Houston trips and vacations

No trip to Houston is complete without visiting Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA Johnson Space Center. Home to artifacts and interactive displays, it’s a day out everyone will enjoy. The most popular attraction is the NASA Tram Tours where you’ll get a glimpse into the Historic Mission Control, the Astronaut Training Facility and George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park.

Houston may have one eye on the stars but it’s got plenty of history to explore on the ground too. The George Ranch Historical Park traces 100 years of Texas history through tours and interactive experiences. Learn how Texas won its independence at the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield, where you can even try your hand at loading a cannon.

Houstonians love rooting for their local sports teams. Catch the Houston Astros playing baseball at Minute Maid Park and join the crowds to cheer on the NFL Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Can’t attend a live game on your holiday to Houston? The city’s many sports bars have got all the action covered.

If you’re looking for non-stop entertainment, this is where to stay in Houston. With sports stadiums, the Theater District and a diverse restaurant and bar scene, expect your days to be filled. Take a break from the bustle with a stroll through Market Square Park. And check out the touring musicians performing on weekends in Discovery Green.

Good for: Parks, theater shows, live sports

Known for its colorful murals and quirky shops, Montrose is the best area to stay in Houston to experience the city’s creative side. Art galleries and cocktail lounges rub shoulders with vintage stores, tattoo parlors and palm readers. And LGBTQ+ bars offer everything from live music to weekly drag shows.

Good for: Vintage stores, art galleries, LGBTQ+ bars

You could easily spend your entire trip exploring the Museum District, home to Hermann Park and 19 world-class museums. Families love the interactive Children’s Museum and The Houston Museum of Natural Science is always a big draw. Visiting between March and October? See a free show at the Miller Outdoor Theatre.

Good for: Museums, parks, outdoor theater

Kids will love the Children’s Museum with its hands-on activities and play areas. There’s also lots of interaction in store at the Express Children’s Theatre. With the Space Center Houston and the Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown water park offering thrills for all ages, Houston is a city made for family fun.

Houston is a city of malls. The Galleria is a favorite with shoppers for its big brand names and entertainment options. If you prefer a more unique retail experience, the Historic Heights neighborhood is the place to go for quirky, locally-owned stores and vintage retailers. Staying downtown? Explore Main Street Square with its funky boutiques, cafes and street musicians.

Saturday mornings are a great time to explore the Urban Harvest Farmers Market. Once you’ve gotten your fill of free samples, Market Square Park invites relaxing strolls while admiring its public art installations. Keen to escape the crowds? The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s trails are just the ticket. And Port Houston offers free educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel.

Houston’s diverse neighborhoods serve up a world of flavor-packed cuisine. In Chinatown, feast on dim sum and Vietnamese-Cajun crawfish. Hit downtown for the city’s best Mexican and Tex-Mex eateries. With barbecue joints, soul food hot spots and steakhouses to tempt you, there’s no chance of leaving Houston hungry.

While Houston isn’t on the coast, the Gulf of Mexico’s beaches are an easy drive from the city. Just 30 minutes away, Sylvan Beach is the closest to Downtown and a great spot for families with its gentle waves and air-conditioned pavilion. Another popular day trip for kayaking, surfing and fishing is Galveston Island State Park, a little over an hour away.

Much of Houston’s cultural scene is found in the Museum and Theater districts. But beyond the stage curtains and rotating exhibits, there’s plenty more culture to discover. In Chinatown, you’ll find the Teo Chew Temple while East Downtown (EaDo) is known for its Graffiti Park. Love architecture? Admire the Victorian homes in Houston Heights.