14 Fun Summer Activities To Do In Houston

Summer is here and it's time to soak up all the fun in Houston! With so many diverse and exciting activities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do. The good news is, we've curated a list of the top 14 fun summer activities to help you plan your ultimate Houston adventure. From outdoor concerts and festivals to kayaking and dining, there's something for everyone. So grab your sunscreen, put on some shades, and get ready to make lasting memories in this vibrant city.

Visit the Houston Zoo

Summer in Houston can be hot and humid, making outdoor activities a bit uncomfortable. However, one place worth visiting during the summer months is the Houston Zoo. Here's why.

The Houston Zoo is located in Hermann Park and spans over 55 acres. It is home to over 6,000 animals from 900 species, making it one of the most diverse zoos in the country. The zoo is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm during the summer months, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the various exhibits and attractions.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Houston Zoo is the Kipp Aquarium. It features over 2,000 aquatic animals, including stingrays, sea turtles, and sharks. Visitors can also learn about conservation efforts to protect marine life and their habitats.

Another must-see exhibit at the zoo is the African Forest, which showcases the wildlife of Africa. Visitors can see lions, giraffes, chimpanzees, and other animals in their natural habitats. The zoo also has a Children's Zoo that offers hands-on encounters with farm animals, including goats and sheep.

If you want to cool off during your visit to the Houston Zoo, be sure to check out the Kool Kats Splash Park. The water feature is perfect for kids and adults alike, and it's a great way to beat the heat during the hot Houston summers.

The Houston Zoo also offers a range of special events throughout the summer, including Twilight Tours, Zoo Boo, and the Wildlife Carousel. Check the zoo's website for dates and times.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun outdoor activity in Houston during the summer months, the Houston Zoo is well worth a visit. With a wide range of animals and exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the Kool Kats Splash Park is the perfect way to cool off when the temperatures rise.

Go to the Kemah Boardwalk

If you're looking for a fun way to spend a summer day in Houston, look no further than the Kemah Boardwalk.

Located on the shore of Galveston Bay, about 20 miles southeast of downtown Houston, the Kemah Boardwalk is a waterfront entertainment complex featuring restaurants, shops, games, and rides.

One of the most popular things to do at the Kemah Boardwalk is ride the Boardwalk Bullet, a wooden roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 51 miles per hour and has a 92-foot drop. For those who prefer more gentle thrills, there are also classic carnival rides like a Ferris wheel, tilt-a-whirl, and carousel.

Foodies will appreciate the variety of restaurants at the Kemah Boardwalk, from seafood and steaks to pizza and ice cream. For a unique dining experience, try the Aquarium Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal alongside a 50,000-gallon aquarium full of fish, sharks, and other sea creatures.

In addition to all the food and fun, the Kemah Boardwalk also offers live entertainment throughout the summer. Catch a concert or watch a magic show while you take a break from all the excitement.

Admission to the Kemah Boardwalk is free, but tickets are required for rides and attractions. You can purchase individual tickets or opt for an all-day ride pass to save money.

So if you're looking for a fun summer day trip from Houston, head to the Kemah Boardwalk for a mix of thrills, food, and entertainment.

Have a picnic at Discovery Green

Characteristic	Description
Name	Discovery Green
Type	Park in Houston, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 18,775
Address	1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Phone	(713) 400-7336
Hours	Friday - 6 AM–11 PM Saturday - 6 AM–11 PM Sunday - 6 AM–11 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 6 AM–11 PM Tuesday - 6 AM–11 PM Wednesday - 6 AM–11 PM Thursday - 6 AM–11 PM
Profiles

Summer in Houston can be hot, humid, and uncomfortable. But that doesn't mean you can't have fun outdoors. One of the best ways to beat the heat and enjoy some quality time with friends and family is by having a picnic at Discovery Green.

Located in the heart of downtown Houston, Discovery Green is a 12-acre urban park that offers a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages and interests. From a playground to a splash pad, from a dog park to a performance stage, the park has something for everyone. But perhaps the most popular activity at Discovery Green during the summer months is picnicking.

There are several reasons why having a picnic at Discovery Green is a great idea. First, the park is easily accessible by public transportation or car, and there is plenty of parking available nearby. Second, the park offers several areas where you can set up your picnic blanket and enjoy your lunch in the shade of a tree or umbrella. Third, the park is well-maintained and clean, with plenty of trash cans and recycling bins throughout the park.

