Best Things to do in Houston | Must-see attractions 2025

The Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4011 Yupon St

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The Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum in Houston features contemporary art installations in a unique architectural space previously housing 13th-century frescoes from Cyprus.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Art Car Museum

We-Su 11:00-18:00

Museum

140 Heights Boulevard

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Art Car Museum in Houston, Texas, is a private institution showcasing contemporary art and uniquely decorated cars, greatly supporting local and international artists.

1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

George R Brown Convention Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

1001 Avenida de Las Americas

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The George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston offers a modern venue for conventions and events, featuring advanced facilities and a central location.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free to enter public areas. Fees apply for specific events and exhibitions.

Buffalo Soldiers National Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

3816 Caroline St (at Alabama St)

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Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston honors African-American soldiers' legacy and contributions. Explore unique exhibits and historical artifacts.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science

Mo-Su 09:00-18:00

Museum

5555 Hermann Park Dr (at Caroline St.)

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Houston Museum of Natural Sciences features a vast collection including dinosaurs, ancient mummies, and a planetarium, attracting over 2 million visitors annually.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid. Prices vary for adults, children, and special exhibitions.

Buffalo Bayou Park

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

18-3600 Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive

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Buffalo Bayou Park is a 124-acre green space in Houston featuring skyline views, a fountain, and recreational activities including a skate park and kayaking.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Kayak rentals and special events may require a fee.

The Health Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1515 Hermann Dr

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The Health Museum in Houston features interactive exhibits on health and medical science, focusing on the human body, including a 4D theater experience.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Admission fees apply. Discounts available for children, seniors, and students.

Blaffer Gallery Art Museum of the University of Houston

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4800 Calhoun Rd University of Houston

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Blaffer Gallery Art Museum at the University of Houston features contemporary art exhibitions, fostering cultural engagement in Houston. Admission is free.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Armand Bayou Nature Center

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

8500 Bay Area Blvd

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Armand Bayou Nature Center is a not-for-profit wildlife refuge in Houston, featuring extensive nature trails and educational activities like guided canoe trips.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

George Ranch Historical Park

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

10215 FM 762 Rd (Smithers Lake Rd)

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George Ranch Historical Park showcases Texas history from 1824 to WWII on a 20,000-acre working ranch near Houston, featuring historic homes and cultural programs.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

General Admission: $10 Adults, $5 Children (6-16). Discounts available for groups.

The Galleria

Mo-Sa 10:00-21:00; Su 11:00-19:00

Mall

5075 Westheimer Rd

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The Galleria in Houston, Texas, is Texas' largest indoor shopping center, featuring over 400 stores, 30 restaurants, two hotels, and an ice-skating rink.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Parking may incur charges.

Memorial Park Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

1300-1476 E Memorial Loop Dr

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Memorial Park Golf Course in Houston offers a blend of challenging gameplay and scenic landscapes, making it a favorite for golfers in the U.S.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Daily Green Fees: $50 for adults, $30 for juniors. Reservations recommended.

Memorial Park

Open 24 hours

Park

6501 Memorial Dr

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Memorial Park in Houston spans 1500 acres, featuring wooded areas, a running trail, a golf course, and ample shaded spots for recreation.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Certain events and activities may require a fee.

Texas Southern University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

3100 Cleburne Street

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Texas Southern University is a historically black public university in Houston, Texas, with nearly 10,000 students and over 100 academic programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free access to campus; events may have separate fees.

Sharpstown Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

7500 Bellaire Blvd

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Sharpstown Shopping Center in Houston offers diverse shopping experiences with various retailers and restaurants, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Individual store purchases apply.

Gus Wortham Park Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

7000 Capitol St (Wayside)

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Gus Wortham Park Golf Course in Houston offers a challenging 18-hole layout amidst lush greenery. Enjoy a serene environment with facilities catering to all skill levels.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Public rates apply; adult fees vary with junior and senior discounts available.

The Gardens Houston

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

12001 Beamer Rd

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The Gardens Houston offers diverse botanical displays, picnic areas, and educational programs. A serene urban escape promoting sustainability since its inception.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special workshops may incur additional fees.

