In a city like Houston where everyone spends most of the day driving, it's no wonder some innovative artists would think to turn cars into art. At the Art Car Museum, also known as the "Garage Mahal," you can see these crazy pieces on display. This unusual museum will delight visitors of all ages with cars transformed into the likes of a giant evil Easter Bunny or a gold Chevy covered in stuffed alligators called the "Swamp Mutha." The car art depicts personal, social, political, and economic dimensions of Houston.
This massive hall has been the prestigious home of the Houston Symphony for many years. It was built in 1966 to add an opera house to Houston's expanding list of artistic offerings. Located downtown in the theater district, it has also played host to other musical productions over the years, including Broadway musicals and sold-out concerts. Underground parking is available and convenient.
Blaffer Art Museum was founded in 1973 to honor the late Sarah Campbell Blaffer. It offers educational programs and exhibits for both University of Houston students and the public. Showings in the gallery change regularly, and many periods of history have been exhibited over the years. The emphasis is on contemporary art of the past century. Previous exhibits have focused on German Expressionism, Vienna Moderne, 20th-century illustrations, and many others.
Catch your favorite bands and sport teams at the Toyota Center. This is the place to come out for a fun event with your friends or family. Artists such as Prince and Gloria Estefan have graced the stage at this one-of-a-kind venue. The basketball Rockets, Houston's basketball team, plays at this venue. Watch your favorite stars or leagues live in action!
Bayou Bend is the former home of Ima Hogg, a famous philanthropist. Visitors can wander through 15 acres (6.1 hectares) of woodlands and formal gardens, or check out the house that contains various works of decorative art. This art represents the American style from colonial to mid-19th Century. The house is a lovely lifestyle museum of that century which offers a look at beautiful period furniture and paintings, along with artifacts such as silverware, ceramics, and other memorabilia. The sprawling gardens are ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Opened in 1948, Contemporary Arts Museum Houston's goal is to present the "art of our time." Renovated in 1997, the building sports an elegant interior that is almost as appealing as the exhibits. Regional, national and international artists display their work here, and the museum can also take credit for the successful launch of several local artists' careers. The art exhibits are very diverse, exhibiting the use of various materials and subjects in a wide range of styles. The gift shop might put a significant dent in your wallet, but it is rumored to be one of the best in town.