When planning your picnic at Discovery Green, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, the park is open from 6 am to 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. Second, there are several food options available at the park, including a café, food trucks, and a farmer's market on Sundays, but you can also bring your own food and drinks. However, alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the park. Finally, bring sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water, as Houston summers can be quite unforgiving.

Overall, having a picnic at Discovery Green is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with loved ones, and take advantage of one of Houston's best urban parks. So grab your picnic basket, pack some sandwiches and fruit, and head to Discovery Green for a fun and relaxing day in the sun!

Explore the Space Center Houston

Summer in Houston is a great time to explore the many attractions that the city has to offer. One of the must-visit spots in Houston is the Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. With its impressive exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational activities, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the top attractions in Houston.

The Space Center Houston offers something for everyone. From space enthusiasts and curious children to history buffs and science lovers, there’s no shortage of things to see and learn here. One of the best ways to explore the Space Center is by taking a tram tour, which takes visitors on a behind-the-scenes look at NASA’s Mission Control Center, astronaut training facilities, and the historic Apollo Mission Control Room.

In addition to the tram tour, the Space Center Houston has many interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the past, present, and future of space exploration. One of the most popular exhibits is the Starship Gallery, which showcases some of the most iconic space artifacts, such as the Mercury-Atlas 8 spacecraft, the Gemini 5 capsule, and the Apollo 17 command module. Besides that, visitors can also see a real lunar sample brought back by Apollo astronauts.

For those who want a more hands-on experience, there are plenty of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to simulate space missions, land a rover on Mars, and experience what it’s like to walk in zero gravity. Perhaps the most exciting exhibit, though, is the Space Center Houston’s new Independence Plaza, which features a replica of the Space Shuttle Independence, the original aircraft that astronauts flew on their way to the shuttle.

Overall, the Space Center Houston is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to experience the wonders of space exploration. With its hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs, it’s a great way to spend a day learning new things about science and history. So if you’re in Houston this summer, make sure to add the Space Center Houston to your list of places to explore!

Try stand-up paddleboarding at Buffalo Bayou Park

Summer in Houston can be hot and humid, but that doesn't mean you have to stay cooped up indoors. One of the best ways to beat the heat and enjoy the sunshine is on the water. And if you're looking for a new water sport to try this summer, why not give stand-up paddleboarding a go?

Buffalo Bayou Park is a great spot to take up paddleboarding, thanks to its calm waters and picturesque scenery. Located downtown, this 160-acre park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with its winding trails, lush greenery, and stunning views of the downtown skyline. But the real highlight of the park is its waterway, which winds through the park and provides the perfect setting for a leisurely paddle.

If you've never tried stand-up paddleboarding before, it may seem a bit intimidating at first. But fear not, because Buffalo Bayou Park has you covered. The park offers paddleboard rentals through Bayou City Adventures, a local outdoor adventure company that specializes in paddle sports. You can rent a board and a paddle, get a brief lesson on technique, and hit the water in no time.

Once you're out on the water, the real magic begins. Stand-up paddleboarding provides a unique perspective on the city, allowing you to paddle past towering skyscrapers and under pedestrian bridges. You'll glide past joggers, cyclists, and families strolling along the park's many paths, all while enjoying the peaceful serenity of the water. And if you're lucky, you may even spot some wildlife, such as turtles, herons, and even the occasional alligator.

Whether you're looking to get some exercise, soak up the sun, or just try something new, stand-up paddleboarding at Buffalo Bayou Park is an activity not to be missed. And with rentals available seven days a week, it's never been easier to get out on the water and experience the city in a whole new way. So next time you're looking for a summer escape in Houston, grab a paddle and head to Buffalo Bayou Park.

Check out the Museum of Fine Arts Houston

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Type	Art museum in Houston, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 8,998
Address	1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
Phone	(713) 639-7300
Hours	Friday - 11 AM–6 PM Saturday - 11 AM–6 PM Sunday - 12:30–6 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - 11 AM–5 PM Thursday - 11 AM–9 PM
Profiles

As summer heats up in Houston, there is no better way to cool off and enjoy the city's cultural attractions than by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. With an extensive collection of more than 70,000 works of art from around the world and across time periods, the museum offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages and interests.

Located in the heart of Houston's Museum District, the Museum of Fine Arts Houston is easily accessible by public transit or car. Once inside, visitors can explore a vast collection of art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more. The museum's many galleries and exhibitions showcase a wide range of art styles and periods, from ancient China and Japan to contemporary America.

One of the highlights of the Museum of Fine Arts Houston is its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Art, with works by such greats as Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse, and Claude Monet. The museum's European Art collection spans from ancient Greece and Rome through the Renaissance and Baroque periods, and includes important works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and others.

