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We usually think of NYC or Paris when we think of art and culture centers of the world, but Houston is giving them a run for their money. Besides being home to one of the oldest movies theaters in the US, Houston has a rich history in the arts overlooked by many. It houses its own ballet, symphony and opera, and is home to various museums ranging from modern to classical. If you’re looking for something to do with the family, a way to ramp up your cultural experiences or just another weekend “to-do”, here are some of the best activities for arts and culture in Houston.
Experience a free performance at the:
Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park
6000 Hermann Park Drive
Miller Outdoor Theatre offers an eight month season of diverse and professional entertainment that is always free of charge. It’s actually the largest “always free” program of its kind in the country. They show musicals, dance performances, plays, children’s shows and so much more.
Take a stroll through the:
Contemporary Arts Museum
5216 Montrose Boulevard
Enjoy dynamic exhibitions and accessible educational programs at the CAMH. With ever changing exhibitions featuring international, national, and regional art, there’s something for art lovers of all ages and preferences. Although they are closed on Mondays, they are open until 6 or 7 most nights for a little after work culture!
Check out these extensive exhibitions for free at:
The Menil Collection’s
1533 Sul Ross Street
Featuring various buildings filled with unique pieces, The Menil Collection works to foster your personal encounter with each work of art. Menil is on a mission to make art accessible to all so no admission is charged and all public programs are free. With frequent events and programs scheduled, the whole family will love a visit to the Menil Collection.
One of the top ballet companies in the country:
Marvel at the Houston Ballet
Wortham Theater Center | 501 Texas Street
Houston Ballet offers a diverse repertory with dancers that are technically sound and artistically developed. They perform lots of contemporary works, so even the most skeptical ballet goer will soon become a fan! They also perform at the Miller Outdoor Theatre and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, supporting their commitment to community outreach
Browse over 65,000 works of art at the:
Museum of Fine Art Houston
1001 Bissonnet Street
With an extensive collection from antiquity to the present, the MFAH provides visitors with art that covers a multitude of cultures, time periods and classifications. Use their searchable database to plan your visit with ease. Not into paintings? Watch a foreign film, shop a trunk show, view impressing textiles, or take part in one of their numerous activities.
Enjoy a night listening to top notch performers at the:
Houston Symphony
Jones Hall | 615 Louisiana Street
Founded in 1913, the Houston Symphony is now one of America’s oldest performing arts organizations, leaving its mark on musical history. Today, you can catch them at a variety of different venues (mostly at their home, Jones Hall) with a renewed dedication to engaging their audience through exceptional orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities. They have fun takes on “traditional” concerts, drawing in crowds of all types.
If you’re coming to Houston to stay for the long haul, these apartment video tours are sure to help you make the tough choice on just which apartment to live in. Once you’re settled, check all of these cultural and art experiences off of your to-do list!
