Plan Your Houston Visit

Downtown Houston is a vibrant and bustling area filled with attractions, museums, cultural experiences, rich history, shopping destinations, and fantastic dining options. Explore on your own or check out one of the unique tours for a more in-depth experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the must-visit places in downtown Houston.

Museums, Zoos & More

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is one of the largest museums in the United States. It features over 65,000 works of art from around the world. The collection spans centuries and includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts.

Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) offers fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, space, gems and minerals, and ancient civilizations. Don't miss the impressive planetarium and the butterfly center.

San Jacinto Monument and Museum is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in the area. It commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto, a decisive victory in the Texas Revolution. The tall monument offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The Heritage Society Museum at Sam Houston Park provides a deeper dive into Houston's heritage, and showcases historic structures and artifacts dating back to the 19th century. Guided tours are available, providing detailed narratives about the city's development and the lives of its early inhabitants.

Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern is an underground reservoir that has been transformed into a public space for tours and art installations. Check out this unique blend of history and modern art.

Houston Zoo is a 55-acre zoological park located within Hermann Park. The zoo which houses over 6,000 animals from more than 900 species is the second most visited zoo in the United States after the San Diego Zoo.

Theatre and Performing Arts

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is a state-of-the-art facility hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances. Check their schedule for current and upcoming shows.

Alley Theatre is one of America's leading nonprofit theatres, the Alley Theatre offers a wide range of productions, from classic plays to contemporary works.

Houston Improv is where to head for a night of laughter. This comedy club features performances by well-known comedians as well as up-and-coming talent.

Tours

Houston offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests, from space exploration to culinary delights and ghostly adventures.

NASA's Johnson Space Center's guided tram tour takes you behind the scenes to see the historic Mission Control, astronaut training facilities, and the Saturn V rocket. This tour is a must for space enthusiasts.

Buffalo Bayou Boat Tours provides scenic views of the city’s skyline and historical commentary about the bayou’s significance in Houston’s development.

Houston Underground Tunnel Tour takes you beneath the bustling streets of downtown Houston through a network of tunnels connecting major buildings. This walking tour explores the history and purpose of these tunnels, providing a unique glimpse into the city's infrastructure.

Houston Culinary Tours offers food-focused excursions to some of the city's best restaurants, food trucks, and markets, where you can sample diverse cuisines and learn about Houston's culinary scene.

Ghost Tours of Houston take you on a walking tour through some of the city's most haunted locations, sharing eerie tales and supernatural legends along the way.

Historic Houston Walking Tours offer a deep dive into the history of Houston's neighborhoods, landmarks, and architecture. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the city’s evolution from a small settlement to a bustling metropolis.

Bayou City Bike Tours take you on a guided tour through various parts of the city, including downtown, the Museum District, and scenic parks, providing an active way to see the sights.

Parks and Gardens

Houston is home to a variety of beautiful parks and gardens, offering tranquil retreats and vibrant green spaces for relaxation, recreation, and nature appreciation.

Hermann Park is a sprawling urban park in the heart of Houston, Hermann Park features the Houston Zoo, the Miller Outdoor Theatre, and the picturesque McGovern Centennial and Japanese Gardens. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing or a leisurely stroll.

Buffalo Bayou Park offers stunning views of downtown Houston, hike and bike trails, a skate park, and the famous Waugh Drive Bat Colony. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Memorial Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, Memorial Park boasts extensive trails, sports facilities, and the beautiful Eastern Glades. It’s a haven for runners, cyclists, and anyone looking to enjoy nature.

Discovery Green is a vibrant urban park in downtown offering concerts, fitness classes, and art installations. It’s a lively space for socializing and recreation.

Levy Park is a revitalized urban park featuring a children’s playground, a dog park, and a performance pavilion. Levy Park is known for its community events and interactive water features.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a 155-acre nature sanctuary with trails, educational programs, and beautiful native plant gardens. It’s a wonderful place for bird watching, hiking, and learning about local flora and fauna.

Smither Park is an artistic and whimsical park filled with mosaics and sculptures created by local artists. Smither Park is a unique and colorful space for art lovers and families.

Emancipation Park offers sports facilities, a swimming pool, and a cultural center. It’s a significant site commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas.

Shopping

The Galleria is located a short drive from downtown, The Galleria is Houston's premier shopping destination, offering a wide range of high-end stores, dining options, and an indoor ice rink.

GreenStreet is a mixed-use development in the heart of downtown that features shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It's a great place to spend an afternoon shopping and dining.

Post Houston- credit Post Houston Facebook page

POST Houston is a cultural and commercial hub, featuring a rooftop park with stunning views of the city, a diverse food hall, and various retail shops. It's a great place to explore modern urban culture.

Tumble 22 is where to go for spicy chicken! Tumble 22 offers a variety of spice levels to suit your taste. The casual atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular spot for lunch or dinner.

1929 Po-Boy Kitchen serves up authentic New Orleans-style po-boys and other Southern favorites. It's a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Louisiana.

Truck Yard Houston is a laid-back spot with a variety of food trucks, live music, and a fun outdoor space. It's perfect for a casual meal and enjoying Houston's vibrant food scene.

Xochi, located in the Marriott Marquis, offers innovative Mexican cuisine by award-winning chef Hugo Ortega. The menu features dishes inspired by the flavors of Oaxaca.