The museum also boasts a strong collection of American art, including works by Georgia O'Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Roy Lichtenstein, among others. Visitors can also enjoy artworks from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, as well as special exhibitions throughout the year that highlight new acquisitions or important themes.

In addition to its permanent collections, the Museum of Fine Arts Houston offers a wide range of programs and activities for visitors of all ages. Educational programs for families, teens, and adults include lectures, tours, workshops, and more. The museum also hosts film screenings, performances, and other special events throughout the year.

If you're looking for a cool and refreshing way to spend your summer in Houston, be sure to check out the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. With its diverse collections, engaging programs, and prime location in the heart of Houston's cultural district, this world-class museum is sure to delight and inspire.

Take a dip at the Houston pool party

Houston summers can be pretty intense with the high humidity and soaring temperatures. But there's nothing quite like a good pool party to help you beat the heat. With numerous state-of-the-art pools dotted around the city, Houston offers a range of options for those looking to cool off and have some fun in the sun.

One great way to take a dip in Houston is by heading to one of the many pool parties that take place during summer. These events are the perfect opportunity to mingle with new people, enjoy some great music, and take a refreshing swim. Make sure to bring your sunscreen, towel, and your best pool gear to soak up the party.

One of the most popular pool parties in Houston happens at the Aloft Houston Downtown. This chic hotel hosts an exciting pool party series every Saturday during the summer months. The rooftop pool provides stunning views of Houston as you take a dip and enjoy the DJ's tunes.

Another great option is The Four Seasons Houston, which hosts its own Summer Pool Series every Friday evening throughout the summer. The backdrop is the amazing skyline of Houston, and the pool is the perfect size for an intimate yet fun party. This event has the whole package of a great atmosphere, great music, and of course, great cocktails that will leave you feeling refreshed throughout the entire evening.

For those looking for something a little different, there's also Wet 'n' Wild SplashTown, Houston's largest and most popular water park. The park boasts over 40 rides and attractions, including wave pools, lazy rivers, and thrilling water slides. With numerous food stalls and picnic areas, you can make it a day trip with friends and family loved ones. On special event days, various concerts are also held, and it's an unforgettable experience having live performances near water attractions.

If you're a water baby with a thirst for adventure, check out the Smither Park Splash Pad. This park provides a creative and interactive way to cool off during a hot day. Located in South Houston, this unique park features colorful mosaics made by local artists, and has an interactive splash pad that is perfect for people of all ages.

In conclusion, there is no shortage of fun ways to take a dip and enjoy the summer in Houston. With a variety of options to choose from, there's sure to be a perfect pool party or water park experience for every type of person. Just make sure to pack your swimsuit, sunhat, and your sunscreen lotion. It's bound to be one hot summer in Houston!

Go on a Segway tour of the city

Houston, the largest city in Texas, can get pretty hot during the summer months. However, that doesn't mean you have to stay cooped up inside all day. One fun way to explore the city and beat the heat is by going on a Segway tour.

Segways are self-balancing vehicles that allow you to explore the city in a unique and exciting way. You can cover more ground than you would on foot, but still get a closer look at all the sights and attractions Houston has to offer.

There are several companies in Houston that offer Segway tours. One popular option is the Houston City Tour offered by Segway Tours of Houston. This two-hour tour takes you through the historic downtown area, along Buffalo Bayou, and past many of the city's landmarks, including City Hall, Minute Maid Park, and the Houston Theater District.

Another great option is the Segway Tours of Houston - Bayou Tour. This 90 minute tour takes you along the scenic Buffalo Bayou, past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Beth Israel Memorial Garden, Houston police officer memorial, Haofen Wang Memorial Grove, and Sabine to Bagby Promenade Park.

No matter which tour you choose, you'll receive expert instruction on how to operate the Segway before setting off on your adventure. Your guide will provide insight into the history and culture of Houston, as well as interesting facts and stories about each location you visit.

Don't let the heat hold you back from enjoying all that Houston has to offer. Take a Segway tour this summer and discover this beautiful city in a whole new way.

Visit the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Summer is a great time to explore the outdoors in Houston, and one of the best places to start is the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. Located adjacent to Memorial Park, the Arboretum offers over 155 acres of natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities.

One of the main draws of the Arboretum is the extensive network of trails. There are five miles of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there is a trail for you. Many of the trails wind through the forested areas of the park, with glimpses of the nearby bayou and meadows.

