A Journey to Wellness within the Health Museum Houston
Houston, we have a fascinating destination!
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Health Museum in Houston is more than just a building filled with exhibits. A visit is a journey through the wonders of the human body and the science that keeps us ticking.
Imagine a place where you can shrink down to the size of a blood cell, chat with robots about DNA, and walk through a giant mouth. It’s not a sci-fi movie set. It’s the Health Museum, where learning about health and the human body becomes an adventure.
So, roll up your sleeves, metaphorically speaking, and join us on a tour of this extraordinary institution where science meets amusement, and curiosity is your compass!
Background and History on the Health Museum Houston
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
The Health Museum in Houston is an institution dedicated to health education where you can find exhibits and displays about the human body and learn about how to take care of it.
The history of the Health Museum in Houston began in the early 1960s when the “Victory Over Polio ” campaign rallied the support of the Harris County Medical Society and the Junior Chamber of Commerce.
The city of Houston recognized the need for permanent health exhibits accessible to the public. Funded by contributions from the polio immunization program, physicians, and a grant from Houston Endowment Inc., the museum slowly got its start.
In November 1969, the Museum of Medical Science opened its doors as the Houston Museum of Medical Science. Over the next years, it served as a vital resource for health information and education, with exhibits and outreach programs making an impact.
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
To further expand the goal and success of the museum, a $9.5 million capital campaign gave way to the current museum being erected in Houston’s Museum District.
Throughout the years, the museum was renamed several times until the founders settled on its current one. The Health Museum also underwent numerous rennovations and expansions that added both permanent and temporary exhibits and displays.
Fast forward to July 27, 2017, when the Health Museum achieved a remarkable feat. It became a Smithsonian Institute Museum, the first Smithsonian Affiliated Museum in the Houston Museum District.
Finally, in November 2019, the John P. McGovern Museum of Health and Medical Science celebrated its 50th anniversary, a testament to its enduring commitment to health education in the community.
Address: 1515 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 521 1515
Hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday – 10 am to 5 pm
- Thursday – 10 am to 7 pm
- Sunday – 12 pm to 5 pm
- Monday – Closed
Things to Know
To book tickets to the Health Museum Houston, you just need to visit their website and choose a slot for the time and date you prefer for your visit.
It usually takes around 1 to 1 and a half hours to make your way through the exhibit.
The time slot is actually just a way for the museum to organize entries, but you’re welcome to stay for as long as you’d like.
Ticket Prices:
- Children below 3: Free
- Children 3 to 12 years old: $8
- 12 years old and above: $10
- Seniors: $8
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit the Health Museum in Houston more than once, you might want to consider signing up for a membership. Depending on the package you get, the cost can range from $20 to $30 per person. Membership gets you free admission, cheaper parking, discounts and passes to partner associations year-round, so you’ll get your money back after 2 to 3 visits. |
Parking is very convenient when visiting the Health Museum Houston. Paid parking is availble in a dedicated parking lot along Hermann Drive for $8 and $5 for members. Make sure you pay for parking at the Welcome Desk or at the exit after closing.
Best Time to Go
The Health Museum in Houston offers free admission for families and extended operational hours, so you can either time your visits on these days to save on cash or avoid Thursdays if you want a less crowded experience.
How to Get There
By Car
The Health Museum is highly accessible by car and you can get to the location by taking 2 main highways that pass through Houston. These routes will take you to Fannin and Binz Street which are just a short walk away from the museum grounds.
- Southbound from I-59, exit onto Fannin and turn left onto Binz. Northbound from I-59, exit onto Sheperd and take a right turn into Richmond and onto Fannin Street.
- Take the I-45 or 610 depending on which direction you’re coming from and make your way to Highway 288. Once you exit onto Calumet Street, you can make your way to Benz Street.
By Bike
The Health Museum has a BCycle Station nearby at the intersection between Hermann Drive and La Branch Street.
By Public Transportation
To get to the Health Museum Houston, you can take the Red Line of the MetroRail and get off at the Museum District Stop. The museum is just a 5 block walk from there.
You can also take the MetroBus with the nearest stop located at the Binz Street and Crawford Street crossing, which is just a 5 minute walk to the Health Museum.
Notable things to See and Experience in the Museum
Walkthrough the Human Body
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
The Jim Hickox Amazing Body Pavilion takes you on a journey through the marvels of the human body. This larger-than-life walking tour is an exploration of human antomy that’s both fun and educational.
As you wander through this fascinating exhibit, you’ll encounter approximately 30 interactive video and audio kiosks that prompt you to ask questions about human physiology and health and provide you with the answers and information.
Apart from the kiosks, there are different displays scattered throughout that focus one a specific organ or body system.
There’s a 22-foot-long backbone with ribs that cascade from the ceiling to the floor, creating the sensation of being inside a giant rib cage. It’s a surreal encounter that offers a unique perspective on the intricacies of our skeletal structure.
