Houston is bursting with cool spots, tasty food and fun things to do. Thinking about a day trip? You’re in for a great time. Whether you’re into checking out fascinating museums, enjoying the outdoors or grabbing a bite at some awesome local spots, this city has something for you. Wondering how to pack it all into one day? Don’t worry, we’ve got some ideas. Do as much or as little as you want—either way, it’s bound to be a fantastic day.
Museum Mornings
Start your day bright and early, because mornings are prime time to dive into Houston’s iconic Museum District. First stop? The dino exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Next, stroll over to the Children’s Museum Houston, where your little ones can burn some energy while learning through interactive exhibits. Wrap up your Museum District tour with a quick peek at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. While this one might seem more suited for grown-ups, kids can enjoy spotting colorful sculptures or large-scale paintings.
Before Lunch
Before lunch, make your way to Hermann Park, which is practically next door to the Museum District. Whether it’s a ride on the miniature train, paddle boating on McGovern Lake or a family photo in front of the iconic Sam Houston statue, this park is full of easygoing morning adventures.
Time to Refuel and Recharge
After all that morning exploring, your crew is probably ready to eat. Luckily, East Downtown (EaDo) has some of the best family-friendly food spots. For something casual, try a Tex-Mex classic like Ninfa’s on Navigation. Grab some Vietnamese-inspired dishes at Huynh or enjoy juicy burgers and loaded fries at Rodeo Goat. Once you’re fueled up, take a quick stroll around the neighborhood to admire some of the colorful street art and murals.
Parks, Zoo and Buffalo Bayou
After lunch, head to the Houston Zoo, a summer favorite for families. Start at the giraffe feeding platform (watching these gentle giants up close never gets old) and then make your way to the sea lion show. Once you’ve wrapped up your animal adventures, head to Buffalo Bayou for some outdoor fun. Rent bikes or take a walk along the trails where you’ll get a stunning view of the city skyline. Cap off the afternoon at Graffiti Park, a vibrant open space where street art takes center stage.
Wrapping It Up Evening Style
As the sun starts to set, Houston offers plenty of options to wind down and wrap up your day. If your family loves shopping (or window shopping), stop by the Galleria. If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, check out what’s showing at the Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park. For dinner, head back toward Discovery Green where you’ll find plenty of restaurants nearby. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll through the park’s lit-up pathways or let the kids splash around in the interactive fountains before heading home.
Make Sierra Vista Your Home Base
Sierra Vista boasts a great location just 20 minutes south of downtown Houston. That means if you can’t hit everything on our to-do list, you can easily go back for another round. Come tour our builders’ model homes and bask in our community vibes. Who knows? Sierra Vista could be your new home base for Houston adventures.
