Houston, Texas is not only a hub for space exploration and a melting pot of cultures, but it’s also a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and science enthusiasts. From world-renowned institutions to quirky specialty museums, Houston offers a wealth of knowledge enclosed within awe-inspiring infrastructures. Here’s a curated list of the 13 best museums in Houston that you can add to your next cultural excursion.

1. Houston Musum of Natural Science – A must-visit institution featuring a planetarium, butterfly center, and extensive collections of dinosaur skeletons, mineral specimens, and much more.

2. The Menil Collection – This serene space houses the private art collection of philanthropists John and Dominique de Menil, including ancient to modern works and rotating exhibitions.

3. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston – As one of the largest museums in the country, it boasts an impressive collection ranging from antiquity to contemporary art.

4. Children’s Museum Houston – Designed to inspire young minds, this museum offers interactive exhibits focusing on science, technology, and culture.

5. Holocaust Museum Houston – An institution dedicated to educating about the Holocaust, promoting human rights and tolerance through its permanent and traveling exhibitions.

6. Space Center Houston – The official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center with exhibits on space exploration including spacecrafts and moon rocks.

7. Houston Museum of African American Culture – A platform celebrating African-American culture and its impact on the world through exhibitions and programs.

8. Contemporary Arts Museum Houston – Known for presenting new art and documenting its role in modern life through thematic exhibitions that are both avant-garde and accessible.

9. The Health Museum – Offers an interactive experience for visitors to explore health and medical science in the renowned Texas Medical Center.

10. Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens – The former home of philanthropist Ima Hogg now showcases American furnishings, silver, ceramics, and paintings set amidst beautiful gardens.

11. The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park – Preserves historical structures and provides insight into life in early Houston with tours of authentically restored buildings.

12. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum – Pays tribute to African-American soldiers who served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War by preserving their legacy.

13. Lawndale Art Center – A multidisciplinary contemporary arts center that supports local talent with space for exhibitions, studios, performances, and community-based events.

Each museum in Houston has its own unique flavor that contributes to a richer understanding of vastly different subjects. Whether interested in examining artistic masterpieces or uncovering historical narratives – from the far reaches of space exploration to honoring unsung heroes – these 13 museums promise enriching experiences that educate and inspire visitors of all ages.