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
For kids who like hands-on experiences, there’s a 13 foot long crawling tunnel that looks like an intestine that you can explore or you can explore the 10 foot tall walk-through brain, complete with memory games that challenge your cognitive skills.
Kids will enjoy peddling a bike with a skeleton while they learn about how hard their hearts are pumping to maintaing the speed of the bicycle.
There’s also a huge walk-in eyeball that shows how our eyes receive and interpret images. Visual demonstrations of depth perception add to the experience, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the complexity of human vision.
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
As you journey further, you’ll encounter the iconic 12 foot tall beating heart. Nearby, a calorie crank will show you just how much effort it takes to burn off the calories from specific foods you consume as part of a valuable lesson in healthy living.
But perhaps one of the most captivating experiences is the giant human heart wheel equipped with biometric systems. This interactive display checks your heart rate while you engage in activities like running or walking, providing insights into the organ.
Play Doctor
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
Every Thursday, an exciting live organ dissection is led by the museum’s favorite sidekick, Morty B-Bones. Participants are guided through the process starting with a replica of the organ first and then the real deal.
This family-friendly activity combines live organ dissections with a game of trivia afterwards to test what the kids learned from the experience.
Catch a Show at the McGovern Theater
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
At the Health Museum in Houston, science comes to life in the McGovern Theater through the magic of 4D technology.
While most of the shows here are centered around human biology and health, you might occasionally find presentations that delve into other realms of science.
It’s an immersive experience that makes learning an adventure, and you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of human health.
Try Out Quirky Activities
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
The Jump, Stretch, and Hang activity area is like a jungle gym for all ages, where you can test your hanging endurance. You’ll also discover facts about bone density and muscle strength.
Ever wondered what you’ll look like when you’re older? At the Health Museum there’s a special photo station that takes your picture and then ages your image to different stages of life. Kids can find out if they’ll look more like their mom or dad.
This fun and enlightening experience sparks conversations about genetics and aging.
If you’ve ever wanted to let out a hearty scream without worrying about the noise, at the Scream Booth you can unleash your inner rage. The Booth also measures the decibels of screams, for a fun and educational way to learn about how sound is measured.
It’s a unique experience that combines science with a bit of vocal therapy.
Explore the DeBakey Cell Lab
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
The DeBakey Cell Lab lets you dive into the fascinating world of cellular biology. This immersive experience allows you to participate in a series of hands-on experiments that bring science to life. You can join the experience for an additional fee.
Named after the renowned cardiovascular surgeon and medical pioneer, Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, this interactive bilingual lab aims to make biology-based science experiments accessible to everyone, inspiring future scientists and leaders in the medical field.
Tickets:
- Members: $3
- Non Members: $5
Enroll in a Program and Camps
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
The Health Museum offers a range of engaging programs and camps for all ages. These educational experiences dive deep into the intricacies of the human body, health, and wellness.
Whether you’re a curious kid or an adult looking to expand your knowledge, you can participate in these informative sessions. Explore topics like nutrition, anatomy, and exercise while making new friends who share your interests.
Attend an Event
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
The Health Museum keeps its offerings fresh with a calendar full of events and rotating temporary exhibits. Stay up-to-date with the latest health news and global developments through these captivating displays.
From interactive installations to thought-provoking showcases, there’s always something new to discover. We suggest timing your visit to coincide with an event or exhibit that piques your interest.
Bring Something Home from the Amazing Body Store
Image Source: The Health Museum Website
Don’t forget to visit the Amazing Body Store before you leave! This on-site souvenir shop is filled with unique items related to health, biology, and the human body.
Whether you’re looking for educational toys, books, or health-conscious gifts, you’ll find something special to bring home as a reminder of your experience at the Health Museum.
Tips to Remember
- You are encouraged to take as many photographs and videos as you would like!
- Some of the activities at the Health Museum require you to pay an additional fee aside from the entrance fee.
- Alot around an extra hour for your visit in case the kids want to try the other experiments and interactive rooms at the museum.
- Comfortable clothes and shoes are the best options for you and the kids to participate in the activities in the museum.
- You might want to book your tickets at least a week in advance because the slots (especially weekends) fill up quickly.
Where to Eat Nearby
Turkey Leg Hut
Image Source: Turkey Leg Hut Website
Address: 4830 Almeda Rd suite A/B, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 832 937 3636
Price: $$
After a day of exploring the Health Museum, if you’re craving for some good old Southern comfort food, Turkey Leg Hut is your go-to. This cozy spot might look narrow, but it’s big on flavor.
Don’t be fooled by the name though! It’s not just about turkey legs here. They serve up a variety of Southern classics like jerk chicken, wings, pasta, and burgers. You can sip on a refreshing cocktail whether you’re into classic margaritas or new concoctions.
They also have snow cones, so the kids can cool off in the Houston heat!
The Savoy
Image Source: The Savoy Website
Address: 4402 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 346 234 8464
Price: $$
If you’re up for some post-museum drinks and a hearty meal, you can’t go wrong with The Savoy. Nestled deep in the Historic Third Ward, this legendary neighborhood bar has been a local favorite for ages because of the drinks, dishes, and tunes!
