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Aug 08, 2023

30 Indoor things to do in Houston

Posted by Jerri C. | Dec 22, 2022 | Entertainment, Family Friendly, Freebies,

Posted by Jerri C. | Dec 22, 2022 | Entertainment, Family Friendly, Freebies, Indoor, Museums & Attractions, Things To Do In Houston | 0

Indoor Things To Do in Houston

On days when it's either sweltering hot or freezing cold and rainy, or if you just want to do something fun indoors, you may find yourself searching online for ‘indoor things to do near me’.

Thankfully, Houstonians have a lot of options for indoor activities because there are plenty of indoor fun places in Houston that you and your family and friends can choose from! There are indoor playground options, museums, restaurants, indoor pools, and so much more.

The best part is that these fun indoor activities fit everyone's interests and budget, whether you are a kid or an adult, whether you are someone that doesn't mind paying for the right type of engagement or whether you are looking for free things to do indoors in Houston.

We made things easier for you by bringing you this list of 30 Indoor Things to do in Houston, so keep reading to find out what these awesome activities are!

Editor's Note: Our staff always tries to keep you up to date with the latest information. As always though, please call in advance to confirm details and check for any specific guidelines from these indoor places in Houston.

Houston's museums are one of its main tourist attractions. The Houston Museum District is a great place to spend the day for both locals and visitors. Additionally, there is a museum in Houston for everyone. Whether you enjoy modern or fine art, love science and education, are interested in the history of the city, or just want to experience something different and engaging, museums in Houston have it all.

For our comprehensive guide on Houston, museums check out 14 Museums in Houston that are a must-visit!

Indoor Things to Do in Houston – Visit the Menil Museum

Meander the Menil Collection's art-filled campus paired with a picnic on the lawn. Note: The Menil's buildings are open Wednesday-Sunday. This is a great daytime date idea for Houston.

Location: 1533 Sul Ross St, Houston, TX 77006, United States

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credit: Art Car Museum

If you love cars, then you definitely have to visit the Art Car Museum. Plus, if you are looking for a cool place to visit that's FREE, then this is it. Learn about cars, see vintage models, and be amazed at some artistic renditions of vehicles throughout the times. Just remember to set up your reservation before going for a visit. Even when it's a free exhibit, the artists very much welcome donations. Of course, your visit is enough support for all these amazing artists so make sure to include it in your itinerary when you are in the city.

Hours of Operation: Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Monday – Tuesday: ClosedWhere: 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, Texas, 77007Tickets: Admission is FREE, but they are open for donations

Houston Museums | Image Credit: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Facebook Page

This museum houses collections from different cultures and artists around the world, encompassing over two decades of art from the past to the present. Of course, it largely houses Houston community art, and there is also a section that plays filmographies of festivals and other important stories of the diverse communities in the city.

Hours of Operation: Wednesday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m; Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m; Friday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m; Sunday: 12:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m; Monday – Tuesday: ClosedWhere: 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, Texas 77005Tickets: Member – Free; Adult (19+) – $19; Senior (65+) – $16; College Student (19+) – $12; Youth (13–18) – $12; Child (12 & younger) – Free; Military – Free

Houston Museums | Image Credit: Seismic Facebook Page

If you want to have a mind-boggling experience, then visit the Seismique museum in Houston. It is one of the most interactive museums in the city, with a large collection of immersive exhibits and displays that will surely bring awe to you, your friends, and your family when you come to visit.

It has a whimsical atmosphere that children would really love, and it has exhibits that are fun not just for kids, but also for adults. It is a clean museum with a very easygoing format so people can freely roam around without much worry.

One of our top choices for Indoor activities for adults in Houston!

Hours of Operation: Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m; Monday, Wednesday – Thursday: 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m; Friday: 12:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m; Tuesday: ClosedWhere: 2306 Highway 6 S, Houston, TX 77077Tickets: Adult – $35; Children (3-12) – $28

It may be hard to believe but Houston has a sizable number of breweries. Even better, several of these places offer tours, food service, and even host events.

We have highlighted a couple of the famous breweries below, but you can check out our comprehensive guide on the 10 Best Breweries in and around Houston

Image Credit: New Magnolia Brewing Co. IG Page

This microbrewery serves beer on tap. While there is no food served (you can bring your own), the spacious setting, games, and dog-friendly policy make up for it.

Where:1616 Bevis St, Houston, TX 77008, United StatesOperating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Friday: 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Saturday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Image Credit: Holler Brewing FB Page

This modern beer hall offers plenty of indoor seating. Their list rotates based on the season. Besides making brews, community events often take place here, so if you’re looking for something to do check out their website.

