Must-Try Activities to Do in Houston This Year

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Discover all the Houston hotspots waiting for you—whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor chasing the perfect itinerary.

Explore the Museum District

Houston’s Museum District is home to 19 cultural institutions within walking distance. Spend a morning marveling at the masterpieces in the Museum of Fine Arts, then pop over to the Houston Museum of Natural Science for a T. rex encounter. Don’t miss the Contemporary Arts Museum for cutting-edge installations.

Take a Stroll Along Buffalo Bayou

Nothing beats a breezy afternoon on the Buffalo Bayou Park. Rent a kayak or pedal boat and glide under downtown’s skyline. If you prefer dry land, the 10-mile hike-and-bike trail offers scenic views of lush greenery, the Water Works, and the iconic Waugh Drive Bat Colony as dusk falls.

Sip & Savor at Cidercade

Ready for a truly Houston mash-up of craft ciders and classic arcade games? Head to Cidercade (cidercade.com) in downtown Houston or CityCentre. With more than 175 coin-free favorites—from Pac-Man to air hockey—and a rotating list of local and regional ciders on tap, it’s the ultimate spot for friendly competition. They even offer cider flights so you can taste-test your way through the menu.

Catch a Show in Midtown

Houston’s theater scene is alive and well. The Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston (MATCH) hosts everything from improv comedy to off-beat musicals. For a bigger production, the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in downtown always has top-tier Broadway tours and guest performances.

Unwind at Hermann Park

Hermann Park is your all-in-one leisure zone. Rent a pedal boat on McGovern Lake, wander through the Japanese Garden, or check out a free yoga session on the Great Lawn. Families will love the Houston Zoo, while the Miller Outdoor Theatre presents free summer concerts and movies under the stars.

Indulge in Local Eats at the Heights

The Heights neighborhood is famed for its laid-back charm and artisanal eateries. Try po’ boys at The Turkey Leg Hut, brunch tacos at Coltivare, or a slice from the retro-chic Pizza Rock. Cap off your culinary expedition with gourmet doughnuts from Hebert’s.

Cool Off at Cidercade—Again!

After a day of museums, parks, and food tours, swing back by Cidercade for a sunset cider flight and some friendly skee-ball rivalry. Their spacious indoor layout and outdoor patio make it perfect for date nights, group outings, or solo quests to beat your high score.

Plan your Houston adventure around these can’t-miss activities and let the Bayou City surprise you with every new discovery. Whether you’re sipping cider at Cidercade or delving into world-class museums, Houston guarantees fun, flavor, and unforgettable memories.