Choose from 78 Fun Things to Do in Texas
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 78 listings.
Lady Bird Lake
The 416-acre (169-hectare) Lady Bird Lake, at the northeastern end of Zilker Metropolitan Park, anchors a host of outdoor recreational opportunities in downtown Austin. Locals and visitors alike hike, bike, and walk it, as well as birdwatch, canoe, paddleboard, and fish for carp, largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish in and around this man-made reservoir once known as Town Lake.
The Basics
Lady Bird Lake, along with Zilker Park, form a relaxing oasis in downtown Austin, allowing views of the skyline from a bench or something more adventurous, like a canoe or paddleboard floating on the water. There are several hiking and biking trails that zigzag through the park and two pedestrian-only bridges. Bike and kayak tours help you explore the sizeable Lady Bird Lake with assistance from a guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Maximize your fun by booking a tour to help you navigate the miles of trails and make the most of your time on the lake.
- Rental equipment, from bikes to boats and paddleboards are available through tour outfitters.
- It is illegal to swim in Lady Bird Lake (and has been since 1964) due to dangerous debris from bridges and dams.
- Motorized boats are prohibited in the lake.
- Bring sunscreen, and be sure to stay hydrated while on the water.
How to Get There
Lady Bird Lake runs between Riverside Drive and 1st Street in downtown Austin. You can find parking at Zilker Park, or look for street parking along South Lakeshore Boulevard between Pleasant Valley Road and Riverside. If you want to explore the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, park at Festival Beach across the river.
When to Get There
If you want to get out on Lady Bird Lake and explore, the best time to visit is March through September, when the warmer weather makes for a relaxing day on the water. You can see the famous Congress Avenue Bridge bats from Lady Bird Lake in spring and late summer. Late June through early August is considered peak season.
Austin Duck Derby
An annual rubber duck derby takes place on a Saturday in August in Austin, when a huge loader deposits 20,000 yellow rubber ducks into Lady Bird Lake from the Congress Avenue Bridge. The event draws large crowds to the pedestrian walkways, bridges, and on boats in the water to watch the ducks bob around, making their way to the finish line.
Address: Austin, Texas, USA
From $ 25
Market Square Park
Set in the heart of downtown Houston where the city was originally founded, Market Square Park is the greenest, hippest—and most historic—one square block in Houston. Three different versions of City Hall all stood on this open plot, but all were either destroyed by fire or eventually demolished and removed. The tall, four-sided clock tower, however, that still swings its arms in the park, dates all the way back to 1904 when it hung on City Hall. The history of the park aside, however, visitors are drawn to Market Square Park by the large amount of open green space and strong sense of community. Large displays of public art are scattered throughout the park, and Houston residents with four-legged friends can always be found at the dog park.
Market Square Park is known for its festive outdoor events—particularly community bike rides—although it’s also a place for pensive reflection in the middle of the bustling city. At the memorial known as “Lauren’s Garden” flowing water and seasonal flowers combine with a large, stone-filled fountain that’s dedicated to the memory of lives that were lost on Sept. 11, 2001. The garden is named for Lauren Grandcolas—a passenger on United 93—and is a peaceful, yet somber, piece of history that accompanies the centuries-old Texas heritage in Houston’s Market Square Park.
Practical Info
Market Square Park is open daily from 6am-11pm, and there is no admission to visit. Parking, restaurants, bars, and shopping are all within a five-minute walk.
Address: 301 Milam St, Houston, Texas, USA 77002, USA
Hours: Daily 6am-11pm
From $ 35
Japanese Tea Garden
Tucked away in a Texas city known for its vibrant Mexican-American culture, San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden offers a refreshing, peaceful space that gives visitors a glimpse into another cultural treasure. The gardens, large pagoda, koi pond, and 60-foot (18-meter) waterfall make for impressive photo backdrops for locals and visitors alike.
The Basics
A stand-alone visit to the Japanese Tea Garden is free, but it is also a feature on several local tour itineraries, including some with stops at other must-see local cultural and historical attractions, such as the Alamo and the River Walk. The Japanese garden is a lovely addition to these tours, which take care of all the transportation and give you time to relax a little in the inviting space.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Japanese Tea Garden is a must-see for botanical garden enthusiasts, Japanophiles, families—kids especially enjoy checking out the koi in the fish pond—and those looking for a serene oasis in San Antonio.
