Things to Do in Houston
From NASA to nineteen museums to one of America's great food scenes — here's what's actually worth your time, with deeper guides to the highlights.
Don't-miss list: spend a morning at Space Center Houston, explore the Museum District (much of it free), walk or kayak Buffalo Bayou Park, and eat your way through the city — Viet-Cajun crawfish, Tex-Mex, and barbecue. Two to three days covers the essentials.
Top attractions, in depth
Space Center Houston →
NASA's visitor center — the city's #1 attraction.
Museum District →
19 museums in one walkable area, many free.
Where to eat →
One of the most diverse food cities in America.
More to see and do
- Buffalo Bayou Park — trails, kayaking, and skyline views just west of downtown.
- Hermann Park & the Houston Zoo — a big central park beside the Museum District.
- The Galleria — the largest shopping mall in Texas, in Uptown.
- Downtown Theater District & sports — the Astros, Texans, and Rockets, plus one of the largest theater districts in the country.
- Kemah Boardwalk — a waterfront amusement and dining boardwalk about 45 minutes southeast.
Book tickets & tours
Space Center Houston tickets, city tours, and food tours — check live availability and prices.
Plan the trip: Houston travel guide · Itineraries · Where to eat · Where to stay