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1. Visit Space Center Houston

The official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston, is a must-visit destination in Houston. This expansive facility allows you to explore the Independence space shuttle replica, mounted on a massive shuttle carrier aircraft. Within the visitor center, you can step inside a Skylab replica, America’s first space station, and touch a lunar rock. This location also provides information about NASA’s future missions, such as Mars exploration. If you’re present on a Friday at noon, you might even encounter an astronaut.

From the visitor center, embark on an open-air tram tour to the Johnson Space Center, the heart of mission control, and witness where astronauts train for their space expeditions. The tour also includes a stop at Rocket Park, where you can view real rockets on display. For those interested solely in Rocket Park, admission is free; simply drive to the guarded entrance, state your intent to visit, and you’ll be granted entry.

For a truly unparalleled experience, book a Level 9 Tour for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Johnson Space Center. This tour includes access to the Buoyancy Lab, the ISS Mission Control, simulation labs, and other restricted areas, with the possibility of meeting an astronaut. This exceptional, four- to five-hour VIP tour is limited to 12 guests per day, with tours commencing at Space Center Houston. The purchase of a Level 9 Tour ticket also grants you access to explore Space Center Houston.

Address: 1601 Nasa Pkwy, Houston, Texas

https://spacecenter.org/

2. The Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston ranks among the premier museums of its kind in the United States. Its extensive collection of 63,000 pieces is distributed across two buildings: the Audrey Jones Beck building and the Caroline Wiess Law Building, which are connected by the intriguing Wilson Tunnel.

The museum primarily showcases French and Italian Impressionist Renaissance paintings, exquisite sculptures, and European and American decorative arts. Don’t miss the impressive collection of pre-Columbian and African gold artifacts.

For those who prefer to explore at their leisure, the museum offers ample opportunities for an engaging and entertaining visit. If the vast collection seems overwhelming, consider signing up for a tour to experience the highlights.

In the River Oaks suburb, the Bayou Bend and Collections serve as a satellite gallery, displaying furniture, decorative arts, and paintings.

Address: 1001 Bissonnet Street, Houston, Texas

https://www.mfah.org/

3. Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science ranks among the city’s most visited museums, offering a fun and engaging experience for all ages. Covering a broad range of topics, the museum is sure to appeal to everyone in your group.

During your visit, don’t miss the Hall of Paleontology, which features several complete dinosaur skeletons. For a living spectacle, explore the Cockrell Butterfly Conservatory, where nearly 1,500 delicate butterflies flutter in the humid atmosphere; with a bit of luck, one might even land on you.

Expand your knowledge of the celestial wonders above Houston with a show at the Planetarium. Later, take a break and immerse yourself in the multisensory experience at the Wortham Giant Screen Theater.

Address: 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas

https://www.hmns.org/

4. Visit the Houston Zoo

Spanning 55 acres within Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo ranks as one of the city’s top attractions, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Home to over 6,000 exotic and native animals, the zoo also features an education center and a children’s zoo. Highlights include feeding giraffes, observing marine life in the aquarium, and watching sea lions and otters at play.

Other attractions within Hermann Park include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Miller Outdoor Theatre, a Japanese Garden, and the McGovern Centennial Garden. For additional enjoyment, consider a paddleboat excursion on McGovern Lake or a leisurely walk along the park’s trails.

Address: 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas

https://www.houstonzoo.org

5. The Menil Collection

The building that hosts the Menil Collection is an architectural masterpiece, nearly as captivating as the artwork it contains. Designed by the esteemed architect Renzo Piano, the structure is bathed in natural light thanks to its expansive glass windows overlooking the pristine grounds. Unlike many art museums, the Menil Collection displays art in numerous rooms (though not all) using natural light.

The Menil Collection is particularly renowned for possessing the world’s largest collection of Max Ernst pieces. Furthermore, the museum houses contemporary art and masterpieces from Byzantine, Abstract, and Surrealist themes, all exhibited in dedicated rooms.

If the weather permits, take some time to explore the Menil Collection’s campus. One of the most intriguing features is the Rothko Chapel, adorned with mural canvases.

Admission to the museum is free.

Address: 1533 Sul Ross Street, Houston, Texas

https://www.menil.org/

6. Take the Kids to the Houston Children’s Museum

An ideal destination for families to escape the summer heat, the Houston Children’s Museum offers a vibrant, lively atmosphere that is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Children can revel in the multitude of hands-on and interactive displays available throughout the museum.

