Houston United States Map
Introduction
Located in the southeastern part of Texas, Houston is one of the most populous and diverse cities in the United States. Known for its rich history, thriving economy, and vibrant culture, Houston is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s art and music scene, indulging in its delicious food, or embarking on outdoor adventures, Houston has something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top attractions and hidden gems that make Houston such a unique and exciting place to visit.
Top Attractions
Space Center Houston
One of the top tourist attractions in Houston is the Space Center Houston, which is the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Here, visitors can learn about the history of space exploration, see real spacecraft and artifacts, and even meet astronauts in person. Some of the highlights of the Space Center Houston include the interactive exhibits, the tram tour of the Johnson Space Center, and the “Behind the Scenes” tour.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science
Another must-visit attraction in Houston is the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which features a wide range of exhibits on topics like dinosaurs, gems and minerals, and space exploration. The museum also has a planetarium and a butterfly center, making it a great place to visit for families with kids.
The Houston Zoo
If you’re an animal lover, you won’t want to miss the Houston Zoo, which is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world. Some of the most popular exhibits at the zoo include the African Forest, the Kipp Aquarium, and the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat. The zoo also offers a range of special programs and events throughout the year, such as behind-the-scenes tours and overnight stays.
Hidden Gems
The Menil Collection
The Menil Collection is a hidden gem in Houston that art lovers won’t want to miss. This museum is home to a diverse collection of art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Jackson Pollock. Admission to the museum is always free, and the tranquil campus is a great place to spend an afternoon.
The Buffalo Bayou Park
The Buffalo Bayou Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Houston that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features scenic walking and biking trails, a skate park, and a dog park, as well as a range of outdoor art installations. Visitors can also rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the Buffalo Bayou by water.
The Orange Show Monument
The Orange Show Monument is a quirky and unique attraction in Houston that was built by a local mail carrier in the 1950s. The monument features a maze of brightly colored metal structures, including a stage, a bandstand, and a museum. Visitors can explore the maze at their own pace and soak in the eccentric atmosphere.
Food Scene
Houston is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, which draws inspiration from a range of cultures and cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes in Houston include Tex-Mex classics like fajitas and queso, Gulf Coast seafood like shrimp and grits, and Vietnamese specialties like pho and banh mi. Some of the top restaurants in Houston include Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Killen’s Barbecue, and Nancy’s Hustle.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Houston can be an expensive city to visit, there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing the fun. Some budget-friendly tips for visiting Houston include staying in affordable hotels in the suburbs instead of downtown, taking advantage of free museum days, and exploring the city’s parks and green spaces. Visitors can also save money on food by trying out the city’s food trucks or visiting local farmers’ markets.
Outdoor Adventures
Houston is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. Some of the top outdoor adventures in Houston include exploring the Buffalo Bayou Park, kayaking on the Gulf Coast, and hiking in the nearby Sam Houston National Forest. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Gulf Coast and soak in the stunning views.
Family-Friendly Activities
Houston is a great city to visit with kids, with plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions. Some of the top things to do with kids in Houston include visiting the Houston Zoo, exploring the Children’s Museum of Houston, and taking a ride on the Hermann Park Miniature Train. Families can also enjoy a picnic in the Buffalo Bayou Park or take a day trip to the nearby Galveston Island.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit different than the typical tourist attractions, Houston has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Some of the unique things to do in Houston include exploring the underground cisterns at Buffalo Bayou Park, taking a ghost tour of the city’s haunted spots, or visiting the quirky Art Car Museum. Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant street art scene or take a tour of the historic Glenwood Cemetery.
Natural Wonders
While Houston is known for its urban attractions, the city is also home to plenty of natural wonders. Some of the top natural attractions in Houston include the Buffalo Bayou Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, and the Mercer Botanic Gardens. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby Brazos Bend State Park, which is home to alligators, bison, and a range of bird species.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Houston comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the top spots for nightlife in Houston include the bars and clubs in the Midtown and Montrose neighborhoods, the live music venues in the Heights, and the upscale lounges in River Oaks. Visitors can also enjoy a night out at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, which hosts free concerts and performances throughout the year.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, visitors to Houston should check out some of the city’s bustling markets and food halls. Some of the top markets in Houston include the Houston Farmers Market, the Urban Harvest Farmers Market, and the Canino Produce Company. Visitors can also explore the food halls in the city, such as the Conservatory Underground Beer Garden & Food Hall or the Bravery Chef Hall.
Beaches and Mountains
While Houston is located in a relatively flat region of Texas, visitors can still enjoy day trips to nearby beaches and mountains. Some of the top beach destinations near Houston include Galveston Island, Surfside Beach, and Corpus Christi. Visitors can also drive to the nearby Hill Country region, which is known for its stunning views and charming small towns.
Cultural Immersion
Houston is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that includes people from around the world. To get a taste of the city’s cultural immersion, visitors can explore neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and the Mahatma Gandhi District. They can also attend cultural festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Houston Greek Festival, and the Houston International Jazz Festival.
Art and Music Scene
Houston is home to a thriving art and music scene, with a range of museums, galleries, and live music venues. Some of the top art destinations in Houston include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, and the Houston Center for Photography. Visitors can also catch a live show at one of the city’s many music venues, such as the House of Blues, the White Oak Music Hall, or the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
Walking Tours
For visitors who want to explore Houston on foot, there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Some of the top walking tours in Houston include the Houston Heights Walking Tour, the Downtown Houston Tunnel System Tour, and the Buffalo Bayou Park Walking Tour. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the city’s historic architecture, such as the Art Deco buildings in the Theater District or the Victorian homes in the Heights.
Architectural Marvels
Houston is home to a range of architectural marvels, from modern skyscrapers to historic landmarks. Some of the top architectural attractions in Houston include the Williams Tower, the JP Morgan Chase Tower, and the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park. Visitors can also explore the historic architecture in neighborhoods like the Heights and the Museum District, where they’ll find stunning examples of Victorian and Art Deco styles.
Historical Sites
For history buffs, Houston has plenty of historical sites and landmarks to explore. Some of the top historical attractions in Houston include the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, the Battleship Texas State Historic Site, and the Sam Houston Park. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums and cultural institutions, which showcase the history and heritage of Houston and the surrounding region.
Biking Routes
Houston