Along the trails, visitors can expect to see a variety of plants and animals. The Arboretum is home to over 190 species of birds, making it a great destination for birdwatching. It is also one of the few places in Houston where visitors can spot native wildlife such as armadillos, coyotes, and white-tailed deer. The park's ponds and streams are home to frogs, turtles, and even the occasional snake.

In addition to the trails, the Arboretum offers a range of educational opportunities. Throughout the summer, there are guided walks and tours focusing on various aspects of the park's ecology. Visitors can learn about the importance of wetlands, explore the park's many native plant species, or go on a nighttime hike to listen for the calls of nocturnal animals.

For those looking to cool off on a hot summer day, the Arboretum offers shaded picnic areas and a nature-themed play area for children. There are also several ponds where visitors can spot turtles and fish, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Overall, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Houston. With miles of trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and educational programming, there is something for everyone at the Arboretum. So why not beat the summer heat and explore this hidden gem in the heart of the city?

Have a blast at the Houston Children's Museum

Houston is a great place to spend the summer and there’s no better way to beat the heat than to visit the Children's Museum. Here, children can explore and learn about the world around them in a fun and interactive way. Whether your kids love science, math, history or art, the Houston Children's Museum has something for everyone.

Located in the heart of the Museum District, the Children's Museum is a great place to spend a day with kids of all ages. There are plenty of exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs to keep everyone entertained and engaged. Here are a few reasons why you should plan your next trip to the Houston Children's Museum.

Exhibits:

The Children's Museum has over 90,000 square feet of exhibit space, with more than 15 exhibits on topics ranging from science and technology to nature and art. Some of the most popular exhibits include Invention Convention, where kids can experiment with various tools and materials to create their own inventions, and Kidtropolis, a mini-city where kids can learn about money, jobs, and what it's like to be a grown-up.

Gizmo Factory is another must-visit exhibit, where kids can create and test their own unique designs using simple machines and engineering principles. For those interested in the great outdoors, the EcoStation exhibit lets kids explore nature and learn about the environment through hands-on activities and interactive exhibits.

Programs:

In addition to the exhibits, the Children's Museum offers a variety of special programs and events throughout the year. During the summer, the museum hosts Camp CM, a week-long day camp that gives kids the opportunity to explore science, engineering or math in fun and engaging ways. There are also a number of workshops, classes, and story-time events that take place throughout the year.

Facilities:

Finally, the Children's Museum has all of the amenities you need to make your visit as comfortable as possible. There are cafes and gift shops on site, as well as interactive areas for younger children to play and explore. There is also ample parking nearby, making it easy to get to and from the museum.

In conclusion, the Houston Children’s Museum is a must-visit destination for families looking to have a blast this summer. With a wide variety of exhibits, programs, and amenities, there's something for every child to enjoy. So, get ready for some fun and learning by heading to the Children's Museum in Houston.

Try your hand at axe throwing at Houston Axe Throwing

As temperatures in Houston begin to soar, locals are starting to look for fun and cool ways to beat the summer heat. If you're looking for something unique and exciting to try this summer, why not give axe throwing a shot? Houston Axe Throwing is the perfect place to try your hand at this thrilling new activity.

Located on the west side of Houston, Houston Axe Throwing provides a fun and safe environment for people of all ages to step up to the line and throw their first axe. The facility includes 10 throwing lanes that can accommodate up to six people each, allowing you and your friends to compete against each other to see who has the best aim.

In addition to simply throwing axes, Houston Axe Throwing also offers a variety of different games to try. "First to 21" is a classic option, where players aim to score the most points by throwing their axes at a target board. "Around the World" is another game that ramps up the difficulty, forcing players to throw their axes at increasingly difficult targets as they progress.

If you're feeling really adventurous, you can even try your hand at throwing axes two at a time, playing games like "Split the Atom" or "Elimination". For those who are new to axe throwing, the staff at Houston Axe Throwing are trained to provide instruction and ensure that everyone stays safe throughout their visit.

Along with the thrill of throwing axes, Houston Axe Throwing also offers a variety of refreshments to help keep you cool during those hot summer days. From ice-cold beverages to frozen margaritas, you can sip on your favorite drink while trying to hit that elusive bullseye.

Overall, Houston Axe Throwing is the perfect place to beat the heat and try something new this summer. So grab your friends, pack some sunscreen, and head over to Houston Axe Throwing to see who is the ultimate axe-throwing champion!

Take a walk around the Houston Heights

Summer in Houston can be quite intense, with temperatures soaring to unbearable levels. While many people opt to stay indoors during the peak of the heat, there are still plenty of activities you can enjoy in and around the city. One such activity is taking a walk around the Houston Heights neighborhood.

