Fun Things to Do in Houston This Weekend
Welcome to the ultimate guide for things to do in Houston this weekend! Houston is known as the Culinary and Cultural Capital of the South. It offers a wide range of exciting events that will keep you entertained all day long.
Houston is a city full of life and culture. You can visit world-class museums or enjoy live performances. No matter what you love, Houston has something special for you.
Our guide will show you the best events in Houston. You’ll get to experience the city’s amazing diversity. From art to food, your weekend will be filled with unforgettable moments.
Get ready to explore a city that is full of energy and Southern hospitality. Your weekend in Houston is about to begin!
Explore the Houston Museum District
Houston’s Museum District is a lively cultural center that turns learning into fun. It covers 1.5 square miles and has 19 museums. These museums welcome about 7 million visitors every year.
There’s a wide range of activities for everyone in the district. It offers attractions that mix education with fun.
Houston Museum of Natural Science: A World of Discovery
The Houston Museum of Natural Science makes science exciting with its exhibits. Highlights include:
- The Cockrell Butterfly Center with living butterfly habitats
- Burke Baker Planetarium featuring cosmic shows
- Extensive dinosaur fossil collections
- Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals
Contemporary Arts Museum: Cutting-Edge Creativity
Art lovers will enjoy the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. It offers free admission and changing exhibits. The museum features modern art from both new and known artists.
Children’s Museum Houston: Interactive Learning
Children’s Museum Houston is great for families. It offers hands-on activities that make learning fun. It’s perfect for kids who love to explore.
Pro tip: Many museums in the district have free admission on certain days. This makes exploring culture easy and cheap for all.
Attend Live Music Events
Houston’s nightlife is alive with music, attracting fans from everywhere. The city hosts over 300 live music events every year. These events offer a wide range of musical experiences for everyone.
Houston’s music scene is incredibly diverse. Local data shows interesting facts about the music scene:
- 55 total live music events
- 17 unique venues hosting performances
- 46 artists scheduled to perform
- 12 different musical genres represented
Enjoy a Concert at White Oak Music Hall
White Oak Music Hall is a top spot for nightlife lovers. It hosts about 10 events a month, featuring both local and national artists. The venue’s multi-level design offers great acoustics and views of downtown.
Visit the House of Blues for a Night Out
The House of Blues offers a unique musical experience. It showcases a variety of genres, from rock to hip-hop. With tickets around $50, fans can enjoy top-notch performances that highlight Houston’s cultural richness.
Whether you live here or are just visiting, Houston’s live music scene offers unforgettable nights. It’s filled with rhythm, energy, and musical passion.
Experience Houston’s Culinary Scene
Houston’s dining scene is full of flavors that make meals special. As the fourth largest city in the U.S., Houston’s food scene is diverse and innovative. It’s a great place for food lovers and those looking for fun dates.
The city’s food diversity is seen in its many dining spots, from street food to fancy restaurants. This mix of cultures makes Houston’s food scene unique. It draws both locals and visitors who want to try something new.
Food Trucks at The Water Works
The Water Works is a top spot for food lovers and festival-goers. It features a variety of gourmet food trucks. These trucks offer tasty dishes in a lively outdoor setting, showing off Houston’s culinary creativity.
- Diverse cuisine options from multiple food trucks
- Open-air dining atmosphere
- Perfect for casual dates and group gatherings
Dine at Popular Restaurants in Midtown
Midtown Houston is a food lover’s paradise. It has everything from trendy bistros to fancy restaurants. This area is where old and new cooking styles meet, making dining here unforgettable.
- Farm-to-table restaurants
- International fusion cuisine
- Innovative dining concepts
Houston’s food scene is always changing. It offers a wide range of flavors and experiences. These celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Visit Local Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Houston turns into a green paradise for those who love the outdoors. It offers many houston outdoor activities beyond the city’s urban areas. The parks and green spaces are perfect for those looking for natural experiences in the heart of Houston.
Houston’s parks have something for everyone. They offer different activities for all ages. These places are more than just green areas. They are vibrant community centers where nature, fitness, and relaxation meet.
Exploring Hermann Park
Hermann Park is a top spot for outdoor fun in Houston. It covers 445 acres and has many attractions:
- Miller Outdoor Theatre for free performances
- Proximity to Houston Zoo
- Japanese Garden
- Pedal boat rentals
Discovering Buffalo Bayou Park
Buffalo Bayou Park is another great outdoor spot. It has 160 acres of beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for:
- Hiking trails
- Cycling routes
- Stunning downtown skyline views
- Public art installations
Park | Size | Key Activities |
---|---|---|
Hermann Park | 445 acres | Zoo, Gardens, Theatre |
Buffalo Bayou Park | 160 acres | Hiking, Cycling, Art |
Whether you love fitness, nature, or just relaxing, Houston’s parks have it all. These green spaces show Houston’s dedication to providing fun outdoor activities for everyone.
Engage with Houston’s Sports Scene
Houston is alive with sports, making weekends unforgettable. It’s a top spot for sports fans, with many chances to see exciting games.
The city has three major sports teams, making it a great place for sports lovers. Houston draws thousands of fans who want to see top sports action.
Catch a Game at Minute Maid Park
Baseball fans will love Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. The park’s roof opens to keep fans comfy, no matter the weather. Highlights include:
- The unique train running along the left-field wall
- 40% increase in ticket sales during the 2022 season
- Average ticket prices around $50
- State-of-the-art facilities for an amazing game experience
Cheer for the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium
Football fans will enjoy NRG Stadium, home of the Houston Texans. The stadium offers an unmatched experience with:
- Average attendance of 70,000 fans per game
- A passionate fan base known for great support
- Tailgating parties that start hours before the game
- Ticket prices averaging around $100
Houston’s sports scene is thrilling for fans and casual watchers alike. It offers an exciting weekend filled with the city’s energy and community spirit.
Take a Day Trip from Houston
Looking for fun things to do in Houston this weekend? Explore beyond the city and find amazing day trips. These trips show off Texas’s varied landscapes and rich history. Houston’s outdoor activities are not just in the city but also nearby, waiting for you.
Houston is close to incredible places, making it easy for day trips. These spots are great for quick weekend getaways.
Explore the Historic Sites of Galveston
Galveston Island is just 50 miles from Houston. It’s a mix of history and beach fun. Here, you can:
- Walk through the Strand District with its old Victorian buildings
- See the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield, with over 500 years of Texas history
- Try fresh seafood and enjoy the Gulf Coast views
Visit the Natural Wonders of Brazos Bend State Park
Brazos Bend State Park is perfect for outdoor lovers. It’s about an hour southwest of Houston. Here, you can:
- See different ecosystems like forests and wetlands
- Watch for alligators and many bird species
- Check out the George Observatory for amazing stargazing
These day trips offer a new view and deeper understanding of Texas. Whether you love history, nature, or just want to explore, these places are unforgettable. They’re just a short drive from Houston.
Participate in Local Festivals and Events
Houston’s festival scene is a colorful mix of cultures. The city hosts over 30 major events each year. These festivals celebrate diversity and attract millions, showing off the community’s creativity.
There’s something for everyone at Houston’s festivals. About 300,000 people come to enjoy these cultural celebrations. These events also bring in around $1 billion for the local economy each year.
Houston Art Car Parade: A Creative Spectacle
The Houston Art Car Parade is a true celebration of creativity. It turns regular cars into mobile art pieces. Visitors can look forward to:
- Hundreds of uniquely decorated vehicles
- Live music performances
- Interactive art experiences
- Family-friendly entertainment
Houston Latino Film Festival: Cinematic Exploration
The Houston Latino Film Festival is a big deal for Latin American cinema. It showcases diverse stories through:
- Independent film screenings
- Director panels
- Cultural discussions
- Networking opportunities for filmmakers
Whether you love art or movies, these events offer unforgettable experiences. They showcase Houston’s vibrant cultural scene.
Indulge in Shopping and Entertainment
Houston’s shopping scene is a mix of luxury and local charm. It’s perfect for both serious shoppers and casual browsers. The city has a wide range of houston activities for every taste and budget.
The Galleria is the highlight of Houston’s shopping world. It’s Texas’ largest mall, making shopping an adventure. You’ll find:
- Stunning glass atriums
- Indoor ice rink
- Over 400 stores and restaurants
- Luxury brand flagship locations
Explore Local Markets and Boutiques
Houston’s neighborhoods offer unique shopping and nightlife experiences. The Heights is a top spot for boutique shopping. You can find:
- Vintage clothing stores
- Artisanal home goods shops
- Monthly First Saturday Arts Market
- Local artist showcases
Urban Harvest Farmers Market is another great place to shop. It connects you with local producers and handcrafted goods. These spots are more than places to shop. They’re chances to dive into Houston’s local culture and support small businesses.
Discover Arts and Culture in Houston
Houston is a vibrant cultural hub with seven unique districts. These attract millions of visitors every year. The city’s arts scene offers amazing events and date ideas for all ages.
The Museum District is a treasure trove of art. It has nineteen world-class museums that welcome about seven million visitors yearly. Art enthusiasts can find a wide range of experiences across different venues.
Theater Productions at the Hobby Center
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings spectacular shows to downtown Houston. It hosts:
- Broadway touring shows
- Local theater company productions
- Musical performances
- Dance presentations
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) offers an unmatched artistic journey. It has collections from ancient times to modern art. The museum features:
- Diverse cultural exhibitions
- Stunning sculpture gardens
- Educational programs
- International art collections
Visitors can dive into a world of art at MFAH. It’s a key spot for those looking for houston events and unique date ideas.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities
Houston is a treasure trove of family fun, turning weekends into unforgettable adventures. With over 100 free activities for kids, parents can have fun without spending a lot. The city’s wide range of activities ensures everyone finds something exciting to do.
Two top spots for kids are the Houston Zoo and Space Center Houston. These places offer fun and learning, sparking curiosity and wonder. Kids can see exotic animals, learn about conservation, and explore space.
The Houston Zoo is in Hermann Park, with exhibits that let you see wildlife from all over. Space Center Houston takes families on a space journey, with hands-on exhibits and moon rocks to touch. These places entertain and inspire, encouraging kids to dream big and learn.
For more fun, check out 14 playgrounds, 25 kid-friendly restaurants, and indoor activities. Houston is perfect for family outings, with museums, parks, and interactive exhibits. It’s a place where families can make memories that last a lifetime.
FAQ
What are the best museums to visit in Houston?
Houston’s Museum District is a treasure trove of culture. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a highlight, with its dinosaur fossils and stunning gem collection. The Contemporary Arts Museum showcases modern art, and the Children’s Museum Houston is great for family fun.
Where can I enjoy live music in Houston this weekend?
Houston’s music scene is vibrant. White Oak Music Hall offers top-notch acoustics and a variety of acts. The House of Blues is known for intimate performances across genres, from blues to hip-hop.
What are some great outdoor activities in Houston?
Houston has amazing outdoor spots. Hermann Park is a 445-acre oasis with the Houston Zoo and Japanese Garden. Buffalo Bayou Park is perfect for hiking and biking, with views of the city skyline.
What unique festivals can I attend in Houston?
Houston’s festivals are a true reflection of its culture. The Houston Art Car Parade is a colorful spectacle. The Houston Latino Film Festival is a cinematic journey through Latin American culture.
Are there good day trip options near Houston?
Yes, there are! Galveston offers a historic and coastal experience. Brazos Bend State Park is a natural retreat for wildlife watching and stargazing.
What family-friendly attractions does Houston offer?
Houston is great for families. The Houston Zoo is an immersive wildlife adventure. Space Center Houston takes you on a journey through space with interactive exhibits.
What shopping experiences are unique to Houston?
Houston’s shopping scene is diverse. The Galleria is Texas’ largest mall with luxury brands. The Heights has unique boutiques. The Urban Harvest Farmers Market is perfect for local produce and artisanal goods.