Cheap & Free Things to Do in Houston Texas – 50 Summer Activities for Kids, Teens, Adults, & More!
Welcome to Houston, Texas, where summer fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag! Whether you’re a kid, a teen, or an adult, anyone can enjoy plenty of fun things to do in Houston TX, as this vibrant city offers a lot of affordable and fun summer activities for kids and adults that can you entertained all summer long.
From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there are cool things to do in Houston that everyone can enjoy without breaking the bank. So, get ready to explore Houston’s budget-friendly and exciting summer scene with our list of 50 kids summer activities, summer ideas for kids, cheap things to do in Houston for adults, teens, and so more!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our posts on Waterfalls in Texas, 20 Swimming Holes in Texas, 20 Best Road Trips from Houston, and Summer Camps in Houston!
Deal Alert – Astroville Underground Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned)
Did you know that Houston has the most extensive downtown tunnel system in the USA? Join the city’s famous (air-conditioned) Underground Tunnel tour with outdoor views for an in-depth look at the incredible metropolis below ground-floor in Texas’ largest business district including the most award-winning downtown skyscrapers which hosts many of Texas’ noteworthy Fortune 500 corporate headquarters & famous Miro sculpture.
Get more information and check out the Astroville Underground Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned) TODAY!!!
Top Picks For Free and Cheap Things To Do In Houston This Summer
1. See the City’s Best Attractions at a Discount with CityPASS
Image Credit: viator.com
Maximize your time in the spectacular city of Houston with an indispensable Houston Mobile Ticket. Your mobile ticket includes free admission to the Space Center Houston plus enjoy free entry to four additional attractions of your choice and choose from a variety including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Zoo, Kemah Boardwalk All-Day Ride Pass, the Children’s Museum of Houston, Downtown Aquarium, or the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Operating Hours: Multiple times available
Where: Multiple places included
How Much: $68
2. Explore Galveston Island with Free Summer Activities
What better way to spend a summer day (or the entire weekend!) than on beautiful Galveston Island? From exploring the island’s numerous beaches to enjoying delicious food and drinks at all the great restaurants and bars to visiting the area’s best museums and attractions, there are so many reasons to visit Galveston this summer!
Plus, they’re hosting a ton of free events all summer long, including free hands-on fun activities in Houston from the Galveston Children’s Museum on Stewart Beach every other Tuesday, sandcastle-building lessons on certain days, free fun at East End Lagoon Nature Preserve and Galveston Island State Park, self-guided tree sculpture tours, and more.
Operating Hours: Multiple times available
Where: Multiple places included
How Much: Most are FREE events
3. Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science on the Cheap
Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science to see the largest dinosaur hall in North America, check out the extensive collection of rare gems, and stop into your choice of permanent exhibits.
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 09:00 am – 04:00 pm | Thursday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm | Friday: 09:00 am – 04:00 pm
Where:5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
How Much: $13.75
4. Take a Day Trip or Weekend Trip
Sometimes, you just need to get away for a bit. Summer is the perfect time to hit the road for a day trip or weekend getaway with the whole family. The options are limitless for road trips from Houston. You can visit everything from beaches to swimming holes to waterfalls and more. Lots of these day trip options include safe destinations for having fun without the crowds. You could even rent an RV for your road trip. RVShare is a service that lets you rent an RV directly from owners so you can enjoy camping in comfort with your whole family without the expense of owning an RV.
Operating Hours: Multiple times available
Where: Multiple places included
How Much: Not stated
5. Catch a Movie at the Drive-In
Image Credit: The Showboat Drive-In FB Page
Did you know Houston now has multiple drive-in theaters? They offer a safe way to get out and see a movie without dealing with crowds. Catch a drive-in movie at the Showboat Drive-In or any of Houston’s new drive-in cinemas that have just opened this summer.
