We fell in love with these 10 Houston views, and we can’t wait to share them with you!
When I was a young kid, I always fought for the window seat just to take in the views during road trips, no matter how quick or long the drive can be.
Fast forward to today, and I don’t need to settle for quick glimpses through a car window as Houston has interesting places with stunning views, ready for us to enjoy without any need for a seatbelt.
So, join me today as I savor the breathtaking views this city has to offer!
1. James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace
Media credit: @abcvision
Website: https://moody.rice.edu/james-turrell-twilight-epiphany-skyspace
Address: Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion, Houston, TX 77005
Contact Details: +1 713-348-2787
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
For those of you who want a great view of the sunset, you should head to James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace (james turrell skyspace) located at Rice University.
The Twilight Epiphany Skyspace was built in 2012 as an art installation showcasing a space-inspired structure, which imitates both sunrise and sunset.
Here, you can experience Houston’s skyline along with dancing colorful lights which are timed during sunset. Meanwhile, if you’re more of a morning person, you can still catch the Skyspaces light show during sunrise.
Meanwhile, if you want to see the Houston skyline, you can opt to sit by the upper sitting area. Don’t forget to dress comfortably and bring a cardigan with you as the granite benches at the Skyspace are cold!
Pro tip: The best way to watch the sunset while adoring the lights is by laying down on the ground. Consider bringing a picnic blanket so you can relax while waiting for the stars to sparkle above you. |
2. Rosemont Pedestrian Bridge
Media credit: @365_houston
Website: http://www.houstontx.gov/abouthouston/rosemontbridge.html
Address: Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77019
If you want to check out the view of downtown Houston, Rosemont Pedestrian Bridge is the place to be. It’s also a great place if you want to squeeze in an urban adventure after taking those skyline shots.
Aside from catching these breathtaking views, you can take this bridge to go to Spotts Park, Cleveland Park, and Memorial Drive. You’ll also enjoy clocking in some steps while being surrounded by tall trees and plants.
At night, Rosemont Pedestrian Bridge will give you a different taste. Here, you can see the city lights reflecting off magically at the bayou.
Pro tip: For a more image-worth shot, consider visiting Rosemont Pedestrian Bridge during the late afternoon. Wait for the sunset so you can enjoy an unobstructed and dramatic view of downtown Houston. |
3. Cullen Sculpture Garden
Media credit: @pilot_dr
Website: https://www.mfah.org/visit/cullen-sculpture-garden/
Address: Calumet St, Houston, TX 77004
Contact Details: +1 713-639-7300
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11:00 A – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
If you’re someone who wants a good mix of art and nature, then you should check out the views at Cullen Sculpture Garden.
Cullen Sculpture Garden is an outdoor extension of Houston’s Museum of Fine Arts in Montrose. So when you’re here, you can enjoy walking along the bamboo trees while checking out sculptures made by known artists such as Henri Matisse and Joan Miró.
You also have a great view of downtown Houston from this area.
Pro tip: Cullen Sculpture Garden has great accessibility features such as ramps and paved paths. However, if you have specific accessibility needs, you may contact the garden’s administration ahead of time to request more personal assistance during your visit. |
4. Smither Park
Media credit: @smitherpark
Website: http://orangeshow.org/
Address: 2441 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023
Contact Details: +1 713-926-6368
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Smither Park gives you stunning views of Houston through mosaic-filled spaces. Here, you can walk along mosaic pavements and pathways, as well as mosaic sculptures scattered around the park.
This park is great for those who need an alternative to city views, allowing you to contemplate and be creatively inspired.
What’s great about Smither Park is that they showcase work from several artists from all over the country. Even better, these mosaic works were made from recycled materials.
You’ll also love visiting this place from time to time since the management updates the park’s installation, showcasing new ones from various artists.
Pro tip: Smither Park is pet-friendly so you can bring your furry pals for a stroll. Additionally, let them wear shoes or booties to protect their paws from sharp surfaces, especially at mosaic-filled pathways. |
5. Armand Bayou
Media credit: @armandbayounaturecenter
Website: http://orangeshow.org/
Address: Galveston Bay, TX
Armand Bayou is one of the largest nature preserves in the United States. With over 2,500 acres of lush wetlands and wildlife, Armand Bayou will surely give you great views of Houston.
Here, you can plan a day filled with activities such as hiking. You’ll love that there are shaded trails and properly labeled boardwalks that you can use as your navigation guide.
You can also go here at Armand Bayou if you’re into birdwatching. Meanwhile, you can plan to reel in some fish at the bayou too!
You can bring the whole family if you want to catch the sunrise or the sunset if you’re not morning people! Whatever time you plan to go visit Armand Bayou, you’ll be able to catch the golden hue over the bayou, nonetheless.
