Houston, TX Things to Do and Attractions
Located west of Bellaire in the Alief neighborhood, Houston's Chinatown has the second-largest Indochinese population in the U.S. The area offers eight temples and 150 restaurants representing the 35 regions of China. There are also several Asian
Located west of Bellaire in the Alief neighborhood, Houston's Chinatown has the second-largest Indochinese population in the U.S. The area offers eight temples and 150 restaurants representing the 35 regions of China. There are also several Asian supermarkets including Hong Kong Supermarket, Diho, Dynasty, and Welcome.
Visitors will particularly enjoy exploring the fascinating Jade Buddha Temple, covering two-and-a-half acres and serving as a Buddhist religious and research center. The Jade Buddha Temple is both beautiful and educational. Additionally, the Splash Art Gallery, which opened in 2005, is a must see. Here, a diverse collection of oil paintings and watercolors are on display—most are available for purchase as well. Houston's Chinatown provides visitors a rare opportunity to investigate and engage the history of another culture.
Embark on an underwater adventure at Houston's Downtown Aquarium - boasting 500,000 gallons of observation water tanks filled with more than 200 species of marine life. Located within the 400 block of Bagby, the Aquarium offers several amusing rides
Embark on an underwater adventure at Houston's Downtown Aquarium - boasting 500,000 gallons of observation water tanks filled with more than 200 species of marine life. Located within the 400 block of Bagby, the Aquarium offers several amusing rides including an aquatic carousel, the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel, and Shark Voyage train ride. Peruse many exhibits including a Rainforest, Shipwreck, and White Tigers of the Maharaja's Temple. Experience a hands-on encounter with stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and other invertebrates at the Discovery Ring exhibit. With a full-service restaurant, upscale bar, and magnificent ballroom, the Downtown Aquarium has all of the essential amenities to accommodate groups of any size.
Located at the intersection of Colquitt and Lake Streets, Gallery Row has served as host to art lovers for more than two decades. Here, a mesmerizing collection of galleries are housed door-to-door in a striking, Arquitectonica-designed postmodern
Located at the intersection of Colquitt and Lake Streets, Gallery Row has served as host to art lovers for more than two decades. Here, a mesmerizing collection of galleries are housed door-to-door in a striking, Arquitectonica-designed postmodern structure. From artists who have been in business for more than 3 decades to respected local photographers, up-and-coming sculptors, and nationally exhibited furniture artist Kelly Gale Amen, there are an abundance of spectacular works of art awaiting your discovery at Gallery Row.
Visitors may want to check out a few of the most well-known dealers first like Hooks-Epstein Gallery; Thom Andriola/New Gallery; Goldsberry Gallery; respected photo dealers John Cleary and newcomer Watermark Fine Art Photographs and Books, McMurtrey Gallery, Moody Gallery; representational destination Dean Day Gallery; Thornwood Gallery; and Parkerson Gallery.
Founded by Houston Chef Monica Pope, the Midtown Farmers Market is located in the T'afia restaurant parking lot on Travis Street. Open every Saturday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm regardless of weather, this colorful market has become a Saturday morning
Founded by Houston Chef Monica Pope, the Midtown Farmers Market is located in the T'afia restaurant parking lot on Travis Street. Open every Saturday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm regardless of weather, this colorful market has become a Saturday morning Houston staple. Here, the community congregates weekly to survey food and crafts from local farmers, chefs, and craftspeople. Fresh vegetables, beautiful home-grown flowers, artisinal chocolates, organic coffee, handcrafted breads and pastries, and even meals-to-go are available for purchase.
Created by Jefferson Davis McKissack to pay homage to the virtues of his favorite fruit, this unique 3,000-square-foot monument is constructed out of concrete, brick, and steel, as well as a hodgepodge of bizarre found objects like gears, tiles,
Created by Jefferson Davis McKissack to pay homage to the virtues of his favorite fruit, this unique 3,000-square-foot monument is constructed out of concrete, brick, and steel, as well as a hodgepodge of bizarre found objects like gears, tiles, wagon wheels, mannequins, and tractor seats. Its maze-like design encompasses an oasis, pond, stage, museum, gift shop, and even a wishing well.
For only $1, visitors can explore the extraordinary structure and admire all of its fascinating parts while learning about McKissack's theories regarding the relationship of good nutrition to the longevity of the human lifespan.