Operating Hours: Open Daily | 8:30 pm
Where: 22422 Farm to Market 2920, Hockley, TX 77447
How Much: $10
6. Check Out Free Museum Days
Don’t forget to check out our list of Free Museum Days and 10 Always-Free Museums in Houston. You can go every week! Most museums have limited capacity and may require advanced reservations right now, so plan ahead. Plan it right and you could spend all day immersed in arts and culture.
Operating Hours: Multiple times available
Where: Multiple places included
How Much: Not stated
7. Chugga Chugga Choo Choo to the Rosenberg Railroad Museum
This museum in Rosenberg offers tours for all ages. Learn everything about trains from the science, and safety to the history of the railroad.
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Friday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm | Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | Sunday 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: 1921 Avenue F, Rosenberg, TX 77471
How Much:
- $9 for adults
- $7 for senior citizens (55+), Military, and First Responders
- $6 for children ages 2 – 14
- Free for children under 2
8. Explore the Bayou City on two wheels
Renting a bike, riding it, and then docking it at one of the many docking stations scattered across the city is possible through BCycle, the bike-sharing program run by the City of Houston. Renting a BCycle is the ideal way to get around town without having to worry about parking or traffic, plus it’s a little better for the environment.
Operating Hours: Not stated
Where: Different locations within the Houston area
How Much: Houston Bike Share ridership fees have increased to $5 for single trips and $25 for monthly memberships. E-bike rates will increase to $7 for non-member single trips and $6 for member single trips.
9. Sign On to Family Nature Night
Image Credit: naturediscoverycenter.org
Come for a night of family fun at the Center complete with themed paper and food crafts, a brief guided nature walk in the park, and an engaging, interactive presentation by Head Naturalist Eric Duran with live animals and specimens.
When: Select Summer Wednesdays from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Jun 21 – Furry Friends
Jul 19 – Scaly & Slimy
Aug 9 – Creepy Crawlies
Where: 7112 Newcastle, Bellaire, TX 77401
How Much: $12 per person ages 3+ (including adults). All children above age 3 must be registered and must be accompanied by a paying adult attendee for these family events. All additional persons in your party must be registered/paid as well.
10. Visit the Jesse H. Jones Nature Center for Free Outdoor Fun
This beautiful preserve offers 312 acres of plants, wildlife, swamps, and more, and it’s open daily to visitors with absolutely no charge to visit. It’s a great place to go to experience nature and outdoor fun in a safe, socially distant environment.
Operating Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am – Dusk
Where: 20634 Kenswick Drive Humble, Texas 77338
How Much: FREE
11. Visit James Turrell Skyspace to witness a breathtaking sunset
Located adjacent to the Shepherd School of Music on the Rice University campus is the Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion, James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace. The Twilight Epiphany light sequence can be viewed every day at sunrise and sunset. The sunrise light sequence begins approximately 40 minutes before sunrise; we recommend you arrive an hour before sunrise. The Sunset light sequence begins about 10 minutes before sunset. Each sequence lasts approximately 40 minutes.
Operating Hours: Open daily | 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion, Houston, TX 77005
How Much: Paid visitor parking is available throughout the Rice University campus.
12. See the Bats Fly at the Waugh Bridge
Nestled among the lush green vegetation of Buffalo Bayou Park, Waugh Drive Bridge rests over Buffalo Bayou, less than two miles west of Downtown Houston. The bat flights are amazing, winding along the bayou or through the skyscrapers across downtown. An estimated 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats call the bridge home.
Operating Hours: Open year-round for viewing from the platform and sidewalk, although winter viewing can be spotty depending on weather/temperature. Boat tours are available from spring through fall only.
Where: Houston, TX 77019
How Much: Viewing is free from the platform, sidewalk, or bridge. Waugh Bat Colony Boat Tours require a reservation and fee. Call Buffalo Bayou Partnership for current information.
13. Explore the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Image Credit: houstonarboretum.org
The Arboretum has five miles of walking trails that wind through forest, meadow, and pond habitats. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including frogs, turtles, birds, and butterflies. The Arboretum also has a number of gardens, including a Japanese Garden, a Butterfly Garden, and a Native Plant Garden.
