Houston is the fourth-most populated city in the United States and one of the nation’s brightest cultural hotspots. In the city, cultural diversity isn’t just a marketing ploy; it’s a way of life you can hear across neighborhoods, with 2.3 million residents1 speaking at least 145 languages2. The city is also home to a smorgasbord of ethnic cuisines, with specialty dishes like Vietnamese-style crayfish, bánh mi, and gumbo frequently appearing on menus around town.
Whether you’re considering buying a new home in Texas or simply looking to take a Texas-sized vacation to H-Town, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the culture of Houston. Cowboy boots and food truck tickets not included!
What Defines the Culture of Houston, Texas?
The city exudes so much culture that it can be challenging to narrow down what defines it to a short list. You could point to Houston's blues scene, its aforementioned foodie culture, the city's space lore ("Houston, we have a problem"), its sports-town pride, or its long-held status as host to the biggest rodeo in the world—more on that later). However, no matter what you pick out to define Houston’s culture, there’s no second-guessing how that culture was created.
Harris County is the most ethnically diverse county in Texas3, with more than 364 ethnic groups living in Houston and the surrounding area. Over the years, these diverse cultural influences have produced the unique city we know today.
What are the Top Cultural Attractions of Houston, Texas?
There's no shortage of things to do in Houston because the city offers its residents and visitors a wide array of cultural attractions. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor checking out the city for the first time, here are the spots that need to be on your list.
Historical Sites in the Houston Area
History and Houston are synonymous. You can’t have one without the other, and these historical sites prove it:
- San Jacinto Monument and Museum: A quick drive from the city, this 567-foot-tall monument in La Porte commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto, a key event in the history of Texas’s independence.
- Sam Houston Park: Located in downtown Houston, this park is said to be an “oasis of living history” and preserves historic buildings dating back to the 1800s.
- Main Street Market Square: Houston's only historic commercial district, Main Street Market Square contains 52 historic buildings, including the Main Street Viaduct and Allen’s Landing Park.
Museums in Houston
The Houston Museum District includes 21 institutions beaming with culture, creativity, and innovation. Here are some of the highlights you have to check out in the Houston area:
- Houston Museum of Natural Science: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this fan-favorite museum features exhibits on dinosaurs, birds, geology, space, and local wildlife.
-
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: One of the largest art museums in the United States, the MFAH boasts an impressive collection of contemporary and modern pieces.
-
The Menil Collection: Well worth your time and money (admission is free), the Menil Collection features an eclectic mix of sculptures, rare books, paintings, and installations.
-
Children’s Museum: Featuring an array of interactive exhibits, the Children's Museum is one of Houston’s greatest institutions. Don’t just take our word for it—in 2024, the Children’s Museum earned a National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
Events and Festivals in Houston
From permanent installations to annual events and festivals, the cultural schedule of Houston just doesn’t stop. Here are the five top festivals you should attend in H-Town:
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: The world’s largest rodeo, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo features much more than livestock shows (although those are worth the cost of admission alone), including concerts, carnival rides, and other Texas-sized traditions.
- Houston International Festival (iFest): iFest USA is the nation’s leading celebration of multicultural diversity. The event features live performances, exhibits, and so much more.
- Bayou City Art Festival: Attracting more than 20,000 attendees, the Bayou City Art Festival is one of the nation’s top art festivals. Artists from all over the country (and world) descend upon Houston, Texas, to showcase their work.
- Tacos & Tequila Festival: A local favorite, the Houston Tacos and Tequila Festival celebrates the city’s love of food, margaritas, and rap music.
- Art Car Parade: A four-day celebration honoring the “drive to create,” the Art Car attracts a live audience of over 250,000 visitors as paraders show off their artistically adorned cars, trucks, bicycles, and even lawnmowers.
Culinary Scene in Houston
Houston is considered one of America’s best food cities, and for good reason. Its culinary scene not only reflects the city’s rich cultural diversity— it’s also just downright delicious. From barbecue and Tex-Mex to Vietnamese and Lousiana-Creole-inspired dishes, hopefully you’re hungry because there are so many restaurants you need to check out in Houston.
- Original Ninfa’s on Navigation: An icon in the Tex-Mex scene and the original creator of the fajita (according to some), Ninfa’s is a casual spot serving up some of the best food in Houston.
- Crawfish & Noodles: Credited with starting Houston’s fusion food scene, Crawfish & Noodles serves a flavorful menu of Viet-Cajun favorites, including bánh mi, garlic-butter potatoes and, of course, crawfish.
- Gatlin’s BBQ: Serving up some of Houston's best Texas-style barbecue, Gatlin’s is known for its perfectly smoked brisket, ribs, and homemade sides.
- the breakfast klub: An iconic Houston institution famous for its soul food-style breakfast and legendary wings and waffles, the breakfast klub is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
- Xochi: Led by acclaimed chef Hugo Ortega, Xochi is an award-winning restaurant specializing in Oaxacan cuisine.
- Himalaya Restaurant: This hidden gem consistently earns national praise for its Pakistani- and Indian-inspired dishes.
Art and Music in Houston
From intricate street art to grandiose concert halls, Houston’s art and music scene is as diverse as the city itself. Here are some of the highlights:
- Houston Theater District: Home to nine performing arts organizations, including the Houston Symphony Orchestra, Houston Grand Opera, and Houston Ballet, the Houston Theater District offers performances year-round.
- White Oak Music Hall: One of the most popular venues in Houston, White Oak Music Hall features a mix of local bands, touring acts, and outdoor performances.
- The Heights Theater: An intimate, historic venue in the charming Heights neighborhood, this theater hosts live performances across musical genres, ranging from country to soul to Texas Blues.
Making the Move to Houston, Texas
Houston isn’t just a leading vacation destination; it’s also a great place to call home. Where else can you soak in so much history, culture, and delicious cuisine?
If you’re looking to move to H-Town, Century Communities is here to help. Use our Find Your Home feature to locate beautiful dream homes in the Houston Metro.
Things to Do in Houston FAQ
How to spend a day in Houston
There are many ways to make the most of a day in Houston. Start by visiting one of the city’s famous museums, like Space Center Houston or the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Next, take a break for lunch at Crawfish & Noodles, Ninfa’s on Navigation, or another local favorite. Finally, take in a show at White Oak Music Hall or attend one of the city’s many annual festivals.
What is Houston best known for?
Houston is known for many things. From Tex-Mex to space exploration, diversity, and artistic expression, it’s not an exaggeration to say the city has a little of everything.
Is Houston walkable?
Houston may not be well known for its walkability, but many areas are entirely walkable. However, the city covers a wide geographical area, which does mean you’ll often need a car or public transportation to get from one spot to the next.
