A Houstonian's Guide to the Great Indoors

Many Shea Homes® Houston communities have exciting opportunities for outdoor fun – playgrounds, swimming pools, walking trails, event lawns, and more. While spending time outside can be fulfilling, sometimes the best way to beat the summer heat is to stay in the air conditioning. You won’t have to travel far to enjoy these unique indoor activities in Space City.

Central Houston

Did you know Houston boasts one of the most active museum scenes in the United States? The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Children’s Museum Houston, and the Menil Collection are popular destinations for locals and tourists alike.

There are also more specialized museums you and your family can visit. Check out the National Museum of Funeral History, the McGovern Museum of Health and Medical Science, and the Freeman Weather Museum. Fans of aviation would enjoy the Lone Star Flight Museum. History buffs may like the Holocaust Museum, Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, and the Printing Museum. Unleash your inner child at the Toy Museum. Learn more about some of the different cultures and communities in one of the U.S.’s most diverse city by visiting places like the Czech Center Museum and the Museum of African American Culture.

Of all U.S. cities, Houston has the second-most theatre seats of any concentrated downtown area. You can experience all kinds of live entertainment: ballet, opera, plays, concerts, comedy sets, and more. Whether you prefer intimate, avant-garde performances or epic stadium shows, you will find something great.

Do you like comic books? Horror movies? What about reptiles? Are you planning a wedding? Want to try some delicious soul food? In the market for an antique knife? Houston hosts conventions for virtually every area of interest.

And, of course, we would be remiss to leave out Houston’s beloved sports teams. You may be aware of the Astros, the Rockets, the Dynamo, the Dash, and the Texans. Houston also has teams for cricket, dodgeball, in-line hockey, roller derby, rugby, Ultimate Frisbee, and other sports. Not to mention the many teams from colleges in and around Houston, including but not limited to U of H Cougars, HBU Huskies, Rice Owls, Prairie View Panthers, and TSU Tigers.

If you’re raring to play your own indoor sports, Houston has no shortage of golf ranges, shooting ranges, bowling alleys, and more. And if you want to really cool down, visit one of the many ice rinks throughout Houston and the surrounding areas – no skating skills required.

Many Houston-area Shea homes include smart home technology, which allows convenient control over your environment.

North Side

The area north of Houston is home to multiple craft breweries and theatres that you and your loved ones can enjoy. If you’re familiar with The Woodlands, you’re probably familiar with Market Street, The Woodlands Mall, and the Waterway – fabulous retail and dining experiences. Shea homeowners on the north side live just a hop, skip, and a jump away from these attractions. Historic Downtown Conroe also offers a variety of shops and restaurants.

Want to enjoy Lake Conroe without being in direct sunlight? Go on a romantic date, celebrate with friends, or bond with your family over a lake cruise or a meal at a waterside restaurant.

The Heritage Museum of Montgomery County includes indoor exhibits, galleries, and activities that showcase the fascinating and complex history of Conroe and the surrounding area. Further east, the Humble Museum displays the history of this long-standing Houston suburb, as well as archives for those who want to research Humble’s historic residents.

West Side

Any shopaholics in Cane Island or Sunterra need look no further than the Katy Mills Mall and La Centerra. Gather your friends for a good time at local wineries and breweries. You can find even more shopportunities in nearby Sugar Land.

Learn about the west side’s rich history at the Katy Heritage Museum, Katy Veterans Memorial Museum, M-K-T Railroad Depot Museum, and Sugar Land Heritage Foundation Museum. Support local artists with a visit to Art Museum TX, as well as the Sugar Land Art Center & Gallery. The Houston Museum of Natural Science has a satellite location in Sugar Land with its own special exhibits. Kids love the fun and educational Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.

Shea homeowners in Sienna have access to the community's indoor amenities, such as the Sawmill Lake Club.

South Side

The Fort Bend History Association maintains a number of interesting museums and historical sites in this area, including the Fort Bend Museum, DeWalt Heritage Center, and Decker Heritage Park.

In nearby Pearland, you can tour the 1940 Air Terminal Museum, catch a show at the Pearl Theater, support local businesses at Cole’s Flea Market, learn about the native flora and fauna at the Delores Fenwick Nature Center, and shop till you drop at the Pearland Town Center. Whether you practice Hinduism or just want to see beautiful architecture, you and your family can visit Sri Meenakshi Devasthanam.

There's No Place Like Home

Some days, you may want to just stay in your Shea home – and with our Energy Star® efficient standards, PureLiving® filtered air, and expert warranty services, you can enjoy yourself just as much as you would outside the house. Cook a new recipe with seasonal local ingredients. Get the household together for a board game. Pick an old hobby back up. Or just spend your day relaxing on the sofa! Your house, your thermostat, your rules.