Mobile Magic

Explore the origins of earth and man at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where more than a dozen permanent exhibits explore the worlds of astronomy, space science, Native Americans, chemistry, energy, paleontology, and Texas wildlife. There are also several displays of dinosaur skeletons, natural gems, and other attractions that will keep you occupied for hours. Special sections of the museum include the Wortham IMAX Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium, and the George Observatory.

What began as a hobby has bloomed into one of Houston's most popular tourist attractions, The Beer Can House. Over 18 years, the house disappeared under 50,000 flattened beer cans of different varieties for practical and decorative reasons. The can motif was only one aspect of the now-iconic visionary art environment. The yard is filled with plants and flowers that hang from the trees, occupy ceramic vessels, and grow in raised beds. As the neighborhood has changed, the property remains a time capsule of Houston’s vernacular architecture from the early 20th century, with a surprise around every corner.

Tour one of the busiest ports in the world aboard the Port of Houston Authority's free public tour boat. The 45-minute Sam Houston Boat Tour requires reservations, which are available on a first-come, first-serve basis at least 24 hours in advance.