Where:2206 Edwards St. Suite A, Houston, TX, United States, TexasOperating Hours: Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Houston wine tasting should be at the top of your list if you’re searching for a wonderful idea for indoor fun, a distinctive date night, or a girls’ night out! Many folks are unaware that Houston wineries produce mouthwatering mixes. Additionally, there are wonderful opportunities to sample premium wines from throughout the globe.

We have highlighted a couple of the popular wineries below, but you can check out our comprehensive guide on the 10 Best Wineries and Vineyards near Houston

Image Credit: Sable Gate Winery FB Page

At Sable Gate, not only can you sample their fine creations, but you can blend your own personal bottle! This winery is owned by couple Szilvia and Bob with help from their twin daughters. Szilvia was raised on a vineyard in Hungary and Bob has traveled the world tasting local wines in over 50 countries! Together, they offer wine tastings, bottle delivery, a loyalty club, and bistro eats at their family Houston winery.

Tasting flights are available every day from opening until 7 pm, after which they are only available with an appointment.

Where: 2600 Travis St Suite #104, Houston, TX 77006Operating Hours: Tuesday – Friday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday – Monday CLOSED

Image Credit: French Country Wines FB Page

This charming little wine shop is an importer of fine French wines, specifically for small family-owned and artisanal wineries. They supply wine to many local restaurants and also keep a small shop stocked for Houston locals to shop hand-picked French wines.

They have tastings every Saturday from noon until 6 pm where you can experience a French wine tasting in Houston. Best of all, their wine tasting is complimentary! No reservations are needed for the wine tasting at French Country Wines.

Where: 2433 Bartlett St, Houston, TX 77098Operating Hours: Sunday – Tuesday CLOSED | Wednesday – Friday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm | Saturday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The 90-minute class introduces participants to wine-tasting methods and the subtle nuances of flavor in varietals like pinot noir and chardonnay.

Beneath the a mural of a Tuscan vineyard in The Cellar Door's banquet room, beginners learn how to taste wine, pair wine with food, and identify the nuances of major varietals such as chardonnay, pinot noir, and malbec. The hands-on wine-education classes—led by one of the winery owners, either a winemaker or a sommelier—are held every Saturday at 3 p.m. Though this deal does not include wine samples, customers may purchase them for an additional fee.

Our top choice for fun activities in Houston for adults!

Get your crew together and book your Wine Tasting Class at The Cellar Door TODAY!!!

If Houstonians have a favorite three things, it would be eating, drinking, and sports! We adore our Houston sports bars because of this. Here in Houston, you’ll discover some of the best and largest sports bars in the nation.

You can count on our neighborhood sports bar to be crowded with fellow Houstonians cheering on our teams if you want to watch the Astros, Rockets, or Texans.

We have highlighted a couple of popular sports bars below, but you can check out our full list of the 14 Best Sports Bars in Houston.

Indoor Things to Do in Houston

If you’re a Houston local, there's no way you haven't heard of Little Woodrows. Their Midtown location is famous for their Thursday night turtle races. They also have a ton of TVs and it is always packed so you will have plenty of friendly faces to watch the game with or play some games of your own, like giant Jenga or corn hole.

Location: 2306 Brazos St, Houston, TX 77006

courtesy of Drift Bar's Facebook page

1207 W 20th St, Houston, TX 77008

Drift Bar is another sports bar in the Heights with tons of TVs including a 249-inch and 204-inch TV! With a huge patio, tons of outdoor seating, and a delicious cocktail menu, you have everything you need to enjoy your favorite Houston sports teams.

Indoor Things to Do in Houston

Try and escape from one of five chosen adventures in this Houston escape room experience located in The Galleria. You’ll have to solve clues and puzzles in order to get your way out of here. Groups are small- 12 max- so use all your brain power to have fun and get out in time. This takes about an hour, and you have five games/ challenges to choose from.

Get more information about The Escape Game Houston!

Choose to play one of five uniquely immersive games:

Get more information about The Escape Game Houston!

Upscale bowling inside a luxury bowling alley with glow-in-the-dark lanes, a spacious sports bar, and entertaining arcades.

Two Hours of Bowling and Shoe Rentals for Two, Four, or Six Guests at Bowlmor Lanes and Bowlero

Book Today – Up to 73% discount at Bowlmor Lanes!

Save big while enjoying your favorite music concerts across the Houston area. Tickets sell fast! Book in advance to avoid disappointment and also get the best seats available.

