How to Explore Houston's Popular Destinations with METRO this Summer

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a tourist diving into Space City’s best spots, Houston’s METRO system—complete with buses and the sleek METRORail—makes getting around a breeze. From cheering on the Astros at Daikin Park to snapping selfies at the Museum of Fine Arts, METRO is your all-access pass to the city's top attractions. So, hop aboard and let the journey begin—Houston is waiting, and METRO is the ride that gets you there!

1. Daikin Park

Home to the Houston Astros, Daikin Park is a must-visit for baseball enthusiasts. The stadium features a retractable roof, ensuring games are played rain or shine. Beyond baseball, it hosts concerts and community events. Visitors can reach the park via the METRORail Green or Purple Lines at the Convention District Station or connect from the Red line downtown.  Several bus routes also service this area such as the 6 Jensen / Greens, 20 Canal / Memorial, 30 Clinton / Ella, 48 Market, 137 Northshore Express, and 151 Westpark Express.

2. Houston Zoo

Situated within Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo houses over 6,000 animals from around the globe. It's a family-friendly destination offering interactive exhibits and educational programs. The zoo is easily accessible via the METRORail Red Line with Hermann Park / Rice U and Memorial Hermann Hospital / Houston Zoo stations nearby. Bus routes that service the Houston Zoo are the 28 OST – Wayside and the 56 Airline / Montrose.

Passengers are offboarding the METRORail Red Line at the Memorial Hermann Hospital/ Houston Zoo platform.

3. Discovery Green

This 12-acre park in downtown Houston serves as a hub for community events, including concerts, fitness classes, and festivals. With its urban design featuring a lake, playgrounds, and art installations, Discovery Green is perfect for families and city explorers. Visitors can take the METRORail's Green or Purple Line to the Convention District stop for easy access. Bus routes accessible to the area include the 6 Jensen/ Greens, 11 Almeda/Lyons, 40 Telephone/Heights, 41 Kirby/Polk, 51 Hardy-Kelley, 52 Hardy-Ley, and 137 Northshore Express.

4. Museum District

The Museum District boasts 21 museums and cultural centers, making it a haven for art and history enthusiasts. Notable institutions include The Menil Collection, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Many museums offer free admission on specific days, and the district is walkable and bikeable, with METRORail stations nearby. Bus routes that can take you to this area include the 11 Almeda/Lyons and 82 Westheimer.

5. Theater District

Spanning 17 city blocks, Houston's Theater District is home to nine professional performing arts organizations, including the Houston Grand Opera, Houston Ballet, and The Alley Theatre. Visitors can enjoy a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to symphony concerts. The district is easily accessible via the METRORail's Red Line, with several stations serving the area. Bus routes that can take you to this area include the 20 Canal/ Memorial, 30 Clinton/ Ella, 40 Telephone/ Heights, 41 Kirby/Polk, 44 Acres Homes, 48 Market and 82 Westheimer.

6. The Galleria
As Texas's largest shopping center, The Galleria offers over 400 stores, two high-rise hotels, an ice-skating rink, and a wide range of dining options. It's a premier destination for shopping and entertainment. Several METRO bus routes connect to the Galleria, providing convenient access. Bus routes that can take you to this area include the 20 Canal / Memorial, 82 Westheimer, and the 433 Silver Line.

7. Buffalo Bayou Park
This 160-acre park offers scenic views, hiking and biking trails, and recreational activities like kayaking. It's a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Houston's natural beauty. While not directly accessible by METRORail, several METRO bus routes serve the park area, including the 40 Telephone / Heights, 56 Airline / Montrose, 51 Hardy-Kelley, and the 85 Washington.

Visitors can explore Houston's Museum District via METRO's local bus or light rail.

8. Hermann Park
Beyond the zoo, Hermann Park features attractions like the Miller Outdoor Theatre, McGovern Centennial Gardens, and the Japanese Garden. It's a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and cultural experiences. The park is accessible via the METRORail Red Line, with the Hermann Park / Rice U station nearby. Bus routes serving the area include the 5 Southmore, 28 OST - Wayside, and the 56 Airline / Montrose.

9. Memorial Park
Covering 1,466 acres, Memorial Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. It offers trails for running and cycling, a golf course, and picnic areas. Several METRO bus routes provide easy access to the park, including routes 20 Canal / Memorial, 44 Acres Homes, and 162 Memorial Express.

10.  Downtown Aquarium 
The Downtown Aquarium is a captivating destination that blends education, entertainment, and dining. Visitors can explore eight immersive exhibits, including the Shipwreck, Rainforest, and Sunken Temple, each offering unique glimpses into diverse ecosystems. Beyond its aquatic displays, the aquarium provides a variety of amusement rides and carnival-style games. The aquarium is accessible via several METRO bus routes, including the 44 Acres Homes, 82 Westheimer, 85 Washington, the 161 Wilcrest Express, and 162 Memorial Express.

To plan your trip, download the RideMETRO app. Visit our website for more information on how to get to other top Houston destinations.