Houston is one of the top 5 largest cities in the United States and also one of the major tourist destinations in the state of Texas. There is an endless list of things to do in Houston which will help you remain engaged. Just like other cities of the country, Houston has so much to offer for everyone regardless of their age.
It does not matter for what purpose you are visiting and for much duration you will be spending in Houston, the city is worth exploring. The city houses some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, including the NASA space center, museum of natural science, Galveston, Toyota Center, and many more.
Though there are hundreds of places that can be explored in this city, we have listed the top 10 places with plenty of things to do in Houston for the most unforgettable of a lifetime.
Also Read: Best Road Trip Ideas While Exploring The USA
Top 10 Things To Do In Houston
1. Explore The Space Center Of NASA
While on a trip to Houston, visiting the National Aeronautics and Space Administration or NASA is one must-visit with a range of things to do in Houston. The space center was opened in 1961 when the former President of the United States, John F Kennedy made the statement “We choose to go to the moon”.
The space center is accessible to the public and you will be required to purchase a ticket before you head towards the entrance. Here you will be required to spend at least 6 hours exploring the entire space center. While on a tour to NAS< you will get an opportunity to explore galleries, live demos, and films along with a tram tour at the JSC complex.
Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee:
- Adult: $24.95
- Kid: $29.95
- Senior Citizen: $27.95
Location: Johnson Space Center, Houston
2. Visit The Houston Museum Of Natural Science
Established in 1909, the Museum of Natural Science is a 4 story building that includes an educational institute, exhibitions, butterfly center, and several other things representing natural history. The major attractions of this museum are the dinosaur hall, a space museum, and various other elements related to different fields.
Also listed among the top 5 things to do in Houston, the museum is a must-visit attraction not only for adults but also for kids. Make sure the museum has different visiting hours for Worth Giant Screen Theatre and the planetarium.
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM to 6: PM
Entry Fee(Free admission on Thursday between 2 to 5 pm):
- Adults: $25
- Students: $16
- Senior Citizens and Kids: Not Required
Location: 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston
3. Family Time At Discovery Green Park
Situated in downtown Houston, the Discovery Green park was started in the year 2008. The 12-acre park is combined with green lawns, a playground, and a restaurant. There are several free as well family programs organized at the park almost every week. The place is one of the major picnic spots for families where they spend hours on weekends.
The playground situated within the park is specially designed for kids and is controlled with safety measures. If you are visiting the park in summer, then do visit the fountain that features 14-foot streams of water. The surface of the fountain is built with granite so you recommended wearing water shows before coming here.
Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry Fee: Not Required
Location: 1500 McKinney, Houston
4. Enjoy The Delicious Pie At House Of Pies
Have you ever tried a freshly cooked delicious pie? If not then do try the mouthwatering pie in the city of Houston at House of Pies. The House of Pies has been serving the public for 45 years and is still among the iconic restaurants in Texas. You can either enjoy the delicious pie here in the restaurants or take it home at your convenience.
Other than pies, you can also choose from other desserts and meals sweet potato, pecan, soup, and sandwich. The House of Pies remains open 24 hours and it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A must-visit place in Houston especially for those with a sweet tooth.
Visiting Hours: 24 hours
Location: 3112 Kirby Dr, Houston
5. Take A Bicycle Tour To Explore The City
Being the fourth largest city in the United States, why don’t take bike tours instead of traveling the whole city on foot. Touring the city of Houston is quite popular not only among the tourists but among the locals and university students. A bike tour is not only efficient but quite enjoyable in Houston.
You will be surprised to know that Houston has had bicycle network of over 300 miles that interconnects the metro. On a bike tour to Houston, explore some of the top tourist attractions in Houston including the downtown area, Buffalo Bayou, or some major historical places and museums.
6. Spend Your Weekend At Galveston
Galveston is basically a beach town situated 1-hour drive away from the city of Houston. Once served as the capital of Texas, It is one of the largest and also wealthiest towns of the State. Galveston features several historical buildings alongside some luxurious mansions.
There are plenty of places to explore with things to do in Galveston, especially downtown. Some of the top tourist attractions of the city include some breathtaking beaches, water sports, museums, and many more. Most tourists come here while on a visit to Houston city to spend their weekend or even the entire week.
Bike Rental Charges:
- Half Hour: $3
- Monthly Membership: $9
- Annual Membership: $99
Major Tourist Attraction:
- Beaches
- Strand Historic District
- Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig
- Texas Seaport Museum
- Bishop’s Palace of 1892
Location: Galveston island
7. Taste The Killen’s Barbecue
Though not the only state of the country where barbecue is served. But arguably Texas serves the most delicious barbecue. If you are fond of barbecue, then why try the barbecue at The Killen’s Barbecue. The meat is cooked with such perfection that you will end up licking your fingers as soon you taste it.
It would be unfair if you spent less than an hour at The Killen’s Barbecue as they offer a huge range o barbecue dishes. You can also go through the menu on Kellen’s official website before visiting.
Visiting Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Location: 3613 E Broadway St, Pearland
8. 19th Street In The Heights
The 19th Street In the heights is 200 years street which was once preferred by locals to get away from the busy city life. The Heights is now the major cultural and business hub of the city. In the year 2013, the site was listed 4th among the top 10 big-city neighborhoods by CNN.
There is an endless list of things and activities to do in the heights like trying some delicious street food, entertainment, parks & gardens, along with some museums and allergies. You can start your day at Houston Heights by visiting any of the restaurants. Some of the famous and must-visit restaurants include the Lee” Freid Chicken & Donuts, or Yale street’s Jus Mac.
Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Location: Downtown, Houston
Also Read: 10 Cool Things To Do In The Golden City, San Francisco
9. Coffee Cake At Three Brothers Bakery
The popular bakery of Houston was started in 1949 by the three brothers, thus named as “Three Brothers bakery”. Today it is one of the most visited bakeries in the city, especially for its coffee cake which is offered since day one. Here you can either taste the unique coffee or just purchase a bag full of coffee beans.
Three brothers bakery is not just an ordinary bakery but also considered a paradise for coffee addicts.
Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Location: 4606 Washington Ave, Houston
10. Baseball Game At Minute Maid Park
If you are planning to watch baseball in Houston, then head towards the Minute Maid Park situated downtown. The park not only hosts baseball tournaments but many more exciting games and sports. The baseball season is conducted between the month of April to October and is attended by a huge number of spectators.
While enjoying the baseball game at Minute Maid Park, wear a hand glove and try to catch the ball when it goes for a free run within stands. You can also interact with the players or even ask for their autographs. Also, there is a kid zone that hosts several activities like dance music and slushies.
Visiting Hours: 12:00 PM or 2 hours prior to the Game Starts
Entry Fee: $81
Location: 501 Crawford St, Houston