Children's Museum
1500 Binz, Houston, TX 77004*713-522-1138
This colorful, whimsical structure is clearly designed for kids. Toddlers to preteens can enjoy hands-on exhibits and special scientific and cultural installations.
Buffalo Bayou Park
Houston, TX 77019
Paved hiking trails run along the bayou between Shepherd and downtown, with a great view of the skyline.
Conrad Hilton Archives
Entrance 1 off Calhoun, Houston, TX 77004*713-743-2430
One of Houston's more unusual attractions! More than 3000 photos can be found here having to do with Hilton's life and the hotel business. You can also see some of the awards, plaques and one of Elizabeth Taylor's wedding albums (from her 1950 marriage to Conrad "Nicky" Hilton, Jr.).
Forbidden Gardens
23500 Franz Rd, Houston, TX 77084*281-347-8000
Three-acre site showcases a recreation of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Visitors are taken through miniature replicas of the Forbidden City, the First Emperor's Tomb (Emperor Qin Shihuang) and the Calming of the Heart Lodge. On display are replicas of the weapons used by Emperor Qin's army. Guided tours available.
George Ranch Historical Park
10215 FM 762 Rd, Richmond, TX 77469*281-343-0218
480-acre/195-hectare living history museum gives visitors a feel for the old pioneer days. Hands-on activities, demonstrations and house tours. 30 mi/48 km southwest of Houston. Group tours throughout the year.
Holocaust Museum Houston
5401 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77004*713-942-8000
Contains photographs, films and texts on the persecution of Jews in Europe. Included is an exhibition on the creation and operation of the ghettos, concentration, death and deportation camps, and the war-crimes trials. Oral histories of Holocaust survivors are shown in the theater.