Greenspoint Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

12300 N Frwy (at Greens Rd)

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Greenspoint Mall in Houston, Texas offers a diverse shopping experience with numerous retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Individual stores and restaurants may have their own pricing.

West Oaks Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

1000 West Oaks Mall

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West Oaks Mall in Houston, TX is a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub featuring a diverse array of stores and attractions.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining experiences do not require a ticket.

Imperial Reception Hall

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Event hall

6400 Southwest Fwy

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Imperial Reception Hall in Houston offers an elegant venue for events, featuring spacious interiors and modern amenities, ideal for weddings and corporate gatherings.

Duration: 1-3 hours depending on event.

Rental fees vary by event. Contact for pricing details.

The Menil Collection

We-Su 11:00-19:00

Museum

1533 Sul Ross St (btwn Mulberry & Mandell)

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Menil Collection in Houston features over 16,000 artworks from Paleolithic to contemporary, set in a 30-acre campus of unique galleries and installations.

Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Houston Zoo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

6200 Hermann Park Dr (at Cambridge St.)

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Houston Zoo, located in Hermann Park, features 6,000+ animals from 900 species, attracting over 2.1 million visitors annually. It's the second most visited zoo in the US.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

General admission: Adults $24.95, Children (2-11) $18.95, Seniors (65+) $22.95. Discounts available for groups.

Halbert Park

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

200 East 23rd

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Halbert Park in Houston, Texas, covers 7.9 acres and features walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it a family-friendly recreational spot.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free.

NRG Stadium

12:00 PM–11:00 PM

Stadium

1 Reliant Park

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NRG Stadium in Houston is home to the NFL's Houston Texans. This multipurpose stadium features a retractable roof and rich sports history.

Duration: Around 3-4 hours for events.

Varies by event. NFL games typically require a paid ticket.

Toyota Center

12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Stadium

1510 Polk St

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Toyota Center in Houston is a premier indoor arena, home to the NBA's Houston Rockets and major concerts, offering a modern experience for sports and music fans.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Tickets vary by event; prices typically range from $30 to $200.

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

5216 Montrose Blvd (at Main St.)

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The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston showcases dynamic exhibitions of international and regional art. Admission is always free, making art accessible to all.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Rice University

Open 24 hours

University

6100 Main St (btwn Rice & University)

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Rice University, a private research university in Houston, operates on a 300-acre campus with a focus on undergraduate education and high-level research.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events or exhibitions may have a fee.

Alley Theater

12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Theater

615 Texas St (btw Louisiana and Smith)

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Alley Theater in Houston, Texas, is a Tony Award-winning theatre known for its in-house talent and extensive performances, making it a significant cultural hub.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Prices vary by performance; discounts available for students and seniors.

Theater Under The Stars

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

800 Bagby St Ste 200

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Theater Under The Stars in Houston stages major musicals indoors at Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, offering an air-conditioned experience for theatergoers.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours for a typical performance.

Prices vary by show; generally, tickets range from $30 to $150.

NASA's Johnson Space Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

2101 Nasa Pkwy (Saturn Lane)

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NASA's Johnson Space Center in Nassau Bay, Texas, is the hub of human spaceflight for the U.S. Explore the history and future of space exploration.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

General admission: $30 for adults, $25 for children. Discounts available for seniors and active military.

1940 Air Terminal Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-17:00; Dec 24 10:00-13:00; Dec 31 10:00-13:00; Jan 01 off; Jul 04 off; Nov Th[4] off; Dec 25 off

Museum

8325 Travelair St (Telephone Rd)

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The 1940 Air Terminal Museum in Houston showcases aviation history and is located at William P. Hobby Airport in a historic art deco building.

Duration: Around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6.

Cockrell Butterfly Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Houston Museum of Natural Science

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Cockrell Butterfly Center in Houston offers an immersive tropical butterfly conservatory and educational exhibits about ecosystems and species diversity.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: $12, Children (2-11): $9, Children under 2: free.

Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

4501 Woodway Dr (inside 610 Loop West)

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Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature sanctuary featuring walking trails, wildlife habitats, and interactive exhibits near downtown Houston.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Donations appreciated.

