The Arts District, bound by White Oak Bayou and Buffalo Bayou, is home to some of Houston’s richest history, eclectic creativity, and charming restaurants. Exploring all of the gems here deserves an entire day, and below are just a few of the many stops we recommend.

PARK!

A majority of the district is walkable, but depending on how much ground you’re planning on covering, you may want to park at one of the many free parking spaces, rideshare or cycle.

FUEL-UP FOR YOUR WALK AT CATALINA COFFEE

Kick your trip off with a coffee and pastry at Catalina Coffee on Washington Avenue. The shop sources its coffee from its sister company, Amaya Roasting Company, and they’ve got plenty of seasonally rotating selections. After you’ve reached your caffeine quota, head left on the sidewalk for about 7 minutes towards the Glenwood Cemetery—home to burial sites of people like Howard Hughes, Jr.

If you’re interested in taking a tour of Glenwood, check out preservationhouston.org beforehand.

LOCAL BEER AND BBQ, ANYONE?

Worked up an appetite by this point? From Glenwood Cemetery, head back east toward Catalina Coffee and take a right on Sawyer Street. Pop a left on Kane Street, a right on Henderson Street, and you have arrived at Henderson & Kane’s general store. It’s been around for YEARS. Whether you’re craving some locally sourced goods, beer or BBQ, they’ve got it all.

EXPLORING HOUSTON’S ART SCENE

Want to mix it up with another stop or plan for a night out instead? After Henderson & Kane’s, continue east toward Silver Street. Make a left and continue straight until you hit Silver Street Studios off of Silver Street and Edwards Street. From free wine and snacks to free art shows—you’ll feel like a true art connoisseur by the time you leave.

Still not ready to head home? For international-inspired and inclusive art, head west on Edwards Street. and FotoFest International is right next door! The Arts District has plenty more gems for you here.

This one’s from us here at Houston Parks Board, inspired by this!