Top Attractions: Must-See Sights in Houston

Houston, the fourth largest city in the U.S., is a richly vibrant and diverse metropolis. The space industry is booming and there is very palatable food throughout the city. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there's always something new to discover. Here is a rundown of the must-see sights in Houston that will make your trip unforgettable.

Space Center Houston

Begin your exploration of Houston at the Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center. Experience history in the making with up-close views of real spacecraft, touchable moon rocks, and much more. No visit is complete without a tram tour to Johnson Space Center; you might even catch some astronauts training for upcoming missions.

Houston Museum District 

The museum district in Houston is one place where art lovers, history enthusiasts, and science buffs will feel right at home. There are 19 walkable museums, each holding something for everyone. The Museum of Fine Arts has a holding of over 70,000 works of art of 6,000 years. For a more interactive experience, proceed to the Houston Museum of Natural Science with its dinosaur skeletons, the wonders of space, and a walk in a butterfly conservatory.

Hermann Park 

Located in the heart of Houston, Hermann Park is an urban park that offers amenities for relaxation and recreational use. Take a paddleboat on the McGovern Lake, walk in the serene Japanese Garden, or board the Hermann Park Railroad for a leisurely excursion. There is Houston Zoo, too, with over 6,000 animals from around the world. And don't forget to pack a picnic to have amidst the greenery.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 

Experience the real spirit of Texas by attending the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The event runs each year from late February to early March and serves up riveting rodeo competitions, star-studded concerts, a carnival, and plenty of tasty grub. It's quite a one-off experience to witness the cowboy lifestyle and soak in the vibrant spirit of Houston.

The Galleria 

If you're in the mood for shopping, make your way to The Galleria, a shopping haven in Texas with over 400 boutiques of the best brands and other international favorites. At the end of a day's shopping, relax in one of the many restaurants or have fun at the indoor ice skating rink.

Buffalo Bayou Park 

This is 160 acres of glorious green space sprawling right alongside Buffalo Bayou—one that outdoor enthusiasts will absolutely revel in. Miles upon miles of walking, running, and biking trails, beautiful picnic spots, and even a place for those furry members of your family to stretch their legs all await. Rental kayaks and paddleboards are available on Buffalo Bayou. At sunset, it's off to the Waugh Drive Bridge where you can observe thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats flying out for their nightly excursion.

Minute Maid Park 

Baseball fans will find that a trip to Minute Maid Park to see the Houston Astros is in order. An afternoon at this ballpark is an all-American experience where they get home runs, hot dogs, and the crowd roar. Even if you don't care for baseball, the retractable roof and views of the downtown skyline are spectacular.

Houston's Street Art 

Houston shines with its vibrant street art. The EaDo and Heights neighborhoods are prime with colorful murals and thought-inspiring graffiti. One famous piece is "Houston is Inspired," painted by artist GONZO247, located in downtown. Be sure to have your camera ready, as these works of art serve as the perfect Instagrammable background.

The Menil Collection 

The Menil Collection is an absolute hidden jewel in the Museum District of Houston. A mixture of art pieces includes those done by Picasso, Warhol, and Magritte. The calm campus further comprises the Rothko Chapel, which is a nondenominational sanctuary designed by artist Mark Rothko, and the Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum. Art aficionados may not want to miss the Menil, with its peaceful grounds and epic collection of pieces on display.

Discovery Green

Discovery Green is the main urban park in the heart of Downtown Houston. There is always something going on here: from year-round events to concerts, or even fitness classes. It also hosts beautiful gardens, a relaxing pond, and public artwork. In winter, you can even go ice skating at the seasonal rink.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center 

This 155-acre natural sanctuary in the middle of the city will welcome you with its peaceful walking trails, native plant gardens, and educational exhibits; overall, it's a place to return to nature. It has various programs and workshops that take place throughout the year and host all ages—ideal for family visits.

Houston Heights 

One of the most historically rich neighborhoods in the city is Houston Heights. Here, you can walk down tree-covered esplanades past beautifully restored Victorian houses. The Heights has a Bohemian flair, where one can find boutiques and antique stores as well as an enclave of splendid cafes. Do not miss the Heights Theater, a recently renovated place for live music and performance.

Galveston Island 

The Galveston Island offers the perfect beach getaway and is located just an hour's drive away from Houston. Sandy shores, swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, exploring historic Strand District, Moody Gardens with a rainforest pyramid, aquarium, and 3D theatre, and some history along with touring the 19th-century Bishop's Palace or just wandering by historic Pleasure Pier on this island are the additional offerings for you.

Houston Food Scene 

No visit to Houston is complete without exploring this city's fast-emerging and diverse tastes. From Tex-Mex to Bar-B-Que to its international flair, Houston easily challenges any culinary capital in the country. Don't leave town without sampling some Viet-Cajun crawfish, kolaches, or breakfast tacos. Looking for an off-the-track experience? Step up to one of 600 plus food trucks or one of Houston's James Beard Award-winning restaurants.

It is a city that never ceases to amaze—a composition of eclectic cultures bound with history and its natural environs. Be it the wonders of space or world-class art, a day at the park—there is just about everything for everyone in Houston. Therefore pack your bags and come along with your adventure spirit as we take you through a brief tour to learn about the most recommended places to visit in Houston that truly define this city's essence.