn
Kayak On The Armand Bayou Paddling Trail
Houston is just a stone’s throw away from all the natural splendor of the Texas Gulf Coast. Although there are a variety of ways to take it in for yourself, one of the best is by kayaking on Clear Lake. Follow the Armand Bayou Paddling Trail and you’ll be surrounded by coastal woods that are home to a spectacular array of wildlife, including ospreys, egrets, pelicans, and alligators that grow as long as 10 feet.
Find More Things To Do In Houston All Year Long
You can find more fun in our interactive event calendar and 365 Weekend Guides.
Be sure to to our free Weekend Guide email to receive a round-up of great things to do this weekend in Houston in your inbox every Thursday.
If you dont want to miss a thing, you can also opt in to our Daily Update emails .
Also Check: Is Mystic Ct Worth Visiting
Show Your Love For Homegrown Art
Washington Avenue & Theatre DistrictWe all know how hard hit restaurants and bars have been throughout this never-ending pandemic, but the arts community has been facing equally hard times. Houstons theater companies, musicians, and artists are primed and ready to share their talents, so nows the time to visit Theater District favorites like the Alley Theatre, Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony, Stages, TUTS, and more. Or shoot over to Arts District Houston, where youll find over 300 studios and artists camped out at creative hub Sawyer Yards.
Free Fun This Weekend In Houston Tx
There are busy cities, and then theres Houston. Houston, Americas fourth largest city, has an almost endless list of things to do. Explore 300 miles of walking and biking trails, let the flavors of foods from all over the world dance off your tongue, and immerse yourself in the cultures of H-melting Towns pot. Catch a game from one of Houstons five professional sports teams, see a show in the world-renowned Theater District, and visit all of the Houston Museum Districts attractions. Houston is the ultimate choose your own adventure destination, with pleasant year-round weather and an ideal spot at the crossroads of the Texas Gulf Coast and the Piney Woods.
Read Also: Things To Do In Mystic
Rev That Engine At Houston Motorsports Park
Petrolheads, get excited!
Home to a regular roster of oval races, drag races, and street meet-ups, the asphalt Houston Motorsports Park is heaven on earth for motor enthusiasts.
Youll find the quarter-mile dragstrip just outside Houston in Baytown. Despite the extra few miles of traveling, its worth it for the roar of the engines alone.
Delve Into The Afterlife At The National Museum Of Funeral History
As far as museums go, its hard to bypass the National Museum of Funeral History as one of, if not the most unique in the country.
If you hadnt already guessed based on the name, this Museum District establishment is dedicated entirely to the process of sending off our loved ones.
It dives into the history, science, and art of death showcases JFKs original eternal flame, and proudly houses the largest collection of funeral-related artifacts in America.
Read Also: Fun Things To Do Near Mystic Ct
Race Around Town With A Scavenger Game
For when free walking tours and segway rides seem a little too mainstream, why not consider a fast-paced, competitive scavenger hunt as a unique way to explore the city?
A number of companies offer Amazing Race-style games, all operated from your smartphone, and all skirting around town to some of the most well-known landmarks as well as most underrated hidden gems.
Where To Stay In Houston
Downtown Houston is home to many great budget hotels and mid-range hotels, but when traveling to this bustling metropolis, you can also consider staying in the neighborhoods of Greater Eastwood, Midtown, and Greenway-Upper Kirby, which are also some of the best places to live in Houston.
Greater Eastwood
Greater Eastwood is considered as one of the most historic areas in Houston. It boasts a ton of impressive architecture and is home to delicious modern and fusion food. Travelers will enjoy staying in suburban homes like townhouses or spacious bungalows ideal for families and groups. There are several parks for those who enjoy green spaces, as well as spacious sidewalks in every corner, making it a very walkable city.
Midtown
Tourists or first-time travelers to Houston will have an easier time navigating the city from Midtown. Its a district with a contemporary aesthetic, merging modern structures and Mid-Century architecture. Great for backpackers and solo travelers, this trendy neighborhood is also the heart of the citys bustling nightlife scene, making it perfect for social butterflies.
Greenway-Upper Kirby
Make your way to the charming neighborhood of Greenway-Upper Kirby. Its a district perfect for travelers who appreciate greener spaces. This residential area is mainly filled with big townhouses and radiant penthouses, ideal for those traveling with families or large groups. One of the best family-friendly activities here is visiting Houston Museum of Science.
Read Also: Fun Things To Do In The Summer When Your Bored
You’ve Searched In Airbnb
Find the best travel deals for your next holiday
Houston, theres no problem here!
From the iconic Houston space research center to the highly-rated Childrenâs Museum of Houston, Texas most populous city holds its own in more ways than one. If you are on a visit to the largest city in Texas, which is three hours from San Antonio, be assured that you would always have much more on your plate than you can handle. Houston also has some of the best campsites and luxury Airbnbs, so all youll need to worry about is packing your bags.
Donât believe us? Check out this list of the best things to do in Houston, Texas!
Read also:
Discount Alert For Your Next Budget Accommodation!
Receive 55% off on your OYO booking when you use Trip101’s coupon code: OYOTRIP101
No prepayment needed
Go Climbing At Texas Rock Gym
If youre looking for the best things to do in Houston on rainy days, then this activity should be at the top of your list!! The Texas Rock Gym is a mecca for both adults and children to partake in climbing. Find bouldering routes and indoor climbing walls that will test your bravery and push your boundaries.