A key highlight is the How Does it Work exhibit, where both you and your kids can discover how everyday objects function. The FlowWorks wet zone provides a captivating experience as you control water flow, turning it on, off, and observing its effects.

For children who have dreamed of becoming secret agents, the SECRETS Spy Game exhibit is a must-visit. They will put their skills to the test, cracking codes and uncovering clues while facing off against cunning adversaries.

https://www.cmhouston.org/

7. Walk, Bike, or Paddle in Buffalo Bayou Park

Buffalo Bayou Park, a picturesque 160-acre green space, stretches through the city with the tranquil waters of Buffalo Bayou at its heart. This urban oasis features extensive walking and biking trails, a dog park, sculptures, and numerous shaded areas for relaxation.

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking fun activities in Houston, consider renting a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard to explore the bayou. Rentals and various guided tours, ranging from one to three hours, are available at the park. Guided cycling tours can also be arranged through city outfitters.

A distinctive attraction within Buffalo Bayou Park is the Cistern, a former underground drinking-water reservoir built in 1926 that now houses rotating art installations. Visitors can join a brief guided tour of the site.

Additionally, the park is home to a massive colony of Mexican free-tailed bats residing under the Waugh Drive Bridge. Around 250,000 bats emerge from the bridge every evening at sunset.

https://buffalobayou.org/

8. Attend the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the city’s largest annual event, is a 19-day extravaganza held in February or March that attracts residents and visitors alike. If you’re planning to be in Houston during this time, you’re in for a treat, and if you’re considering when to visit, this may be the perfect occasion. The event offers entertainment for the entire family, going beyond a traditional rodeo and livestock show.

First-timers will be delighted by the array of activities available. The grounds feature carnival rides, games, food stands, and endless entertainment options. To attend the rodeo events, where cowboys showcase their talents, you’ll need tickets. In the evenings, renowned music artists perform live. Be sure to check the concert schedule in advance and secure your tickets.

If you can only attend this spectacular show for one day, spend the morning or afternoon exploring the grounds and enjoying the carnival, then visit the Livestock Show to see some of the finest farm animals on display. Catch a few rodeo events to witness the cowboys in action, and end your day with a concert. Don’t miss the Downtown Rodeo Parade, another highlight of the event.

https://www.rodeohouston.com

9. Hermann Park

Nestled in the heart of Houston, Hermann Park is a 445-acre urban oasis that offers visitors a respite from the bustling city life. This picturesque park, founded in 1914, features a diverse range of attractions, making it an ideal destination for families, tourists, and locals alike.

One of the most popular attractions in Hermann Park is the Houston Zoo, where over 6,000 exotic and indigenous animals call home. The park also houses the Houston Museum of Natural Science, providing an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park boasts picturesque walking and biking trails, perfect for exploring its natural beauty.

The park is also home to the Miller Outdoor Theatre, offering free performances from March through November. For a tranquil experience, visit the Japanese Garden, which showcases traditional landscaping, stone pathways, and vibrant floral displays. Another must-see attraction is the McGovern Centennial Gardens, featuring a variety of themed garden areas and a stunning 30-foot garden mount.

In addition to its many attractions, Hermann Park provides numerous recreational activities, including paddle boating on McGovern Lake and picnicking in its spacious green areas. With its rich history, lush landscapes, and engaging attractions, Hermann Park stands as a true gem in the heart of Houston.

https://www.hermannpark.org/

10. Minute Maid Park

Minute Maid Park, located in downtown Houston, Texas, is the iconic home of Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros. Officially opened in 2000, the stadium boasts a retractable roof, ensuring games can be enjoyed in all weather conditions, and has a seating capacity of over 41,000 spectators.

As one of the most vibrant and fan-friendly ballparks in the United States, Minute Maid Park offers a range of amenities and attractions to enhance the game-day experience. The park features the Home Run Alley, a perfect spot for fans to catch home run balls, and the park’s historic train, which adds to the unique atmosphere by chugging along the tracks with each Astros home run.

In addition to baseball games, Minute Maid Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, soccer matches, and corporate gatherings. The park’s state-of-the-art facilities ensure that both fans and players have an unforgettable experience.

Visitors to Minute Maid Park can also indulge in a wide selection of culinary delights, from classic ballpark fare like hot dogs and nachos to local Houston favorites such as barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine. With its combination of exciting baseball action, top-notch amenities, and a lively atmosphere, Minute Maid Park is a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts and casual fans alike.

https://www.mlb.com/astros/ballpark