Table of Contents
Houston Texas Cities Map
Introduction
Located in the southeastern part of Texas, Houston is the largest city in the state and the fourth-largest in the United States. It is a vibrant and diverse city known for its world-class museums, delicious food, and friendly locals. Houston is also home to a thriving arts and music scene, plenty of green spaces, and a rich history that dates back to the days of the Republic of Texas. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Houston has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is one of the largest art museums in the country and features an impressive collection of more than 70,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s permanent collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art and is housed in a series of galleries spread across two buildings. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Space Center Houston
Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and is a must-visit for anyone interested in space and science. The center features a variety of exhibits and attractions, including a replica of the space shuttle Independence, a moon rock, and a tour of the Johnson Space Center. Visitors can also take a tram tour of the center’s facilities and see where astronauts train for space missions.
Hidden Gems
The Menil Collection
The Menil Collection is a small museum located in the Montrose neighborhood of Houston that houses a collection of art amassed by the Menil family. The museum’s collection includes everything from African masks to Surrealist paintings and is displayed in a serene and minimalist setting. Admission to the museum is free, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Buffalo Bayou Park
Buffalo Bayou Park is a 160-acre green space located in the heart of Houston that features walking and biking trails, public art installations, and stunning views of the downtown skyline. The park is also home to the iconic Houston “Buddy” statue, which has become a beloved symbol of the city.
Food Scene
Tex-Mex
No trip to Houston would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous Tex-Mex cuisine. From classic dishes like fajitas and enchiladas to more adventurous options like cabrito (goat meat) and lengua (beef tongue), there is something for everyone at Houston’s many Tex-Mex restaurants. Some popular options include Ninfa’s on Navigation, El Tiempo Cantina, and Hugo’s.
Barbecue
Houston is also home to some of the best barbecue in the state of Texas. Whether you prefer brisket, ribs, or sausage, you can find it all at one of the city’s many barbecue joints. Some popular options include Gatlin’s BBQ, The Pit Room, and Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Houston can be an expensive city to visit, there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing fun. Some budget-friendly tips include:
- Visit the many free museums and parks in the city, such as the Museum of Fine Arts and Buffalo Bayou Park.
- Eat at local food trucks and markets for affordable and delicious meals.
- Take advantage of happy hour specials at bars and restaurants for discounted drinks and appetizers.
- Use public transportation or bike rentals to get around the city instead of renting a car.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking on Buffalo Bayou
One of the best ways to experience Houston’s natural beauty is by kayaking on Buffalo Bayou. Several companies offer guided kayak tours of the bayou, which provide stunning views of the downtown skyline and the city’s many green spaces.
Hiking in the Houston Arboretum
The Houston Arboretum is a 155-acre nature preserve located in the heart of the city that features walking trails, a pond, and a variety of native Texas plants and animals. The arboretum is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.
Historical Landmarks
The San Jacinto Monument
The San Jacinto Monument is a 567-foot-tall obelisk located east of Houston that commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto, which was a decisive victory for Texas in its war for independence from Mexico. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the monument for stunning views of the surrounding area.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and science. The museum’s permanent exhibits include everything from dinosaur skeletons to ancient Egyptian artifacts, and it also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is home to more than 6,000 animals from 900 species and is a great place to spend a day with the family. The zoo features a variety of habitats, including a rainforest, a savanna, and a wetlands exhibit, as well as a children’s zoo and a giraffe feeding platform.
The Children’s Museum of Houston
The Children’s Museum of Houston is a hands-on museum that is designed to engage and inspire children of all ages. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including a Kidtropolis exhibit where children can role-play as adults in a miniature city.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Orange Show
The Orange Show is a folk art installation located in the East End neighborhood of Houston that was created by local eccentric Jeff McKissack. The installation features a variety of brightly colored structures made from found objects and is a testament to the power of creativity and imagination.
The Beer Can House
The Beer Can House is another quirky Houston attraction that is worth a visit. The house, which is located in the Rice Military neighborhood, is covered in more than 50,000 beer cans that have been collected and flattened by the artist who lived there.
Natural Wonders
The Houston Arboretum
In addition to hiking trails and native Texas plants, the Houston Arboretum is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and fish. Visitors can spot these animals while exploring the arboretum’s many trails and ponds.
The Houston Botanic Garden
The Houston Botanic Garden is a 132-acre garden located in the southeast part of the city that features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a wetlands garden, and a tropical garden. The garden is also home to several ponds and a lake, which provide habitat for a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Montrose Neighborhood
The Montrose neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife scene and is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. Some popular options include Poison Girl, Anvil Bar & Refuge, and Numbers Nightclub.
The Heights Neighborhood
The Heights neighborhood is another great option for nightlife in Houston. The area is home to a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as live music venues like White Oak Music Hall and Fitzgerald’s.
Local Markets
The Houston Farmers Market
The Houston Farmers Market is a year-round market that features local produce, meats, and other products from farmers and vendors in the Houston area. The market is a great place to shop for fresh ingredients and support local businesses.
The Houston Flea Market
The Houston Flea Market is another popular market that is open on weekends and features a variety of vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts. The market also has food stalls and live music, making it a fun place to spend an afternoon.
Beaches and Mountains
Galveston Island
Located about an hour south of Houston, Galveston Island is a popular destination for beachgoers. The island features 32 miles of beaches, as well as a variety of attractions like the Galveston Pleasure Pier and the Moody Gardens amusement park.
The Sam Houston National Forest
The Sam Houston National Forest is located about an hour north of Houston and features more than 160,000 acres of forested land. The forest is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing, and also features several scenic drives and overlooks.
Cultural Immersion
Chinatown
Houston’s Chinatown is one of the largest in the country and is a great place to experience Chinese culture and cuisine. Visitors can explore the many shops and restaurants in the area, as well as attend cultural events like the annual Chinese New Year celebration.
The Museum of African American