If you're looking for exciting outdoor activities in Houston, you're in the right place!
Whether you're a local or just visiting, Houston offers a wealth of outdoor adventures that cater to all ages and interests.
From exploring lush parks and scenic trails to kayaking on tranquil waters and discovering hidden historical gems, the Bayou City has something for everyone.
In this guide, we'll take you through some of the best outdoor activities in Houston, perfect for soaking up the sun, staying active, and experiencing the vibrant culture and natural beauty of this dynamic city.
And just so you know, nobody pays us to be featured on this list. They’re just experiences we’ve tried or activities we’ve done that we enjoyed. No affiliate links, just personal recommendations so you can find the best things to do in Houston!
Best Outdoor Activities in Houston
Go on a Scavenger Hunt Through Houston
Location: Houston, TX
Starting off our list of the best outdoor activities in Houston: something that transforms the city into your playground.
Perfect for families, couples, friends, or even solo explorers, scavenger hunts like these turn a walk into an adventure. You don’t need anything except for a phone and a good pair of walking shoes.
You'll solve clues, uncover hidden gems, and learn quirky facts about the city as you race against the clock. It’s a fun and unique way to see Houston’s highlights while indulging your inner detective–and there are built-in recommended rest stops along the way so no need to plan refreshments ahead of time!
Practical information: Available daily with multiple start times. Prices start at $12 per person. You can book your scavenger hunt adventure through the CityDays website.
Hang Out at Hermann Park
Location: Houston, TX
If all you want or need is somewhere nice to hang out in Houston’s great outdoors, Hermann Park is your best bet.
Hermann Park is Houston’s green gem, and hosts a bunch of activities offering everything from tranquil gardens to paddle boating on McGovern Lake.
Perfect for a family or a romantic picnic, a stroll through the Japanese Garden, or a leisurely train ride, this 445-acre park is a local favorite for outdoor activities in Houston, and its central location makes it a go-to spot for both relaxation and recreation.
Practical information: Open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM. Most activities in the park are free, but the train ride and paddle boats have a small fee. Check the Hermann Park website for more details.
Play a Game of Disc Golf
Location: Various Parks in Houston, TX
Swap your golf clubs for discs and enjoy a round of disc golf at one of Houston’s many parks!
If you’re not from around here, it might surprise you to learn that disc golf is a pretty popular sport in Houston. There are 25 courses in Houston in total, so your options are pretty much endless when it comes to finding somewhere nearby to play.
Also, don’t be afraid to give it a try if you’re new to the sport: it’s great fun for all ages and skill levels, and you can make your game as laid-back or competitive as you want. Plus, it’s a great way to explore Houston’s green spaces!
Practical information: Disc golf courses are available at several parks, including Agnes Moffitt Park and TC Jester Park. Most courses are open daily and free to use. Bring your own discs.
Mount Your Steed at Cypress Trails Equestrian Center
Location: Cypress Trails, Humble, TX
Looking to get that “yeehaw!” feeling out of your outdoor activities in Houston? Saddle up for an unforgettable horseback ride through scenic trails at Cypress Trails Equestrian Center.
No matter if you're an experienced rider or a beginner, this center offers guided trail rides that showcase the natural beauty just to the north of Houston. The staff are super friendly and the horses are absolutely gorgeous and well looked after, and you don’t need to have any prior experience to have a great day out on the ranch!
Practical information: Open daily by appointment. Prices start at $50 per hour for trail rides. Reserve your ride on the Cypress Trails website.
Check Out Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Location: Houston, TX
If you’re a recent transplant to Houston who’s missing the plains, forests, mountains or lakes from elsewhere in the country, the seemingly never ending urban sprawl can feel a bit daunting.
Don’t worry, we have nature here too - it just might be on a smaller scale than you’re used to.
Still, Houston Arboretum spans a total of 155 acres, so it definitely qualifies as a nature sanctuary as an escape from the urban hustle. It features five miles of trails, diverse wildlife, and educational exhibits, and it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers to enjoy outdoor activities in Houston, whether you're birdwatching or just looking to unwind.
Practical information: Open daily from 7 AM to dusk. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Check out the Houston Arboretum website for more details.
Fun Outdoor Activities in Houston
Bike, Jog or Walk Around Buffalo Bayou Park
Location: Houston, TX
Some folks will tell you there’s barely any outdoor activities in Houston: they’ll blame the weather, the landscape, the urbanity of the city…well, they’re wrong. You’ve just gotta shift your perspective a bit.
If you’re into biking, jogging, walking, soaking up nice views, interacting with nature or any of the above, Buffalo Bayou Park is the place to do it.
Offering 160 acres of urban wilderness right in the heart of Houston, Buffalo Bayou Park and its many scenic trails are the perfect way to soak up the city’s natural beauty. Don’t miss the art installations and the Waugh Drive Bat Colony, which emerges at dusk.
Practical information: Open 24 hours, but it's best enjoyed during daylight. Bike rentals are available, and there’s no admission fee. Visit the Buffalo Bayou Partnership website for more info.
Do a Bunch of Activities at Memorial Park
Location: Memorial Park
Yes, it’s another park – but Memorial Park’s offerings are more significant than many of its rivals.
Apart from being a vast urban oasis with an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, Memorial Park is also home to a golf course and sports fields. There’s dedicated space for volleyball, mountain biking, croquet, fitness and wellness classes (some of these are free!) and more, and there’s even a dog park if you want to bring a four-legged friend with you.
Practical information: Open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM. Access to the park is free, but some amenities like the golf course have fees. Visit the Memorial Park Conservancy website for more details.
