Houston Exploration

Houston’s Museum District is comprised of 18 museums in a one and a half mile radius, recording an annual attendance of almost 9 million viewers. Situated in the Neartown area, loosely bordering the prestigious Rice University campus, this city’s cultural center for knowledge and education traces its strategically placed location back to the late 70s, when city leaders decided that Houston’s museums needed to be more easily accessible. In 1989 the Museum District, as it is still currently known, was formally recognized by the city and has since been a staple for Houston locals and tourists alike. For visitors who don’t have time to take in all 18 museums, here are a few of the highlights you won’t want to miss.

1. Menil Art Collection The privately owned Menil Collection is the proud home of some of the most rare and coveted art pieces in the world, including sculptures, paintings, drawings, prints, photographs and even rare books. Matisse and Picasso are only a few of the most famous name in the fine art world who can find their works on display at the museum. While some of the most expensive man made creations are on display, admission is actually free to the public.
2. Houston Museum of Natural Science It should only make sense that Houston, the “Energy Capital of the World,” would boast one of the best natural science museums in order to educate its population about our planet and its resources. The Natural Science museum also looks beyond the mere scope of Earth, with an eye to the skies. The Challenger Center provides insight into space travel while the George Observatory allows visitors to stare into the stars.
3. Children’s Museum of Houston Already a popular destination for families in the Houston area, the Children’s Museum of Houston is currently expanding to double its size. The improved museum will upgrade the facility’s bilingual community outreach programs and provide more classrooms and labs, in addition to increasing the size of the onsite Public Library branch. The 35 million renovation should only enhance the interactive learning experiences and family fun the Children’s Museum has provided for years.