Where: 4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024
How Much: FREE Admission | Parking $5
14. Take a day trip to the Houston Zoo
Spend some time at the second-most popular zoo in the United States. It’s one of the best places for families to go in Houston, with over 6,000 animals, exhibits, and excellent programming to keep everyone entertained. Gorillas, zebras, and giraffes can be seen in the African woodland, as well as underwater species like seals.
Operating Hours: Open Daily 9:00 am – 5:00 pm last entry at 4:00 pm
Where: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
How Much: The ticket price starts at $25.45
15. Shop Our Local Farmers Markets
Houston has a number of excellent weekly farmers’ markets at locations all across the city. These outdoor markets let you shop a variety of foods and goods from local vendors, so you can support Houston businesses while also being outdoors and staying socially distant.
Operating Hours: Multiple times available
Where: Multiple places included
How Much: Not stated
Deal Alert – Haunted Houston Ghost and Pub Walking Tour – Starting at $33.06 for 2 Adults!
Explore the historic district of downtown Houston on a leisurely walking tour that combines a pub crawl with ghost stories recounted by your costumed guide. Your 2.5-hour evening walking tour visits four bars located in historic buildings that each boast spooky stories.
Have time to sip a drink (own expense) as your guide illuminates the history of Houston through tales of rumored hauntings and other spine-tingling tales. 2.5-hour Houston ghost and pub walking tour.
Get more information on the Haunted Houston Ghost and Pub Walking Tour and book yours TODAY!!!
16. Sip and take a food trip at POST Houston
The dining options at POST Houston are abundant and varied. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there is something to suit every palate. Visitors can enjoy a quick and satisfying meal at one of the trendy food stalls or food trucks located within the development. These offer a wide range of cuisines, from international street food to local favorites, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Thursday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where:401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201
How Much: Price varies depending on the shops you go to
17. Play at the Kemah Boardwalk
Image Credit: Kemah Boardwalk FB Page
The Kemah Boardwalk is now open for fun, and even the rides are back open to the public. Right now is a good time to visit for some outdoor fun near the water. They even have a special deal going on right now for a weekend pass to the Kemah Boardwalk, Downtown Aquarium, and Pleasure Pier for a single low price of $39.99.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Friday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
How Much: The ticket price starts at $20.99
18. Enjoy Craft Beers at Saint Arnold Brewing Company
Saint Arnold Brewing Company offers a wide range of craft beer products to its customers. As one of the oldest craft breweries in Texas, they are known for their commitment to quality and traditional brewing methods.
Operating Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Kitchen Closes at 9:00 pm - Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Kitchen Closes at 10:00 pm
Where: 2000 Lyons Ave, Houston, TX 77020
How Much: Varies on beers and other food products
19. Go Down Below to Tour the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
The Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern is a former drinking water reservoir built in 1926 for the City of Houston. BBP restored and repurposed the 87,500-square-foot Cistern into a magnificent public space for tours, performances, and art installations.
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Where: 105b Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: Tickets for the Cistern History Tours costs $10 / $8 for military, youth (ages 9-17), college students, and seniors (65+)
20. Make New Friends on a Social Group Bike Ride
Join a social group’s bike ride, like Karbach’s Brews Cruise, Critical Mass, SW HTX Bike Club, and others that take place on a weekly or monthly basis. Visit BikeHouston.org for a schedule of weekly and monthly rides in the area.
Operating Hours: Depending on the Biking event dates
Where: Different locations in Houston
How Much: FREE
21. Enjoy viewing or touring the Beer Can House
Image Credit: The Orange Show Beer Can House FB Page
The Beer Can House, dubbed Houston’s most unusual residence, is entirely made of flattened beer cans. The house’s one-of-a-kind exterior was built by John Milkovisch and his wife Mary Idis (Hite) Milkovisch starting in 1968. It is situated in the Rice Military district. Ripley claims that it is constructed from more than 50,000 beer cans. You may observe the eccentric home from the street as a fantastic free Houston activity or pay a small fee to take a weekend tour to see the inside.
