10 Places To Visit When You Move to Houston

When you decide to move to Houston, getting to know the city and all it offers is important. One of the best ways to do that is by exploring the various places to visit. Houston has something for everyone with its rich culture, diverse attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. You'll find plenty of options, whether you're into history, art, nature, or food.

One of the top places to visit when you move to Houston is the Space Center Houston. Learning about NASA's space missions and exploring interactive exhibits is a must-see destination. If you're a history lover, you won't want to miss out on the opportunity to visit the Houston Museum District. With its numerous museums and galleries, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, there's plenty to see and learn about.

This article will introduce you to the ten must-see places to visit when you move to Houston.

Key Takeaways

Whether relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, settling into a new place involves exploring and getting to know your surroundings.

The following are the ten places to visit when moving to Houston.

1. Space Center Houston

One of the most important places to visit when moving to Houston is Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center. Visitors to Space Center Houston can explore interactive exhibits, see actual spacecraft, and learn about space exploration's past, present, and future. One of the center's highlights is the tram tour, which takes guests behind the scenes of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where astronauts train for space missions. The center also features a variety of hands-on activities and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

2. Houston Museum District

Home over 19 world-class institutions showcasing art, history, science, and more. With a diverse range of museums, galleries, and cultural centers, the district offers something for everyone to explore and enjoy. From the Museum of Fine Arts to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, visitors can explore exhibits and collections that educate, inspire, and entertain.

3. The Galleria

One of the largest shopping centers in the country with over 400 retailers, including luxury boutiques, department stores, and specialty shops, it offers a diverse shopping experience. For shopping lovers, it is the best place to visit when moving to Houston. Additionally, The Galleria features a wide selection of options, from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries. Beyond shopping and dining, visitors can enjoy entertainment amenities such as a full-sized ice skating rink and various events and performances hosted throughout the year.

4. Houston Zoo

Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals representing more than 900 species from around the globe. Families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts can explore exhibits such as the African Forest, Asian Elephant Habitat, and the Kipp Aquarium. With engaging educational programs and conservation initiatives, the Houston Zoo is the most attractive place to visit when moving to Houston, especially for families with children, providing visitors with a fun and informative experience.

5. The Menil Collection

Art lovers won't want to miss a visit to The Menil Collection, a museum dedicated to showcasing the private art collection of philanthropists John and Dominique de Menil, with over 17,000 works spanning various periods and cultures, including pieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko, The Menil Collection offers a truly immersive art experience.

6. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a world-renowned annual event at NRG Stadium. It is a must-see place to visit, showcasing the best of Texas culture and entertainment. This event combines traditional rodeo competitions with various attractions, including livestock shows, carnival rides, and live music performances. Visitors can experience thrilling rodeo events such as bull riding, barrel racing, calf roping, and livestock showcases featuring award-winning animals across the state.

7. Buffalo Bayou Park

This 160-acre park offers a scenic escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With miles of trails for walking, jogging, and biking, as well as kayak and paddleboard rentals, Buffalo Bayou Park is the perfect place to visit to get active and enjoy views of the Houston skyline. The park also features recreational amenities such as picnic areas, dog parks, and playgrounds, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

8. Discovery Green

Another urban oasis not to be missed is Discovery Green. This vibrant park in downtown Houston hosts various events and activities throughout the year, from concerts and festivals to fitness classes and art installations. Discovery Green is the best place to visit, whether skating on the ice rink in winter or enjoying a movie under the stars in summer.

9. Minute Maid Park

Home to the Houston Astros Major League Baseball team, it is a state-of-the-art sports venue located in downtown Houston. Formerly known as Enron Field, the stadium features a retractable roof, allowing games to be played rain or shine. For baseball lovers, it's on top of the list of places to visit when moving to Houston. In addition to baseball games, Minute Maid Park hosts various events, including concerts, corporate functions, and community gatherings.

10. Houston Theater District

Renowned for its world-class performing arts venues and entertainment options. The district is home to famous theaters, opera houses, concert halls, and art galleries, Spanning 17 city blocks. Visitors can enjoy Broadway shows, ballet performances, symphony concerts, opera productions, and more, showcasing the talents of local and international artists. Some of the district's notable venues include the Wortham Theater Center, the Alley Theatre, the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, and Jones Hall for the Performing Arts.

Conclusion

When you move to Houston, these places to visit highlight the city's rich culture. Houston has it all, whether you're interested in space exploration, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying good food and shopping. By visiting these ten places, from Space Center to Houston Theater District, you'll get a taste of everything the city offers and start feeling right at home in your new surroundings. Welcome to Houston!

FAQs

1. Are there any transportation options available to access these places, especially for newcomers to Houston?

Yes, Houston offers various transportation options. You can use the METRO bus and rail system, which covers many parts of the city, or consider rideshare services like Uber and Lyft for convenience. Biking and walking are also famous in neighborhoods with dedicated paths and sidewalks.

2. Is there a particular time of year for these places to visit after moving to Houston?

While Houston's attractions are enjoyable year-round, it's worth considering the weather. The fall and spring months offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, while summer can be hot and humid. Winter is mild, making it a great time to explore without worrying about extreme weather.

3. Can you recommend wheelchair-accessible places to visit in Houston for newcomers with mobility challenges?

Absolutely! Many of Houston's attractions are wheelchair accessible, including the Houston Zoo, which offers accessible pathways and accommodations for guests with disabilities, and the Downtown Aquarium, featuring elevators and ramps for easy navigation. Additionally, parks like Hermann Park and Discovery Green have accessible trails and facilities for all visitors.