Their craft cocktails are always a hit and they’ve got a selection of cold beers on tap. For food, we always order chicken and red velvet waffles for brunch and the catfish and grits for lunch or dinner.
Don’t miss out on the Legendary Savoy Burger made with 2 wagyu patties and bacon and pepper jack cheese.
Houston This Is It Soul Food
Image Source: Houston This Is It Soul Food Website
Address: 2712 Blodgett St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 521 2920
Price: $
Sometimes, after a day of exploring, all you need is some good old-fashioned soul food to hit the spot. Houston This Is It Soul Food is the spot for no-frills, belly-warming soul food, and a heavenly banana pudding.
From savory oxtails and smothered chicken to creamy mac ‘n’ cheese and homemade meatloaf, every bite here feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. It’s a relaxed diner where you can relax while you enjoy your food.
The Breakfast Klub
Image Source: The Breakfast Klub Website
Address: 3711 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone Number: +17135288561
Price: $$$
If you’re an early bird and the Health Museum has left you with an appetite, The Breakfast Club is where you want to be. This hotspot is famous for its diner-style American eats and authentic soul food.
The welcoming atmosphere and comforting food make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
You haven’t truly experienced Houston until you’ve tried their signature wings and waffles and katfish and grits. Their breakfast sandwiches are also a hit, especially the iconic breakfast klub sandwich!
Mo’s Better Brews
Image Source: Mo’s Better Brews Website
Address: 1201 Southmore Blvd, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 832 740 4297
Price: $$$
For something a bit different, check out Mo’s Better Brews, a vegan breakfast place and coffee shop. They put a creative spin on classic breakfast items, and even if you’re not a vegan, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the flavors.
We recommend trying the spinach artichoke dip and their breakfast quesadilla as your main dish!
With a garden setting and a wide collection og vinyl records which you can explore and request to be played, it’s a trendy spot to refuel after your museum adventure.
Where to Stay Nearby
Hotel ZaZa Museum District
Image Source: Hotel ZaZa Museum District Website
Address: 5701 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 526 1991
Price: $$$
Nestled in the heart of the dynamic Museum District, just moments away from the bustling Texas Medical Center and thriving downtown business district, Hotel ZaZa Houston offers a hotel stay that we always go back to for more.
This boutique gem boasts an array of exquisite guestrooms and suites, including the opulent Pool Villas, Concept Suites, and The Magnificent Seven Suites.
You can also enjoy award-winning cuisine at Monarch Bistro, and go for a little R&R at the onsite day spa.
Houston Towers Inn
Image Source: Houston Towers Inn Website
Address: 2309 Wichita St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +17139007007
Price: $$$
If you think old-world charm and modern luxury are indicators of an ideal stay at a hotel, the Houston Towers Inn is the perfect place to book while on your trip to the Health Museum in Houston’s Museum District.
With an 80-year history, every facet of your stay is designed to leave a lasting impression from the grand entrance to the meticulously-crafted viewing tower
The luxury suites offer a stay to remember complete with antique pieces and beautiful interior designs.
Americas Best Value Inn
Image Source: Americas Best Value Inn Website
Address: 2419 Riverside Dr, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 974 4432
Price: $
Americas Best Value Inn Medical Center Downtown offers unbeatable value for your stay in Houston. Here, there are spacious, clean rooms equipped with in-room Wi-Fi, microwaves, mini-fridges, hairdryers, and flatscreens with a range of channels.
Not to mention that the beds are pretty comfortable.
The Inn is also conveniently located near the Health Museum Houston and within easy reach of key attractions like the George R. Brown Convention Center, Rice University, NRG Stadium, University of Houston, and the Toyota Center.
Hilton Garden Inn Houston Medical Center
Image Source: Hilton Garden Inn Houston Medical Center Website
Address: 6840 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 346 433 8200
Price: $$
The Hilton Garden Inn offers convenience to its guests not only because of the locations proximity to fun spots, but also because of the free shuttle service, Monday through Friday, to nearby tourist destinations in the area.
Downtown Houston is also just a quick ten-minute drive away and NRG Stadium is just three miles away.
Even if you’d rather go straight from the Health Museum to the hotel, you won’t have any trouble entertaining yourself within the hotel grounds with their 24/7 gym and outdoor pool.
Houston Marriott Medical Center/Museum District
Image Source: Houston Marriott Medical Center Website
Address: 6580 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 796 0080
Price: $$$
For a hotel stay where you have to worry about nothing, the Houston Marriott Hotel at the Medial Center and Museum District is your go to. The hotel is designed to enhance your stay with a range of amenities.
The spaces are all thoughtfully designed where you can savor delectable cuisine at the restaurant, maintain your fitness routine in the well-equipped gym, and unwind in the hot tub.
You can also enjoy the convenience of room service, wake-up calls, and daily housekeeping.
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