Houston City Tours

Houston, US

Included

  • inclusion
    Expert Guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Lunch

Meeting Point

We meet inside the rotunda of the Houston City Hall at 901 Bagby Street, Houston, Texas 77002 on Monday through Friday. City Hall is closed on weekends. On weekends, we meet at a park bench on the east side of City Hall.

Meeting point

901 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002 , United States

End point

End Point

We meet inside the rotunda of the Houston City Hall at 901 Bagby Street, Houston, Texas 77002 on Monday through Friday. City Hall is closed on weekends. On weekends, we meet at a park bench on the east side of City Hall.

Meeting point

901 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Theater District

Did you know that only New York City has more downtown theaters than Houston? We will drive by the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts for musicals, Jones Hall for symphonies, the Margaret Alkek Center for Dance for the ballet, the Wortham Theater Center for the Houston Grand Opera, the Alley Theatre for regional repertoire plays, and the House of Blues for musical concerts.

2
Daikin Park

See the home of the 2017 and 2022 World Series champion Houston Astros baseball team.

3
Toyota Center

See the home of the Houston Rockets basketball team. This is also the site for concerts and high school graduations.

4

Shell Energy Stadium

This is the home of the Houston Dash women's soccer team, the Houston Dynamo men's soccer team, and the Texas Southern University (TSU)'s football team.

5

Graffiti Park

See colorful murals on the sides of buildings in the East Downtown (EADO) area.

6

Downtown Tunnels

On Monday through Friday, if you like, we will take about a 3 block walk into the underground tunnels of downtown Houston. We have over 7.5 miles/12.1 kilometers of underground tunnels that house over 500 businesses and thousands of employees. The tunnels are air conditioned and heated as needed. It is a city under the city. The tunnels are closed on Sunday, Saturday, and holidays.

Duration 20 minutes
7

Downtown Houston

See parks and plazas, statues and monuments, historic sites and markers, skyscrapers, governmental buildings, and houses of worship.

8

River Oaks

Drive through the wealthiest neighborhood in Houston with mansions that date to the 1924. This is one of the largest subdivisions of millionaire homes in the nation. It is over 2 square miles.

9

Rice Village Shops

Drive through one of the three best walking areas in Houston. It is next to Rice University and is full of mom and pop boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It is a very popular area to shop.

10
Rice University

The Rice Institute, later Rice University was found in 1912. It is the most respected and highest ranked university in the Deep South. On September 12, 1962, President Kennedy gave his famous speech explaining why we were planning to go to the moon at the Rice football stadium. That same stadium was home of Super Bowl VIII on January 13, 1974. I still have my ticket from that game. How much do you think it cost to attend?

11

Houston Museum District

Houston has over 35 museums in multiple areas of the city. We will pass through the major Museum District to see: 1. The Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH). 2. Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden. 3. The Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston (CAMH). 4. The Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH). 5. The Asia Society Texas Center. 6. The Children's Museum. 7. The John P. McGovern Museum of Health and Medical Science. 8. The Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS). The Children's Museum is the #1 children's museum in the US according to Parents Magazine. The HMNS is the 4th most visited museum in the US. The MFAH is the 4th largest art museum in the US. The CAMH and Sculpture Garden are free at all times. You could spend days visiting these magnificent museums.

12
Hermann Park

Hermann Park is the most popular park in Houston and a major attraction. Inside it are: 1. The John P. McGovern Centennial Gardens. 2. The Japanese Gardens. 3. The HMNS. 4. The most famous statue in Houston, that of General Sam Houston. 5. A replica of the Washington Monument and reflecting pool. 6. Miller Outdoor Theatre (MOT). We have FREE performances here almost every weekend from March to November. 7. Jogging/walking trails. 8. A children's train. 9. The Houston Zoo. 10. Peddle boat rides for up to 4 people. 11. Cafes. 12. More. A tourist can easily find enough activities to keep herself/himself busy for days.

13

Medical Center Area

Houston has the largest medical center in the world with over 20 different hospitals, research institutions, and colleges of medicine. Some of the sites we will see include: 1. Ben Taub Hospital. 2. Memorial Hermann Hospital. 3. Houston Methodist Hospital (HMH). 4. Baylor College of Medicine (BCM). 5. Prairie View A&M College of Nursing. 6. Kindred Hospital. 7. Texas Children's Hospital (TCH). 8. Texas Women's University (TWU) College of Nursing. 9. The University of Texas (UT) MD Anderson Cancer Center. 10. The Women's Hospital of Texas. 11. More.

14
NRG Stadium

See the home of the Houston Texans's football team and the site of the Houston Rodeo as well as concerts.

15

Astrodome Area

This opened in 1965 as the first domed stadium in the world. It was the home of the former Houston football team, the Oilers, the Houston Astros, the rodeo, concerts, conventions, and much more.

16

Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

This is the most photographed area in Houston. Lots of young ladies like to have quinceanera and bridal photos taken here. The water wall is a 64 foot/21 meter high semi-circle with 11,000 gallons of water pouring off the top every minute. It is very refreshing to cool down and feel the mist during hot and humid days.

Duration 15 minutes
17

Lakewood Church

Lakewood Church is one of the largest churches in the US. It has a seating capacity of 16,800 people. Its pastor is the world famous televangelist Joel Osteen. It has multiple services per week with 10s of thousands of people attending.

18

The Galleria

This is the 5th largest shopping mall in North American and the 4th largest shopping mall in the US. Before Covid in 2020, it had 375 stores. It has a full-size ice skating rink, food court, assorted high end restaurants and some of the most high fashion and expensive stores in the US.

