Houston, Texas, is a vibrant city with a plethora of attractions and activities to offer. While many visitors flock to the well-known tourist spots, there are also plenty of unusual things to do in Houston Texas that can provide a unique and memorable experience. From exploring quirky museums to indulging in offbeat culinary adventures, Houston has something for everyone looking to step off the beaten path. Whether you’re a local looking for a new adventure or a traveler seeking unconventional experiences, Houston’s hidden gems are sure to surprise and delight you.
Visit the Beer Can House
Essential Information
– Address: 222 Malone St, Houston, TX 77007
– Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 12pm to 5pm
– Fee: $5 for adults, $2 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
– Ideal for: History buffs and quirky art enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Beer Can House in Houston, Texas, stands out as a truly unique tourist attraction. What makes this place so unusual is the fact that the entire house is adorned with over 50,000 beer cans. Visitors are greeted by a facade covered in a mosaic of flattened beer cans, creating a shimmering and colorful exterior unlike any other.
Inside the house, every inch of the interior is decorated with beer cans, from the walls to the ceilings. The attention to detail is remarkable, with beer can garlands, curtains, and even furniture crafted from aluminum cans. The sheer dedication and creativity that went into transforming a regular house into a beer can masterpiece is what sets this attraction apart.
Visitors can explore the quirky rooms and learn about the history behind the Beer Can House, including the story of its creator, John Milkovisch, who spent over 18 years embellishing his home with beer cans as a form of artistic expression. The house serves as a testament to his passion for recycling and his unique vision for turning everyday objects into art.
For those looking for an offbeat and memorable experience in Houston, a visit to the Beer Can House is a must. It offers a fascinating glimpse into one man’s creative genius and showcases a truly one-of-a-kind art installation that continues to captivate visitors from near and far.
Explore the Art Car Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 140 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007
– Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm
– Fee: Free admission
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Art enthusiasts and those seeking quirky attractions
Why is it so unusual
The Art Car Museum in Houston, Texas, stands out as a truly unique attraction that showcases a fascinating collection of art cars unlike anything you’ve seen before. What makes this museum so unusual is the way it celebrates the intersection of art and automotive culture, transforming ordinary vehicles into extraordinary works of art.
Visitors to the Art Car Museum are greeted by a colorful array of vehicles adorned with intricate designs, vibrant colors, and whimsical themes. From cars covered in mosaic tiles to ones featuring elaborate sculptures and intricate paintings, each art car tells a story and invites viewers to explore the creative minds behind them.
One of the most unusual aspects of the museum is the annual Art Car Parade, where these eccentric vehicles take to the streets in a vibrant procession that captivates onlookers. This event attracts artists, car enthusiasts, and curious spectators alike, making it a must-see spectacle for anyone visiting Houston.
In addition to the captivating art cars on display, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight different artists and themes within the art car community. This dynamic approach ensures that each visit offers something new and exciting for visitors to discover and appreciate.
Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, the Art Car Museum is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you find yourself in Houston and craving a taste of the extraordinary, be sure to add this quirky attraction to your itinerary.
Tour the National Museum of Funeral History
Essential Information
– Address: 415 Barren Springs Drive, Houston, Texas
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
– Fee: $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $7 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, curious travelers
Why is it so unusual
The National Museum of Funeral History in Houston, Texas, stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its focus on the intriguing and often overlooked world of funerals and memorials. While most museums showcase art, history, or science, this museum delves into the fascinating rituals and traditions surrounding death and burial.
Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the evolution of funeral customs throughout history, from ancient Egyptian embalming practices to modern-day funeral services. One of the most unusual attractions is the collection of intricately designed hearses and coffins, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into these solemn vehicles and containers.
For those with a morbid curiosity, the museum offers a glimpse into the lives of famous figures who have passed away, including detailed exhibits on the funerals of presidents and celebrities. Additionally, guests can learn about the history of embalming, casket-making, and the cultural significance of mourning attire.
A particularly unique feature of the museum is the interactive exhibit on the process of embalming, providing a behind-the-scenes look at this often mysterious practice. Visitors can also explore the extensive collection of funeral programs, obituaries, and memorial items that offer a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who have passed on.
Overall, the National Museum of Funeral History offers a thought-provoking and unconventional experience that sheds light on a topic that is both universal and deeply personal. Whether you are a history buff, a curious traveler, or simply looking for something out of the ordinary, this museum is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Discover the Beer Can and Vintage Signs Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 123 Main Street, Houston, Texas
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday
– Fee: $10 for adults, $5 for children
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, beer lovers, vintage collectors
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to quirky and offbeat attractions in Houston, the Beer Can and Vintage Signs Museum stands out as a hidden gem waiting to be explored. What makes this museum truly unique is its fascinating collection of over 1,000 vintage beer cans and retro signs that offer a glimpse into the history of advertising and beverage packaging.
Visitors to the museum can marvel at the colorful array of beer cans spanning decades, showcasing the evolution of design and branding in the brewing industry. From classic American brews to rare international finds, each can tells a story of cultural trends and marketing strategies of its time.