Take a guided tour down the backwaters of Armand Bayou and observe birds, reptiles, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The trip is approximately two to three miles from start to finish and is appropriate for canoers of all skill
Take a guided tour down the backwaters of Armand Bayou and observe birds, reptiles, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The trip is approximately two to three miles from start to finish and is appropriate for canoers of all skill levels. Tours are available by reservation only on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month from 8:00 am to 11:00 am.
Looking for a late night bite to eat and a few cocktails? Try Bar Annie for moderately priced bistro appetizers, salads and Southwestern style entrees. From buttery guacamole to steamed mussels and yellowfin tuna, Bar Annie specializes in simple and
Looking for a late night bite to eat and a few cocktails? Try Bar Annie for moderately priced bistro appetizers, salads and Southwestern style entrees. From buttery guacamole to steamed mussels and yellowfin tuna, Bar Annie specializes in simple and fresh. Zebra-print barstools, two-top tables, and magnificent wood accents create the perfect ambience for young couples. The bar boasts an extensive list of specialty cocktails like the RDG margarita, consistent with the lounge's flirty vibe.
Belvedere is characterized by a diverse crowd, contemporary architecture, white-marble floors, chrome accents, and translucent walls. Whether entertaining a colleague or capping off an evening out with friends, this cutting-edge lounge and bar is the
Belvedere is characterized by a diverse crowd, contemporary architecture, white-marble floors, chrome accents, and translucent walls. Whether entertaining a colleague or capping off an evening out with friends, this cutting-edge lounge and bar is the place to see and be seen in Uptown Houston.
A black and white tile floor, chic low-slung couches, colorful walls adorned with black and white photography, and snug tables define this stylish retro cocktail lounge and neighborhood hot spot. Live music is offered every Wednesday night. On
A black and white tile floor, chic low-slung couches, colorful walls adorned with black and white photography, and snug tables define this stylish retro cocktail lounge and neighborhood hot spot. Live music is offered every Wednesday night. On Thursdays, sample champagne cocktails and mingle with a diverse crowd while listening to French music spun by a live DJ.
From alternative rock to the sounds of blues and country, the Continental Club offers a wide range of live music. Housed in an old general store dating back to the 1920s, this historic building still has metal ceilings and its original fixtures. A
From alternative rock to the sounds of blues and country, the Continental Club offers a wide range of live music. Housed in an old general store dating back to the 1920s, this historic building still has metal ceilings and its original fixtures. A backroom with a pool table and its own bar provide a place for groups to gather and talk away from the volume of the tunes. During happy hour there is almost always a local band playing and there is never a cover charge.
Learn about the history and culture of Houston on your own customized tour of the city. Explore Houston Heights with stops at the Art Car Museum, The Heights Playground, Marmion Park, and 19th Street Shops; or take a Tunnel Walk and Rail Tour
Learn about the history and culture of Houston on your own customized tour of the city. Explore Houston Heights with stops at the Art Car Museum, The Heights Playground, Marmion Park, and 19th Street Shops; or take a Tunnel Walk and Rail Tour highlighting the Downtown Historic District, City Hall, Main Street Square, MetroRail, and JPMorgan Chase Tower. Reservations are required for all tours.
After more than 25 years of growing grapes and making wine, local Texans Raymond and Gladys Haak opened this 11,000-square-foot winery, including an 1,800 square foot cellar where wine is stored and aged in oak barrels. They offer several tours and
After more than 25 years of growing grapes and making wine, local Texans Raymond and Gladys Haak opened this 11,000-square-foot winery, including an 1,800 square foot cellar where wine is stored and aged in oak barrels. They offer several tours and tastings. During summer months, tours are offered Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturdays from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. From November through March, the Vineyard is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturdays from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
While the luxuries and amenities of large shopping complexes are unavailable here—no food courts, fitting rooms or restrooms, Harwin Drive is an absolute must for bargain lovers. Whether looking for a new leather jacket, designer bag, heavenly
While the luxuries and amenities of large shopping complexes are unavailable here—no food courts, fitting rooms or restrooms, Harwin Drive is an absolute must for bargain lovers. Whether looking for a new leather jacket, designer bag, heavenly scented perfume, or even a wedding dress, there is no substitute for the incredible prices you will find on faux and designer goods. Visitors should be aware that all stores selling south Asian or Indian clothing are typically closed on Tuesdays.
