Happy Wallets

The Best Free Things to Do in Houston Right Now

Museums, movies, music, and more—here’s how to explore Houston for zilch.

03/03/2026 By Claire Anderson, Jessica Lodge, and Daniel Renfrow

Super Picnic

The Big Blanket That Brought Houston Together

The Big Blanket Super Picnic proves that sometimes all you need to fight loneliness is a few friends and a really big blanket.

11/06/2025 By Erica Cheng

Starlight and Cinema

Grab the Lawn Chairs: Here’s Where to Watch Outdoor Movies in Houston

Finally, good weather has returned to Houston. It's time to enjoy this rare moment by catching a movie at one of the city's many outdoor screens.

10/20/2025 By Rosemary Akpan and Meredith Nudo

Alfresco

Perfect Patios for Houston's Cooler Weather

From laid-back vibes at Axelrad to a Tulum-inspired experience, these local patios have it all.

10/10/2025 By Emma Balter and Sofia Gonzalez

Adventure Time

The Best Trails and Neighborhoods in Houston for Biking

Despite what you might have heard, there’s never been a better time to be a cyclist in the Bayou City.

04/12/2024 By Daniel Renfrow

New Year, New You

New Year’s Resolutions to Keep Fit in Houston without the Gym

Instead of getting a gym membership you’ll cancel soon, why not pick up some new hobbies in the city?

01/02/2024 By Uvie Bikomo

Houston History

Glenwood Cemetery Is Home to the Most Famous (Dead) Houstonians

Follow our guide to the graveyards of the city’s notable former residents.

10/31/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Green Spaces

Hermann Park Will Look Completely Different Next Year

A 26-acre expansion coming in March 2024 will include innovative playgrounds and zen spaces, as well as a new cafe and beer garden.

09/22/2023 By Uvie Bikomo

Back to Nature

There’s So Much to Love at the Houston Botanic Garden Right Now

Just three years after opening, the park has blossomed into an oasis to nerd out on plant life, enjoy rotating exhibits and special events, and more.

08/10/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Adult Swim

Stock Tank Pools Are Our Favorite New Summer Trend

Although originally intended for cattle, these budget-friendly pools are just as good at cooling off humans.

07/19/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Riding Solo

Fun Ideas for Solo Adventures in Houston

Explore the city’s underground tunnel system or tour Houston’s murals.

07/11/2023 By Danielle Wright

Bike Battle

Hardcourt Bike Polo Is Building a Strong Presence in Houston

The sport gained fans in the early aughts in Seattle before spreading across the country and to the Lone Star State.

06/06/2023 By Daniel Renfrow Photography by Richard Ramirez II

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

10 Naturally Great Gifts For the Outdoor Explorer in Your Life

These outdoorsy gifts will make any nature-lover smile.

11/09/2022 By Alexia Partouche

Woof Woof!

5 Houston Dog Parks Perfect for Puppy Playtime

When it’s time to let the dogs out, these are the best parks for your four-legged friends.

09/14/2022 By Jessica Lodge

Paddle On

Here's Where to Kayak and Paddle in Houston

Rent Kayaks from Bayou City Adventures at Discovery Green to North Lake Conroe Paddling Co. in Lake Conroe—our city has no shortage of paddle-worthy waterways.

07/21/2022 By Katharine Shilcutt

Open Road

7 Ways To Experience Colorado This Winter

How to enjoy Colorado – without the skis.

12/24/2021 By Kelsy Armstrong

Outdoors

Trae Tha Truth Joins Mass Bike Ride to Mourn Astroworld Victims

The Clutch City Cruisers and other local crews will lead the journey through the city.

11/10/2021 By Camilo Hannibal Smith

We're outside (safely)

Discovery Green Announces Fall 2021 Programs

Enjoy outdoor fun in the heart of downtown’s 12-acre park.

08/05/2021 By Amarie Gipson

Cannonball!

Here's How You Can Enjoy Your Own Private Pool in Houston

Swimply is offering an online marketplace for pool sharing.

07/28/2021 By Shelby Stewart

Flower Fever

Your Informal Guide to Azaleas in Houston

The Azalea Trail is canceled, but you can still see the blooms at these H-Town spots.

03/19/2021 By Brittany Cristiano