Top Rated Attractions in Houston

Downtown Houston's tunnels comprise a multi million-dollar system that gives new meaning to the term "underground." Those who venture beneath the city will be delighted at what they find hidden there. Restaurants, gift shops, and more fun spots line the corridors. The temperature below is always pleasant and allows the busy people of downtown to navigate in comfort, regardless of the season. Major buildings that are connected by the tunnel system include One Allen Center, One Shell Plaza, Alley Theatre and Wortham Center. If you are not familiar with the layout, you might want to pick up a tunnel map, or take a guided tour offered by several tour operators.

The revival of this park area where the Allen brothers arrived over 150 years ago to start a new business venture has been exciting and stimulating for the downtown area. Surrounded by four primary streets (Travis, Milam, Congress and Preston), the area features restored historical buildings, fine restaurants, entertainment and nightclubs all within walking distance of each other. Lovely painted benches, artifacts and pictures line the walkways, combining the old with the new for all to enjoy. Different "points of view" can be discussed freely in a friendly atmosphere under the aptly named sculpture by James Surls.

Market Square Park is a brimming center located at Downtown Houston's Historic District. A prominent landmark, the park served as an open air local market. The park comprises a bow-shaped dog run, a brightly lit walkway path and plenty of open space to relax. Visit the Houston's Niko Niko's to delight yourself with the outdoor seating, a performance plaza, and a Greek and American favorites. Do visit the Lauren's Garden, a memorial built to commemorate Lauren Catuzzi Grandcolas - a passenger on United Flight 93. Occasional live entertainment, events and community activities makes this place a vibrant gathering spot for locals.

In 1936, brothers John and Augustus Allen bought 6,642 areas of land and claimed Houston as their own. They settled down on the site that is now known as Allen's Landing, therefore it has great significance in the history and birth of Houston. Owing to its proximity to the White Oak Bayou and Buffalo Bayou, a dock was built and was operational for quite a long period. Over the time the area become somewhat neglected; however, the plans for its renovation are underway and after ts makeover, Allen's Landing will be equipped with beautiful walkways, lawns, a splendid promenade and several other facilities.

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is one of Houston's grandest venues for entertainment. This magnificent building houses two main theaters: Sarofim Hall and Zilkha Hall. Sarofim Hall, the bigger of the two, seats 2650 people and hosts major productions like touring Broadway shows. Zilkha Hall seats 500, and is home to the Uniquely Houston program, which showcases small to mid-level performing arts groups.

Have a yearning for the nautical life? Take a plunge into the deep at the Houston Downtown Aquarium. This aquarium is definitely the place to be for a fun day out. The aquarium features around 400 species of aquatic life, with the Shark Voyage being the main attraction. This voyage gives visitors the opportunity to travel via train into an acrylic viewing tunnel with live sharks swimming overhead. Other attractions include the Diving Bell Ferris wheel, the aquatic carousel and some themed educational exhibits. If you've had your fill of the aquatic life and need some grub then take a pick from the Aquarium Restaurant or Dive Lounge.