Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Houston
There are plenty of budget-friendly things to do in Houston, from museums and park strolls to mini-golf, arcade fun, and cultural sites. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a casual date, or a low-cost weekend adventure, Houston offers affordable experiences across the city. This guide highlights reliable and enjoyable places where you can explore, relax, and have fun without spending much.
Indoor Fun & Low-Cost Recreation
Hermann Park Mini Train Ride
A short outdoor train ride through Hermann Park with views of the lake and gardens. Riders board at the Lake Plaza station and follow a set loop around public park space. It’s an easy family-friendly activity with low ticket cost.
- Location: 6102 Hermann Park Dr, Houston
- Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Price: $6 (Weekdays), $7 (Weekends)
- Website: http://www.hermannpark.org/visit/train-pedal-boats
Memorial Park Tennis Center
Public tennis facility offering hourly court access at an affordable rate. Players can reserve a court and bring their own gear for low-cost play. Staff are available at the front desk for check-in and court assignment.
- Location: 1500 E Memorial Loop Dr, Houston
- Time:
- Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Price: $5/hour
- Website: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/houstonparks/home?onlineSiteId=10&from_original_cui=true
Bowling at University of Houston Games Room
A campus bowling alley open to the public for individual and group play. Walk-in guests pay a low fee per game with optional shoe rental. The environment is casual, with simple lanes and equipment.
- Location: 4455 University Dr, Houston
- Time: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:45 PM
- Price: $4 (Guest) / person / game
- Website: http://uh.edu/games
U.S. Golf & Games
Indoor recreational facility with an 18-hole mini-golf course and additional arcade options. Guests pay per round or per activity, keeping visits inexpensive. It’s commonly used for short casual outings and family groups.
- Location: 10106 Thermon, Houston
- Time:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Price: $6 / game
- Website: http://usgolfandgames.com
810 Billiards & Bowling
Bowling and billiards venue offering lane access priced by the hour with affordable daytime rates. Visitors bring socks and rent shoes on site if needed. The lanes are modern and geared toward small groups and casual players.
- Location: 1201 San Jacinto St Suite 321, Houston
- Time:
- Monday – Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Thursday – Friday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Price: from $10 / hour
- Website: https://www.810bowling.com
Puttshack
Indoor mini-golf with digital scoring and themed course obstacles. Certain hours offer reduced-price rounds that fall under a $10 budget. Groups move through the holes at a steady pace with staff monitoring play.
- Location: 1200 McKinney St, Houston
- Time:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price: $14 (Ages 13+), $9 (Ages 12 & under; must be with adult)
- Website: https://www.puttshack.com/locations/houston
Cidercade
Arcade venue with a day-pass model that allows unlimited gameplay for one entry fee. The space includes pinball, classic arcade machines, and newer game cabinets. Guests purchase wristbands at the entrance and play freely without tokens.
- Location: 2320 Canal St suite 100, Houston
- Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Price: from $12 / person
- Website: https://www.cidercade.com/houston
Outdoor Spaces & Cultural Sites
The Menil Collection
Featuring art from different cultures and time periods, including modern works, ancient pieces, and rotating exhibitions. The campus includes several buildings and quiet outdoor areas where visitors can walk between galleries.
- Location: 1533 Sul Ross St, Houston, TX
- Time:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Website: https://www.menil.org
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
A non-profit museum dedicated to contemporary art with changing exhibitions throughout the year. The space focuses on new and emerging artistic ideas, offering a mix of installation, photography, sculpture, and media-based work.
- Location: 5216 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX
- Time:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Website: http://www.camh.org
Houston Maritime Museum
This small museum focuses on maritime navigation, shipbuilding, and naval history. Displays include model ships and informational exhibits covering global waterways. Guests often explore independently at a relaxed pace.
- Location: 2940 Riverby Rd Suite 200, Houston
- Time: Wednesday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Price: $15 (Adults), $10 (Seniors 65+), $10 (Veterans), $10 (Students 12–22), $8 (Children 5–11)
- Website: https://houstonmaritime.org
The Heritage Society Museum Buildings Tour
Historic homes and buildings preserved in Sam Houston Park, accessible through guided tours. Visitors view interior spaces reflecting Houston’s early settlement era. Tour guides provide context about architecture, residents, and city development.
- Location: 1100 Bagby St, Houston
- Time: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Price: $15 (General Admission 13-64), $12 (Seniors 65+), $6 (Youths (6-12)
- Website: https://www.heritagesociety.org
Buffalo Bayou Park
This large urban park offers walking paths, art structures, gardens, and skyline views. You can stroll, relax by the water, or explore the trails without a fee.
- Location: 1800 Allen Pkwy, Houston
Discovery Green
A downtown public park with art installations, seasonal activities, and open lawns, making it one of the budget-friendly things to do in Houston. Free fitness classes, film screenings, and weekend programs happen often.
- Location: 1500 McKinney St, Houston
Hermann Park
A community favorite for gardens, lakeside walks, and cultural institutions nearby. It’s a great place to sit outdoors, picnic, or walk around the Japanese Garden.
- Location: 6001 Fannin St, Houston
Menil Park
Wide lawns and tree-shaded paths next to world-class art spaces. Visitors often bring books, snacks, or enjoy quiet time outdoors.
- Location: 1515 Sul Ross St, Houston
Bill Archer Dog Park
Large green space with walking trails and ponds, one of the budget-friendly things to do in Houston. Visitors without pets also enjoy the peaceful paths and open air.
- Location: 3201 Hwy 6, Houston
Houston offers countless ways to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. From scenic parks and cultural sites to interactive attractions and casual outings, there’s something for everyone. Keep this guide in mind to discover the best budget-friendly things to do in Houston and make your adventures both fun and affordable.
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