Rothko Chapel

Mo-Su 10:00-18:00

Museum

3900 Yupon St at Sul Ross St

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Rothko Chapel in Houston features 14 paintings by Mark Rothko and serves as a non-denominational space for reflection and cultural events.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Downtown Aquarium

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Museum

410 Bagby St (at Preston St)

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Downtown Aquarium in Houston showcases over 200 species of aquatic life across 500,000 gallons of exhibits, featuring interactive touch pools and a shark tank.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for children (3-12 years). Children under 3 are free.

Museum of Printing History

closed "pending relocation"

Museum

1324 W Clay St

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The Museum of Printing History in Houston features a unique collection of print-related artifacts, celebrating the history and art of printing. A must-visit for collectors and enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a nominal fee.

The Jung Center of Houston

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

5200 Montrose Blvd

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CJ Jung Center in Houston promotes psychological and spiritual discussions through art exhibits, literature, and educational programs for over 50 years.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Houston Maritime Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

2204 Dorrington St

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Houston Maritime Museum features exhibits on maritime history, ship models, and navigation tools, highlighting the significant role of Houston's port in global trade.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Adult: $5. Children (under 12): Free. Groups: $3 per person.

Lawndale Art and Performance Ctr

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4912 Main St (Rosedale St)

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Lawndale Art and Performance Center in Houston focuses on contemporary art, emphasizing works by regional artists via exhibitions, performances, and community outreach.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

22306 Aldine Westfield Rd

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Mercer Arboretum and Botanic offers diverse plant collections, gardens, and a rich history in Harris County, Texas. Explore extensive landscapes and natural beauty.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Houston Center for Photography

We-Th 11:00-21:00; Fr 11:00-17:00; Sa-Su 11:00-19:00

Gallery

1441 W Alabama St (at Mulberry St.)

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Houston Center for Photography is a fine art gallery dedicated to the art of photography, located in the museum district of Houston, Texas.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Alexander Deussen Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

12303 Sonnier St

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Alexander Deussen Park in Houston offers scenic views, walking trails, and recreational areas, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No admission fees apply.

Art League Houston

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1953 Montrose Blvd

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Art League of Houston supports local artists and exhibitions, offering a platform for contemporary art through events, workshops, and educational programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a fee.

BBVA Compass Stadium

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

2200 Texas St (at Dowling St.)

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Shell Energy Stadium, located in Houston, is a premier venue for sports and events, known for hosting soccer matches and major concerts.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Prices vary; general admission starts at $30 for adults, $20 for children.

University of Houston

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

4800 Calhoun Rd (at I-45 at Cullen Blvd.)

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The University of Houston is a public research university founded in 1927, located in Houston, Texas, with over 46,000 students and 282 degree programs.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some specific events may require tickets.

Jones Hall

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

615 Louisiana St #101

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Jones Hall for the Performing Arts in Houston, Texas, hosts the Houston Symphony and other performing arts events, drawing over 400,000 visitors annually.

Duration: Typically 2-3 hours for concerts.

Varies by event. Check the official website for details on performance-specific pricing.

NRG Center

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

1 NRG Park (Fannin St)

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The NRG Center in Houston hosts major conventions and events, featuring over 700,000 square feet of exhibition space. It's a key venue for trade shows and conferences.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours, depending on events.

Varies. Some events are free, while others require paid tickets.

Sterling Banquet Hall

9:00 AM–12:00 AM

Event hall

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Sterling Banquet Hall in Houston offers an elegant venue for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings, accommodating up to 300 guests with state-of-the-art facilities.

Duration: 2–4 hours.

Paid. Event pricing varies based on size and requirements, typically starting at $2,000 for basic packages.

Community Artists' Collective

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Gallery

4101 San Jacinto St Ste 116 (Cleburne)

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Community Artists' Collective in Houston fosters local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative projects, promoting cultural outreach and community engagement.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Garden in the Heights

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

3926 Feagan St

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Garden in the Heights is a serene urban oasis in Houston, featuring diverse flora, walking paths, and community events, making it a popular retreat for visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special workshops may require a fee.