You can find indoor climbing walls for both kids and adults, so if you have your children, be sure to bring them along!
You May Like: Minocqua Things To Do
Admire Manmade And Natural Art At The Bayou Bend Collection And Gardens
Perched on 14 acres of well-manicured greenery in Houstons historic River Oaks neighborhood, youll find the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens alternatively known as the Museum of Fine Arts.
Here, guests can wander around on several guided or unguided tours, admiring one of the finest showcases of American ceramics, paintings, and furnishing on the planet.
Bring the kids children under 12 get in for free!
Schedule A No Fee Assessment
Meet Your Uprite Services TeamStephen Sweeney President/Owner
I’m passionate about business. I’m passionate about technology and cybersecurity. I’m positively thrilled when all work together to create value. Uprite Services helps its clients Accomplish More with technology. We implement and manage their infrastructure so that it is secure, stable, and fault-tolerant. We support their employees so that they remain productive. We help them plan and select the right technologies so that they can grow their business, and reduce risk.
Recommended Reading: Things To Do Mystic Connecticut
Appreciate The Sheer Beauty Of Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in southwest Houston is officially the first traditional Hindu Mandir of its kind not just in the city, but in all of North America, offering a place of serenity, peace, worship, and prayer.
Even if youre not into spirituality, the atmosphere of the area, combined with the striking, magnificent facade of the building enough to warrant a visit.
Create Your Own Winter Wonderland At Moody Gardens
GalvestonFor a city who doesnt experience a normal winteror, really, much of a winter at allwe sure know how to transform our spaces into a festive oasis. And at Moody Gardens, every corner is teeming with nods to Christmas so heartwarming that even the Grinch would fall in love. Yeah, its that magical.
After singing along to some iconic classics from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer , snap some sweet selfies in front of the Star, a four-story tall digital tree, or snuggle in for a train ride through the parks impressive trail of holiday lights. Once night falls, share some hearty laughs and infinite wows at the Cirque Joyeux Holiday Show, then gush about your favorite moments from the performance over a serving of Roasted Duck awash in a sea of squash and vegetables from Shearns Seafood & Prime Steaks.
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Wichita Falls Tx With Kids
Things To See In Houston
The Houston theater scene is alive and well. You can see musicals, dramas, and shows designed especially for kiddos at venues like Sarofim Hall and Jones Hall for the Performing Arts. For the chance to see a truly unique art installation, make reservations for the free Twilight Epiphany Skyscape lights show at Rice University. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, also serves up cultural art and its own mesmerizing light installation. For a few photo opportunities, head to local sites like Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, the Water Wall near the Galleria, and the sculpture park in south Houston.
Best Things To Do With Kids This Summer In Houston
With school out for the summer, its time to discover the best entertainment as well as things to do for everyone in the family, from free and budget-friendly choices to unique experiences. Have fun with the latest museum exhibits, make a splash, head out on an outdoor journey, and much more that will make this summer a memorable one. Below is a list of Houstons best things to do with kids this summer.
There are a plethora of interesting activities and exciting locations in Houston. Our viewers had a difficult time narrowing down their favorites among the numerous submissions! A list of Houston-area attractions that are popular with children and their families has been provided in this section. In the meantime, be sure to visit all of these other great destinations as well. Explore our website to find out what more we have to offer!
Recommended Reading: Stuff To Do In Wichita Falls Tx
Strike Up Some Family Fun At A Local Bowling Alley
May through August, kids can bowl for free at select Houston-area bowling alleys as part of the Kids Bowl Free program.
Bowling centers participating in the program are providing kids ages 2 to 15 two free bowling games each day through the end of the summer.
Parents can register their children at kidsbowlfree.com. Simply select the bowling center nearest you and fill out the online registration form. During the registration process, parents have the opportunity to purchase a family pass. For a one-time cost , the family pass allows up to four adults to bowl alongside their children each day throughout the summer.
Cheap Or Free Activities To Do In Greater Houston Area This Summer
4:53 PM Jun 3, 2022 CDTUpdated4:53 PM Jun 3, 2022 CDT
The Miller Outdoor Theater hosts performances at no cost for admission.
From museums and farmers markets to yoga and car shows, there are dozens of free and cheap activities for Houston-area residents to check out this summer.Staying active1. Fitness in the Park at Discovery GreenFitness in the Park is presented by The J.W. Couch Foundation at Discovery Green. Attendees can bring a water bottle, towel and a mat if attending yoga. This will continue until the end of June. Free . 1500 McKinney St., Houston www.discoverygreen.com/fitness Core-Focused Yoga: Tuesdays until June 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
2. Free Fitness in the Park3. Riva Row RentalsKid-friendly activities4. Family Movie nights in Levy Park5. Summer Movie Clubhouse6. Childrens story time in the Garden7. Summer block parties8. The Woodlands Children Museum9. Kids Bowl Free10. Katy InflatableFarmers markets and the outdoors11. Berries and Blooms Festival12. The Cockrell Butterfly Center13. Miller Outdoor Theater
Recommended Reading: Things To Do Baytown
Wander Around The Hogwarts Lookalike Campus: Rice University
Sure, Rice excels academically as one of the USAs top 20 universities. But thats not why were here.
For tourists, its the 300 acres worth of tree-lined campus and beautiful buildings that makes this establishment a worthy destination, student or not.
While the campus is full of surprises and quiet spaces, its highlight can be found in the Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion here lies Houstons most iconic piece of urban art, the James Turrells Twilight Epiphany Skyspace.