Put on your jeans and a sweatshirt and head down to the Toyota Center to see the two-time league champion Aeros, Houston's American Hockey League team. With over 80 games played over the course of their 7-month season, tickets are readily available;
Put on your jeans and a sweatshirt and head down to the Toyota Center to see the two-time league champion Aeros, Houston's American Hockey League team. With over 80 games played over the course of their 7-month season, tickets are readily available; prices range from $12-$60 per seat.
Watch 2005 National League Champions, the Houston Astros, compete for another victory at Minute Maid Park. Completed in 2000 with a retractable roof, the Park's construction returned open-air baseball to Houston for the first time in 35 years. In
Watch 2005 National League Champions, the Houston Astros, compete for another victory at Minute Maid Park. Completed in 2000 with a retractable roof, the Park's construction returned open-air baseball to Houston for the first time in 35 years. In addition to great baseball, Astros fans will enjoy Minute Maid Park's classic architecture and natural grass surface that are characteristic of baseball's Golden Age.
Tickets range in price from $7 to $48 per seat with several specials and packages also available.
Winning more championships than any other team in the WNBA, the Houston Comets have been dominating women's basketball for the past ten years. Comets tickets are available from May through September and range in price from approximately $10 to $100
Winning more championships than any other team in the WNBA, the Houston Comets have been dominating women's basketball for the past ten years. Comets tickets are available from May through September and range in price from approximately $10 to $100 per ticket.
Led by 2005 MLS Coach of the Year, Dominic Kinnear, the Houston Dynamo played their first game at the University of Houston's Robertson Stadium on April 1, 2006 and not long after became champions of the 2006 MLS Cup. The MLS season starts in April
Led by 2005 MLS Coach of the Year, Dominic Kinnear, the Houston Dynamo played their first game at the University of Houston's Robertson Stadium on April 1, 2006 and not long after became champions of the 2006 MLS Cup. The MLS season starts in April with the regular season concluding in October.
Single game tickets can be purchased on ticketmaster.com or at the stadium box office for $10 to $250.
Making up some of the Western Conference's top competitors, this championship NBA team won consecutive national titles in 1994 and 1995. Spectators will be amazed by the talent and size of NBA's tallest All-Star, Yao Ming, who measures in at
Making up some of the Western Conference's top competitors, this championship NBA team won consecutive national titles in 1994 and 1995. Spectators will be amazed by the talent and size of NBA's tallest All-Star, Yao Ming, who measures in at 7-feet-6-inches. The Houston Rockets Power Dancers who have been featured on Sports Center, CNN, Sport Illustrated, and Maxim will also add to the entertainment value for basketball fans.
Games are hosted at the Toyota Center with tickets available for $10 to $200.
The Houston Texans boast the accomplishment of becoming the first NFL team to their expansion debut in 41 years, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 19-10 in front of a stadium of 69,604 cheering fans. Home-team of number-one-draft-pick defensive end Mario
The Houston Texans boast the accomplishment of becoming the first NFL team to their expansion debut in 41 years, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 19-10 in front of a stadium of 69,604 cheering fans. Home-team of number-one-draft-pick defensive end Mario Williams, as well as second number-one overall player in the draft quarterback, David Carr, the Houston Texans offer an All-Star lineup.
Tickets range in price from $35 to $295 per person.
With more than seven million annual visitors, the Houston Museum District is one of the leading cultural districts in the United States. The District is made up of eighteen institutions—Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston,
With more than seven million annual visitors, the Houston Museum District is one of the leading cultural districts in the United States. The District is made up of eighteen institutions—Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum, Contemporary Arts Museum, Czech Cultural Center Houston, The Health Museum, Holocaust Museum Houston, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston Center for Photography, Jung Center of Houston, Lawndale Art Center, Rice University Art Gallery, Rothko Chapel and The Weather Museum. Visitors will most appreciate that eleven out of the eighteen museums are free to the public at all times.
Popular for its live music, drink specials, 28 televisions, and outdoor patio, Pub Fiction is a popular spot for catching a sports game or grabbing a few beers with colleagues or friends. Open from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm daily, this contemporary bar
Popular for its live music, drink specials, 28 televisions, and outdoor patio, Pub Fiction is a popular spot for catching a sports game or grabbing a few beers with colleagues or friends. Open from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm daily, this contemporary bar serves an assortment of sandwiches, burgers, and pub-style appetizers. Happy hour is offered Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm with $6 pitchers of domestic beer. On Wednesday nights, live music starts at 9pm and on Saturdays, a DJ spins a mix of popular music.
