10 Ways to Relieve Stress in Houston

10 Ways to Relieve Stress in Houston

With the hustle and bustle of our daily tasks and commitments, it’s easy feel like you’re in a constant state of busyness. However, when you’re always on the grind, you also run the risk of burning out, which can negatively affect you on both a mental and physical level.
 
That’s why investing in your personal wellness is so important, so you can live a more stress-free life while still getting things done. Whether it’s developing techniques to help you prioritize your to-do list, or practicing gratitude on a regular basis, there are many ways to relieve stress and promote relaxation. 
 
One good way to unwind from the daily pressures of life is to seek out those relaxing activities that bring you calm and joy. Need a good place to start? Continue reading for our list of relaxing activities in Houston to relieve stress.

Checklist of Relaxing Activities in Houston

Just as every person has different interests, there are also different ways we like to relax. From spending time outdoors to exploring local landmarks, there’s a lot going on Texas for everyone to enjoy. Check out these 10 ideas for relaxing things to do in the Houston area:

1. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

   • With over five miles of nature trails, unique gardens, and various species of trees, birds, and wildlife, the Arboretum & Nature Center is a peaceful place to unwind, right in the heart of the city.

2. Houston Zoo

   • The Houston Zoo is located in central Hermann Park, and is home to over 6,000 animals. This is a great place for the whole family to not only encounter exotic species, but learn about the zoo’s conservations efforts as well.

3. The Menil Collection

   • The Menil Collection is a unique museum of art and artifacts, ranging from Byzantine to contemporary works. Admission and all public programs are free, so everyone can enjoy the permanent collections as well as the special exhibitions at their own pace.

4. MKT Railroad Museum

   • Serving as the main visitors center for the city of Katy, the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad Museum features the restored Katy Depot, where you can learn about the history of the railroad, as well as view other artifacts from that time period. The Railroad Museum—and its red caboose car—are just part of the reason why people love to call this quaint town home. 

5. Lanier Theological Library

   • This library is not just a place to come to study—with its European village architecture and Byzantine influences, it’s a beautiful place to walk around and take in your surroundings. The library is also known for its collection of ancient artifacts, such as original fragments from the Dead Sea Scrolls.  

6. Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land

   • One of the satellite facilities of the main Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Sugar Land location has exhibits on dinosaurs, minerology, and more, making it an educational walk back in time. Residents of Missouri City and nearby Iowa Colony get to come back often to revisit the many permanent exhibitions, as well as explore the rotating special attractions. 

7. Mercer Botanic Gardens

   • Those living just east of Houston in the charming town of Spring can find peace and quiet at the Mercer Botanic Gardens, featuring an array of native and endangered plant species, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas for a fun family outing.

8. Old MacDonald’s Farm

   • Need a kid-friendly place to unwind? Look no further than Old MacDonald’s Farm, where residents of Humble can take advantage of the children’s petting zoo, train rides, and the seasonal pumpkin patch.

9. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

   • Catch a show at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, a unique outdoor event space in the beautiful neighborhood of The Woodlands. Surrounded by nature, this venue is the perfect place to kick back in the open air as you enjoy the theater or groove to your favorite band.

10. Galveston Seawall

    • Just a one-hour drive south of Houston, the Galveston Seawall is an interesting getaway to relax by the sea. Originally constructed in 1900 to protect against hurricanes, locals and tourists alike come here to go for a stroll, ride a bike, or simply to watch the waves ebb and flow.

Other Relaxing Things to Do in Houston

Beyond visiting these places to relax in Houston, there are other activities you can do to destress.

1. Enjoy a day at the park

   • Wherever you are in the Houston area, there is no shortage of beautiful green space to walk around, jog, or just lay back and take in the sun. From Memorial Park, to Levy Park, to the famous Hermann Park in the middle of Houston proper, there are a lot of destinations for you to unplug and reconnect with nature. 

2. Sip and nosh at a cafe

   1. If the outdoors isn’t your style, why not relax in comfort with a cup of coffee in hand? Houston is known for its plentiful cafes, bistros, and teahouses, each one offering its own unique touch. Find your favorite go-to hideaway, or explore them all!

3. Rejuvenate at a spa

   • Sometimes, the perfect medicine to counter stress is a spa day to yourself. And luckily, Houston has many spas to choose from, each beautifully designed and focused on your wellness. From full-body massages, to specialized spa treatments, rejuvenating the body is revitalizing for your mental health, too.   

The Right Partner to Help You Find a Relaxing New Home in Houston

No matter your style of relaxing activity, the place you come home to can also play a big role in your day-to-day stress relief. If you’re considering buying a new home in Texas, Shea Homes builds in many Houston area neighborhoods, each offering a unique lifestyle for you and your family. Ready to explore? Discover new homes in Houston, or sign up below for email updates on new communities and homes. Of course, if you should have any questions or need help along the way, you’re always welcome to contact a New Home Advisor for support.