Harris County 1910 Courthouse
Historical Landmark
A six-story structure in the neoclassical style, this courthouse is in the oldest section of downtown Houston.
20 Must-Visit Attractions in Houston
Downtown Houston, Texas, has an impressive skyline | © Sean Pavone / Alamy Stock Photo
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.
Rice University, Houston
Museum, University
© Witold Skrypczak / Alamy Stock Photo
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
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
Building
© Bob Daemmrich / Alamy Stock Photo
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
Museum
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
Library
© Witold Skrypczak / Alamy Stock Photo
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
Stadium
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
Shrine
© Janice and Nolan Braud / Alamy Stock Photo
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
Restaurant, Seafood, Fusion, South African, $$$
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
Church
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
Natural Feature
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
Building, Park, Stadium, Train Station
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World Series Champions – need I say more? The Houston Astros make their home in Minute Maid Park.
Glenwood Cemetery
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
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
Architectural Landmark
© Franck Fotos / Alamy Stock Photo
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
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
Museum, Theater
© CrackerClips Stock Media / Alamy Stock Photo
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.
St. Martin's Episcopal Church
Church
This church received a lot of attention after the passing of former first lady Barbara Bush. St. Martin’s was her home church and where her touching funeral was held. The largest Episcopal church in the United States, St. Martin’s covers 7 acres (3ha) and has spires that are 188 feet (57m) high.
Rothko Chapel
Building
A center for all denominations and religions, the Rothko Chapel may as well be the official symbol of Houston. This stunning center of silence is right by the Menil Collection in Montrose.
Stores on 19th Street
Store
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.
These recommendations were updated on September 10, 2020 to keep your travel plans fresh.