Operating Hours: Open for viewing daily | Tours Saturdays & Sundays, every 30 minutes from 1 pm – 5 pm
Where: 222 Malone Street, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: Admission is $5 and can be purchased in advance. Children under 12 are FREE.
22. Create endless moments with your Family or Friends at Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
In the heart of the city, Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is one of Houston’s most beloved, iconic landmarks and community centerpieces for visitors of all ages.
To stand in the Waterwall’s mist and be enveloped by the gentle roar of cascading water is one of the city’s most memorable experiences. Walking along the lush canopy of towering live oak trees while in the core of one of the largest business districts in the nation, is inspiring.
Operating Hours: Open daily 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056
How Much: FREE
23. Explore Houston’s Memorial Park
It is simple to explore Memorial Park on two wheels or two feet thanks to the more than 30 miles of paths that crisscross the largest urban park in Houston and one of the largest in the country. But there is much more to do than just go hiking and bicycling. For instance, the formerly inaccessible Clay Family Eastern Glades now has paths, boardwalks, Hines Lake, wetlands, pavilions, and picnic sites.
Operating Hours: 5:00 am – 11:00 pm, 365 days a year.
Where: 6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: FREE
24. Go and see a FREE Show at Miller Outdoor Theatre
Miller Outdoor Theater offers a variety of distinctive entertainment alternatives, from symphony and ballet performances to internationally renowned superstars, and is home to the most comprehensive “always free” program in the United States. Catching a free show with the family while enjoying a picnic or relaxing under the covered pavilion on the hillside is one of the best free things to do in Houston with kids.
Operating Hours: Depending on Events or Live performances
Where: 6000 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
How Much: FREE
25. Appreciate Art at The Silos at Sawyer Yards
Image Credit: Sawyer Yards FB Page
Sawyer Yards is a creative community thriving in the heart of Houston’s historic First Ward and Arts District Houston. Punctuated by craft breweries, unique fitness concepts, fine dining, and entertainment venues, this exceptional creative hub boasts an active schedule of public events, monthly markets, and fine art exhibitions.
Operating Hours: See Art from Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: 1502 Sawyer St, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: FREE
26. Enjoy the rides at Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier
Featuring waterfront fun and entertainment like no other Gulf Coast destination,
the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier features family-oriented attractions including rides,
midway games, a wide selection of food venues, and retail shops.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Where: 2501 Seawall Blvd., Galveston Island, TX 77550
How Much: The price starts at $22.99
27. Go strolling in McGovern Centennial Gardens
To commemorate Hermann Park’s centennial in 2014, Hermann Park Conservancy transformed the former Houston Garden Center site into the eight-acre McGovern Centennial Gardens. The Gardens were custom-made for Hermann Park and add a new dimension to Houston’s garden attractions.
Visitors can explore a variety of themed garden rooms arranged situated along a spacious central lawn, the Centennial Green, and are home to more than 490 new trees of over 50 species, 760 hedge shrubs, 55,000 perennial bulbs, 650 azaleas and 4.5 acres of grass.
Operating Hours: Open Daily from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm, with last entry at 6:45 pm
Where: 1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004
How Much: Not stated
28. Beat the Heat through Ice Skating at the Galleria
Image Credit: Ice at the Galleria FB Page
Ice at the Galleria is a stunning year-round indoor ice rink located at the Houston Galleria in the Center Food Court. While skating if you look up you can see the fabulous views of the Galleria’s multi-levels above.
Operating Hours: Due to unforeseen circumstances, we will need to push our re-open date to July 10, 2023.
Where: 5015 Westheimer Rd # 1260, Houston, TX 77056
How Much: General Admission starts at $15.50
29. Cheer on your favorite Astros at Minute Maid Park
A jewel in the crown of the majestic downtown Houston skyline, Minute Maid Park has become a welcome home for the Houston Astros and has ushered in a new era of Major League sports in the city.
