9 Fun Things to Do in Houston, Recommended by Locals

A bustling city filled with culture and history, Houston is the most populous city in Texas, and the fourth-most populous in the country, home to many important headquarters, one of the most complex medical centers, and top universities. As such, it is a destination for many people, both visitors, but also aspiring residents, and there are plenty of fun and unique things to do in Houston which are sure to charm you.  

Whether you’re renting an apartment in Houston, looking to settle down in your own home, or simply visiting, there are many activities you can enjoy here. To help you obtain the most authentic Houston experience, we asked locals to give us their insight and their favorite hidden gems in this city. Here’s what they told us.

Things to Do in Houston

1. Visit the Space Center

One of the main attractions in Houston, the Space Center is a must-have experience. It is the official center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and it offers a unique overview of space exploration and America’s spaceflight history. With exhibits that showcase space artifacts and a one-of-a-kind experience aboard the tram tour that takes you to the Mission Control Center and the astronaut training facilities, the Space Center Houston provides both adults and children with an educational and immersive experience.  

2. Explore the Local Art & Culture

Regardless of whether you’re a museum fan, the Museum District of Houston is home to an array of places that offer cultural and learning experiences. Michael Callahan, founder and owner of The Callahan Law Firm, recommends it for all culture enthusiasts, “as it contains 19 museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. There is something for everyone to investigate and learn, from the Museum of Fine Arts to the Houston Museum of Natural Science.”  

Callahan also recommends exploring Houston’s street art. “Houston’s street art culture is remarkable. Discover stunning murals and graffiti art created by local and international artists through a self-guided tour of neighborhoods such as the Heights and EaDo.”

3. Enjoy Lake Houston

Val Streif, marketing manager at Get My Boat, encouraged people to experience adventure on Lake Houston. “One unique activity I’d recommend adding to your list of things to do in Houston is a boat rental or water activity like a jet ski rental on Lake Houston,” said Streif. “You can cruise around, stop for a swim (perfect to beat the heat), go fishing, or enjoy water sports like tubing and wakeboarding. For people who do not have boating experience, captained charters are available, with local professionals serving as great guides and navigators on the water.”

4. Check Out the Downtown Aquarium

A complex entertainment and educational destination, the Downtown Aquarium is truly an aquatic wonderland, home to over 200 marine life species from all around the world. The aquarium also offers various amusement rides, including one option to view the gorgeous Houston skyline from a Ferris wheel.  

5. Experience the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Take part in the Houston tradition of the Livestock Show and Rodeo, which will take place February 27, 2024, through March 17, 2024. Chris Boleman, CEO and president of the event, told us what to expect from it. “Immerse yourself in the RODEOHOUSTON® Super Series, a 20-day tournament-style competition that crowns champions in various events. With more than 34,000 entries in our livestock and horse show competitions, the talent and passion on display is unparalleled. Each night for 20 nights, guests can watch dazzling performances by world-class entertainers at NRG Stadium after the Rodeo.” 

“You can also indulge in a food lover’s paradise,” said Boleman. “From mouthwatering BBQ-loaded baked potatoes to classic carnival favorites like corn dogs and cotton candy, prepare to embark on a culinary journey like no other. And for wine connoisseurs, the Champion Wine Garden beckons, offering over 75 award-winning wines from our International Wine Competition, complemented by live music from rising Texas stars.” 

“Don’t forget the World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, where more than 250 teams, led by barbecue aficionados, battle it out for the top honors. This takes place 3 days before the show begins.”

6. See the Houston Botanic Gardens

“The Houston Botanic Garden — a 132-acre urban oasis and outdoor living museum that opened in September 2020 — is a new gem along the I-45 South corridor between downtown Houston and Galveston Island,” and a recommendation by Justin Lacey, Director of Communications & Community Engagement at the Garden. “The Garden inspires and connects visitors with a curated collection of tropical, sub-tropical, and arid plants from around the world that reflect the city’s rich cultural and ethnic diversity.” 

“The Garden hosts nature-themed art exhibitions and a variety of classes and workshops in gardening, wellness, arts, and more. Radiant Nature — an after-hours lantern festival in the Garden — will debut in November and run through the Lunar New Year in February 2024.”  

If you plan on making this a stop on your Houston discovery journey, here’s what Lacey told us to expect: “Highlights of a visit to the Garden include the a stroll through the one-acre Culinary Garden — where seasonal edible and medicinal plants rotate in and out year-round, and freshly harvested produce is made available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis periodically — and checking out the hands-on water play section of the Susan Garver Family Discovery Garden.”

7. Unwind in the Buffalo Bayou Park

An oasis of green and serenity in the middle of the city, the Buffalo Bayou Park is a go-to destination for all locals and visitors who want to recharge and enjoy one of the many walking and biking trails, or one of the cultural events or installations that take place frequently here, especially in the underground, revitalized Cistern.  

8. Discover Amazing Restaurants & Shopping Venues

Carrie Colbert, CEO at Curate Capital, has been a Houston resident for many years. These are the hidden gems she recommends visiting: “We just hosted our shareholders’ annual meeting at The Juliana, which I would highly recommend if you’re looking for a new event venue in town! It’s absolutely stunning, and the owner Ashley is a dear friend. For some indoor family fun, we love taking the kids to The Mad Potter for some crafting time and then walking across the street to La Griglia, one of our favorite family-friendly Italian restaurants in town. Lastly, for a little shopping, you have to stop by River Oaks District to shop at Frances Valentine, to add some super bright pops of color to your wardrobe!”

9. Try an Escape Room

If you’re looking for a different kind of activity to try out with your friends, Karmisha Reeb, owner of Exit Lab Houston, recommends trying an escape room. “We are a veteran-owned business providing an exhilarating escape room experience for teams of 2 to 10 people. Our four meticulously crafted escape rooms, each with a unique narrative and setting, invite participants to spend an hour immersed in a world of mystery, riddles, and adrenaline,” says Reeb. “Every room at Exit Lab Houston offers an immersive, technology-free experience, providing groups with a rare opportunity to engage in real-time problem-solving, teamwork, and hearty laughs. It’s more than just fun — it’s an hour-long retreat from everyday life and an adventure into a world of mystery and excitement.” 

We love Houston and are excited for all the unique destinations and experiences it offers. If you’re as excited as we are, Houston awaits. You might find yourself loving the city, so if you’re ready to make a move, check out these Houston apartments that you might call home next: https://www.rentcafe.com/apartments-for-rent/us/tx/houston/