Get the latest deals on upcoming music concerts in Houston area.

Try something very very different! iFLY deal allows you to get 1 hour 45 minutes of thrilling experience including training class, full instruction and two flights for just $92.

Check out the full details of this offer at iFLY Northwest Houston

Karaoke night is the one type of night out that is always in style for indoor fun. One of the best cities for karaoke is Houston because there are always plenty of options. Perhaps you want the entire spotlight to yourself, ready to captivate onlookers as they applaud from the bar. Or perhaps you would rather sing loudly with close friends, family, or coworkers in a private space that you can rent by the hour. There is a stage out there for everything you’re feeling like.

We have highlighted a couple of the popular karaoke places below, but you can check out our full list of the Best Karaoke Bars and Rooms in Houston!

Courtesy of Happy Zone KTV

When times are hard, a karaoke session can be just the thing to lift your spirits. With rooms available to reserve ahead of time, the colorful lights and themed rooms (a unique point of pride for Happy Zone KTV) make for an intimate and exhilarating evening out. Groups of any size are welcome, and the selection of music is particularly robust for English, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese songs. Where: 9889 Bellaire Blvd, Ste 207, Houston, TX 77036

Courtesy of Agogo KTV Lounge Restaurant

There's no better party than the one at Agogo KTV Lounge. With an open mic lounge, private rooms, a full bar, and an extensive menu with Asian specialty dishes and snacks, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time. The reasonable rates and spacious, comfortable rooms make this place ideal for large group outings. Where: 9889 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036

Save big while enjoying your favorite music concerts across the Houston area. Tickets sell fast! Book in advance to avoid disappointment and also get the best seats available.

Get the latest deals on upcoming music concerts in Houston area.

Houston has a variety of fun activities for kids – both outdoors and indoors. Whether your kids are interested in burning some energy at the trampoline parks, refining their bowling skills, or exploring the popular downtown aquarium, there are so many choices.

Indoor Things to Do in Houston

Dine alongside a 150,000-gallon floor-to-ceiling aquarium after exploring five themed exhibits teeming with fish, gators, snakes, and sharks.

The adventure doesn't end at mealtime. Basking in the glow of the 150,000-gallon aquarium and its denizens—including reticulated rays, sawfish, and shovel-nosed guitarfish—families can nosh on New Orleans–style tilapia and shrimp platters or tried-and-true kids’ favorites such as popcorn shrimp and sand dollar pizza.

Where: Downtown Aquarium in Houston, 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002

Image Credits: Palace Social FB Page

The Palace Social, formerly known as Palace Bowling, is an entertainment powerhouse. While Palace Bowling was a great spot for bowling, the recent redesign has made the Palace Social an excellent place to visit for bowling fans who are also interested in restaurant-quality food and a sprawling arcade.

Where: 4191 Bellaire Blvd Suite 150, Houston, TX 77025Opening Hours: Open Daily: Sun – Thurs 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Fri – Sat 11:00 am – 12:00 amHow Much: Mon – Thurs $48/hr/Lane | Fri – Sun $60/hr/Lane | Bowling Shoes $5.25/person | Socks $4/person

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credits: Del Mar Lanes

Del Mar Lanes has 20 years of experience hosting families and leagues. League bowlers are, in fact, a key part of their clientele. If you’re interested in joining a seasonal league, this might be a place to start looking. You can also look here to take bowling lessons or purchase pro-bowling equipment. Keep an eye out for specials like buy an hour, get one free. Customers love the comfy seating and the attentive service.

Where: 3020 Mangum Rd, Houston, TX 77092Opening Hours: Mon, Tue, Thurs: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm | Wed & Fri: 9:00 am – Midnight | Sun 10:00 am – 10:00 pmHow Much: Price varies, check site

Indoor activities in Houston – iRise Trampoline & Fun Park in Houston

Massive indoor trampoline park with an open-jump court, Kid's Adventure Park Activities, Trampoline Handball, Dodgeball, Trampoline Slam Dunk, and Trampoline Ninja Park. Guests can spend hours bouncing in an area of interconnected trampolines and angles-wall trampolines and learn how to do various tricks

Where: 7885 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W, Houston, TX 77070When: 11 am to 8 pm, Monday – Thursday (Tuesday closed), Friday 11 am to 9 pm

Did you know that Houston has the most extensive downtown tunnel system in the US? Join this Underground Tunnel tour (air-conditioned). Go for an in-depth look at the incredible metropolis below ground-floor in Texas’ largest business district including the most award-winning downtown skyscrapers which host many of Texas’ most noteworthy Fortune 500 corporate headquarters & historical venues.

