Top Museums to Visit in Houston, Texas

Houston, the fourth-largest city in America, is known as a cultural destination with much to explore. With hundreds of art galleries, museums, and theaters scattered throughout the city’s diverse neighborhoods, it can be challenging to decide which attractions to experience first. Today we’re making your decision easier by featuring some of Houston’s best museums that are truly worth checking out. From world-renowned fine arts organizations to historical gems with roots dating back centuries ago— here are the must-see spots for your next trip to Houston, Texas.

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is one of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive museums. Boasting some of the world’s best collections of artwork, visitors can explore pieces from ancient times to the present day. The museum also offers interactive exhibitions, lectures, films, and programs for people of all ages.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

This natural history museum is one of the most popular attractions in Houston, Texas, and attracts more than two million visitors each year. Visitors can explore different interactive exhibits, from a butterfly center to an observatory with more than 50 telescopes. The museum also offers educational programs for students of all ages, as well as special events throughout the year.

Rienzi, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Rienzi is an Italian-styled villa in Houston, Texas’s renowned museum district. It boasts a collection of European decorative arts and paintings, ranging from the Renaissance to the 20th century. In addition to its permanent exhibits, Rienzi also hosts concerts, art classes, lectures, and other events throughout the year.

Station Museum of Contemporary Art

The Station Museum of Contemporary Art is a non-profit organization located in downtown Houston, Texas. It features rotating exhibitions and installations featuring works by local, national, and international artists that explore the most current issues in contemporary art. The museum also offers lectures, films, and other educational opportunities to create an engaging learning experience.

National Museum of Funeral History

The National Museum of Funeral History is a unique museum located in Houston, Texas. It features exhibits covering the history and traditions of funeral services from different cultures around the world. Visitors can also explore interactive displays featuring artifacts from famous funerals, such as Abraham Lincoln's casket and John F. Kennedy’s limousine.

Museum of American Architecture and Decorative Arts

Located in the Houston Christian University in Texas, the Museum of American Architecture and Decorative Arts is dedicated to showcasing the best of American architecture, furniture, textiles, paintings, decorative arts, and more. The museum offers an impressive array of exhibits as well as educational programs for students and adults alike.

George W. S. Abbey Rocket Park at Space Center Houston

This museum of space history in Houston, Texas features a variety of space-related artifacts, including rockets, spacecraft, and other equipment used throughout the history of NASA’s space program. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits to learn more about the exciting world of space exploration. You can enjoy numerous unique exhibits, including the restored Saturn V.