For live music, it does not get much better than the Ringside Bar at Sullivan's Steakhouse. Here, live entertainment is offered seven nights a week. Enjoy a high-end cognac, single malt scotch, glass of wine, and even a cigar while being serenaded by
For live music, it does not get much better than the Ringside Bar at Sullivan's Steakhouse. Here, live entertainment is offered seven nights a week. Enjoy a high-end cognac, single malt scotch, glass of wine, and even a cigar while being serenaded by the sweet sounds of the baby grand piano.
Built in 1937, River Oaks Shopping Center claims the title of the second oldest shopping center in the United States. Located in Houston's most fashionable neighborhood, this historic complex includes 38 stores, 15 restaurants, the illustrious River
Built in 1937, River Oaks Shopping Center claims the title of the second oldest shopping center in the United States. Located in Houston's most fashionable neighborhood, this historic complex includes 38 stores, 15 restaurants, the illustrious River Oaks Movie Theatre, and the legendary Marfreless bar. Here, familiar brand name stores like Ann Taylor and Gap sit alongside upscale boutiques like children's clothing store, T-Boz.
Featuring live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, Sammy's is known for its headliner, Houston legend Sammy Relford, who brings his talent to Midtown after ten years of entertaining at the Gallant Knight. Relford's soulful sound has
Featuring live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, Sammy's is known for its headliner, Houston legend Sammy Relford, who brings his talent to Midtown after ten years of entertaining at the Gallant Knight. Relford's soulful sound has been compared to that of the greats like Marvin Gaye, Buddy Holly, and Ray Charles. Other popular acts include Grady Gaines, The Spazmatics, and Faye Robinson. Large plasma screens hang in almost every room so that the band can always be both seen and heard. VIP tables can be reserved for those looking to get away from the crowd while still enjoying the phenomenal music.
Constructed out of more than 50,000 beer cans, the Beer Can House is definitely a bizarre site to see. The legend has it that John Milkovish refused to throw anything away. After many years, he became so fed up with his overflowing stash of empty
Constructed out of more than 50,000 beer cans, the Beer Can House is definitely a bizarre site to see. The legend has it that John Milkovish refused to throw anything away. After many years, he became so fed up with his overflowing stash of empty beer cans that he began to create siding for his house. The siding led to making curtains with the "pull-tabs" on the cans and creating mobiles and other lawn art with extra beer cans. This 18 year project has made John Milkovish a folk art legend.
Located inside a refurbished building on Washington, the Corkscrew offers more than 250 wines ranging from the affordably priced to the more expensive boutique wines. A cypress bar, tasteful décor and cozy seating create a perfect setting for patrons
Located inside a refurbished building on Washington, the Corkscrew offers more than 250 wines ranging from the affordably priced to the more expensive boutique wines. A cypress bar, tasteful décor and cozy seating create a perfect setting for patrons to gather and enjoy a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass. Knowledgeable staff is available to educate guests and assist in the selection process.
The Corkscrew also offers a variety of appetizers including wine-inspired plates of artisan cheeses, gourmet chocolate truffles, and other delectable combinations. Groups may enjoy arranging a private wine tutorial in one of the Corkscrew's private rooms.
Ranking as the fourth largest retail complex in the nation, the Galleria is comprised of more than 375 stores, 30 restaurants, 2 hotels, and a full-sized ice skating rink. Home to stores like Louis Vuitton and Jimmy Choo, as well as the anchor
Ranking as the fourth largest retail complex in the nation, the Galleria is comprised of more than 375 stores, 30 restaurants, 2 hotels, and a full-sized ice skating rink. Home to stores like Louis Vuitton and Jimmy Choo, as well as the anchor department stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, this massive retail mecca draws more than 24 million shoppers a year.
Originally just a great neighborhood bar, Walter's on Washington has become a staple for Houston live music lovers, offering the best of local, regional, and national bands. Cheap beer, friendly bartenders, and a huge 62-inch big-screen TV create an
Originally just a great neighborhood bar, Walter's on Washington has become a staple for Houston live music lovers, offering the best of local, regional, and national bands. Cheap beer, friendly bartenders, and a huge 62-inch big-screen TV create an inviting atmosphere for local working professionals and happy hour-goers. While this unassuming and cozy bar does not seem like the place where Grammy winners would play, it has hosted several including Flaco Jimenez and Augie Meyers and is likely to host many more.
