As one of the host cities for soccer's biggest global event, Houston is welcoming fans from around the world who are eager to experience more than just the matches. Between games, Houston delivers an impressive lineup of things to see and do, from a world-class NASA facility to one of the largest art collections in the country.
Whether you're traveling solo or with your whole crew, these Houston attractions offer something worth adding to every itinerary. And with Houston CityPASS® tickets, you can save up to on admission to several of the city's most celebrated destinations, making it easier to fit more into your visit.
Experience Out-Of-This-World Wonder at Space Center Houston
When people ask what Houston is best known for, or what the number one thing to do in the city is, Space Center Houston consistently rises to the top. This is the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center, the hub of human spaceflight operations in the United States. It's where mission control has guided astronauts since the Apollo era, and where today's teams monitor the International Space Station and the recent Artemis II launch.
Inside, guests can explore more than 400 exhibits and artifacts that trace the full arc of American space exploration. Walk beneath a full-scale replica of the Saturn V rocket, sit in an actual shuttle training cockpit, and take a tram tour to see the historic Mission Control room up close. The facility is both immersive and informative, striking a balance between the technical and the awe-inspiring that resonates with adults and kids alike.
For international visitors, Space Center Houston offers a uniquely American experience that's hard to replicate anywhere else on earth. It's consistently ranked the number one attraction in the city — and once you're standing in front of a flown Apollo capsule, it's easy to see why.
Discover Natural Wonders at the Houston Museum of Natural Science
Houston's Museum District is one of the most concentrated cultural corridors in the country. It's home to 19 institutions spanning art, science, history, and culture.
At the center of that district sits the Houston Museum of Natural Science, a beloved destination that earns its place among the best things to do in Houston for visitors of every age.
The museum's permanent galleries cover everything from ancient Egypt to paleontology, gems and minerals to the Hall of the Americas. Families in particular find it endlessly engaging.
The Burke Baker Planetarium puts on stunning sky shows, and the Cockrell Butterfly Center is one of Houston's true hidden gems for families. Inside a soaring glass conservatory, hundreds of live butterflies from around the world flutter among tropical plants, offering a hands-on encounter that delights young and old visitors alike.
Given the scale of the Houston Museum District institutions surrounding it, the Museum of Natural Science makes an ideal starting point for a deeper dive into everything this neighborhood has to offer. Spend a morning here, then wander to neighboring museums, galleries, and green spaces.
Get Wild at the Houston Zoo
Set within the sprawling Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo is home to more than 6,000 animals representing over 900 species. It's one of the most-visited attractions in the city, and its commitment to engaging, interactive experiences makes it a standout among Houston's family-friendly attractions.
Guests can get closer to wildlife than they might expect. Feeding encounters let visitors hand-feed giraffes, rhinos, and other animals under the guidance of experienced zookeepers.
The zoo's habitats are thoughtfully designed to reflect the natural environments of their residents, from the African Forest to the Sea Lion Splash area. Conservation storytelling is woven throughout, giving even casual visitors a meaningful takeaway beyond the thrill of seeing animals up close.
For soccer fans traveling with children — or those who simply want a different kind of afternoon — the Houston Zoo offers a welcome contrast to the energy of match days. It's lively, accessible, and genuinely fun, making it one of the best things to do in Houston with kids.
Admire Global Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, holds one of the largest art collections in the United States, with more than 70,000 works spanning over 5,000 years of history. For international visitors arriving in the city with an appetite for high culture, events, and attractions, this is the premier destination.
The museum's collection spans European masters, African art, photography, decorative arts, and more. The Caroline Wiess Law Building and the Audrey Jones Beck Building — connected by an underground tunnel — house permanent galleries that could occupy an entire day of exploration.
The museum's outdoor sculpture garden and its programming calendar add additional dimensions to any visit.
For travelers accustomed to world-class institutions, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, holds its own with ease. The breadth of its collections rivals those of much larger cities, and its architecture is worth admiring on its own terms. A visit here pairs naturally with time spent exploring the broader Museum District on foot.
Save on Your Houston Adventure With CityPASS® Tickets
Houston's best attractions are spread across the city, and making the most of a short stay requires a smart plan. Houston CityPASS® tickets simplify the process by giving you access to multiple top-rated sites at a significant discount. Visitors can save up to compared to paying individual admission prices at the gate.
With Houston CityPASS® tickets, you choose from a selection of the city's most celebrated destinations, including Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Houston Zoo, and more.
Whether you're here for the soccer tournament, an extended family vacation, or your first time exploring one of the most dynamic cities in the South, Houston has more than enough to fill every hour between kickoffs. Plan your visit and purchase Houston CityPASS® tickets before you go.