Operating Hours: Depends on the game or events
Where: 501 Crawford St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: The ticket price starts at $39
30. Have a staycation at The Woodlands Resort
A fantastic family destination close to Houston, The Woodlands Resort offers opulent amenities for everyone, including a championship golf course, 200 miles of hiking and bike trails, a water park, and a lazy river. The resort, which is located north of Houston, is a great destination for a staycation or to simply spend the day there with a day pass.
Where: 2301 N Millbend Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
How Much: The price starts at $278 for 1 King Bed accommodation
Deal Alert – Houston City Sightseeing Tour + Museum of Natural Science option
A good choice for first-time visitors to Houston, this tour offers a comprehensive overview of the city. Visit several well-known landmarks, parks, and stadiums including historic Market Square, Discovery Green, Toyota Center, Minute Maid Park, Buffalo Bayou, and more. You’ll also have an opportunity to admire the lavish homes and boutiques in River Oaks. A local guide shares insider information about what to see, where to eat, and what to do while you’re in town.
Get more information and check out the Houston City Sightseeing Tour + Museum of Natural Science option TODAY!!!
31. Discover the plants from around the world at the Houston Botanic Garden
At the Houston Botanic Garden, there is something to discover down every winding path. You can engage all of your senses. See the diverse color and beauty of plants from around the world in their Global Collection Garden.
Operating Hours: Open Daily 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Where: 1 Botanic Lane, Houston, TX 77017
How Much: The ticket starts at $15
32. Visit the enormous Sam Houston Monument
Image Credit: Visit Huntsville, TX FB Page
A visit to the world’s tallest statue of an American hero offers a great perspective of Huntsville. A tribute to courage, the Sam Houston Statue was designed and constructed by artist David Adickes. He dedicated the statue to the City of Huntsville on October 22, 1994. It is the world’s tallest statue of an American Hero at 67 feet tall on a 10-foot sunset granite base.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Sunday 11: am – 5:00 pm
Where: 7600 TX-75, Huntsville, TX 77340
How Much:
33. Go stargazing at George Observatory
Get back to exploring the galaxy! The Houston Museum of Natural Science is investing in the educational and recreational future of Fort Bend County with a revamped experience at the historic George Observatory, working in collaboration with their friends at Brazos Bend State Park.
Operating Hours: Open Saturday Nights Year Round
Where: 21901 FM 762 Rd, Damon, TX 77430
How Much: Adults $7 | Children 12 and under free
34. Go watch and skate at Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark
In one of Texas’ largest skate parks, let your inner skater loose. The world-class skatepark, which is situated in Eleanor Tinsley Park and had a $2 million refurbishment in 2017, has places for skaters of all skill levels, including one of the biggest cradles in the United States.
Operating Hours: Open Daily 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 103 Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: FREE
35. Shop until you drop at The Galleria
With everything from high-end retailers to posh boutiques, antique discoveries, and a thriving thrifting scene, Houston is a top shopping destination for a reason. For traditional mall stores and cutting-edge fashion, visit The Galleria.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm | Sunday 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Where: 5085 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056
How Much: Price varies depending on the shop
36. Spend some quality time at Hermann Park
Image Credit: Hermann Park Conservancy FB Page
Hermann Park is one of Houston’s biggest parks, with close to 500 acres. One of Houston’s oldest golf courses, a trail for running, the well-known reflection pool, Sam Houston statues on either side and much more can be found in this internationally renowned park.
The park includes family tours on the Hermann Park Railroad and pedal boats on McGovern Lake, two extremely well-liked Houston attractions for summer fun for kids, in addition to strolls and bike rides.