In addition to the impressive beer can collection, the museum also features a curated selection of vintage signs that once adorned bars, breweries, and soda shops. These weathered relics of the past transport visitors back to a bygone era, where neon lights and hand-painted advertisements captured the essence of Americana.
For those looking to experience a slice of nostalgia or simply appreciate the artistry of everyday objects, the Beer Can and Vintage Signs Museum offers a one-of-a-kind journey through the visual history of beverage culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a beer aficionado, or a collector of all things retro, this unusual attraction is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Experience the Orange Show Monument
Essential Information
– Address: 2402 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023
– Opening Hours: Saturday & Sunday 12pm-5pm
– Fee: $5 for adults, $2 for children
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Art enthusiasts and those seeking quirky attractions
Why is it so unusual
The Orange Show Monument in Houston, Texas, stands out as an eccentric and quirky attraction that draws visitors from far and wide. What makes this monument truly unusual is its vibrant and eclectic mix of folk art, showcasing a maze-like structure made from recycled materials such as tiles, metal pieces, and concrete.
Visitors can explore the maze-like pathways adorned with colorful mosaics, sculptures, and various oddities that create a whimsical and surreal atmosphere. One of the most unusual features of the Orange Show Monument is the towering observation deck, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and providing a unique perspective on the artistic vision behind this unconventional monument.
In addition to the maze and observation deck, visitors can marvel at the various sculptures and installations scattered throughout the site, each telling a story of creativity and imagination. From the quirky layout to the unexpected surprises around every corner, the Orange Show Monument offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast looking for something out of the ordinary or simply seeking a fun and offbeat attraction to explore, the Orange Show Monument is a must-visit destination that promises a truly unusual and memorable experience.
Visit the Cockrell Butterfly Center
Essential Information
– Address: 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
– Fee: Adults $12, Children $10
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, families with kids
Why is it so unusual
The Cockrell Butterfly Center in Houston, Texas, stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its captivating and immersive butterfly exhibits. Unlike traditional museums or parks, this center offers visitors a chance to witness the mesmerizing life cycle of butterflies up close. One of the most unusual activities here is the opportunity to walk through a stunning glass-enclosed rainforest habitat, where thousands of colorful butterflies flutter around freely.
Visitors can also engage in the fascinating experience of watching butterflies emerge from their chrysalises at the Brown Hall of Entomology. This rare sight provides a glimpse into the intricate process of metamorphosis, making it a truly educational and awe-inspiring activity for both children and adults alike.
Moreover, the center’s Butterfly Museum features an extensive collection of butterfly specimens from around the world, showcasing the incredible diversity and beauty of these delicate creatures. Guests can learn about different butterfly species, their habitats, and conservation efforts to protect these vital pollinators.
For those seeking a hands-on experience, the Cockrell Butterfly Center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that allow visitors to learn about the importance of butterflies in our ecosystem. From guided tours to butterfly releases, there are plenty of unique activities to engage with nature and appreciate the beauty of these winged wonders.
In conclusion, the Cockrell Butterfly Center is not just a typical tourist attraction; it is a place where visitors can witness the magic of nature unfold before their eyes. With its unusual and engaging activities, this center provides a memorable and enriching experience for anyone looking to explore the fascinating world of butterflies.
Explore the Houston Tunnel System
Essential Information
– Address: Downtown Houston, Texas
– Opening Hours: Weekdays, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
– Fee: Free to access
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Urban explorers, history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Houston Tunnel System is a hidden gem beneath the bustling city of Houston, Texas. What makes this underground network so unusual is the unexpected world it unveils to visitors. Unlike traditional tourist attractions, the Houston Tunnel System offers a unique experience of exploring a subterranean city that thrives beneath the surface.
One of the most unusual activities you can partake in while exploring the tunnel system is discovering the diverse range of dining options available. From local eateries to popular chains, the underground tunnels house a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Another intriguing aspect of the Houston Tunnel System is the vibrant art scene that adorns the walls of the passageways. Street art, murals, and sculptures line the underground walkways, adding a creative touch to this unconventional tourist attraction.
For those interested in shopping, the tunnel system offers a selection of unique boutiques and shops that cater to a range of tastes. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, gifts, or simply want to browse through local offerings, the underground shops provide a distinctive shopping experience.
Additionally, the Houston Tunnel System is a great place to witness the daily hustle and bustle of city life from a different perspective. As you navigate the maze of interconnected tunnels, you’ll encounter a mix of locals, tourists, and office workers going about their day, creating a dynamic atmosphere that sets this attraction apart from the usual tourist hotspots.
In conclusion, the Houston Tunnel System stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its subterranean setting, diverse dining options, vibrant art scene, unique shopping opportunities, and the chance to observe city life from below ground. Whether you’re an urban explorer or a history enthusiast, a visit to this underground network promises a memorable and unconventional experience in the heart of Houston.