Hang Out with the Animals at Houston Zoo
Location: Hermann Park
Lots of folks are surprised to find out just how much native wildlife we have here in Houston - alligators, bats, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, reptiles and snakes…the list goes on.
But if you’re looking to hang out with more exotic creatures (or, see the native ones at a safe distance), head over to Hermann Park.
Home to over 6,000 animals, Houston Zoo is an awesome place to stroll around, see some lush exhibits, have an animal encounter or practice your photography (without flash, of course).
Practical information: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission ranges from $22 to $29, with discounts for children and seniors. Purchase tickets in advance on the Houston Zoo website.
Catch a (FREE!) Performance at The Miller Outdoor Theatre
Location: Houston, TX
Brief description:
For over a hundred years, people have been coming to the Miller Outdoor Theatre to enjoy a night under the stars with free performances ranging from Shakespeare to symphonies.
Located in Hermann Park, this theater offers a unique cultural experience with its open-air setting. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy one of the best outdoor activities in Houston – free of charge!
Practical information: Performances are seasonal, typically running from March to November. Admission is free, but seating on the hill is first-come, first-served. Visit the Miller Outdoor Theatre website for the current schedule.
Houston Botanic Garden
Location: Houston Botanic Garden
Looking for outdoor activities in Houston that double as a lesson in botany? This is for you.
The Houston Botanic Garden is a blooming paradise, showcasing plants from across the globe in stunning landscapes. Perfect for folks with green thumbs or plant lovers, this garden is a delightful escape into nature, offering themed gardens and art installations that highlight the beauty of Houston’s biodiversity.
Practical information: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $15 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. For more information, visit the Houston Botanic Garden website.
Do a Houston Ship Channel Boat Tour
Location: Buffalo Bayou
Think you’ve seen all that Houston’s got to offer? Think again.
Discover Houston’s industrial side with a free, 90-minute boat tour on the Sam Houston Boat tour!
This unique experience offers a glimpse into one of the world’s busiest ports and is perfect for those interested in the city’s economic engine. Apart from being very interesting, tickets are also free (which is a bonus) and the crew supply fresh coffee onboard.
Practical information: Tours are free but require reservations. Tours typically operate Tuesday through Saturday. Check availability and book on the Port of Houston website.
Go Birdwatching at Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary
Location: Houston, TX
Speaking of native wildlife, we can’t forget about the birds!
Hidden in the hustle and bustle of West Houston, Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary is a serene spot perfect for birdwatching and nature walks. This small but peaceful sanctuary is ideal for a quick escape into nature, featuring easy trails and abundant wildlife–and you won’t be disturbed by any pesky bike riders or dog walkers here, either (walking allowed only).
Practical information: Open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged to support conservation efforts. Learn more on the Houston Audubon website.
Hang Out at Lake Houston Wilderness Park
Location: New Caney, TX
If you just need to take a break from Houston city vibes, or you’re really into your watersports, visit Lake Houston.
Perfect for fishing, boating, and with ample space for picnicking and nature watching, it’s a great spot for a weekend getaway without leaving the city.
Practical information: Open daily from dawn to dusk. Free access, though boat rentals or fishing permits may have fees. Check the City of Houston website for more info.
Hang Out at Discovery Green
Location: Houston, TX
If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Houston that you can do downtown and at relatively short notice, head to Discovery Green.
Discovery Green is downtown Houston’s vibrant park, offering everything from kayaking to yoga classes. This 12-acre park is a hub for community events, art installations, and outdoor fun, so be sure to check out the program before leaving your house.
Practical information: Open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM. Most activities are free, though some events may require tickets. For current events and activities, visit the Discovery Green website.
Check Out Brazos Bend State Park
Location: Needville, TX
Just a short drive from Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With over 5,000 acres of wetlands, lakes, and forests, it’s perfect for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Just keep an eye out for alligators!
Practical information: Open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM. Entry is $7 for adults, free for children under 12. Find out more on the Brazos Bend State Park website.
Visit The San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield
Location: La Porte, TX
If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Houston that involve some easygoing time travel, visit The San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield.
A must-visit for history buffs and anyone curious about the Lone Star State’s past, this historic site marks the location of the Battle of San Jacinto, where Texan forces led by General Sam Houston secured independence from Mexico in 1836. The towering San Jacinto Monument commemorates this pivotal victory, and the museum inside offers fascinating exhibits on Texas history, the Republic era, and the battle itself.
Practical information: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Admission to the battleground is free; fees apply for museum and monument access. Learn more on the San Jacinto Museum website.
Visit The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
Location: Waterwall Drive
If you have an Instagram account, I’ll bet that you’ve already seen this on your feed. If you don’t, it’s even more impressive in person than it looks (but of course, the temptation to add it to your own feed is irresistible).
This 64-foot-tall semicircular fountain is a stunning backdrop for photos and a refreshing spot to visit as a tourist, local, or just to stand next to and cool off on one of those scorching summer days (I want all of that mist!).
Practical information: Open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM. Free admission. Located near The Galleria, with parking available nearby. Learn more on the Waterwall Park website.
Find More Things to Do in Houston with CityDays
So there you have it, 12+ birthday ideas in Houston you can use to inspire the best birthday bash ever.
Remember that no matter what you decide to do on your morning, afternoon or evening out with your partner, friends, family, or coworkers, there’s nothing like teamwork to make the dream work.
That’s why we at CityDays create fun, interesting and challenging trails around the world to help you immerse yourself in a city’s culture, history and curios.
Want to find out more?
Check out all our available activities in Texas here and embark on an adventure in the city you’ll never forget: CityDays awaits!