Free Things to do in Houston | Image Credit: East End Houston
Save your cash and still see the best of Houston with these local events and activities! Whether you’re looking for ways to relax, learn new skills, or have fun with family and friends, there are plenty of fun things to do in Houston for free — from taking a nature walk to exploring local museums and attending community events, there’s no shortage of options to keep you entertained.
So, if you find yourself searching for “free things to do in downtown Houston,” “free things to do in Houston this weekend,” or “free things to do in Houston today,” we have you covered!
Here are 25 awesome free things to do in Houston so you won’t have to spend a dime yet still have a great time!
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 articles on Things to do in El Paso, Texas, 20 Things to do in Lake Conroe near Houston, 20 Things to do in Kemah, Texas, and 12 Things to do in Pearland, TX.
Deal Alert – Houston CityPASS
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, home to more than 60,000 artworks, or the Houston Zoo, Kemah Boardwalk All-Day Ride Pass, the Children’s Museum of Houston, Downtown Aquarium, or the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Get more information and check out the Houston CityPASS TODAY!!!
Free things to do in Houston – Fun things to do in Houston Texas
1. HOUSTON’S BEST PARKS
Image Credit: Discovery Green FB Page
With Houston’s weather, we can spend most of the year outside! Go early in the summer for great hiking and biking trails and some of the coolest playgrounds you’ve ever seen, without ever leaving the outer loop! Discovery Green, Levy Park, Evelyn’s Conservancy, and Midtown Park host free outdoor movies, children’s activities, live music, and other free activities on the regular. Check out our guide to the best parks in Houston for more info.
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
2. H-TOWN ARTS: East End Murals
Image Credit: East End Houston
Houston’s art scene is as unique and diverse as the city itself. Murals in the city are ever-changing which means you must tour regularly to see them all. There are plenty of maps and guides to Houston murals to help you find them. Pack a picnic and bring your camera!
Where: 3211 Harrisburg Blvd. Houston, TX 77003
Operating Hours: Always open
3. ALWAYS FREE MUSEUMS
image Credit: Houston Museum of Natural Science FB Page
Unbelievably, there are first-class museums in Houston which are always free! The Menil Collection, The Rothko Chapel, The Contemporary Arts Museum, The Art Car Museum, Blaffer Art Museum, and just a few of the great free museums in Houston. Don’t forget to visit more of Houston’s best museums on Free Thursdays!
Where: Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
4. STAY FIT
Image Credit: Levy Park FB Page
There are plenty of ways to get a free workout in Houston. You can visit the local parks for free fitness classes open to the public or stop by your local community center to see their calendar. Check in at a local Houston gym or studio to get your first class free! Most gyms offer guests a free trial period before you join, just go “gym-shopping” until you find one worth paying for! Note that many gyms now require advance reservations when visiting.
Where: Levy Park, 3801 Eastside Street Houston, TX 77098
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
5. CATCH A LIVE SHOW
Image Credit: Market Square Park FB Page
Even if you can’t save for a touring legend, there are plenty of local musicians who perform across Houston’s restaurants, bars, parks, and other venues. Batanga, Sambuca, Birraporettis, Niko Niko’s at Market Square Park, Baker Street Pub, Last Concert Cafe, and many more have live music on weekends.
House of Blues also regularly hosts free concerts with just as online RSVP required to get your tickets. Keep it cheap and go for appetizers!
Where: Market Square Park, 301 Milam St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Deal Alert – Get the lowest price on the highly rated Small Group Sightseeing Tour of Houston
Discover the best that Houston, Texas has to offer on a small–group sightseeing tour of the city’s key landmarks. Drive through the streets and pass by Discovery Green, the Museum of Fine Arts, McGovern Centennial Gardens, and more in a few hours. While you drive, listen to the history and legends that formed the city from your guide, with plenty of time to ask questions and stop for photos.
Get more details and book your Small Group Tour of Houston TODAY!!!
Free things to do in Houston TX – Free stuff to do in Houston
6. HIT UP THE MALL
Image Credit: centralgreenpark.com
Malls have changed since the 90s- they know we want more than boring chain stores and a sub-par food court. City Centre and Memorial City have inviting outdoor spaces where you can find indoor playgrounds, live music, storytimes, free movie screenings, live sportscasts, workouts, and more. Head out to La Centerra’s Central Green in Katy, Sugar Land’s Town Square, The Galleria, and more.