Operating Hours: Open daily 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Where: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
How Much: FREE
37. Discover the universe at Space Center Houston
Touch a moon rock, get a behind-the-scenes tour of NASA and mission control, try on a spacesuit, or take the famed tram ride around the Space Center campus. Plan to spend an entire day at this fun family attraction near Houston because there is much to explore. To channel your inner astronaut, try a few bites of freeze-dried space cuisine if you’re feeling very daring.
Operating Hours: Open daily 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Where: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
How Much: The price starts at $44.95
38. Relive your childhood memories at Houston Funplex
The Houston Funplex brings Houstonians an experience of unlimited activities that appeal to the imaginations and spirits of all ages. Over two hundred games, summer kids activities, and attractions await you, including a Ferris wheel, bowling center, skating, trampolines, go-karts, a Texas-sized two-story PlayPort for kids, arcades, virtual reality games, rides, and a sports bar all under one roof.
Operating Hours: Open daily 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Where: 13700 Beechnut St, Houston, TX 77083
How Much: The ticket price starts at $19.99
39. Go healthy living at the Houston Farmers Market
As the City’s oldest and largest farmer’s market, the 18-acre market on Airline Drive is a can’t-miss Houston destination. Get ready to shop, cook, and dine like a local at the Houston Farmers Market, now open.
Operating Hours: Open daily 6:00 am – 7:30 pm
Where: 2520 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009
How Much: FREE
40. Release your artistic side at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Image Credit: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston FB Page
Discover the captivating world of art at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, where masterpieces from around the globe and across centuries await. Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of artistic expression, from ancient civilizations to contemporary works, as you explore one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the United States.
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday CLOSED | Wednesday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm | Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 6:00 pm | Sunday 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Where: 1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
How Much:
- MFAH Member (Join now!) – Free
- Adult General Admission (19+) – $19
- Senior General Admission (65+ with ID) – $16
- College Student General Admission (19+ with ID) – $12
- Youth General Admission (13–18) – $12
- Child General Admission (12 & younger) – Free
- Military General Admission (with ID)* – Free
Deal Alert – Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide
Ideal for first-time visitors interested in an efficient orientation, this small-group tour provides easy first-hand views of Houston’s top architecture, historical landmarks, green spaces, and sporting venues. Hop on your shared shuttle and explore downtown, the Museum District, the “graffiti art” district, the original Astrodome, and more in just a few hours of sightseeing.
Get more information and check out the Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide TODAY!!!
41. Get your daily dose of Vitamin D at Discovery Green
Discovery Green is a 12-acre village green at the heart of downtown Houston where you’ll find space to relax, explore, and learn. With two restaurants, a water park for kids, a 1-acre lake open kayaking, dog runs, an amphitheater, an event lawn and so much more.
Operating Hours: Open daily 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Where: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: Admission is always free.
42. Smell the fresh scent of flowers at Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens
Bayou Bend is the MFAH house museum for American decorative arts and paintings. Displayed in the former home of Houston civic leader and philanthropist Ima Hogg (1882–1975), the collection is one of the finest showcases of American furnishings, silver, ceramics, and paintings in the world. The house is situated on 14 acres of organically maintained gardens in Houston’s historic River Oaks neighborhood.
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Sunday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Where: 6003 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: Gardens Only:
- $7.50 | Adults
- $6 | Seniors (65+ with ID)
- $6 | Students (with ID)
- $5 | Youth (ages 13–18)
- Free | Children (ages 12 & younger)
43. Have fun at the Children’s Museum Houston
America’s #1 Children’s Museum is open. Get ready to visit Houston’s only museum designed exclusively for children! The Museum features exhibits that will excite, engage and inspire your kids in a whole new way.
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday except Thursday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm | Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Sunday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Where: 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004
How Much:
- Children Under 1 – Free
- Adults and Children (Ages 1+) – $17
- Senior Citizens (Age 65+) – $15
- Members of the Military with Active ID – $15
- SECRET Spy Game – $7
44. Go fishing or enjoy some water activities at Lake Conroe
Image Credit: Visit Conroe, Texas FB Page
Lake Conroe is a 22,000-acre lake with a total of 157 miles of shoreline. Lake Conroe is the perfect spot for rest and relaxation or an exciting adventure. Enjoy fishing, boating, and other water sports. Don’t have a boat? Don’t worry, Lake Conroe has a variety of guides and boat rental options. Make sure to end the night at one of the lakeside dining restaurants.
