Top 5 Attractions in Houston, Texas

Welcome to the concrete jungle! As the fourth largest city in the United States, this metropolis can feel overwhelming. The summer humidity is intense and the traffic is CRAZY. Disclaimer over!

While I lived in Galveston, I made an effort to explore Houston a handful of times. The museum district, sporting events, and spacious parks were some of the highlights. Here is a list of my favorite attractions in Houston to help with your visit.

#1 NASA Space Center

A trip to Houston isn't complete without a day exploring this one of a kind science museum. This center has NASA memorabilia, rovers, tram tours, and immersive simulations. Learn about space travel, astronaut training, and the evolution of spacesuits. Touch a moon rock, walk around the Saturn V rocket, and take a look inside a replica of the Space Shuttle Independence.

General admission tickets are $29.95 for adults and $24.95 for children. A cafeteria is available with sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Don't miss the gift shop on your way out!

#2 The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Looking for a cultural getaway? Head to this art museum with approximately 70,000 works! Walk between unique buildings to see impressive pieces including American decorative arts, pre-Columbian gold, Islamic texts, Asian pottery, and Renaissance painting. The contemporary and modern collection is also noteworthy.

Admission is FREE on Thursdays! Otherwise, tickets are $19.00 for adults with an extra fee for special exhibitions. The onsite restaurant, Cafe Leonelli, is a great option for lunch or a snack.

#3 The Houston Museum of Natural Science

This museum is one of the most popular in the country with halls containing brilliant gemstones, Texas wildlife, and bizarre curiosities. Journey back in time to see a paleontology wing full of dinosaurs and trilobite fossils. Be sure to check out the special exhibits, including the Cockrell Butterfly Center where you can interact with butterfly species in an enclosed tropical habitat.

An adult ticket to the permanent exhibits is $25.00, while special exhibits range from $9.00-12.00. During our visit, we saw Pompeii: The Exhibition and learned about the fall of the ancient Roman city due to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

#4 Houston Astros Baseball at Minute Maid Park

Sports fans will fall in love with Houston since it has events year-round. Relax in the stands and enjoy America's pastime with an ice cold beverage. Cheer on the Astros while enjoying some BBQ brisket fries, ice cream, or hot dogs. Watching a live game is definitely a great way to unwind.

Ticket prices vary depending on how close you desire to be to the action. We purchased tickets and a parking voucher through the official website. Watch out for foul balls!

#5 Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Locally known as The Waterwall, this 64 feet tall semi-circular fountain circulates over 11,000 gallons of water a minute! A popular landmark for pictures and picnics, this man-made waterfall is surrounded by gorgeous oak trees. Cool off in the light mist and be sure to make your way around the back of the fountain for more views.

The Waterwall is open every day from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Arrive early if you want to avoid crowds. Parking ramps are available for free nearby The Galleria shopping mall.

Houston is a cultural hotspot with a variety of attractions. My only regret was not experiencing more of the food scene. I guess I'll have to make my way back one day!