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Houston, United States

Destination Guide

Houston

United States

Best things to do in Houston

36 curated attractions in Houston, United States. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

March - May, September - November

Average temp

22°C/72°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Generally safe

About Houston

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States and is defined by its sprawling layout, which means you’re probably going to need a car if you want to see everything. The city’s cultural landscape is a mix of influences, from the renowned Museum District filled with art and history to the Space Center Houston, where dreams of interstellar travel become a reality. Each neighbourhood has its own character, yet they all share a common trait: everything is larger than life. With a strong focus on food, visitors can sample dishes from every corner of the globe, making it a culinary hotspot. People come for the Space Center, but they often leave with a newfound appreciation for its rich cultural offerings, from the Houston Grand Opera to the relaxing trails of Buffalo Bayou Park.

Who it's for

Food lovers and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. However, if you prefer a compact city where everything is within walking distance, you might be disappointed. The sprawl can be exhausting, and the heat might not be kind to those who aren’t used to it.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • Driving is the most common way to get around; public transport exists but isn't comprehensive
  • The Museum District is walkable if you're in the right neighbourhood
  • Houston to the Space Center is about a thirty-minute drive, depending on traffic
  • Expect the weather to be hot and humid, so hydrate and plan your outdoor adventures wisely
The Houston Theater District

The Houston Theater District

Theatres & opera houses
The Health Museum

The Health Museum

Science & natural history museums
The Museum District

The Museum District

Streets & neighbourhoods
POST Houston

POST Houston

Food
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Art museums & galleries
The Cockrell Butterfly Center

The Cockrell Butterfly Center

Wildlife sanctuaries
The Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science

Science & natural history museums
Claw Mania Kingdom

Claw Mania Kingdom

Family-Friendly Attractions
Saint Arnold Brewing Company

Saint Arnold Brewing Company

Breweries, distilleries & food makers
Japanese Garden

Japanese Garden

Nature
Discovery Green

Discovery Green

City parks
The Water Works

The Water Works

Urban Attractions
Buffalo Bayou Park

Buffalo Bayou Park

City parks
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Fountains, statues & public art
The Water Wall at Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

The Water Wall at Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Fountains, statues & public art
Hermann Park

Hermann Park

City parks
San Jacinto Monument and Museum

San Jacinto Monument and Museum

Monuments & memorials
Minute Maid Park (home of the Houston Astros)

Minute Maid Park (home of the Houston Astros)

Stadiums & sports venues
Houston Grand Opera

Houston Grand Opera

Theatres & opera houses
The Menil Collection

The Menil Collection

Art museums & galleries
NRG Stadium

NRG Stadium

Stadiums & sports venues
Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston

Science & natural history museums
Houston Zoo

Houston Zoo

Zoos
Toyota Center

Toyota Center

Stadiums & sports venues
Kemah Boardwalk

Kemah Boardwalk

Family & kids' attractions
Market Square Park

Market Square Park

City parks
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

Historic houses & mansions
George R. Brown Convention Center

George R. Brown Convention Center

Urban Attractions
The Rothko Chapel

The Rothko Chapel

Churches & cathedrals
Houston Food Bank

Houston Food Bank

Food
The Galleria shopping mall

The Galleria shopping mall

Malls & department stores
Marqe Entertainment Center

Marqe Entertainment Center

Entertainment
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Arts and Entertainment Venues
Slick City

Slick City

Urban Attractions
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Festivals & celebrations
St. Joseph Medical Center

St. Joseph Medical Center

Cultural

Where to eat in Houston

The places worth planning a meal around.

Axelrad

Axelrad

★ 4.7 · 6,787 reviews

Holey Moley

Holey Moley

American · $$

★ 4.5 · 1,142 reviews

Flight Club

Flight Club

American, Gastropub · $20–$40

★ 4.6 · 777 reviews

Roswell’s Saloon

Roswell’s Saloon

American, Tex-Mex · $$

★ 4.5 · 240 reviews

Papabubble

Papabubble

Confectionery · $$

★ 4.8 · 150 reviews

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