The Houston Museum District is an association of 21 museums, cultural centers, and offices of public organizations. Together, approximately 7 million people visit them annually. The district was built to promote art, science, history, and culture.
History of creation
The Houston Museum District was built on the site of a former vacant lot in the 1970s. Construction began when the territory needed to be improved and roads improved. At that time, as it was written in the newspapers, it was unsafe for both pedestrians and cyclists to move here. The area turned out to be favorable for movement, it was created for walking in the fresh air and visiting city attractions.
In the mid-1980s, the non-profit Montrose Project became the Houston Museum District Development Association. In 1989, the territory was declared an official museum district. By 1997, there were 11 cultural institutions here, then this number increased to 21. Trees were planted in the Museum District of Houston, sidewalks were laid out, and public transport was organized.
Short description
Museums, cultural centers, and galleries are open on the territory of the Houston Museum District. Cultural and educational events are held here, attracting the attention of both locals and travelers from all over the world.
- One of the iconic attractions is the Museum of Fine Arts with more than 63,000 exhibits. The institution also hosts temporary exhibitions, giving visitors the opportunity to explore rare art objects without leaving Houston.
- The Houston Museum of Natural Sciences is recognized as one of the best natural science institutions in America. Visitors usually linger at Egyptian mummies, dinosaur skeletons, and stuffed animals. It is not uncommon to meet families with children in this place.
- The Museum of Health is included in the list of branches of the Smithsonian Institution. The collection consists of interactive exhibits, its own laboratory is set up here, and a theater is also open for performances.
- The Center for Contemporary Craft in the Museum Quarter of Houston has assembled a collection of objects made of wood, glass, clay and other materials.
- In the Museum of African American Culture, you can get acquainted with the culture, way of life, traditions and customs of Africans and African Americans.
- The Menil Collection was founded by John and Dominique de Menil, who came to the United States from France in the 20th century. It consists of ancient artifacts, medieval heritage and modern masterpieces of art. In total, more than 17,000 works of art are concentrated here.
- The Moody Gallery provides access to the contemporary art of the region. This place exhibits works by contemporary artists living in the United States.
How to get
The nearest metro stations are Museum District, Hermann Park, Wheeler, and bus No25. Visitors arrive at the Houston Museum District by taxi or rented car.
Periodically, museums hold promotions, according to which admission is free for everyone once a week. It helps to instill a love of art in children, broadens their horizons, and allows them to find inspiration. After the exhibition, you can go to cafes or restaurants, stroll through the manicured parks and gardens.
Gallery
