Top 10 Things To Do Near Houston This Weekend

Road trips are definitely the most fun ways to spend a weekend or a short break. The thrill of packing light and reaching your destination quickly while playing your favorite songs is an experience quite unparalleled. Even though there are plenty of things to do in Houston, no one minds a few days away from their city for a refreshing break. Whether you’re a native looking for a weekend getaway or an outsider who wants to explore destinations nearby Houston, these places are your best bet. From nature trails to fun adventure rides by the bay, there’s something to entertain each one of you. 

Go ahead and take your pick. 

Top 10 Weekend Destinations

Galveston Island- Reach here in 1hour

Galveston Island is a 30-mile-long island located to the southeast of Houston and a great option, if you are thinking of things to do in Houston this weekend. The island has several beach parks that run along its shores and are open to the public. You can choose from a number of activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports while here. The island also offers a plethora of restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops along the sidewalk for quick breaks. 

Texas City- Reach here in 1hour

Texas City is a small city situated on the southeastern coast of Texas. One of the most beautiful attractions here is the world’s longest man-made pier, which runs for more than five miles and also has dedicated areas for enjoying fishing and picnic along the water. The city also offers several museums to check out the history of the city such as the Texas City Museum, and historic homes, such as the Davison Home and the Engineer’s Cottage.  Find budget hotels like OYO Hotel Channelview I-10, a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and close to tourist attractions like Moreno’s Reception Hall, Dell Dale Avenue Baptist Church, Carpenters Bayou, and First Assembly of God.

Port Arthur- Reach here in 1hour 30minutes

Port Arthur is another small-sized city located along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. It has more than one Gulf coast beach, all of which provide homes to many species native to the region, including diverse birds, fish and even alligator populations. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in a range of activities like hiking, cycling, fishing, watersports, and even swamp and boat tours. There are several religious, spiritual as well as artistic hubs to explore as well. 

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge- Reach here in: 1hour 20minutes

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is a unique wildlife conservation area spread across an area of 34,000 acres of prairie and coastal marsh territory. The refuge, which was established in 1963, is supported mainly by volunteers, who protect the area’s diverse wildlife to allow visitors to experience a unique visit. Enjoy nature at its best by spotting species such as alligators, fulvous whistling ducks, seaside sparrows, and even bobcats.

Village Creek State Park- Reach here in 1hour 30minutes 

Village Creek State Park is a relaxing and family-friendly state park located at a drive of an hour-and-a-half outside Houston. The park is situated alongside its namesake, Village Creek, which provides the ideal setting for a weekend getaway from Houston. The creek is equipped for several outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, geocaching, and canoeing, among others.

George Bush Park- Reach here in 30minutes

Looking for free things to do in Houston? George Bush Park is a county park located within the city limits. This territory is the site of the Buffalo Bayou, a man-made bayou that is also an important watershed for the city. George Bush Park has several soccer and baseball fields, jogging and hiking trails, perfect for fitness freaks and those looking for a sportive weekend getaway from Houston. If you want to stay close to the Park, try out OYO. It offers the best budget hotels that can be further booked with hotel deals and discounts available on our website.

Sam Houston National Forest-Reach here in 1hour

There are endless Houston attractions! Sam Houston National Forest is one of Texas’s four national forests. It is spread over a massive landmass of 163,037 acres of forest land and contains many different species of flora and fauna that make for visually appealing sights. The forest is packed with hiking trails and camping, boating, fishing, hunting, off-roading as well as horseback riding for entertainment.

Stark Museum of Art- Reach here in: 1hour 40minutes

The Stark Museum of Art is situated at around one and a half hour’s drive from Houston. Founded in 1978, the museum houses one of the most comprehensive collections of American Western art in the United States. The Stark Museum offers a diverse collection that includes a large set of glass and porcelain works, including Steuben Glass’s United States in Crystal among other things.

Kemah- Reach here in 40minutes

Known as the “Gateway to the Bay”, the city of Kemah is located along Galveston Bay which makes it an attractive weekend getaway from Houston. The city has an entire entertainment district comprising bayside restaurants and tourist attractions. Most notably, Kemah has a large boardwalk right on the bay with plenty of fun rides and other activities. Make sure you choose a suitable hotel in Houston that will make your travel easy if you’re not from around here.

Brenham- Reach here in 1hour 10minutes

A visit to Brenham is a sire to provide a breath of fresh air especially if you’re used to the big city life. This small city is located in Washington County, which itself is found in a lush area with an abundance of bluebonnet fields. A series of museums around here depict the story of old Texas, while the area’s wine trail winds among several regional vineyards. Brenham also boasts of a number of outdoor park spaces and several spas for a relaxing time while in this quaint town. Don’t miss out on taking a tour at Blue Bell Ice Creamery to know the preparation of Texas’s favorite ice cream.

While looking for nearby places to visit around Houston, keep in mind the travel time and the activities offered at each of the locations. Choose an affordable hotel in Houston that is closest to your destination and offers amenities like a swimming pool and parking space, suited to your needs for a comfortable stay.