Things to Do in Houston (2025)

A free, world‑class art campus in Montrose where quiet galleries and green space encourage lingering; often highlighted by national outlets like The New York Times and Eater as a quintessential Houston stop.

An ecumenical sanctuary and landmark of modern art, freshly revitalized in recent years; praised by Condé Nast Traveler and frequently paired with the Menil for a contemplative Montrose afternoon.

A 1926 underground reservoir turned art space with haunting acoustics and guided tours; a frequent pick of respected local guides and travel editors for its history‑meets‑design wow factor.

Third Ward’s 1939 icon is reborn as a vibrant venue and community hub; recent calendars and performances confirm its return, with coverage by Performing Arts Houston and the Houston Chronicle underscoring its cultural weight.

Docent‑led walks and bike tours through Houston’s Fourth Ward tell the story of emancipation, brick streets, and community resilience; spotlighted in the Houston Chronicle’s heritage coverage and active with 2025 programming.

A beloved Midtown institution for wings‑and‑waffles and katfish‑and‑grits; long celebrated by national and local critics and still drawing daily lines — a tasty slice of Houston hospitality.

Family‑run since 1973 in Acres Homes, Burns serves smoky classics with deep neighborhood roots; lauded by Texas food writers and frequently cited by Houston Chronicle critics for its enduring community impact.

A young, independent garden with global plant collections, wetlands, and evening programs; noted by local editors for seasonal events and by visitors for its hands‑on discovery areas and birdlife.

Free exhibitions, working studios, and a craft garden celebrate clay, fiber, wood, metal, and glass; regularly featured on museum‑district guides and in Chronicle arts listings, with active 2025 programs.

A community‑minded beer garden known for Jazz Wednesdays, movie nights, and dance parties; covered by Eater and local press in 2025 for its live‑album release and expanding music programming.

Houston’s veteran indie record shop hosts free in‑stores and supports local artists; celebrated by the Houston Chronicle on its 50th anniversary and still a go‑to for vinyl digs and surprise sets.

John Milkovisch’s folk‑art landmark — now operated by the Orange Show — offers free, timed visits Wednesday through Sunday; frequently noted by local editors and culture writers as a must‑see slice of Houston quirk.