- The garden is small and not much walking is required, so you can visit easily and at your own pace.
- An on-site café, the Jingu House, is perfect for a light snack or drink.
- The Pavilion, gardens, and café are all accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, but the waterfall platform area is not.
How to Get There
The garden is located on Alpine Street in the northern part of San Antonio, near Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Zoo. You can get there off the McAllister Freeway (US 281), and there is a B-cycle (bike share) station nearby.
When to Get There
The Japanese Tea Garden is open sunrise to sunset every day of the year. The summer months (from about May to September) can be quite hot, so if you go to San Antonio during this time, it’s recommended to visit the garden early in the morning or later in the evening to escape the hours of peak heat.
Tranquility from a Rock Quarry
San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden was formerly a rock quarry. In 1918 prisoners constructed the space—which included stone bridges and walking paths, a Japanese pagoda, and lily ponds—for a cost of $7,000. At one point, the city invited a local Japanese-American artist to live on site. After his death, his family was evicted due to anti-Japanese sentiment during World War II. In the 1960s, it was called the Chinese Sunken Garden before being rededicated in 1984 as the Japanese Tea Garden.
Address: 3875 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, Texas, USA 78212, USA
From $ 55
John F. Kennedy Memorial
Simple but profoundly moving, the John F. Kennedy Memorial in Dallas comprises a granite slab bearing the assassinated president’s name etched in gold. The slab is surrounded by soaring concrete walls that appear to be free-floating, capturing the feeling of loss felt around the world following Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963.
The Basics
As a prominent city landmark, the John F. Kennedy Memorial is included in many Dallas sightseeing tours. Those with a particular interest in the JFK assassination can opt for a themed tour that includes visits to Dealey Plaza, where the president was killed; the memorial; Grassy Knoll; the home of assassin Lee Harvey Oswald; the historic Texas Movie Theater in Oak Cliff; and the Sixth Floor Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The JFK Memorial is a must-see for first-time visitors and JFK history buffs.
- Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
- The JFK Memorial Plaza is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The JFK Memorial is situated in downtown Dallas, a block away from Dealey Plaza in John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. Union Station and West End Station are close by.
When to Get There
To fully appreciate the memorial and its symbolism, plan to visit after a trip to the nearby Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Don’t miss seeing the memorial at night, when light fixtures in the ground create the illusion that the light itself is supporting the cenotaph.
The Man Behind the Memorial
American architect Philip Johnson was chosen to design the memorial, and he opted for an open tomb design to symbolize the freedom of JFK’s spirit. The walls of the roofless room were built from 72 white concrete columns that seemingly float 29 inches (74 centimeters) above the ground. This invisible force that seems to hold the memorial together was inspired by the magnetic charisma of John F. Kennedy.
Address: John F Kennedy Memorial Plaza, Dallas TX 75202, USA
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Mayfield Park
Mayfield Park and Preserve, a historic site left to the city for use as a park in 1971, is part of the Mayfield-Gutsch Estate. The grounds include historic cottage and two acres of gardens, while the preserve is the 21-acre natural area that surrounds the park and contains walking trails and wildlife.
Peafowl are a common sight here; two types and approximately two dozen total call the area home. Most of the peafowl seen today are descendants from the original pair given to the Gutschs as a Christmas gift in 1935. If you are hoping to catch a peafowl with its tail fanned, consider visiting in late winter or spring, beginning around February, when they start courting the females.
Don’t miss Mayfield Park’s ponds, especially the cast iron pond near the cottage. There are six large lily ponds that are arranged in the general shape of a flower -- the center circular pond is surrounded by four oval shaped ponds (the petals) and an hourglass pond with small waterfall that represents the stem.
Practical Info
Mayfield Park is located at 3801 W 35th Street in Austin and is open from 5am until 10pm. The Mayfield-Gutsch Estate was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Mayfield Park does host private events like weddings and business workshops. When a private event is reserved, the general public is not allowed in the garden area.