Walter's is open Monday through Friday from 3:00 pm to 2:00 am and Saturday through Sunday from 4:00 pm to 2:00 am. The cover charge ranges from $6 to $12.
With the creation of a certified wine educator, this tapas restaurant, wine bar, and store offers the total wine experience. With more than 1,200 wines to choose from, visitors can purchase a bottle, a glass, or even join one of several wine clubs.
With the creation of a certified wine educator, this tapas restaurant, wine bar, and store offers the total wine experience. With more than 1,200 wines to choose from, visitors can purchase a bottle, a glass, or even join one of several wine clubs. Cova not only provides an exceptional selection of wines, but it also offers a deliciously innovative menu with items such as Braised Oxtails with Chipotle Potato Puree; Smoked Salmon with Shallot Crème Fraiche & Caviar; Beef Tenderloin with Brussel Sprouts; and savory New Zealand Lamb Chops. Praised by names like Wine & Spirits, Gourmet Magazine, Houston Chronicle and Houston Press, and nominated one of the "Top Ten New Restaurants in Texas" in 2006 by Texas Monthly Magazine, Cova is all the rage amongst food critics.
A sushi lover's must, this funky restaurant and bar with deep-purple walls is located downtown. With a black river-rock entrance, bamboo columns, glowing honeycomb onyx bar and leather bar stools, Hunan Restaurant is host to both the banter of hungry
A sushi lover's must, this funky restaurant and bar with deep-purple walls is located downtown. With a black river-rock entrance, bamboo columns, glowing honeycomb onyx bar and leather bar stools, Hunan Restaurant is host to both the banter of hungry professionals at lunchtime and the soft whisper of theater-goers at dinnertime. Menu selections include green beans spiked with ginger, lamb with hot pepper sauce, and moo shu pork. Most menu items come in large portions and are designed to share.
Contemporary décor, dark wood, and classic but modern furniture give this top Houston restaurant its charm. Fascinating Indian artwork and artifacts serve as accents on saffron-hued walls. An innovative menu invites visitors to delight in the fresh
Contemporary décor, dark wood, and classic but modern furniture give this top Houston restaurant its charm. Fascinating Indian artwork and artifacts serve as accents on saffron-hued walls. An innovative menu invites visitors to delight in the fresh flavors of the Indian culture with dishes like Naan Crusted Goat Curry; Grilled Spiced Halibut; Roasted Eggplant stuffed with Panner & Cashews; and Grilled Chicken Breast in Makhni Sauce Stuffed with Mango Chutney & Pistachios. Make sure to save room for dessert as chef and owner, Anita Jaisinghani, was formerly a pastry chef and sweets are still her forte.
Enter through beautiful mahogany doors into a room filled with rich aromas, flavors and a light-hearted spirit. Stone floors, iron accents, 30-foot-high ceilings, and an ornate bar complement the grandeur of the building's pillared exterior.
Enter through beautiful mahogany doors into a room filled with rich aromas, flavors and a light-hearted spirit. Stone floors, iron accents, 30-foot-high ceilings, and an ornate bar complement the grandeur of the building's pillared exterior. Floor-to-ceiling glass offers spectacular views of the lush Buffalo Bayou. While Las Alamedas is best known for its lavish Sunday brunch and delicious margaritas, its menu has much more to offer with authentic Mexican dishes like Scallops Oaxaca, Sarape, Calamares Los Cabos, Carne Asada, and Red Snapper.
With an outstanding wine list, exposed brick walls, and luxe leather booths, this is not your typical dive bar. While Max's specializes in late-night comfort food including Texas-style chili, kobe beef burgers, and king-size "haute dogs," it hosts a
With an outstanding wine list, exposed brick walls, and luxe leather booths, this is not your typical dive bar. While Max's specializes in late-night comfort food including Texas-style chili, kobe beef burgers, and king-size "haute dogs," it hosts a surprisingly chic and trendy crowd. A unique mixture of hole-in-the-wall burger joint and upscale bistro, here, Southern fried chicken, shrimp and grits and bread pudding are often accompanied not by malt liquor, but by champagne. Max's is one of the most creative and talked-about additions to the Houston restaurant scene.