19
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

This mansion was built in 1928 for a woman with a most unique name: Ima Hogg. Miss Ima amassed one of the biggest collections of American art and furnishings dating to the colonial period in the 1600s. We often stop here to give you an opportunity to walk on the suspension bridge that is over Buffalo Bayou. You can take photos of this scenic area, but you will need to return to tour the house and gardens.

Duration 10 minutes
20
Beer Can House

This novel house is the second most famous house in Houston. It is lined in over 50,000 beer cans. The owner was a dedicated alcoholic. He died of liver cancer. The garage, fences and gate are also lined in beer cans. Many people break out laughing as they take photos here. You can return on your own to pay to tour the house at a later date.

Duration 5 minutes
21

Memorial City

Memorial Park is the largest park that is wholly in Houston and Harris County. It has 1,466 acres/5.9 kilometers squared. It has a Nature Center and Arboretum, Olympic size swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course, a jogging path, Eastern Glades over swamps, and more. We will drive 3 miles/4.8 kilometers through it.

22
Giant Beatles Statues

See 36 foot/11 meter tall statues of the 4 lads from Liverpool, circa 1967 in a beer garden. We sometimes stop for about 5 minutes to take photos.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Parents need to supply their own infant seats for their babies and toddlers.
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Houston Historical Tours - Day Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit nearby Hermann Park for a stroll.
  • icon
    Grab lunch at The Galleria food court.
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    Check out the Museum District after the tour.
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    Bring a camera for the Beer Can House.
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    Plan a visit to Lakewood Church's services.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Houston City Tours is the ultimate way to explore the vibrant and unconventional heart of Texas’ largest city. This 5-hour guided experience takes you on a captivating journey through Houston's quirkiest gems, showcasing the artistic flair and unique architecture that define this sprawling metropolis. From the striking statues of the Beatles and captivating beer can house to the serene beauty of the Gerald D. Hines Water Wall, this tour is designed to leave you with unforgettable memories. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll traverse over 40 miles of cityscape, discovering hidden treasures and iconic landmarks that make Houston truly one-of-a-kind. The tour is wheelchair accessible and appropriate for all ages, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor ready to dive deep into Houston's quirky charm, this tour is the perfect choice for an engaging and enlightening experience.

What to expect?

Expect an adventure filled with Houston's most eccentric highlights. You’ll cruise through the Theater District, taking in the sights of magnificent venues that rival those of New York City. Marvel at the Beer Can House, a whimsical testament to creativity and recycling that will make you chuckle. The tour offers ample opportunities for photo ops at the Giant Beatles Statues, and the mesmerizing Gerald D. Hines Water Wall, a must-see for anyone wanting to feel the refreshing mist on a warm Texas day. The tour also includes visits to cultural hotspots like the Houston Museum District and Hermann Park, ensuring a well-rounded experience. You’ll be immersed in Houston's rich history and contemporary culture, all while enjoying the comfort of a private tour setting that allows for a personalized touch.

Who is this for?

Houston City Tours is perfect for anyone eager to discover the quirks and charms of this vibrant city. Whether you're a curious traveler wanting to experience local art and culture, a family looking for a fun day out, or a group of friends seeking unique photo opportunities, this tour has something for everyone. The tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Parents can easily bring along strollers for little ones, while those with mobility challenges will find the tour wheelchair accessible. Even locals can benefit from this new perspective on their city, uncovering hidden gems they might not have known about. So gather your friends or family and prepare for a delightful adventure that showcases Houston in all its quirky glory.

Why book this?

Booking Houston City Tours means investing in an unforgettable experience that combines fun, education, and adventure. Unlike typical city tours, this one highlights the eccentric aspects of Houston, allowing you to explore its artistic side in a way that’s refreshing and unique. With an expert guide, you’ll gain insights and stories about each landmark that you simply won’t find in a guidebook. The private tour format ensures that you can engage with the guide, ask questions, and tailor the experience to your interests. Imagine standing beneath the impressive Beer Can House or the stunning Water Wall, all while learning about the artistic spirit that drives Houston. This tour is not just another item on your travel checklist; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories and a deeper connection to the city.

Good to know

Before you embark on this exciting journey through Houston, there are a few handy tips to keep in mind. The meeting point is conveniently located inside the rotunda of the Houston City Hall on weekdays, while weekends have a designated spot nearby for added flexibility. While lunch isn’t included, you might want to grab a bite before or after the tour to fuel your adventure. With the tour being wheelchair accessible, everyone can join in on the fun, ensuring that no one feels left out. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there will be some walking involved, especially when exploring the vibrant neighborhoods and cultural hotspots. And if you're a fan of photography, come ready to snap away—the unique sights and quirky installations will provide countless opportunities to capture Instagram-worthy moments.

Reviews

Feedback from past participants of Houston City Tours has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the engaging and knowledgeable guides who bring the city to life. Travelers have expressed delight in discovering Houston's hidden gems, often noting how the tour exceeded their expectations. People rave about the unique attractions, particularly the Beer Can House and the Giant Beatles Statues, which provide a mix of laughter and awe. Guests often mention the sense of community and connection that the private tour format fosters, allowing for a more intimate experience as they explore the city together. Many have stated that this tour was a highlight of their trip, recommending it to friends and family for its fun, educational, and wonderfully quirky exploration of Houston. Whether you're new to the city or a long-time resident, this tour promises to reveal a side of Houston that you won’t want to miss.

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