Address: 3801 W 35th Street, Austin 78703, USA
Hours: Daily 5am-10pm
From $ 25
Galveston
Located on Galveston Island and Pelican Island in Texas, Galveston is a coastal city with a rich history. Although people say Galveston has a much different vibe than Texas due to its island feel, has been the home of many firsts in the state. Some of these firsts include having Texas’ first post office, first opera house, first hospital, first golf course and first country club, to name a few. Today, Galveston is still home to numerous historic buildings and houses that allow you to explore this heritage.
Along with being innovative it is a worthwhile destination with much to do and see in terms of the arts, culture, shopping, dining, nightlife and outdoor attractions. Spend some time exploring the local museums, like the Lone Star Flight Museum, Texas Seaport Museum and the Galveston Railroad Museum. Galveston is also home to a large array of art galleries, as well as an ArtWalk in the historic district that takes place once every six to eight weeks.
If you’d rather spend your time outdoors, visit Schlitterbahn Galveston Island waterpark, stroll along the seawall (which boasts being the world’s longest continuous sidewalk) and take in the Gulf of Mexico, go fishing on Galveston Bay and see the many birds at the Galveston Bay Estuary. And of course, don’t leave without lying on the beautiful soft sand beaches Galveston is known for. Galveston has much to explore, and this is just a small taste of some of its offerings.
Address: USA
From $ 99
Hermann Park
One of Houston’s most popular public greens, the free-to-enjoy Hermann Park is a historic 445-acre park that is home to many important cultural institutions as well as outdoor attractions. For those wanting to experience the city’s natural beauty, head to Bob’s Fishing Pier for some fishing, go hiking in the 80 acres of Bayou Parkland, peruse 2,500 rose bushes and outdoor sculptures at the Garden Center, pedal boat on the 8-acre McGovern Lake or play a round at the 18-hole Hermann Park Golf Course, the first desegregated golf course in the United States. For a serene experience, the Japanese Garden provides a peaceful retreat with waterfalls, wooden bridges, stone pathways, sweet cherry trees, Japanese maples and colorful flowers, while the Mary Gibbs and Jesse J. Jones Reflection Pool measures 740 feet long by 80 feet wide and features a black bottom for striking mirror images of the surrounding trees.
The park is also home to various cultural institutions. First there is the Houston Zoo, with over 6,000 animals as well as exhibits, encounters and experiences. Feed crunchy leaf lettuce to Masai giraffes, trek through an African forest, watch a 4D film on grizzly bears, crawl into a see-through tunnel to view piranhas up close, watch sea lions perform flips and jumps or meet the many exotic animals around the zoo. Additionally, Hermann Park’s Miller Outdoor Theatre offers free and family friendly performances, the Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum memorializes pioneer men and women and the Houston Museum of Natural Science provides four floors of free natural science halls and exhibits.
Because Hermann Park is very close to Houston’s Museum District, visitors can easily continue their exploration of local art, culture and heritage after leaving.
The park is also home to various cultural institutions. First there is the Houston Zoo, with over 6,000 animals as well as exhibits, encounters and experiences. Feed crunchy leaf lettuce to Masai giraffes, trek through an African forest, watch a 4D film on grizzly bears, crawl into a see-through tunnel to view piranhas up close, watch sea lions perform flips and jumps or meet the many exotic animals around the zoo. Additionally, Hermann Park’s Miller Outdoor Theatre offers free and family friendly performances, the Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum memorializes pioneer men and women and the Houston Museum of Natural Science provides four floors of free natural science halls and exhibits.
Because Hermann Park is very close to Houston’s Museum District, visitors can easily continue their exploration of local art, culture and heritage after leaving.
Address: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, USA
Hours: Open Daily: 6:00am - 11:00pm, Japanese Garden: 9:00am - 5:00pm
From $ 35
Hard Rock Cafe Dallas
Welcome to rock and roll with a Texas sensibility. The Hard Rock Cafe Dallas offers that classic American menu known and loved by Hard Rock fans, including burgers and ribs, with a touch of cowboy flare. Memorabilia adorns the restaurant from both local and global artists, and the restaurant also hosts live music performances.
The Basics
The Dallas franchise of the Hard Rock Cafe is a full-service restaurant offering lunch, dinner, appetizers, and drinks in a lively, upbeat atmosphere focused on showcasing the best of American music. Order up your meal, and while you wait, peruse the restaurant’s impressive collection of guitars and costumes, including REO Speedwagon singer Kevin Cronin’s velvet pants, Melissa Etheridge’s leather jacket, and founding Dixie Chick Laura Lynch’s cowboy boots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Get a great deal with a prix-fixe menu, which includes your choice of entree, dessert, and a drink.
- Dallas-branded Hard Rock souvenirs are for sale at the on-site shop.
- The restaurant has a kids’ menu and a gluten-free menu.
How to Get There
The Dallas Hard Rock is located at 2211 North Houston Street, at the southern end of Victory Park in Dallas, Texas. Heading downtown on I-35E, take the Continental Avenue exit and turn right on Continental Avenue, then left on Houston Street. House of Blues Dallas is just across the street. The DART Victory station is about a 10-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Hard Rock Cafe Dallas is open 11am to 11pm daily for lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks and drinks. Check the website for upcoming live performances and events. Though major downtown events might bring larger crowds, generally visitors have reported excellent service on weekends.
Ceremonial Guitar Smash
When the Hard Rock Cafe Dallas first opened in 2009, it was a red-carpet event, and like other Hard Rock grand openings, it included a ceremonial guitar smash as a way of christening the new space, rock-and-roll style. The guests of honor were band members from the Old 97’s, a Dallas-based alternative country band.
Address: 2211 North Houston Street, Dallas 75219, USA
From $ 32
Houston Zoo
Home to more than 6,000 animals and 900 species, the Houston Zoo is a popular attraction for locals and visitors to Houston. Located in the beautiful Hermann Park, the 55-acre zoo features many exhibits, animal encounters, shows and ecosystems to explore. Additionally, the attraction is well-staffed, and there is always a knowledgeable worker to answer your questions or direct you.
While the zoo has numerous interesting sites within it, there are a few experiences you shouldn’t miss. First is the Masai giraffe feeding, which can be done daily from 11am to 2pm. Visitors can feed these long-necked creatures crispy lettuce leaves while getting a close-up view. Another not-to-miss attraction is the African Forest exhibit, which will transport you to a different continent as you trek through an African jungle full of chimpanzees, rhinos and antelopes, Masai giraffes, zebra and ostriches. Part of the experience is also authentic drumming and art. The Hoofed Run exhibit also introduces visitors to some of Earth exotic hoofed animals, like the Okapi, Eland, Warthog and Duiker. And of course, no visit to the zoo would be complete without taking in a sea lion show as they cute creates dive, flip and learn how to distinguish from four objects in a mirror’s reflection.
Travel tip: Go early, as parking can be tricky as it gets later in the day.
The Houston Zoo is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Tickets cost $14 for adults, $10 for children 2 through 11, $7.50 for seniors 65 and over and free for children under two. A portion of the proceeds go toward protecting wild animals. From September through May the Houston Zoo offers for admission to guests on the first Tuesday of each month from 2pm to close.
While the zoo has numerous interesting sites within it, there are a few experiences you shouldn’t miss. First is the Masai giraffe feeding, which can be done daily from 11am to 2pm. Visitors can feed these long-necked creatures crispy lettuce leaves while getting a close-up view. Another not-to-miss attraction is the African Forest exhibit, which will transport you to a different continent as you trek through an African jungle full of chimpanzees, rhinos and antelopes, Masai giraffes, zebra and ostriches. Part of the experience is also authentic drumming and art. The Hoofed Run exhibit also introduces visitors to some of Earth exotic hoofed animals, like the Okapi, Eland, Warthog and Duiker. And of course, no visit to the zoo would be complete without taking in a sea lion show as they cute creates dive, flip and learn how to distinguish from four objects in a mirror’s reflection.
Travel tip: Go early, as parking can be tricky as it gets later in the day.
The Houston Zoo is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Tickets cost $14 for adults, $10 for children 2 through 11, $7.50 for seniors 65 and over and free for children under two. A portion of the proceeds go toward protecting wild animals. From September through May the Houston Zoo offers for admission to guests on the first Tuesday of each month from 2pm to close.
Address: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, USA
Hours: Daily: 9am - 6pm
Admission: Adults $14, Child $10, Senior $7.50
From $ 59
Kemah Boardwalk
The town of Kemah sits on the shore of Galveston Bay on the Gulf Coast of Texas, and its boardwalk is one of its main attractions.
Built in 1999, the Kemah Boardwalk is an entertainment and amusement park right on Galveston Bay. The boardwalk transformed what was once a small fishing community into a popular tourist destination. The town is considered part of the “greater Houston area,” as it's just 20 miles east of the big city, but it's a popular draw for visitors from elsewhere in Texas, too.
The Kemah Boardwalk features 15 different amusement park rides – including a 96-foot-tall roller coaster, a 140-foot free fall ride, a zip-line over the boardwalk, a double-decker carousel, and a 65-foot Ferris wheel. You can also take speedboat trips into the bay, and visit the Stingray Reef to touch and feed live stingrays.
Practical Info
Kemah is roughly 198 miles from Austin. The rides on the Kemah Boardwalk are open Monday-Thursday from 12-9pm, Friday from 12-11pm, Saturday from 10:30am-11pm and Sunday 10:30am-10pm. There's no entry fee to walk through the boardwalk. You can buy individual ride tickets for $3.50-$6 (depending on the ride), or all-day ride passes for $17.99 (for those under 48”) or $22.99 (for those over 48”).
Address: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, Texas, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 59
Houston Theater District
When you think of theater in the United States what cities come to mind? New York? LA? Chicago? Vegas? Maybe Washington DC? While all those cities definitely share an abundance of performing arts, it’s actually Houston that has the most second-most theater seats of any city in the country. In fact, between the 12,948 seats for live theater performances and the 1,580 movie seats that are also in the city’s theater district, there are enough seats to treat 89% of Texas towns to a show.
By every professional and statistical measure, Houston’s theater district is one the world’s most culturally rich destinations. Ballet, music, theater, and opera all have permanent, professional companies, and the actors, musicians, dancers and performers are among the best in the world. When visiting Houston’s theater district, enjoy a play at the Alley Theater, a longtime Houston icon. Or treat yourself to the sounds of a Symphony that was founded in 1913. The Houston Opera has won countless awards including a Tony, two Emmys, and two Grammys, and the Houston Ballet is the fifth largest company in the United States. Combined with the wealth of dining options within walking distance of the shows, the Houston Theater District is the ultimate night out for culture, food, and the arts.
Practical Info
The Theater District is made up of a 17-block area in Downtown Houston.
Address: Houston, Texas, USA, USA
From $ 64
Houston City Hall
A prime example of southwestern architecture of the late 1930s, Houston’s City Hall was built to house the local government and state officials who do business within the city of Houston – but its long history doesn’t stop there. Originally built above a crowded fish market, City Hall has always entertained a lively commercial market, and today the towering structure sits relatively small among downtown's massive skyscrapers. Remnants of that long and lively history can be seen at the City Hall Farmers' Market located just outside the City Hall Reflecting Pool on Wednesdays in the spring from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., where local farmers sell everything from coffee to broccoli.
Inside Houston City Hall you’ll find various notable items all harkening back to the great lawgivers that came before us. From the aluminum medallions featuring Julius Caesar, Moses, Charlemagne, Thomas Jefferson and more, to the great marble stairways and specially cast aluminum doors, City Hall is both a step back in time and a contemporary look at modern law making.
Practical Info
Houston City Hall is located at 900 Bagby, and free tours are available twice a month on the first and third Wednesday of the month, as well as on the fourth Thursday of the month.
Address: 900 Bagby St, Houston, Texas 77002, USA
From $ 35
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Located in Hermann Park, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is dedicated to providing interesting and educational science exhibits and experiences. Visitors can find four floors of science halls and exhibits in the main building, as well as a planetarium, butterfly center and big screen theater. You could easily spend hours perusing all the institution has to offer.
With so much to explore, where do you begin? The permanent exhibits are included in your general admission ticket and host some worthwhile attractions. For example, the Paleontology exhibit is a common favorite, as it showcases a unique display of predators in action, creating an illusion that the skeletal displays are alive. A progressive timeline layout showcasing over 50 dinosaurs and a section on human evolution also keeps things interesting.
The Gems & Minerals exhibit is another favorite. Featuring over 450 crystallized minerals and rare stones, you’ll find gems you didn’t even know existed. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the enormous blue topaz crystal weighing more than 2,000 carats. This exhibit is best viewed with a visit to the onsite Gem Vault, which has been compared to London’s Crown Jewels. Other permanent exhibits include Hall of Ancient Egypt, Energy Hall, The Americas, African Wildlife, Chemistry, Earth Forum, Malacology and Texas Wildlife. Before leaving, take a stroll through the Cockrell Butterfly Center and immerse yourself in a live butterfly habitat. Additionally, the Houston Museum of Natural Science hosts a variety of special exhibits that change throughout the year.
Weekends and weekday mornings can get crowded, so you may want to opt to visit later in the day or call the museum (713-639-4629) to inquire about crowd levels.
Hours for the exhibitions are Monday through Sunday, 9am to 5pm. Admission for permanent exhibits is $15 for adults, $10 for children, college students, military and seniors 62 and over, $7 for groups of 20 or more, $3.50 for school groups, and free for members. Admission to the permanent exhibits is free from 2pm to 5pm on Thursdays. Special exhibit prices vary.
With so much to explore, where do you begin? The permanent exhibits are included in your general admission ticket and host some worthwhile attractions. For example, the Paleontology exhibit is a common favorite, as it showcases a unique display of predators in action, creating an illusion that the skeletal displays are alive. A progressive timeline layout showcasing over 50 dinosaurs and a section on human evolution also keeps things interesting.
The Gems & Minerals exhibit is another favorite. Featuring over 450 crystallized minerals and rare stones, you’ll find gems you didn’t even know existed. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the enormous blue topaz crystal weighing more than 2,000 carats. This exhibit is best viewed with a visit to the onsite Gem Vault, which has been compared to London’s Crown Jewels. Other permanent exhibits include Hall of Ancient Egypt, Energy Hall, The Americas, African Wildlife, Chemistry, Earth Forum, Malacology and Texas Wildlife. Before leaving, take a stroll through the Cockrell Butterfly Center and immerse yourself in a live butterfly habitat. Additionally, the Houston Museum of Natural Science hosts a variety of special exhibits that change throughout the year.
Weekends and weekday mornings can get crowded, so you may want to opt to visit later in the day or call the museum (713-639-4629) to inquire about crowd levels.
Hours for the exhibitions are Monday through Sunday, 9am to 5pm. Admission for permanent exhibits is $15 for adults, $10 for children, college students, military and seniors 62 and over, $7 for groups of 20 or more, $3.50 for school groups, and free for members. Admission to the permanent exhibits is free from 2pm to 5pm on Thursdays. Special exhibit prices vary.
Address: 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, USA
Hours: Mon-Sun 9am - 5pm, Free Thursdays 2pm - 5pm
Admission: Adult $15, Child $10, Student/Senior $10
From $ 8
King William Historic District
Take a tour of San Antonio’s King William Historic District for a peek into the city’s first suburb, settled by wealthy German merchants in the late 1800s. Stroll throughout the 25 blocks of historical mansions—many of which have been converted to shops, cafés, and museums—to admire the district’s Greek Revival, Victorian, and Italianate architecture.
The Basics
Highlights of the King William Historic District, once affectionately nicknamed Sauerkraut Bend for its German influence, include the Guenther House and Pioneer Flour Mills, Villa Finale, and Edward Steves Homestead. Many of these offer paid tours or quaint cafés.
The best way to familiarize yourself with the King William Historic District is through a guided tour. You can take a walking tour, a scooter tour, or a hop-on-hop-off bus or trolley tour that will allow you to cover several key sights around the city. Some tours include a San Antonio River Walk cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The King William Historic District is a must-do for fans of architecture and history.
- Plan to spend about two to three hours for a walking tour of the district.
- Some of these historical buildings have limited wheelchair accessibility.
How to Get There
The King William Historic District is located south of downtown San Antonio, and King William Street is its main thoroughfare. Madison and City streets run parallel to the east and west, with Turner Street on the north and Guenther Street to the south. Take the VIA Metropolitan Transit city buses or Blue Line Trolley to South Alamo and South St. Mary’s streets or Market and Alamo streets. You can also rent a bicycle from bike-sharing stations around the city.
When to Get There
King William Historic District homes that offer tours, as well as museums, shops, and restaurants, all have varying hours, so check before you go. Generally, house tours run from late morning to early afternoon (from about 10am to 3pm), and houses may be closed for holidays and special events, so plan your itinerary accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Did You Know?
The King William Historic District is home to the oldest continuously operating flour mill in the state of Texas. Carl Guenther immigrated to Texas from Germany in 1851 and established the Pioneer Flour Mills in 1859. King William Street was named for Kaiser Wilhelm I of Prussia, a reflection of the cultural influence of German settlers in Texas in the 1800s.
Address: 1032 S Alamo, San Antonio, Texas, USA, USA
From $ 25
Hard Rock Cafe San Antonio
The Hard Rock Café San Antonio has been a staple of the city's River Walk since its opening in 1995. The café provides three floors of patios from which you can enjoy signature food and drinks, listen to rock n’ roll classics, and look out over the tourist boats on the San Antonio River from Texas’ No. 1 tourist destination.
Like other Hard Rock Cafes around the world, the Hard Rock Café San Antonio features music memorabilia on the walls. Be sure to tour the restaurant and see various guitars, platinum records, and more. The Hard Rock Café San Antonio features Ozzy Osbourne’s black velvet jacket, Eddie Van Halen’s Charvel guitar, and a brick wall spray painted by Aerosmith during the 1994 groundbreaking ceremony.
The Hard Rock Café San Antonio offers space for large events of up to 400 guests as well, so is a perfect spot for a wedding reception or conference. You can reserve a patio, space inside the café, or even their private dinner barge.
Practical Info
The Hard Rock Café San Antonio features a daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. The restaurant, bar, and Rock Shop are open daily from 11 a.m., while closing hours may vary.
Address: 111 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA
From $ 32
La Villita
San Antonio’s historic roots are preserved at La Villita Heritage District, a protected enclave of heritage buildings. The arts village is a living and breathing part of San Antonio, with boutiques, restaurants and galleries taking up the historic old buildings.
On a walking tour of the precinct you’ll see Cos House, one of the oldest buildings, dating back to before 1835. Other old buildings include the 1873 house occupied by Villita Stained Glass, and the 1839 cottage known as Losana House.
Shops in this vibrant quarter include Texan outfitters, art and craft galleries, souvenir shops and jewelry stores. You’ll also find a couple of typically Texan grills and cafes for snacks, meals and cocktails.
Practical Info
La Villita is on Villita Street, running off HemisFair Park in the center of San Antonio. The Alamo is a couple of blocks north.
Address: 418 Villita Street, San Antonio TX 78205, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 50
HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Known for "keeping it weird," Austin is home to impressive street art all over the city, but the HOPE Outdoor Gallery—a once abandoned construction site turned community park—is a special point of interest. The largest outdoor graffiti wall in Texas, the HOPE Gallery attracts muralists and artists from around the world, and has become an important part of city culture.
Layers and layers of color, words, and design make for interesting views throughout the park, and serve as a vehicle for expression of modern Austin life. Locals agree the park has taken on a life of its own with the often impermanent wall art constantly changing and evolving. Visit the park on any street art tour of the city to take in the views and learn more about this important community space.
Practical Info
HOPE Outdoor Gallery is located at 11th & Baylor streets in downtown Austin, in the Clarksville area. The park is free to visit, and is open daily from 9am to 7pm. There’s a great view from the top of the park after a short climb, but beware of materials that may litter the park’s grounds and edges.
Address: 1101 Baylor St, Austin, Texas, USA
Hours: Daily 9am–7pm
From $ 40
HemisFair Park
Built in 1968 to host the 1968 Worlds Fair as well as commemorate San Antonio’s 250th birthday, the event was the southwestern United States’ first official world fair. The event was so monumental that over 30 nations took part in the festivities. Today, the 15-acre HemisFair Park is a place where people come to ride bikes, bring their children to the playground, enjoy the native flower gardens and listen to the relaxing sounds of fountains and cascading waterfalls.
