Is this your first time enjoying a Houston summer? Bad news: It’s only going to get hotter. Good news: There are tons of ways for you to live it up this summer despite the triple-digit temperatures. Enjoy this Houston summer bucket list I’ve compiled with the help of some Hey Houston readers -- perfect for Htown newbies and veterans.
Ride The Ferry To Bolivar Peninsula
Did you know you could take a free ferry ride from Galveston to Bolivar Peninsula? City Cast Houston Host Raheel Ramzanli used to do this as a kid every summer. Enjoy the beautiful view of the water, spot dolphins, shrimp boats, and feed the birds on your trip. Bolivar Peninsula is also home to Crystal Beach, which is a nice escape from the crowds at the main beaches along Galveston’s Seawall.
- Here are other ways to have fun in nearby Galveston.
Tex-Mex and Margaritas at Ninfa’s
It’s not officially a Houston summer, unless you’re cooling off with the city’s most famous margarita, The Original Ninfarita, on a hot summer day. You also can’t make a trip to Ninfa’s without ordering their fajitas. ¡Buen provecho!
- This summer, try these Houston restaurants to break up your routine and expand your food palate.
Marvel at the Butterflies
Have you been to the Cockrell Butterfly Center at the Houston Museum of Natural Science since it reopened? It closed for maintenance earlier this year, but now it’s back with a new group of birds alongside its collection of 1,500 butterflies.
Take a Trip to San Leon
San Leon, a small bayside town right between Kemah and Galveston, is perfect for a peaceful day trip. Grab some fresh Gulf Coast seafood and cocktails from Pier 6, which sits right near the water. While you’re there, check out the oldest bar in the town, San Leon Beach Pub, known for cheap drinks and a great time.
Watch the Sunset From Memorial Park
Take an evening walk on the Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail at Memorial Park. As you finish your walk, stop at the Land Bridge as the sun sets and take in the breathtaking views of the park.
- Here's more backstory on Memorial Park's major renovation.
Mercer Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Explore the Mercer Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, which feature hiking trails, a butterfly house, and picnic areas. The arboretum and botanical gardens cover 250 acres and have the largest collection of native and cultivated plants in the area, inlcluding rare daisies and orchid trees.
Explore The Cistern
This former drinking water reservoir is one of Houston’s underground hidden gems. At the Cistern, join a tour to learn about the history and architecture of the 87,500-square-foot space or take in Rachel Rossin’s new media and sound installation, “Haha real.” What’s even cooler, a Houston author was inspired to write a book after visiting one of The Cistern’s light shows.
Cool Off at Lago Mar
Spend the day at Lago Mar lagoon, a 12-acre lagoon in Texas City open to the public this summer. Pretend you’re on a tropical island as you kayak, swim, and paddle board in the crystal clear water. Mark your calendar for their R&Beach concert on Friday, July 26, featuring Doug E. Fresh, Donnell Jones, and Case.