Where: Central Green Park, 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77494, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
7. THE RED BUTTON AT BUFFALO BAYOU
Image Credit: Buffalo Bayou Water Works FB Page
One of Houston’s best-kept secrets isn’t a secret at all. Burp the Buffalo Bayou on the Preston Street Bridge. This is a great activity for kids or someone new to Houston- just don’t hype it up too much! If it’s not in service at that time, or you’re ready to move on, head over to Buffalo Bayou Water Works.
Where: Buffalo Bayou Water Works, 105 Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Image Credit: Miller Outdoor Theatre FB Page
Shows at the Miller Outdoor Theatre are always free! If you want covered seating, you’ll have to reserve your free tickets at the box office on the morning of the performance. Otherwise, you can always sit on the lawn for free! Bring your own picnics and blankets, just leave the booze and glass at home.
Among our top choices for Free things to do in Houston for couples!!!
Where: 6000 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States
9. THE PARK OF THE ARTISTS
Image Credit: Smither Park FB Page
Smither Park is one of the most unique places in Houston- and on earth! Local artists and artisans install new pieces to the mosaic on a regular basis. Visit early on a Saturday morning to see the artists at work.
Where: Smither Park, 2441 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Check out our article on the Best Parks in the Houston area!!!
10. UNIVERSITY TOURS
Image Credit: University of St. Thomas FB Page
Visit the Admissions Center of any local university for a free, walking tour of the grounds! Rice University, Saint Thomas, and the University of Houston all have beautiful, sprawling campuses with art, fountains, and more.
Where: University of St. Thomas, 3800 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm | Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Deal Alert – Space Center Houston Admission Ticket
The award-winning Space Center Houston is one of Houston’s most popular family attractions and takes visitors behind the scenes of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Filled with interactive exhibitions, multi-media displays, cutting-edge technology, and fascinating space artifacts, there’s something to amaze and entertain all ages.
Get more information and check out the Space Center Houston Admission Ticket TODAY!!!
Free things to do in Houston – Free places to go in Houston
11. LEE & JOE JAMAIL SKATEPARK
Image Credit: Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark FB Page
Located at Eleanor Tinsley Park, this skating mecca is open to the public. Bring your skateboard or just watch the athletes. Admission is free but you’ll want to mind the rules and skating safety.
Where: 103 Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
12. THE DOWNTOWN TUNNELS
The tunnels of Downtown Houston are an ever-improving maze meant to get you from one side of downtown to the other. Admission is free but they are only open on weekdays during business hours. You’ll find restaurants, shops, and more. Check out our full guide to the Downtown Houston Tunnels.
Among our top choices for free things to do in Houston at night!
Where: 909 Fannin St #1650, Houston, TX 77010
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday CLOSED
13. THE HOUSTON ARBORETUM
The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center has winding paths through native plants, clusters of trees, outlook points, and more. There’s even a mural! Admission is always free! They have a free nature hike on Saturdays and paid classes for all ages!
Where: 4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 7:30 pm
14. THE WATER WALL
Image Credit: uptown-houston.com
In the Galleria-area, the Gerald D. Hines Water Wall is a jaw-dropping structure you’ll never tire of visiting. Check out all you need to know before you go and pack a picnic!
Where: Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
You may also want to check out our post on The 10 Best Waterfalls in and near Houston!
15. FARMERS MARKETS
Image Credit: Rice University Farmers Market FB Page
You can support local Houston artists and entrepreneurs by shopping at local farmers markets. Check out the Heights Morning Market, Westchase District Market, Memorial Villages, Grand Parkway Farmers Market, East End Market, and more. Check out our guide here!
Where: Rice University Farmers Market,
Operating Hours: Tuesday: 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Remember to check out our post – 34 Farmers Markets in Houston Near Me!
Deal Alert – Check out the Latest Deals on Kids’ Activities in Houston
Check out current discounts at highly rated kids’ activities including museums, horse-riding lessons, indoor climbing, gymnastics, paintball and more! Sometimes you can save as much as 75%, so make sure you check these deals on a regular basis and SAVE BIG while taking care of yourself!
Participating businesses include the Children’s Museum of Houston, Bowlero, Moonstruck Drive-In, multiple paintball locations, and many more!
Get more information and check out the Latest Deals on Kids’ Activities in Houston!
Free things to do in Houston – Free places to go in Houston
16. PROJECT ROW HOUSES
Image credit: Project Row Houses FB Page
This collection of restored houses in the Third Ward offers a glimpse of the history of Houston’s oldest neighborhoods. They have frequent art installations, live performances, tours, and more. Admission is free.
