- February 18, 2022

5 FREE Things To Do in Houston

Just a few hours drive southeast of Austin is the hectic Texas city of Houston. Whether you are just visiting for the day or staying the whole week, we found five FREE things the whole family will love to do! 

Here are our favorite 5 FREE things to do in Houston!

1. Market Square Park

Surround yourself with 1800s era architecture right in downtown Houston at the Market Square Park (301 Milam Street, Houston). Grab a book and relax under the abundance of trees or bring along the pup and enjoy two dog runs.  With cafes lining the surrounding streets, it quickly turns into a hotspot when the sun goes down.

Photo by @MarketSquareHou on Instagram

2. Discovery Green

Discovery Green (1500 McKinney Street, Houston) always has something going on.  Currently, there is an immersive experience exhibit called Mosaic of Light by HYBYCOZO.  It’s not hard to miss after sunset, with the lights illuminating the pathways of the Brown Promenade.  You can find all of the upcoming events at Discovery Green here.

Photo by @DiscoveryGreen on Instagram

3. Moody Center for the Arts

Located on Rice University campus (6100 Main Street, Houston), this FREE museum is perfect to explore on rainy days or when you need to beat that Houston heat.  From exhibits that showcase the history of the visual arts to rotating installations, every time you explore the Moody Center for the Arts you’ll see something new.  Check out what’s currently on display here.

4. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

One of Houston’s most beloved landmarks, the waterwall in Uptown (2800 Post Oak Boulevard, Houston) is a must stop photo op! Listen to the gentle roar of the waterwall as tranquility overcomes you in this beautiful urban setting. Pro Tip: We love packing a picnic and sitting in the live oak tree lined park with the waterwall as our view. It’s definitely a must see.  

Photo by Nicolette Estrada

5. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

155 acres of urban green space make this area an absolute treasure in the Houston community.  For those that love to be outdoors, toss on your walking sneakers, or grab a bike and hit the trails for a day of fun in the sun at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center (4501 Woodway Drive, Houston). 

Photo by @HoustonArboretum on Instagram

Looking for more FREE things to do in Texas?
Check out these guides: