Things To Do
in Houston

Houston, the largest city in Texas, offers a rich cultural tapestry and vibrant arts scene. Known for its diverse population, the city showcases a blend of culinary flavors, entertainment options, and outdoor activities. Its economy thrives on energy, manufacturing, and aerospace, making it a hub for both business and leisure.

With its warm climate and Southern hospitality, Houston invites visitors to explore everything from world-class museums to lush parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day at the historic district of Houston, where you can wander through beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling Houston’s famous Tex-Mex breakfast tacos. Afterward, visit the historic court house and learn about the city's founding and growth through interactive exhibits.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant streets of downtown, making your way to the Houston Museum District. Spend some time at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where you can marvel at the dinosaur exhibits and the stunning planetarium. For lunch, indulge in some authentic Southern barbecue at a nearby eatery.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head over to the lively Theater District for a pre-show dinner at a trendy restaurant. Choose from a variety of performances, whether it's a Broadway show or a local production, ensuring a vibrant cultural experience. After the show, take a stroll through Discovery Green, enjoying the park's beautiful lights and atmosphere.

day 2
Art and Culture at the Museum District
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Museum of Fine Arts, where you can immerse yourself in a vast collection of art spanning centuries. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the museum café, surrounded by artful decor. Afterward, take a short walk to the Contemporary Arts Museum to discover innovative exhibitions from contemporary artists.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, where you can engage with local artisans and their unique creations. Next, visit the nearby Menil Collection, a hidden gem that showcases an impressive array of art from ancient to modern times, all housed in a serene setting. Grab lunch at a nearby café, enjoying the local atmosphere and flavors.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head to the eclectic Montrose neighborhood for dinner at a popular local bistro. After dining, explore the vibrant nightlife with a visit to a local bar or music venue, where you can enjoy live performances from local artists. End your night with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, soaking in the artistic vibe that Montrose is known for.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍕Mid-range meal for two$50-70
🚌Public transport ticket$1.25
🏨Hotel night$100-150
Coffee$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • High humidity during summer
  • Traffic congestion

Places to Visit in Houston

Visit one of these nice places.

Buffalo Bayou Park

A picturesque park offering stunning skyline views, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.

The Galleria

Houston's premier shopping center provides excellent opportunities for modern architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Houston

Houston's culinary scene is a reflection of its diversity, mixing flavors from Tex-Mex, Southern cuisine, and international influences. The city is known for its rich barbecue, vibrant food trucks, and upscale dining.

Houston Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Brisket

This slow-cooked beef dish is a Texas staple, best enjoyed at local barbecue joints like Franklin Barbecue.

Must-Try!

Kolaches

These Czech pastries filled with fruit or meat can be found in bakeries throughout the city.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

The Heights Mercantile

A vibrant marketplace offering local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Houston has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Rain can occur year-round, with a peak in rainfall during the spring months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Southern Hospitality

Politeness and friendliness are valued, so greetings and small talk are appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Houston is generally safe, but as in any large city, it's best to be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Houston

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A customary tip of 15-20% is expected at restaurants, while for bar services, around $1-$2 per drink is common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. It's advisable to stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned areas during the heat of the day.

Winter

Winter is mild, with temperatures averaging around 50°F to 70°F, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Houston at Night

Houston boasts a dynamic nightlife scene, with live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs catering to various tastes. The Montrose area is particularly popular for its LGBTQ+ friendly spots and eclectic bars.

Hiking in Houston

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Stephen F. Austin State Park

Located about an hour from the city, it offers scenic trails and picnic spots along the Brazos River.

Airports

How to reach Houston by plane.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Main airport serving Houston, located about 23 miles north of downtown, with numerous domestic and international flights available.

William P. Hobby Airport

Located about 11 miles southeast of downtown, this airport serves primarily domestic flights and has easy access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Houston is a sprawling city mainly known for its car culture, but areas like downtown and Midtown are quite walkable with various amenities nearby.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic Community

Representing a significant portion of the population, this group adds vibrant cultural influences to the city's social and culinary landscape.

African American Community

A historically influential demographic, contributing greatly to the city's music, culture, and civil rights movements.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American Football

Houston is home to the NFL's Houston Texans, with games attracting large crowds and passionate fans.

Basketball

The Houston Rockets, a prominent NBA team, offers exciting games during the basketball season.

Transportation

Traffic

Houston is known for heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and light rail, providing alternatives to driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Houston.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarians will find plenty of options at local restaurants, especially in the diverse Montrose area, with numerous veggie-friendly options available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Houston is home to the Texas Medical Center, one of the largest medical complexes in the world, offering comprehensive healthcare services.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide