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Houston Bucket List: The 20 Best Things To Do


by Houston Bucket List
From the Bayou to the Bay, this city is home to more entertainment, fun and food than any in the state! Whether it's pretending to be an astronaut at NASA or attending the biggest rodeo in the WORLD, there is something for everyone in Houston. So, buckle up and get ready for a good time because the BIG H is waiting!
Johnson Space Center
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Houston, we have a problem. Have you ever wanted to be an astronaut or liftoff into the mysteries of space travel?! Take a peek into NASA’s holy grail of space flight at Houston’s iconic Johnson Space Center. Explore astronaut training facilities, mission control and rockets bigger than the Statue of Liberty. Don’t worry, our five-year-old inner geek is freaking out too.
When: Mon-Friday 10am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm
Where: 2101 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
Museum of Fine Arts
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Whether you’re an art feene or an Instagram queen, the Museum of Fine Arts has something for everyone to enjoy. Ranked among the 10 largest museums in the United States, this art house displays some of the most breathtaking modern, life-size and classical art in the country.
When: Closed Mondays, Tues-Wed. 10am-5pm, Thurs. 10am-9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun. 12:15pm-7pm
Where: 1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
House of Blues

(Photo Courtesy of House of Blues)
This iconic music house has built its way into being a fan favorite by many across the country – and it's no different here in Houston. Get some of the best food, cocktails and live music in the city at this southern staple. Whether you’re a first timer or a rock regular, there is something for everybody to enjoy.
When: Sun-Wed 11am-10pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-11pm
Where: 1204 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77002
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
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We think TLC would let us chase these waterfalls. In the heart of uptown is Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park. Not only do the stunning 64-foot walls make the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot, they’re also the perfect spot for a picnic or late night jog through the city. Either way, this Houston staple is a must-see.
When: Everyday 8am-9pm
Where: 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056
Downtown Aquarium
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Home to over 200 species of marine life and massive shark tanks, Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is one of the biggest in all of Texas. Although I’m sure every elementary school in Houston has had a field trip here, this hotspot isn’t just for kids. You’ll be happy to find two restaurants and a bar inside that can make for a great date spot. Pro Tip: Grab any of their martinis – they’re some of the best in the city. Does it get any BETA than this? Okay, we’ll stop.
When: Sun-Thurs. 10am-8:30pm, Fri-Sat. 10am-10pm
Where: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
Le Carafe, the Oldest Bar in Houston
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It's an oldie but a goodie. Located right off Main St. is Houston’s oldest bar, La Carafe. This all cash bar claimed a spot amongst other Texas Historic Landmarks in 1979 as one of the coolest relics in the city. Working its way from a bakery in the 1860s to the dim lit dive it is today, you can join the fun and feel like a local at one of h-town’s most prized possessions.
When: Everyday 1pm-2am
Where: 813 Congress St, Houston, TX 77002
Houston Livestock and Rodeo
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Let’s get ready to RODEOOO!! Break out the pearl snap shirt and cowboy boots because this record-setting rodeo is the only of its kind! Bringing in a knockout lineup of artists every year, this southern showdown exhibits some of the best livestock, fried food, bull riding and art from all over the state. Calling all cowboys, this one’s for you!!
When: March 3-22, 2020
Where: NRG Stadium, NRG Pkwy, Houston, TX 77054
Bae’s Soft Serve
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We would willingly go into a sugar coma for Bae’s soft serve ice cream. If you’re looking for something to cure your sweet tooth, look no further. This LA sweet shop has easily become one of Houston’s fan favorites. You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy bae’s ice cream and that’s pretty much the same thing.
When: Sun-Thurs 12pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am
Where: 9798 Bellaire Blvd Ste A, Houston, TX 77036
Houston Zoo
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Did someone say baby giraffes? That’s right. Welcome to Houston’s animal kingdom. Opening its doors in 1922, the Houston Zoo keeps its reputation as one of the best attractions in the city. Take a walk on the wild side as you spend the day with meerkats, monkeys and much more at one of the cities most beloved hangouts.
When: Everyday 9am-4pm
Where: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
Houston Rooftop Cinema Club
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Does anyone else only watch movies on rooftops overlooking city skylines? Yeah, us too. Grab some popcorn, your favorite candy and a hot date because this spot has all the ingredients for a picture-perfect night.
When: Doors open at 6:30pm on movie nights, refer to movie schedule
Where: 1700 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056. Follow the way-finding signs and take the elevator to the 5th level
Float the Texas River - Marriott Marquis Houston
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This is giving us a whole new version of lazy (rivers). Enjoy this one-of-a-kind state-shaped lazy river at the Marriott Marquis Houston downtown. Grab your floaties, some shades, a cocktail and drift away! But be careful, if you stay too long you may never want to leave. Speaking from experience.
When: Everyday 6am-10pm
Where: 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010
The Mural Districts
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Trying to find the insta-perfect backdrop for your feed? Look no further. Make a day trip to the infamous mural districts and discover some of the most unique, trendy street art in the city. Not only will your next level pics stunt on all your followers, but these magical murals are also surrounded by some of the best restaurants in all of Houston. Trust us, it's worth the trip.
Where: 313 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002 / 1301 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Discovery Green
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Amongst all the noise and crazy our sweet city brings, it's always nice to discover somewhere quiet and green. Discovery Green is a one-of-a-kind, 12-acre park smack-dab in the middle of downtown Houston. Whether its festivals, crazy playgrounds or ice skating rinks, this green forest brings a little bit of the great outdoors to the big city.
When: Everyday 6am-11pm
Where: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Miller Outdoor Theater
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If you live for outdoor music festivals and free entertainment, you’re going to love Miller’s Outdoor Theater. From ballet to country, the eight month long performance season is jam packed with some of h-town’s top talents. So pack the cooler and pull out the lawn chairs because this theater is the perfect setting for a chill night out.
When: Check the performance schedule for times!
Where: 6000 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
Truck Yard Houston
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What has great food, a string lit backyard, colorful seats and a mini ferris wheel? Truck Yard Houston!! This killer kickback gives us the feeling of being in our own backyard, yet is always packed with what seems like all of Houston. Not only does this junkyard gem have a laid back setting, but some of the best street food (TRY THE TACOS). If we ever go missing, check here first.
When: Everyday 11am-2am
Where: 2118 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77003
Rice Village
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If Clueless was set in Houston, then Cher could be found spending the day in Rice Village. With an exclusive choice of shopping and fresh LA style restaurants, this part of town will give you a little slice of shopping heaven.
When: Check website for individual shops and restaurant hours
Where: Kirby and University Blvd. Houston, TX 77005
Hermann Park, Crockwell Butterfly Exhibit
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Isn’t there something so sweet and simple about a stroll in the park? Hosting kite festivals, family picnics, weddings and much more, Hermann Park has become one of the most relaxing spots in all of Houston.
When: Everyday 10am-6pm
Where: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
Attend an Astros, Rockets, or Texans Game
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Let's turn up the heat. Welcome to clutch city. Whether it’s spending the day at the ballpark or a night courtside, Houston has built some of the biggest sports dynasties in the country. From hosting Super Bowls to playing World Series, the hustle and heartbeat of these teams have kept Houston in the sportscenter spotlight for decades.
When: Check individual team’s game schedule for times!
Where: Astros, Minute Maid Park: 501 Crawford St, Houston, TX 77002 / Rockets, Toyota Center: 1510 Polk St, Houston, TX 77002, Texans, NRG Stadium: NRG Pkwy, Houston, TX 77054
For more information: Astros / Rockets / Texans
Washington Avenue
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It’s the mother of all happy hours and the king of all kickbacks. It’s Washington Ave. This city staple is home to more bars, hidden bites, and sweet treats than any other street in Houston. From roaring nightlife to killer brunch menus, Washington is the perfect starting spot for a good time.
When: Check individual restaurant and times for hours
Where: Washington Ave, Houston,TX 77002
Kemah Boardwalk
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Ever dreamt of having a romantic date while watching the sunset over the ocean? Well, sometimes dreams come true. Walk the docks of Kemah Boardwalk for color carnival games, amusement rides and some of the best seafood in the south. The 30-year-old, water wonderland hosts boat parades, car shows and live music for all Houstonians to enjoy! If it's your turn to pick a date night, look no further.
When: Mon-Thurs. 12-7pm, Fri. 12-9pm, Sat. 10:30am-10pm, Sun. 10:30am-8pm
Where: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
(Cover Photo Courtesy of Discovery Green)
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