Pro tip: Because of the wetland environment at Armand Bayou, expect mosquitoes and other insects to be present. Don’t forget to pack an insect repellant so you can protect yourself from pesky insect bites. |
6. Waugh Bridge Bat Colony
Media credit: @flavorhouston
Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/bats/bat-watching-sites/waugh-drive-bridge.phtml
Address: Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77002
Contact Details: +1 713-752-0314
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
If you want to see thousands of bats in one place, then head to Waugh Bridge Bat Colony for a one-of-a-kind bat-watching adventure.
Around sunset, thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats dramatically come out under the bridge. As the sky dims, these bats begin their food search, offering visitors a chance to see a wonderful migration against the city’s skyline.
If you want a better view, you can go to the observation deck in Buffalo Bayou Park. Moreover, you can visit Waugh Bridge Bat Colony 30 minutes before sunset to secure the best spot in the viewing areas.
Pro tip: If you’re taking photos at night, make sure to turn off the camera flash. Strictly no use of bright flashlights too. If you’re bringing kids with you, make sure they won’t make loud noises during your sightseeing adventure at Waugh Bridge Bat Colony |
7. Glenwood Cemetery
Media credit: @maggieinmpls
Website: http://www.glenwoodcemetery.org/
Address: 2525 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
Contact Details: +1 713-864-7886
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
If you want a more peaceful and historical trip around the city, you can appreciate unique Houston views at Glenwood Cemetery.
This place dates back to the late 1800s, showcasing impressive monuments and mausoleum architecture from the 19th- and early 20th-century.
Here, you can find a large oak tree which is believed to be 130 years old. This tree is like a centerpiece to a well-curated place.
As you walk along, you’ll notice statues, headstones, and iron gates that make this 88-acre green space even more dramatic.
If you want to catch the views of downtown Houston, you’ll love Glenwood Cemetery’s elevated terrain. You’ll be able to capture one-of-a-kind shots showing the skyline with a mix of historical landscapes.
Pro tip: Glenwood Cemetery is a well-maintained quiet spot in the middle of the city. Make sure to keep its serenity. You can also maximize the calm environment by securing a spot for some meditation. |
8. Lovett Hall and Cloisters at Rice University
Media credit: @pushography
Website: http://www.rice.edu/
Address: Lovett Hall, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005
Contact Details: +1 713-348-0000
If you’re searching for a nature and architectural trip in the heart of the city then Lovett Hall and Cloisters at Rice University has stunning views for you.
Lovett Hall is an example of the Collegiate Gothic style and serves as the centerpiece of Rice University’s campus. It shows a remarkable facade, complete with intricate stonework and arches, making it a great backdrop against beautifully curated lawns.
Adjacent to Lovett Hall, you’ll find the Cloisters, a space inspired by medieval European architecture—complete with archways, bricks, decorative columns, and courtyards. Walking here will feel like royalty for a day!
Pro tip: If you plan to take good photos of the place consider bringing a camera with a zoom lens. This will allow you to take photos of the intricate architectural details of Lovett Hall and the Cloisters. |
9. Bayou Bend Collection and Garden
Media credit: @romneyellen
Website: http://www.mfah.org/visit/bayou-bend-collection-and-gardens/
Address: 6003 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Contact Details: +1 713-639-7750
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
If you’ve got more time on your plate then head to Bayou Bend Collection and Garden. Here, there are so many great sights to see so make sure to clear up your schedule for an entire afternoon.
Bayou Bend Collection and Garden is part of the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston which is housed in the former home of Houston philanthropist, Ima Hogg.
You can see a collection of American decorative furnishings, silver, and ceramics from the colonial period–all displayed inside the elegant rooms of the mansion.
If you want to explore the outdoors, you can enjoy the views from their gardens, with multiple spots great for some reflection. You’ll also appreciate the manicured lawns and shaded pathways, great for a quick afternoon stroll.
If you want to dive deeper into Bayou Bend’s curated gardens, you’ll appreciate the designs inspired by early American gardening practices and landscape design.
Pro tip: Bayou Bend has limited parking slots that are located near the entrance. If the main parking lot is full, look for signs directing you to overflow parking areas, or inquire at the visitor center for other parking spots. |
10. Minute Maid Park
Website: http://houston.astros.mlb.com/hou/ballpark/index.jsp
Address: 501 Crawford St, Houston, TX 77002
Contact Details: +1 713-259-8000
For sports fans who crave lively urban views, you’ll never go wrong with Minute Maid Park. Home to Houston Astros, Minute Maid Park isn’t just known for its baseball action, it also brings Houstonians a unique architectural touch.
The park has a retractable roof, providing you with great views of the Houston skyline. This is a great spot for when you catch a baseball game.
Additionally, you can check out the outfield area here you can find the left-field Crawford Boxes as well as the Houston Methodist Hall of Game Alley. Don’t forget to visit these areas if you want a panoramic view of Houston.
Meanwhile, if you want to watch the game while taking a glimpse of the city skyline, head to the Union Station Roof Deck for an elevated and unobstructed view.
Pro tip: Download the MLB Ballpark app to plan your visit to Minute Maid Park. this grants you access to real-time information about tickets, parking slots, and traffic. |