As part of this day tour, you will visit multiple historical and artistic sections of Downtown Houston's tunnels as well as the corporate buildings that lie on top of them. Make sure to bring your smile and camera for your unique photo-op opportunities and inside secrets that most native Houstonians don't even know about!

Book your Underground Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston TODAY!

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credit: The Children's Museum of Houston

There are plenty of exciting and engaging activities for the family and for your toddlers at Tot*Spot at the Children's Museum Houston! Here, your child will engage in activities that can help develop the sensory and problem solving skills of your little ones while parents also get the chance to interact with other parents.

Where: – 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004, United StatesWhen: – Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm (Free Family Night Thursday 5:00 – 8:00 pm), Sunday, Noon – 6:00 pmHow Much: – $11–12

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credit: Urban Air Adventure Park – NW Houston (Northwest Houston)

Indoor trampolines, basketball dunking, foam pits, dodgeball, and more are all available at this Houston Tx trampoline park. They are dedicated to fostering a healthy community via engaging activities that are enjoyable for people of all ages. Based on Google ratings, Urban Air Adventure Park is the best Trampoline Park in Houston!

When: Sun – Thurs: 10 am – 8 pm | Fri & Sat: 10 am – 11 pmLocated at: 20502 Hempstead Rd Suite 110, Houston, TX 77065, United States

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credit – Jumping World

Indoor trampolines, basketball dunking, foam pits, dodgeball, and more are all available at Jumping World Houston's northwest site. They are dedicated to fostering a healthy community via engaging activities that are enjoyable for people of all ages.

Hours of Operation: Sun – Thurs: 11 am – 10 pm | Fri: 11 am – 11 pm | Sat: 10 am – 11 pmLocation: 14147 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77040, United States

Indoor Things to Do in Houston

DIY art studio invites guests to get crafty and let loose having fun with splatter paint! When you do choose to do this activity among the many indoor things to do Houston, you will also get the chance to enjoy the following deals: Splatter Suit (Shoe Caps, Shower Caps, and Goggles) and One 9×12 stretched canvas per person

Plus! Get the chance to enjoy the following ticket deals too:

Glow Upgrade: $20 for groups of 2, $25 for groups of 3-4, $35 for groups of 5-6 – Paint under the glow of black lights with neon paint!

Canvas Upgrade: Large Stretched 18×24 canvas available for a total price of $25

Note: valid only at the Kingwood location

Get more information and book your Private Splatter Paint Experience TODAY!!!

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credit: HMNS Instagram Page

If you are interested in Natural Sciences, then this museum is perfect for you. It is also a great place to bring your family or visit with your friends who love seeing and learning about the different species that roamed the earth in the past and in the present. There are also plenty of displays and areas in the museum that children would love. Just remember that there are some areas in the museum that you will have to pay extra for, apart from the general admission tickets.

Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (last entry 5:15 p.m.); Houston Museums Free Thursday: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (last entry 8:15 p.m.)Where: 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030Tickets: Adult Ticket: $25 (ages 12 and up); Child Ticket: $16 (ages 3–11); Children ages 2 and under: FREE; College Students with ID: $16; Seniors (62+): $16; Military (with ID): $10; Groups (10+): $10

Deal Alert: The HMNS museum often offers big discounts on admission. Check out the latest Houston Museum of Natural Sciences discount!!!

Indoor Things to Do in Houston

The award-winning Space Center Houston is one of Houston's most popular family attractions and takes visitors behind the scenes of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Filled with interactive exhibitions, multi-media displays, cutting-edge technology, and fascinating space artifacts, there's something to amaze and entertain all ages. Full-day entrance ticket to the Space Center Houston includes the Nasa Tram, Mission Briefing Center, and Starship Gallery Choice of entrance times throughout the day.

Get more information and book your day of fun at the Space Center Houston!!!

Indoor Things to Do in Houston | Image Credit: Children's Museum Houston

If you want your children to experience fun through play and learning, then a visit to the Children's Museum is the best idea! It is a clean and organized museum that calls for a visit from you and your children on any day. There are indoor activities that offer so many things for your kids to explore and enjoy.

Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Wednesday, Friday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Sunday – Monday: ClosedWhere: 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004Tickets: Children Under 1 – FREE; Adults and Children (Ages 1+) – $15; Senior Citizens (Age 65+) – $14; Members of Military with Active ID- $13

What are some other fun indoor things to do in Houston? Leave a comment and let us know.

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