Must-Visit Attractions In Houston

Diversity is a key feature of Houston, and you’ll see it in all the city’s main attractions. The religious centers, museums and skyscrapers each offer a unique story that adds to its distinct fabric. So whether you’re here to explore for days or are just passing through, here’s our list of what to see and do.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Harris County 1910 Courthouse

A six-story structure in the neoclassical style, this courthouse is in the oldest section of downtown Houston.

With 300 acres (121ha) of green space and structures for learning, the campus of Rice University holds history and the future all in one.

St Paul’s United Methodist Church

Founded in 1906, this church is perfectly located in the city’s museum district and “embodies its diversity, inspires faith and leads change for the common good of all peoples and communities,” according to their site.

JPMorgan Chase Tower and Observation Deck

A key feature of the Houston skyline, the JPMorgan Chase Tower is a 75-story skyscraper that holds the title of the tallest building in Texas. You can even go inside to get a fabulous view of Houston.

Rienzi, Museum of Fine Arts

What used to be a 1950s mansion is now a museum that features antiques from the 17th to the 19th century. Located in the beautiful River Oaks area of the city, the Rienzi Mansion is perfect for home decor enthusiasts.

Julia Ideson Reading Room

Associated with the Houston Public Library, this reading room was constructed in a Spanish Renaissance style that contrasts with the downtown landscape of Houston’s skyscrapers.

Toyota Center

With an indoor arena that is home to the Houston Rockets, the Toyota Center seats around 18,000 people. Famous entertainers, such as Fleetwood Mac or Adele, also perform here.

Teo Chew Temple

Red and gold dominate the stunning Teo Chew Temple. Vietnamese culture is a cornerstone of Houston, so visiting this Buddhist temple is a must in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the city.

The Galleria

Situated in Houston’s Uptown District, this upscale shopping mall houses just under 400 stores, making it the biggest in Texas and the seventh-biggest in the US.

Chapel of St. Basil

Located at the University of St. Thomas, the Chapel of St. Basil was designed by Philip Johnson in 1997. Black granite and white stucco make this beautiful chapel stand out.

Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve

Seemingly hidden from the rest of the world, the Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve is a slice of country in the vast city of Houston. You can explore the trails, go fish or kayak, which makes the area a perfect destination for the summer.

Minute Maid Park

World Series Champions – need I say more? The Houston Astros make their home in Minute Maid Park.

Glenwood Cemetery

If you want a comprehensive look at the history of Texas, Glenwood Cemetery is a good place to start. The namesake of Hobby Airport and the last president of the Republic of Texas are buried there. Nestled in River Oaks, this cemetery opened in 1871.

Gerald D. Hines Waterfall Park

Here is where many engagements have taken place and countless pictures for Christmas cards and selfies have been taken. Marvel at the three-story wall of water after doing some shopping at the Galleria.

Beer Can House

A staple whimsical Houston landmark, the Beer Can House became what it is today in the 1960s, thanks to John Milkovisch. When asked why he started putting flattened beer cans on his house and covering the lawn in cement, Milkovisch responded, “I got sick of mowing the grass.”

The Heights Theater

After a day of rambling down 19th Street, seeing a show at the Heights Theater is the perfect way to end the day. Featuring local musicians and famous stars, this theater provides an intimate space for every audience.

Houston City Hall

Built during 1938 and 1939, Houston City Hall is a simple design that shows its classic age through the contrast it creates with the downtown skyline.

Stores on 19th Street

Incredible shopping awaits you on 19th Street in the charming Heights neighborhood, which was developed in 1890. Shops include Emerson Rose, AG Antiques, Casa Ramirez and Manready Mercantile, to name but a few.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.