Hanging out with friends often means going through the complicated task of picking a place to meet up and have some fun. These places typically end up being a random restaurant or coffee shop, which are great places to spend time with the people you love, but it can easily become repetitive.

For being such a big city, I often hear people saying, “There’s nothing to do in Houston,” when that really isn’t the case. There are countless hidden gems in Houston waiting to be experienced, you just need to know where and when to go. 

• Museum of Fine Arts Houston

Here you can find art of almost every kind, from classical to even performance art, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. This is a great place to go to when feeling stressed since its quiet atmosphere evokes a calming and even introspective mood. Going here alone can take up multiple days because of how big each exhibit is. I highly recommend taking your time throughout each exhibit and read every plaque because I promise, it will absolutely enhance your understanding and even enjoyment of the piece.

• Cactus Music

This record store offers a wide variety of music genres and artists. You can find both vintage and pristine, new records at this store. Its inviting and intriguing music lover décor paired with the unintimidating organizational pattern makes this a perfect place to get the album of your dreams. They also sell products other than classic records such as, CD’s, posters, and even stationary themed to the stores classic rock energy.

• ¼ Price Books

Located in a small shopping center, this tiny store can be easy to miss but worth the visit. Find your next favorite book here tucked away on shelfs full of diverse book genres for a low price!

• Houston Rooftop Cinema Club

Going to the movies can be a very therapeutic experience for many as it can give you and escape into another world, and visiting the Rooftop Cinema Club provides the perfect opportunity. Playing fan favorite movies on a rooftop in the middle of downtown Houston, the city skyline creates a great atmosphere.

• Thrift Shops

There are countless thrift shops hidden in downtown with excellent quality vintage pieces ready to be taken to a new home. I recommend going to markets around town, which is where these small businesses often set up their shops.

• Bayou Bend 

Originally the house of a philanthropist in Houston, this mansion and surrounding garden area is now owned by the Museum of Fine Arts and open to the public to explore. This is arguably one of the most beautiful gardens in the Houston area, with perfectly trimmed hedges, intricate stone statues, and blooming flowers, this space has many areas perfect for a photo. Each season sees different overlays and festivities equally worthy of visiting for the unique experiences they offer.

• Botanic Garden

Another lovely garden area, the botanical garden has long walking trails full of interesting plant life and insects. It’s evident lots of care is put into this space as all of the natural life is always strong and thriving. It’s a perfect to bring the family to take in some fresh air and learn about the Botanics of the Houston area.

• Eden plant co

While Eden offers coffee and a few pastries, that isn’t their main focus. This store sells a wide variety of beautiful plants and even gives classes allowing you to create your own flower bouquet. The sky is the limit with what you can make here as they have flowers if all shapes and colors giving you the opportunity to make something bold and creative.

• Museum of Natural Science

This Museum provides a multitude of educational experiences ranging from astronomy, history, biology and even a butterfly garden. There is something for every age here. Each exhibit provides a high quality insight into how our natural world works and has transformed over time. Some personal favorite places include the Paleontology exhibit, Planetarium, and Hall of Gems and Minerals.

• POST Houston

The POST is best known for its spectacular multicultural food court but that is not all it has to offer. They have large-scale, immersive art exhibits and is even located right next to a well-known concert hall in Houston, 713 Concert Hall. The “repurposed” aesthetic to the building creates an interesting setting perfect for photos. You can even hang out with friends on the POST’s rooftop park, or enjoy the workspaces scattered throughout the building with unconventional furniture.