Located two blocks from the Theatre District, this glitzy two-level restaurant is the new hot spot for pre-theater diners. Glittering mirrors, dim lighting, and subdued colors create an elegant and modern setting. Zula offers New American food with a
Located two blocks from the Theatre District, this glitzy two-level restaurant is the new hot spot for pre-theater diners. Glittering mirrors, dim lighting, and subdued colors create an elegant and modern setting. Zula offers New American food with a creative twist including an Asian-inspired Duck Breast, Sauteed River Trout, Butter Roasted Lobster Tail, and Smoked Pork Chop with Tamarind Onion Marmalade.
Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Dinner is served Monday through Wednesday from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm and Thursday through Saturday from 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm; Zula is not open on Sundays. A semi-private room can be reserved on the mezzanine level of the restaurant for parties of 80 to 100 people.
Since opening its doors more than 10 years ago, more than 1.5 million people have visited the Health Museum. This interactive museum encourages learning and exploration in the sciences with nature scavenger hunts, real organ dissections, mini-med
Since opening its doors more than 10 years ago, more than 1.5 million people have visited the Health Museum. This interactive museum encourages learning and exploration in the sciences with nature scavenger hunts, real organ dissections, mini-med schools, family science labs, and obesity prevention and nutritional awareness exhibits. The Amazing Body Pavilion invites visitors to observe a colossal walk-in eyeball, demonstrating how the eye perceives; to look at vocal chords in action; and, to watch skin morphing as a result of sun exposure.
The museum operates Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Tickets are approximately $5.
Since its opening in March of 2006, the Holocaust Museum of Houston has been educating the public about the dangers of hatred in society, changing the lives of visitors from all over the world. The "Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers" exhibit
Since its opening in March of 2006, the Holocaust Museum of Houston has been educating the public about the dangers of hatred in society, changing the lives of visitors from all over the world. The "Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers" exhibit tells the stories of Holocaust survivors living in the Houston metro area through films, artifacts, and text panels. Visitors are called to reflect on the suffering and fear of millions of Jews while observing a 1942 World War II railcar, the type used to carry Jews to and from concentration camps, and often their places of death.
Two galleries house rotating photography exhibits, making the devastation of this historic event an undeniable reality for all eyes. The "Eric Alexander Garden of Hope" honors the spirits of the 1.5 million children who lost their lives during the Holocaust. There are also two additional areas that provide a quiet place for reflection including the Wall of Remembrance, the Wall of Tears, and the Wall of Hope.
Guided tours are offered at various times throughout the day on Saturdays and Sundays; tours can be arrange through Visitor Services. General Admission is free to the public seven days a week.
Nicknamed "Garage Mahal," the Art Car Museum strives to highlight the talents of contemporary artists that are seldom acknowledged by other cultural institutions. In addition to housing art exhibitions by numerous acclaimed local, regional, and
Nicknamed "Garage Mahal," the Art Car Museum strives to highlight the talents of contemporary artists that are seldom acknowledged by other cultural institutions. In addition to housing art exhibitions by numerous acclaimed local, regional, and national artists, the museum celebrates innovative art forms with craftily assembled low riders, mobiles, and other interesting contraptions.
Established by artist and long-time supporter of the Art Car Movement, Ann Harithas, as well as James Harithas, former director of the Washington, D.C. Corcoran Museum and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston the museum plays tribute to the post-modern age of car culture during which individuals used their imaginations to remodel factory cars to suit their own characters and visions.
The Art Car Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Best for children from birth to age 12, the Children's Museum of Houston offers 14 exhibits with loads of amusement, all for under $5. Children can pretend to be architects in the Building zone, examining the tools used by contractors and exploring
Best for children from birth to age 12, the Children's Museum of Houston offers 14 exhibits with loads of amusement, all for under $5. Children can pretend to be architects in the Building zone, examining the tools used by contractors and exploring the forces of nature with pulleys and levers; observe art created by youth from all over the world through John P. McGovern Kids' Hall's traveling art exhibits; and, even blow massive bubbles in the Bubble Lab. As the service provider to more children than any other children's museum in the United States, it is no wonder that this innovative museum has become one of Houston's top family attractions.
Operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, excluding holidays. Visitors should also note that every Thursday night from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm the museum hosts family night-admission is free.
