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Whether you're a newly minted Houstonian or just passing through (either way – sorry for all the rain), there's plenty of tourist-y things to do in H-Town.
From exploring our roots to soaring high above the city, these destinations are perfect for newcomers and lifelong residents alike.
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Tickets to Space Center Houston start at $29.95 for adults.
Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographerSpace Center Houston
This should always top every Houston tourist's list.
Space Center Houston offers a glimpse into the lives of NASA astronauts and beyond. Funded by the Manned Space Flight Education Foundation, the center serves as the official visitor hub for the Johnson Space Center.
With fun and educational opportunities, the learning center should be on everyone's bucket list.
Tickets to the San Jacinto Monument and Museum start at $12 for adults.
Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographerSan Jacinto Monument
It's the tallest masonry column in the world, and it's in our backyard.
Commemorating those who fought in the Texas Revolution, the obelisk stands 567 feet tall (12 feet taller than the Washington Monument)
There's a museum, interactive experiences and even an observation deck.
Tickets for a Houston City Tour start at $34.95.
J. Patric Schneider/FreelanceHouston bus tours (yes, we have bus tours)
There's quite a bit to see in downtown if you know where to look.
Houston City Tours offers an exclusive $35 ride around downtown on a double-decker bus offering visitors' the sites, such as Minute Maid Park, city hall and Sam Houston Park.
If that's not your thing, the company also offers guided tours to other destinations, like Kemah or Space Center Houston.
Tickets on the H-Town Express start at $449.
Vershinin/Getty Images/iStockphotoScenic helicopter rides
You've probably seen them up above.
National Helicopter Solutions offers a (pricey but worth it) trip high above rush hour traffic every day. Called the H-Town Express, helicopter rides start at $449 and can hold up to three people.
The tour usually lasts around 30 minutes and features a trip around downtown, the Texas Medical Center and the Galleria.
Galveston beaches are free, although Stewart Beach costs $15 to enter.
Tim Leviston / EyeEm/Getty Images/EyeEmGalveston
The birthplace of a now federally-recognized American holiday. A culturally significant area of Greater Houston.
Galveston deserves more respect as a destination (shoutout to @the_factual_texan on TikTok). Any tourist would be lucky to step foot on the sands of Galveston Island to catch some rays and waves, then stick around for food, drinks and music on the Strand.
Did I miss any? Let me know on Twitter: @jayrjordan
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