July is the pinnacle of summer! The weather is hot, water parks welcome thousands of guests, and vacation travel is at its peak. If anyone is looking for a getaway or staycation, Houston has plenty of activities for friend groups, couples or the entire family. From Fourth of July fireworks to free concerts, come stay and play in Houston.
Shell Freedom Over Texas
ELEANOR TINSLEY PARK AND DOWNTOWN HOUSTON
July 4, 2024
There are lots of amazing 4th of July events across the greater Houston area. However, the city’s marquee celebration is the Shell Freedom Over Texas firework show. Head to Eleanor Tinsley Park for six-hours of festivities, tradition, and concert stages featuring local, regional, and national entertainment that will be capped off with a musically choreographed, “Texas-sized” fireworks finale. Get your tickets here. Can’t make the show in person, the event will be televised as well! For a full list of Fourth of July events in Houston, click here.
Experience Summer with the Houston Symphony!
The Houston Symphony has prepared a wide assortment of experiences for audiences young and old throughout the city this summer! This July, enjoy the music of movies and the classics with at performances at Miller Outdoor Theater (for free!) and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands.
- Star Spangled Salute - July 3rd (Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion)
- Star Spangled Salute - July 4rd (Miller Outdoor Theater)
- Legends of Country - July 6th (Miller Outdoor Theater)
- American Masterworks - July 12th (Miller Outdoor Theater)
- Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 - July 13th (Miller Outdoor Theater)
- Elgar’s Enigma Variations - July 19th (Miller Outdoor Theater)
- Haydn & Dvořák - July 20th (Miller Outdoor Theater)
- Batman in Concert - July 26th (Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion)
Interactive Installation: e/motion
AVENIDA
June 20 - September 2, 2024
Experience the magic of e/motion downtown at Avenida Houston this summer. This interactive installation transforms the classic seesaw into a mesmerizing ride with modern twists. Designed by Olivier Landreville and Serge Maheu, e/motion lets you control a glowing liquid wave as you play. Eeb and flow for free with this unique art install before heading over to our next event...
Summer Movie Night: The Lion King
DISCOVERY GREEN
July 20, 2024
After checking out e/motion at Avenida, walk just a few short steps to enjoying a free movie night under the stars and city lights! In honor of the 30th anniversary, Discovery Green presents The Lion King! Bring blankets, kick back, and relax as the movie starts promptly at 7 pm. Hakuna Matata!
The Lion King
HOBBY CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS
July 11 - August 4, 2024
Inspired by your movie night at Discovery Green? No worries! You can catch the broadway show of the Lion King at the Hobby Center this July! Known for the incredible and inventive costumes and incredible singing performances, this live version of a beloved classic Disney movie will have you dancing the whole way home.
VISIT THE MUSEUMS
Discover Houston's vibrant cultural scene (and beat the Houston heat) like never before with the Houston Museum Pass! Immerse yourself in a world of art, science, and history as you gain exclusive access to the city's most renowned museums and attractions. From masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts to the fascinating exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and Space Center Houston, this pass unlocks a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Choose from one, three, or thirty day passes and experience all that Houston museums have to offer!
Summer Nights at MFAH
MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS HOUSTON
Saturdays in July
By popular demand, Summer Nights at the Museum of Fine Arts are back this summer! Step into an air-conditioned oasis with full access to all MFAH galleries and exhibitions with special access to chats with museum curators from 6 - 9 pm Saturdays in July. Stroll through with your complimentary cocktail (included with price of admission) as you listen to live music and take it all in. Cafe Leonelli and Le Jardinier will offer drink specials and bars with Cafe Leonelli offering extended happy hour. Don't miss out on this exclusive experience.
Mixers and Elixers
MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE
July 12, 2024
Discover a night of science, music, and mingling at Mixers & Elixirs hosted by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Sip cocktails while you explore fascinating exhibits—it’s a must-do for anyone looking to spice up their Houston summer nights and see the museum in the most unique way possible!
WHERE TO STAY
Omni Houston Hotel Galleria
Head to Houston and be sure to beat the heat at the Omni Houston Hotel Galleria with its incredible pool! Stay now through September 29 and receive up to 20% off booking - the longer you stay, the more you save...plus kids eat free. Take advantage! VIEW OFFER.
EXPLORE MORE OFFERS & DEALS IN HOUSTON.