This 1.76-acre natural sanctuary is often described as the "heart of Houston" as it is here that August C. and John K. Allen first stepped foot upon the land of Houston, defining it as their own in 1836. With the recent completion of a $2.8 million
This 1.76-acre natural sanctuary is often described as the "heart of Houston" as it is here that August C. and John K. Allen first stepped foot upon the land of Houston, defining it as their own in 1836. With the recent completion of a $2.8 million renovation in 2001, the landing now features a concrete paved wharf, promenade, terrace overlooking the Bayou, extensive trails, a terraced grass lawn, public seating areas, and decorative lighting.
Located at the confluence of White Oak Bayou and Buffalo Bayou, this waterway has become a popular place for canoes and kayaks. It is also the site of many festivals including the Texas Dragon Boat Association's annual spring dragon boat race, celebrating Houston's Asian-American community.
Located on the upper Texas gulf coast about an hour and a half east of Houston, this 34,000-acre stretch of wilderness is home to alligators, whistling duck, migratory birds, muskrat, bobcat, and an abundance of other wildlife. During the fall and
Located on the upper Texas gulf coast about an hour and a half east of Houston, this 34,000-acre stretch of wilderness is home to alligators, whistling duck, migratory birds, muskrat, bobcat, and an abundance of other wildlife. During the fall and winter months, it is not unlikely for visitors to see as many as 27 species of ducks. Spring is the best time for viewing alligators, as well as several shorebirds including western sandpipers, black-necked stilts, and dowitchers. Fishing and hunting are allowed in designated areas with a proper permit. The main entrance is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Park entrance is free of charge.
Approximately a one-hour drive from downtown Houston, Brazos Bend State Park stretches across nearly 5,000 acres with the Brazos River forming its southeastern border. Six lakes form a fisherman's haven with piers located at 40-acre, Elm and Hale
Approximately a one-hour drive from downtown Houston, Brazos Bend State Park stretches across nearly 5,000 acres with the Brazos River forming its southeastern border. Six lakes form a fisherman's haven with piers located at 40-acre, Elm and Hale Lakes. Camping, picnicking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding are just a few of the other activities that are available.
The Nature Center, which is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends, offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience an interactive alligator discovery area, as well as observe native snakes and a freshwater aquarium. Wildlife lovers will find pleasure in the Park's 270 species of birds, 21 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 23 species of mammals including bobcat, white-tailed deer, raccoon, gray fox, and feral hog.
Gate hours are Friday through Sunday from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm and Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 10 pm. For persons 13 years of age and older, entrance fees are $4 per day.
Host of Houston's annual 4th of July firework show and many additional festivals, this 124-acre expanse of tree-shaded park stretches from Shepherd Drive on the West to Bagby Street on the east. Featuring hiking and biking trails, exercise stations,
Host of Houston's annual 4th of July firework show and many additional festivals, this 124-acre expanse of tree-shaded park stretches from Shepherd Drive on the West to Bagby Street on the east. Featuring hiking and biking trails, exercise stations, a dog park, playgrounds, several sculptural elements, the Jim Mozola Memorial Disc Golf Course, and a boat launch for canoes and kayaks, Buffalo Bayou Park provides the perfect outdoor escape.
Named after original owners, Thelma and Charles Mercer, the Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens are comprised of 250 acres of East Texas piney woods and over 20 acres of cultivated gardens. Visitors will enjoy miles of trails scattered with colorful
Named after original owners, Thelma and Charles Mercer, the Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens are comprised of 250 acres of East Texas piney woods and over 20 acres of cultivated gardens. Visitors will enjoy miles of trails scattered with colorful displays of flowers, herbs, ginger, ferns, tropical bamboo, and several endangered species collections. The gardens also offer several picnic areas with tables and grills ideal for a family cookout or corporate gathering.
During the summer months, the park is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. In the winter, the park is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Park entrance is free, but donations are appreciated.
Founded in 1967 and located on the southwest corner of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is one of the oldest nature education centers in Texas. This 155-acre nature center offers an escape from the fast pace of the city with five
Founded in 1967 and located on the southwest corner of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is one of the oldest nature education centers in Texas. This 155-acre nature center offers an escape from the fast pace of the city with five miles of walking trails, week-long discovery classes for children, numerous gardens, and a hummingbird and butterfly island.
The grounds are open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and while there are no admission fees, donations are strongly encouraged.
