Every city offers unique opportunities for recreation and learning, and Houston, Texas is certainly no exception. From amusement parks to historic locations to the great outdoors, Houston offers something for everyone. Here are a few gems of the city best known for oil and space.

Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

Just five miles away from downtown Houston lies a 155-acre paradise. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center has 5 miles of hiking trails, which are open from 7 am to dusk seven days a week. The Interpretive Center, including a Discovery room with hands-on activities and exhibits, is open 10 am to 4 pm most days. A variety of science, art and yoga classes are offered for children and adults, including a summer camp program. This is a great place to visit for a date or a family outing. Admission is free, but they do accept donations.

Kemah Boardwalk

On the Trinity Bay southeast of Houston sits the wildly popular Kemah Boardwalk. Fun opportunities include boating, shopping, dining, amusement park rides, midway games and arcades, sting ray reef and more. This is a great place to spend a day with friends or family. Many of the venues offer group activities like field trip and parties. Check out their events schedule for things like laser shows, concerts and charity runs.

George Ranch Historical Park

This 23,000-acre working ranch allows you to see what life was like in the Richmond, Texas area in the 1800’s and early 1900’s. Meet costumed presenters and see historic homes. Visitors can help harvest crops, grind corn and see livestock at the Jones Stock Farm. Historic meals are offered at the Ryon Prairie Home on Wednesday evenings (for adults only) and Saturday at lunchtime (for everyone). The Historical Park is part of the Fort Bend County Museum Association.

Toyota Center

For concerts, circus performances, wrestling, hockey games and more, the Toyota Center is the place to go. This facility that covers six city blocks is the home of the Houston Aeros and Houston Rockets. You can see upcoming events and buy tickets online at their website. Park in the Toyota Tundra Garage at 1515 Jackson Street in Houston.

Sam Houston Race Park

There’s nothing quite like a day with the ponies. Races take place on Thursday and Friday evenings and Saturdays. Their website has a page on wagering and you can view the stats on the horses. Make a whole day of it, including a meal at the Winner’s Circle restaurant. Other events, including concerts are available. Check the schedule online. The Sam Houston Race Park is located just 15 minutes from downtown.

Bayou Bend

Visit the historic home and garden of Miss Ima Hogg (yes, you read that right!). This home built in the 1920’s includes furniture and other objects collected by Miss Hogg. The Bayou Bend collection is one of the nation’s foremost collections of decorative arts dating from 1620 through 1870. Today the home and grounds serve as a museum of colonial American life. Tours are offered for visitors of all ages. Educational and summer camp program teach kids about history. Bayou Bend is located just west of the downtown Houston area.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting Texas for the first time, there are plenty of things to do. If you’re looking for an activity for the whole family or a special date, Houston will not disappoint.

Author Bio: Written by Hannah Valez Infiniti Repair Houston Southwest Houston Infiniti Bay Area Toyota Dealer

Category: Travel
Keywords: houston, texas, fun things to do, entertainment