The Houston Heights is known for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and beautiful architecture. One of the best ways to explore this area is on foot. The neighborhood is home to several parks, community centers, and local businesses, making for a fun and diverse walk.

Start your walk at the historic Heights Fire Station, which now serves as the Houston Heights City Hall. From here, take a stroll down 19th Street, where you'll find plenty of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and restaurants. Make a pit stop at Morningstar Coffee, a popular local coffee chain, for a refreshing iced coffee to cool you down during the walk.

As you continue your walk, you'll come across several unique art installations, murals and sculptures. Take the time to appreciate the creativity of the artists who have contributed to the vibrancy and character of the neighborhood.

Towards the south end of the neighborhood, you'll find Stude Park. The park is home to a community center, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a playground, making it the perfect spot to rest and recharge before continuing your walk.

The Houston Heights is also known for its beautiful homes and picturesque streets. Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets and enjoy the architecture, ranging from Victorian to Craftsman-style homes. You might even spot a few homes adorned with charming front porches and colorful gardens.

Finish your walk at White Oak Bayou and the Heights Hike and Bike Trail. The trail is perfect for a relaxing end to your walk with scenic views of the downtown skyline.

Despite the summer heat in Houston, a walk around the Houston Heights can be a fun and enjoyable activity. So wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and a water bottle, and set out to explore this historic and charming neighborhood.

Learn about Houston's history at the Buffalo Soldier National Museum

Houston, with its hot and humid summers, can certainly be a challenge for visitors and locals alike. However, this sprawling Texan city offers a wealth of attractions that cater to a variety of interests. One such place that you might want to visit during your summer stay in Houston is the Buffalo Soldier National Museum.

The Buffalo Soldier National Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and accomplishments of the African American soldiers who served in various wars throughout American history. Its exhibits follow the journey of the Buffalo Soldiers - named by Native American tribes who quipped that their hair resembled that of the buffalo - from their early days as members of the U.S. Army's 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments to their heroic contributions to World Wars I and II.

As you visit the museum, you'll be able to see an impressive collection of artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of these unsung soldiers. These include everything from vintage uniforms, medals, and weapons to original photographs, letters, and even a replica of the horse-drawn wagon used by the soldiers.

A highlight of the tour is the museum's in-depth examination of the Buffalo Soldiers' experiences during the Indian Wars, where they played a critical role in the development of the American West. Additionally, the collection features a range of educational resources and guided tours that are perfect for families and individuals interested in military history.

Overall, the Buffalo Soldier National Museum is one of Houston's most unique and underrated attractions. Here, you can learn about a fascinating and often-overlooked chapter in American history while escaping the Texas heat for a few hours. So make sure to include it in your summer itinerary for an experience that's both educational and inspiring.

Relax at the McGovern Centennial Gardens

Summer in Houston means hot temperatures and stifling humidity, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and enjoy the season. One particularly delightful spot is the McGovern Centennial Gardens, a 15-acre oasis located in the Museum District.

The gardens were created in celebration of Houston's 100th birthday and offer visitors a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy a variety of natural beauty. There's something for everyone here, from well-maintained lawns to intricately designed flower beds to winding pathways that lead to hidden corners filled with plant life.

One of the highlights of the gardens is the Rose Garden, which boasts more than 2,000 rose bushes in every color of the rainbow. This is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a family picnic, surrounded by the sweet fragrance of blooming roses. And if you visit during the annual Rose Show in April, you'll see some of the most impressive examples of these beloved flowers on display.

Another tranquil spot in the gardens is the Japanese Garden, which features a picturesque pond, a traditional tea house, and carefully manicured plants that showcase the art of Japanese landscaping. You'll feel transported to a different world as you gaze upon the carefully-placed rocks, flowing water, and peaceful surroundings.

If you're looking for a spot to exercise or play, the McGovern Centennial Gardens has plenty of options as well. The Family Garden is a great place for kids to explore and learn about nature, while the new Play Area offers a playground with activities for children of all ages. There's also a fitness area with free exercise equipment, perfect for those who want to stay active during their visit.

Throughout the summer months, the McGovern Centennial Gardens hosts a variety of events, from concerts and movie screenings to art shows and guided tours. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that this beautiful oasis is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

So next time you're looking for a way to beat the Houston heat, head to the McGovern Centennial Gardens and soak up the beauty and tranquility of this beloved green space. Whether you're alone or with friends and family, you're sure to find your own personal slice of heaven here.

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