In HemisFair Park, you’ll also find a variety of attractions, for example, the Tower of the Americas, which is surrounded by beautiful man-made waterfalls. If you take the elevator to the top you can enjoy aerial views from the observation deck or the rotating restaurant, as well as a 4D Theater Ride that takes you on a sensory journey through Texas. Additionally, the Mexican Cultural Institute resides in the park, and is free to enter and enjoy the artwork, artifacts and exhibits. At HemisFair Park’s Institute of Texan Cultures, visitors can learn about the state’s diverse cultural communities.
Note: The city has plans to renovate the park and have it feature more “vibrant mixed-use areas.” While the planning is still being done it’s something to look forward to.
In HemisFair Park, you’ll also find a variety of attractions, for example, the Tower of the Americas, which is surrounded by beautiful man-made waterfalls. If you take the elevator to the top you can enjoy aerial views from the observation deck or the rotating restaurant, as well as a 4D Theater Ride that takes you on a sensory journey through Texas. Additionally, the Mexican Cultural Institute resides in the park, and is free to enter and enjoy the artwork, artifacts and exhibits. At HemisFair Park’s Institute of Texan Cultures, visitors can learn about the state’s diverse cultural communities.
Note: The city has plans to renovate the park and have it feature more “vibrant mixed-use areas.” While the planning is still being done it’s something to look forward to.
Address: 200 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA
From $ 38
Houston Museum District
The Houston Museum District encompasses 19 museums in a 1.5 mile radius of the Mecon Fountain, creating a walkable destination within Houston for those wanting an immersive educational experience. While the Asia Society Texas Center provides insight into Asian arts, business, culture, education, and policy, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum focuses on American and African American history. Continue your stroll to the Rothko Chapel, a place for meditative contemplation for people of all faiths, the Health Museum, an interactive science museum, and the Houston Zoo, which provides a home for over 6,000 animals.
Those looking for a creative experience may want to visit institutions like the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston Center for Photography, Lawndale Art Center, The Menil Collection, The Jung Center of Houston, The Museum of Fine Arts or the Rice University Art Galley. Other museums in the district include the Children’s Museum of Houston, Czech Center Museum Houston, Holocaust Museum Houston, Houston Museum of Natural Science, the John C. Freeman Weather Museum and the Museum of African American Culture.
A convenient feature of the Houston Museum District is over half these museums are free all the time, while all of them offer free entry at certain times. Visitors can easily have a worthwhile day browsing the different institutions without spending a dime. Along with creating an accessible world of art, history, culture and science, the museums also feature interesting daily events that can make your Houston visit more interesting. In the spring, the Houston Museum District truly comes to life as the many gardens littering the area becoming vibrant with seasonal flowers.
Those looking for a creative experience may want to visit institutions like the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston Center for Photography, Lawndale Art Center, The Menil Collection, The Jung Center of Houston, The Museum of Fine Arts or the Rice University Art Galley. Other museums in the district include the Children’s Museum of Houston, Czech Center Museum Houston, Holocaust Museum Houston, Houston Museum of Natural Science, the John C. Freeman Weather Museum and the Museum of African American Culture.
A convenient feature of the Houston Museum District is over half these museums are free all the time, while all of them offer free entry at certain times. Visitors can easily have a worthwhile day browsing the different institutions without spending a dime. Along with creating an accessible world of art, history, culture and science, the museums also feature interesting daily events that can make your Houston visit more interesting. In the spring, the Houston Museum District truly comes to life as the many gardens littering the area becoming vibrant with seasonal flowers.
Address: Houston, Texas, USA
From $ 35
Guenther House
This restaurant, museum and store located in downtown San Antonio is stationed at the center of Bexar County and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Travelers can saddle up to the stunning covered outdoor terrace, or relax inside at one of the comfortable tables and enjoy traditional southern and Tex-Mex fare in a unique environment. Visitors should plan to spend some time exploring this historic home and its unique gift shop. And the world-famous baked goods should not be missed!
Practical Info
Guenther House is located in the heart of downtown San Antonio at 205 East Guenther Street. It is open daily from 8 am until 3 pm and serves breakfast and lunch.
Address: 205 East Guenther Street, San Antonio, Texas 78204, USA
Hours: Open daily from 8 am until 3 pm
From $ 25