Any Houston resident knows that the distress of the Texan summer heat, accompanied by the immense coastal humidity, can become a little overbearing sometimes; that kind of misery can quickly pull the brakes on a good time. But one thing’s for sure– Houston has a lot of stuff to do, and you shouldn’t let global warming stop you from having a good time! Here are 10 gnarly spots to hang out at this summer that veritably pass the vibe check, especially if you want to stay within an AC’s reach.
Slick City – Katy: 4.2 Stars
If you’re looking for the fun of a waterpark but don’t feel like getting wet, this is the perfect alternative. With numerous attractions, there is enough fun to keep you and your friends occupied for hours with slides, obstacle courses and more.
5000 Katy Mills Cir #743, Katy, TX 77494
https://slickcity.com/tx-katy/
Beat The Bomb – North Downtown: 4.9 Stars
Similar to an escape room, once you’ve chosen a mission, you have one hour to execute a variety of tasks in order to Beat The Bomb. Tasks range from dodging lasers to cracking codes and puzzles with your party to dismantle the bomb, and if you fail to complete your mission, the bomb detonates and you get blasted! If this seems too intense but you still want the same fun, you can also book a Game Bay for a more casual session of fun and competition.
2103 Lyons Ave #300, Houston, TX 77020
https://www.beatthebomb.com/locations/houston
Honey Art Cafe – Montrose: 4.4 Stars
On the occasion that you’re feeling artistic, Honey Art Cafe is the perfect place to sit down, relax and craft! Supporting various types of art, the cafe lends you the materials for air-dry clay, acrylic painting, water color painting and dry media/coloring(prices varying). Alongside the art, you may also purchase drinks and snacks to enjoy while you craft, making it a great place to leisurely hang out with friends or family.
3516 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77098
https://honeyartcafe.square.site/
Color Factory – West of Downtown: 4.6 Stars
A perfect mix of interactive art and social media opportunities, this art museum holds a one-of-a-kind experience for all viewers. There are a multitude of innovative exhibits that will completely change the way you appreciate color in a sort of inexplicable fashion.
3303 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77098
https://www.colorfactory.co/locations/houston
Radio Tave, Meow Wolf – North Downtown: 4.4 Stars
If you have ever been to one of its counterparts(Omega Mart, Convergence Station, etc.), then you can expect the same jaw-dropping experience. If you haven’t, then this is an absolute must! Radio Tave is as immersive as immersive art can get, completely submerging you in lore, mystery and awe. Its intricate design and story are the paramount of surrealism, and it’ll leave you completely captivated and wanting more. Especially if you like weird-core art and liminal spaces, Radio Wave will knock your socks off!
2103 Lyons Ave Building 2, Houston, TX 77020
https://meowwolf.com/visit/houston
Great Big Gameshow, CITYCENTRE: 5.0 Stars
Its five stars are no fluke; Great Big Gameshow will make your competitive fantasies come true with its incredible soundstage, lighting and energetic host who brings the whole experience together. With a huge medley of games, bring your friends or family to play against in real gameshow fashion with gameplay mimicking your favorite and some you’ve never seen before. And, this isn’t some one-time experience– the plethora of games ensures that each time you come is different, allowing a new clash for every occasion.
794 Sorella Ct #127, Houston, TX 77024

Coral Sword – East Downtown: 4.8 Stars
Coral Sword is the ultimate setting for hanging out with its unmatched board games library, speedy wi-fi and diverse menu. Here’s how it works: Any customer can get full access to their library for a five-dollar fee, or if they purchase an item(s) from the menu. This spot is perfect if you are looking for a unique experience for cheap! With their sizable collection, there is little doubt that they have what you are looking to play.
1318 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023

The Jewelry Instructor – Heights: 5.0 Stars
Similar to Honey Art Cafe, The Jewelry Instructor specialises in spreading the arts, specifically jewelry craft, to all interested artists with a plethora of different classes available to consumers. From bracelet-making to embroidery to 26 other options, there is limitless fun and creativity to be expressed!
1824 Spring St Suite #105, Houston, TX 77007
https://www.thejewelryinstructor.com/

POST HTX, Downtown: 4.6 Stars
It’s safe to say that POST HTX is among the focal hubs of Houston, housing a market, art museum, music hall, skylawn and various events year-round. Make sure you don’t miss out on this exquisite, Houstonian experience!
401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201
ARTECHOUSE – Heights: 4.5 Stars
Although it might seem like too many art museums, they’re all unique in their own ways. ARTECHOUSE pushes art and innovation to the limit, displaying art in ways never accomplished before, using unconventional technology and design.
600 W. 6th Street, Houston, TX 77007
https://www.artechouse.com/location/houston/
Houston can seem lacking when it comes to finding things to do, especially when it comes to finding activities out of the Sun’s glare. But despite how it looks, Houston has plenty of hidden gems and a handful of sublime experiences that are absolute musts. Although some of these attractions can be quite the drive for students at The Village School, specifically, trust the rating and check some spots out if you’re feeling up for the fun!