Where: 2521 Holman St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
17. WAUGH BRIDGE BAT COLONY
Image Credit: Waugh Drive Bat Colony FB Page
The bat colony under Waugh Street Bridge is one of the largest in the nation. Park nearby and walk to the bridge- there is a market and plenty of room to have a seat. Keep little ones away from the bridge- there are droppings nearby and the bats tend to come out irregularly. Around sunset, you’ll see the bats emerge slowly.
Where: Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
18. THE MOODY CENTER OF THE ARTS
Image Credit: moody.rice.edu
Located on Rice University campus, this installation for the arts is open to the public every day. Exhibition spaces have free admission, some events may be ticketed. They’re open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Where: 6100 Main Street, MS-480, Houston, TX 77005, 6100 Main MS-550, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
19. TWILIGHT EPIPHANY
Image Credit: moody.rice.edu
The James Turrell Skyspace, Twilight Epiphany, is an art installation playing with light. See how the sculpture grabs and focuses the light every day at sun up and sundown.
Where: Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
20. GET ZEN
Image Credit: baps.org
Houston has many beautiful churches and temples, many of which are open to the public. For something truly breathtaking, visit the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Stafford. The marble-white walls and peaks are magical. They offer free admission to the public and a vegetarian canteen- just heed the rules and respect their sacred space.
Where: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, 1150 Brand Ln, Stafford, TX 77477, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Deal Alert – Private Houston Mural Instagram Tour
Explore Houston’s colorful side and get a collection of Insta-worthy photos along the way. Pose in front of downtown’s most vibrant street art, including hidden murals that even most locals don’t know about. Cover lots of ground in an open-sided electric cart, and get personalized attention and tips from your street-savvy guide on this private tour. Update your profile pic with snaps in front of Houston’s best street murals Learn about the history and culture behind the city’s colorful street art scene Cruise around downtown’s Market Square in an eco-friendly electric cart Personalized tour is private or semi-private, with group size limited to five
Get more information and book your Private Instagram Tour today!!!
Free things to do in Houston
21. FREE WALKING TOURS
Image Credit: joyrideus.com
There are several free walking tours throughout Houston, most of which are self-guided. Join the Houston Downtown Introduction Walk, Religious Walking Tour, Art Walking Tour, and more. Find more tours here.
Where: 800 Preston Street, Houston, TX 77002
22. HERITAGE SOCIETY
Image Credit: The Heritage Society FB Page
The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park offers beautiful gardens, historic homes and collections, and more. Admission to the gardens and grounds is always free but some events and activities may be ticketed.
Where: 1100 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
23. ARMAND BAYOU
Free things to do in Houston | Image credit: Armand Bayou FB Page
The paddling trail here can be easily accessed from the Bay Area Park. You’ll want to go with someone who is experienced as there can be dangers {and alligators!}.
Where:
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
24. BREWERIES
Image Credit: Axelrad FB Page
Houston has a bustling craft brew scene with breweries popping up all over. We also have some awesome beer halls and biergartens. Visit Saint Arnold, Axelrad, No Label Brewing, Karbach, Brash Brewing, Klaus, and more. There’s rarely a cover, often live music, and some places will give you free tours!
Where: Axelrad Beer Garden, 1517 Alabama St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 2:00 pm – 12:00 am | Friday and Saturday: 12:00 pm – 2:00 am | Sunday: 12:00 pm – 13:00 am
Also, remember to check out our post on the Top 10 Breweries in the Houston area!
25. THE KEMAH BOARDWALK
Free things to do in Houston | Image Credit: Kemah Boardwalk FB Page
One of the best attractions in Houston has free admission, every day of the year! Head out to Kemah for an old-school boardwalk with rides, restaurants, games, prizes, and more! Entry is free, to ride and play games requires tickets. They have frequent events including live music and dancing. Or, you can simply watch the boats around the marina!
Where: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565, United States
Operating Hours: Monday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Tuesday – Thursday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Friday and Sunday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Saturday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Do you know of other free things to do in Houston today with family, kids, friends, and even if you want some cheap, quality time on your own? Share them below so everyone can enjoy them too!
Stay on top of all the fun events and activities in Houston with our weekly updates to Things to do in Houston this Week, Things to do in Houston this Weekend, Things to do in Houston with Kids this Weekend and Things to do in Galveston this Weekend
And to get these updates directly delivered to your feed, give us a follow on Facebook by clicking on the …next to the search lens icon
