Houston, the largest city in Texas, has a lot to offer visitors from all walks of life. With a rich history, vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and numerous attractions, Houston has something for everyone.
Interesting facts about Houston:
- Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, with a population of over 2.3 million people.
- Houston is home to the largest medical center in the world, the Texas Medical Center. It has over 50 healthcare and research institutions, including the world-renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center.
- Houston is known as the “Space City” because it is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center. It is where NASA’s Mission Control Center is located and where astronauts are trained for space missions.
- Houston is a major port city, with the Port of Houston being one of the busiest ports in the world. It handles over 200 million tons of cargo each year.
- Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, with over 145 languages spoken in the city. It is also home to one of the largest Vietnamese communities in the country.
- The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the largest rodeo in the world, attracting over 2 million visitors each year. It features rodeo events, concerts, and a carnival.
- Houston is home to the Houston Texans (NFL), the Houston Rockets (NBA), and the Houston Astros (MLB). It is also home to the Houston Dynamo (MLS) and the Houston Dash (NWSL).
- The first word spoken on the moon was “Houston.” Astronaut Neil Armstrong said, “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed,” when the Apollo 11 spacecraft landed on the moon in 1969.
- Houston has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with over 90 museums and galleries, as well as a thriving performing arts district.
- Houston is the only major city in the United States without zoning laws, which has led to a unique and eclectic mix of businesses and neighborhoods throughout the city.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the 20 best things to do in Houston, from museums and parks to shopping and dining.
Visit the Space Center Houston
Space Center Houston is a fascinating destination for anyone who is interested in space exploration. Visitors can learn about the history of space exploration, see real spacecraft and artifacts, and even touch a moon rock. The center also offers a tram tour of NASA’s facilities and an astronaut training experience.
Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a world-class museum that has a vast collection of exhibits on natural history, including dinosaur fossils, gems and minerals, and space exploration. Visitors can explore the museum’s many halls, including the Morian Hall of Paleontology, the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, and the Wiess Energy Hall.
Stroll through the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world, making it a great destination for animal lovers. Visitors can see big cats, primates, elephants, and many other animals. The zoo also offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as a giraffe feeding and a sea lion show.
Discover the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is one of the largest art museums in the United States, with over 70,000 works of art. The museum’s collection includes pieces from ancient civilizations, as well as contemporary works. Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries and exhibitions, as well as its sculpture garden.
Walk around Buffalo Bayou Park
Buffalo Bayou Park is a beautiful 160-acre park that is a great place to go for a walk or run. The park has many trails and paths, as well as public art installations and a skate park. Visitors can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bayou.
Shop at The Galleria
The Galleria is a massive shopping mall with over 400 stores, including luxury brands and department stores. Visitors can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes, as well as a skating rink.
Tour the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is a stunning park located in the heart of Houston. Its most iconic feature is a 64-foot-tall fountain made of 11,000 gallons of water that is shaped like a horseshoe. Visitors can walk around the fountain and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the park.
Visit the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature preserve that is home to a variety of plants and wildlife. Visitors can walk along the many trails, see native Texas plants, and observe birds and other animals in their natural habitats.
Cheer on the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park
Baseball fans won’t want to miss a visit to Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. Visitors can watch a game, tour the stadium, and even sample some of the delicious ballpark food.
Watch a performance at the Miller Outdoor Theatre
The Miller Outdoor Theatre is a free outdoor theater located in Hermann Park. Visitors can watch a variety of performances, including ballet, opera, theater, and musical concerts. The theater has over 1,700 seats and hosts over 100 performances each year.
Explore the Menil Collection
The Menil Collection is a museum that features art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. It has a unique collection of surrealist art, as well as works from ancient civilizations. Visitors can also see the Rothko Chapel, a peaceful and contemplative space designed by Mark Rothko.
Take a boat tour of the Buffalo Bayou
Visitors can explore Houston from a different perspective by taking a boat tour of the Buffalo Bayou. Tours offer a relaxing and scenic way to see the city and learn about its history. Visitors can see landmarks such as the Sabine Bridge and the Waugh Drive Bat Colony.
Enjoy a picnic at Discovery Green
Discovery Green is a beautiful 12-acre park located in downtown Houston. It has a playground, a splash pad, and a dog park. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic on the green, listen to live music, or attend one of the many events held at the park throughout the year.
Learn about Houston’s history at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum
The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is a museum that honors the contributions of African American soldiers who served in the U.S. Army. Visitors can see exhibits on African American history and culture, as well as a collection of military artifacts and memorabilia.
Visit the Holocaust Museum Houston
The Holocaust Museum Houston is a museum dedicated to educating visitors about the Holocaust and other genocides. Visitors can see exhibits on the history of the Holocaust, hear survivors’ stories, and learn about the importance of tolerance and respect for all people.
Go for a hike at the Memorial Park
Memorial Park is a 1,466-acre park that is home to numerous hiking and biking trails. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the park and see a variety of wildlife. The park also has a golf course, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.
Explore the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston is a museum that showcases contemporary art from around the world. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and installations by emerging and established artists. The museum also has a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
Visit the Saint Arnold Brewing Company
The Saint Arnold Brewing Company is a local brewery that offers tours and tastings of their craft beers. Visitors can see the brewing process and learn about the history of beer in Houston. The brewery also has a restaurant and beer garden where visitors can enjoy a meal and a cold beer.
Take a trip to the Kemah Boardwalk
The Kemah Boardwalk is a popular waterfront entertainment district located just outside of Houston. It features restaurants, shops, and amusement park rides. Visitors can ride the Ferris wheel, go on a roller coaster, or take a boat tour of the bay.
Taste the delicious Tex-Mex cuisine
Houston is known for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, a blend of Texan and Mexican flavors. Visitors can try dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos at popular restaurants like Ninfa’s on Navigation, El Tiempo Cantina, and Pappasito’s Cantina.
Conclusion
Houston is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From museums and parks to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone in Houston. Whether you’re interested in space exploration, art, or history, Houston has it all.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Houston?
The best time to visit Houston is during the fall and winter months when the weather is mild.
How do I get to Space Center Houston?
Space Center Houston is located about 30 minutes south of downtown Houston. Visitors can take a taxi or ride-share service, or drive and park at the center.
Is the Houston Zoo open year-round?
Yes, the Houston Zoo is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Can I bring my dog to Buffalo Bayou Park?
Yes, dogs are allowed in Buffalo Bayou Park as long as they are on a leash.
What is Tex-Mex cuisine?
Tex-Mex cuisine is a blend of Texan and Mexican cuisine, characterized by dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos.