Operating Hours: Varies on Accommodation and Activities
Where: Lake Conroe, Texas
How Much: Varies on Accommodation and Activities
45. Visit the Downtown Aquarium and embark on an underwater journey
Downtown Aquarium is the product of redeveloping two downtown Houston landmarks – Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks Building. This magnificent six-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland, home to over 300 species of aquatic life from around the globe. With a full-service restaurant, an upscale bar, a fully equipped ballroom, aquatic & geographic exhibits, shopping, and a variety of amusements, Downtown Aquarium has it all!
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much:
- Adults – $16.99
- Seniors (65+) – $14.99
- Children (under 42″) – $14.99
- Children (2 & under) – FREE
46. Visit the Market Square Park
Market Square Park is one square block, bounded by Milam, Preston, Travis, and Congress. Blankets, lawn chairs, food, and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome anytime, including park events. Alcohol is not allowed to be brought into the park; beer and wine are sold at Niko Niko’s.
Operating Hours: Open daily 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Where: 301 Milam St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: FREE and open to public
47. Have fun with your fur baby or babies at Millie Bush Dog Park
Unleash the joy of outdoor adventure for your furry friend at the Millie Bush Dog Park. With sprawling green fields, shaded trails, and separate areas for large and small dogs, this spacious and well-maintained park provides the perfect setting for dogs to socialize, exercise, and play to their heart’s content.
Operating Hours: Open daily 7:00 am – 7:30 pm
Where: 16101 Westheimer Pkwy, Houston, TX 77082
How Much: FREE
48. Have an exciting water adventure at Typhoon Texas
Image Credit: typhoontexas.com
Dive into a world of thrilling aquatic fun at Typhoon Texas Houston, the ultimate destination for water park enthusiasts. Experience the rush of towering water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas, all designed to provide endless entertainment and refreshing excitement for visitors of all ages.
Operating Hours: Date and timing vary click here to know more
Where: 555 Katy Fort Bend Rd, Katy, TX 77494
How Much:
- General Admission (Online) — $44.99
- General Admission (Gate Only) — $54.99
- Under 48″ (Gate Only) — $34.99
- Military, Seniors 65+ (Gate Only) — $34.99
49. Catch the gators at Brazos Bend State Park
Looking for a “wild” experience? You will find it at Brazos Bend State Park, just 45 miles from downtown Houston! Besides marveling at nature, you can also hike and bike, fish, picnic, geocache, ride your horse, and stay overnight. Reserve one of our picnic pavilions or our group hall for your next group gathering. Pay due respect to alligators, which are common in some areas of the park.
Operating Hours: Open daily 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 21901 Farm to Market Rd 762, Needville, TX 77461
How Much: 13 Years and Older: $7 Per Person
50. Take a cruise around the Port of Houston with Sam Houston Boat Tour
The M/V Sam Houston has been operating as Port Houston’s public tour vessel since its inaugural voyage on July 30, 1958. This free service offers a leisurely, 90-minute round-trip, educational tour along the Houston Ship Channel. Individuals and groups are invited aboard to learn more about the port and maritime industry.
Operating Hours: Make a reservation in advance and check the schedule here
Where: 7300 Clinton Dr, Houston, TX 77020
How Much: FREE
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ARE THESE THINGS THAT SENIOR CITIZENS CAN PARTICIPATE IN TOO? WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR INEXPENSIVE THINGS TO DO WITH OUR RED HAT SOCIETY CHAPTER – THE RED HAT TEXAS TRAVELERS CHAPTER OF HOUSTON, TEXAS
QUEEN SUSIE SCOTT GOUGH