The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the nation's most visited museums, offering a diverse array of exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. Explore the Morian Hall of Paleontology, where towering dinosaur skeletons transport you back to prehistoric times. Marvel at the exquisite Fabergé collection, showcasing intricate jeweled masterpieces. The Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals dazzles with its stunning array of natural treasures, while the Wiess Energy Hall provides an insightful look into the world of energy exploration and production. Beyond the permanent exhibits, the museum features an IMAX theater for immersive films, a state-of-the-art planetarium for cosmic journeys, and a variety of world-class traveling exhibitions that ensure there's always something new to discover.

Spanning over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park and Preserve is the largest municipal park in the United States, offering a vast array of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. The park’s extensive trail system invites visitors to explore by hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. For breathtaking panoramic views, visitors can drive up Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout, where sweeping vistas of the Phoenix Valley await, or continue to Gila Lookout for stunning views of the Gila River Valley. Keep in mind that the road is shared with cyclists and hikers, and includes steep sections and sharp, blind curves—so it’s important to adhere to the 25 mph speed limit for everyone's safety.

The capital's Ethnological Museum is considered to be one of the finest on the continent. Intricately arranged exhibits narrate the story of Ethiopia and its peoples. The museum spans two floors of the former residence of Emperor Haile Selassie, whose rooms are preserved in nearly their original state and open to visitors. Detailed written explanations are provided.