Looking for things to do in Houston on a budget? Look no further! This guide provides students with a list of free or inexpensive activities to enjoy in the city. From checking out art galleries and museums to exploring nature trails and parks, there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for ways to entertain yourself or save some money, this guide has you covered. Read on for more information!
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
College students on a budget looking for free things to do in Houston should be sure to visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, one of the largest art museums in the United States.
College students can explore all the incredible sculptures, paintings, photographs, and other pieces of art from around the world without paying an admission fee –- making this an affordable but educational activity on any day of the week! The museum allows visitors to learn about various cultures, view different forms of art, and get inspired by beautiful artwork. With its reasonable prices and plentiful exhibits, a visit to the Museum of Fine Art, Houston is simply a must for college students!
Take a walk or bike ride through Hermann Park
Explore the vibrant city of Houston like a local! Hermann Park, a 445-acre urban park in Houston, is a hot spot for outdoor recreation and offers gorgeous views of verdant trees and open meadows. Hop on your bike or lace up your shoes for a leisurely walk through Houston’s largest public park -– it’s free and fun for all levels! Pack a picnic or have a BBQ and take in views of McGovern Lake, Miller Outdoor Theatre, Robert E. Lee Memorial Monument, and so much more.
Whether you’re looking to play golf, paddle boats, fish, feed the ducks, rent gondolas or explore the zoo, Hermann Park has something to offer everyone – and best of all, entrance is absolutely free!
Check out the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens
College students looking to explore a piece of America’s history in Houston, Texas, should be sure to check out the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. This free attraction, located just six miles from Rice University, is home to American art and furniture from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Guided tours allow college students to connect with some of America’s earliest cultural artifacts that include portraits, paintings, ceramics, silver objects, and much more. Such an experience proves to be both enriching and educational for young adults studying in the area.
Visit the Houston Zoo
College students don’t have to miss out on enjoying the wonders of nature when in Houston — a visit to the Houston Zoo is a must!
As one of the most popular zoos in America, you can explore over 8,000 animals from around the world and admire the lush natural habitats. From exotic animals like Amur leopards to awesome African elephants, your day at this unique zoo is sure to be an unforgettable experience for any college student looking for a fun (and free!) day out in Houston.
Take a tour of The Menil Collection
College students that are on an extreme budget don’t have to miss out on exploring various art forms located in Houston. The Menil Collection is a free-of-charge art museum showcasing a diverse display of modern, contemporary, and outside-the-box pieces.
With no admission cost, college students can take advantage of the unique installation of paintings, sculptures, and more, taking their own personalized tour. Get lost while touring the fascinating exhibits and discovering unconventional artwork from around the globe.
Go for a swim at one of Houston’s many public pools or splash pads
If you find yourself in Houston during the hot summer months, be sure to take advantage of one of the city’s many public pools and splash pads. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun on poolside lounge chairs or dive right into a day of splashing fun, Houston’s public pools and splash pads are great spots to cool off while having tons of fun without breaking the bank. Just remember to bring your sunscreen — because before you know it, you’ll have had a full day of swimming and be left with an amazing tan!
Take a stroll through Discovery Green
Discovery Green is the perfect place for college students to explore nature and culture during their time in Houston. This twelve-acre park located downtown offers an array of free attractions, including music events, outdoor movies, art installations, walking paths, and plenty of green space for picnicking or just taking a stroll.
Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun on the lush lawns or catch a free concert by local bands, Discovery Green has something for everyone — making it one of the best parks in Houston!
Admire the street art murals throughout Houston’s East End District
The East End District of Houston is a vibrant and artistic community that can be explored throughout the year. College students on a budget will appreciate the abundance of free and awe-inspiring street art murals scattered throughout the area. These works of art, created by local artists, capture Houston’s culture, history, and spirit. They are a must-see for any college student looking to explore the unique art scene that Houston has to offer.
Enjoy a Clock Tower view
Enjoy views from the top of Sam Houston Park’s historic clock tower. It’s no secret that Houston has some amazing skyline views, and there is no better place to catch them than the historic clock tower in Sam Houston Park.
This iconic structure offers stunning views of the skyline that can be enjoyed free-of-charge — perfect for college students looking to take in the beauty of Houston without spending a dime. So grab your camera and get ready for some amazing photo ops!
Enjoy free movie nights at Miller Outdoor Theatre
Take part in a movie night at Miller Outdoor Theatre, an iconic Houston venue for enjoying a movie without spending any money. This outdoor theatre hosts free events throughout the year, including live music concerts and movie nights. College students can enjoy both classic films and indie movies on the big screen with friends — making it the perfect activity for a budget-friendly night in Houston!
Conclusion
Houston is a great city for broke college students because there are so many free things to do! From exploring one of the largest art museums in the country to taking a dip in one of Houston’s public pools, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy without spending any money. So the next time you’re looking for something to do and don’t want to spend any money, consider one of these free options in Houston.
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