Getting outside, exploring, and taking in some fresh air can reinvigorate you after a long week, lots of stress, and even minor traffic crashes on Houston’s roads. So, when you’re ready to experience a fun, refreshing activity outside, here’s what you can do in Houston, TX.
Hiking & Jogging
With more than 250 parks, Houston is a paradise for hikers, joggers, and runners, who have literally thousands of trails throughout the city to explore.
Top Hiking Spots in Houston
- Memorial Park Hike & Bike Trailhead
- Buffalo Bayou Park
- Houston Arboretum
- Terry Hershey Hike Trail
- White Oak Bayou Trail
Boating
Kayak, canoe, jet ski, or take other watercraft out on the waterways in the Greater Houston area. Keep in mind that special rules and closures may apply to boating in some areas during certain times of the year. So, be sure to check ahead.
Top Boating Spots in Houston
- Lake Houston
- Buffalo Bayou
- Hermann Park
- Kemah Boardwalk
- Galveston Bay
Fishing
If you love hooking the latest local catch, you’re going to want to go fishing in one of the many bodies of water in and around the Greater Houston area. If you do, you could land a record-breaking bass, catfish, or bluegill.
Top Fishing Spots in Houston
- Dwight D. Eisenhower Park
- McGovern Lake
- Lake Anahuac
- Lake Livingston
- Mary Jo Peckham Park
Swimming
Getting out on the water in Houston may be only half the fun — the other half is getting into it! With Houston temperatures soaring to 100° (and even more!) on the hottest days of the year, diving into crystal blue waters can be the perfect way to stay cool.
Top Swimming Spots in Houston
- Lake Houston Wilderness Park
- Huntsville State Park
- Lake Longhorn
- Scott’s Ridge Swim Site
- Woodsy Hollow Campground
Picnicking
Sharing a meal outdoors, surrounded by verdant landscaping and the sounds of nature, can be a wonderful way to enjoy someone else’s company, good food, and the beauty of Houston.
Top Picnicking Spots in Houston
- Hermann Park
- Sam Houston Park
- Buffalo Bayou Park
- The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
- Memorial Park
More Outdoor Activities in Houston, TX
Along with the activities discussed above, there are so many more things you can do, enjoy, and experience outdoors in Houston, including (but not limited to):
- Outdoor concerts and music festivals: See your favorite local bands or big-name acts at an outdoor summer concert in Houston.
- Farmer’s markets: Several neighborhoods in Houston have local farmer’s markets once a week, where you can find the freshest local produce, handmade crafts, and more.
- Outdoor yoga: Practice yoga while you’re surrounded by nature when you sign up for an outdoor yoga class.
- Movies in the park: Take in a family-friendly movie under the stars on a warm summer night! Don’t forget to bring a blanket and some popcorn too!
Hurt Outdoors?
Spending time outside can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its risks. In fact, whether you walk, bike, ride a motorcycle, or drive, there’s always a risk of collision on Houston’s roads, even if you’re being very careful. When those risks lead to crashes and injuries, you can get answers about your rights and legal options from a personal injury attorney in Houston.
Learn more about Houston’s History here.