Houston Museum District

Plan Ahead

Consider visiting on a Thursday, when many of the museums offer free admission in the afternoon and evening.

Overview of Houston's Museum District

Houston's expansive Museum District is by far the city's greatest cultural asset and is considered one of the top things to do in Texas. This district features 19 museums in four walkable zones, which include popular spots like the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, The Menil Collection, and The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Location and Accessibility

Located about 4 miles south of downtown Houston, The Museum District stretches from the southern edge of Midtown and includes Hermann Park. Millions of people visit each year thanks to its diverse array of offerings and the fact that admission to half of the museums is free year-round.

Top Museums to Visit

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

This museum boasts nearly 70,000 works in its collection, featuring big names like Georgia O'Keeffe and Pablo Picasso.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

This expansive museum features exhibits covering various topics, from Texas wildlife to astronomy. It's home to the popular Cockrell Butterfly Center and the Burke Baker Planetarium.

The Health Museum

An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the Health Museum teaches visitors everything they need to know about the human body. It includes interactive exhibits, an on-site lab, and a theater.

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum

This museum focuses on the history of African Americans in the military. Visitors can learn about the Buffalo Soldiers, some of whom were former enslaved people and freemen who served in the military following the Civil War.

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Houston's premier modern art museum features six to eight rotating exhibits throughout the year, covering international, national, and regional art from the last 40 years.

Tips for Visiting

Recent visitors loved the Museum District for its numerous quality institutions and walkability. However, parking can be a challenge, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. Narrow down your list of must-visit museums ahead of time, as there's much to see and it could take several days to explore everything the district offers.

Hours and Admission

The Museum District's hours and admission fees vary by each institution.

Tickets and Free Admission

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Children's Museum of Houston, The Health Museum, the Holocaust Museum Houston, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Czech Center Museum Houston all have free hours on Thursdays, usually starting in the afternoon or evening. Most museums have parking lots or garages; street parking is also available. There are three METRORail stations in the area, as well as BCycle stations.

For more information about free admission and museum hours, visit the Houston Museum District's website.