Things to Do as Empty Nesters in Houston

January 1, 2022
| 4:10 AM

The kids are gone, and you’ve got all this time to yourself– the empty-nester life is sweet. Say hello to total freedom! But… what are you going to do with all of this newfound free time? After a while, you may have run out of ideas. Not to worry! We’ve rounded up some fun things to do in Houston to keep you busy.

From parks to breweries, to nights out on the town, there are so many exciting activities and places to check out. Keep scrolling for our list of awesome activities for empty nesters in Houston!

1. Visit The Cockrell Butterfly Center

📷 Museum of Natural Science

Nature lovers, this one’s for you! The Cockrell Butterfly Center is a living butterfly habitat that’s housed in the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Explore hundreds of species of exotic butterflies, and marvel at the stunning three-story rainforest conservatory, complete with a 50-foot waterfall.

Inside the Brown Hall of Entomology, you’ll see and learn about a variety of living insects. This spot is perfect for enjoying a little piece of natural beauty in the middle of downtown! Planning a trip to the museum? Start your day with a visit to the Japanese sculpture garden, located just outside the HMNS, then head on over to the butterfly center. Afterward, enjoy one of the many excellent restaurants in the Museum District for dinner. That sounds like the recipe for a perfect day!

Hours & Location

📍5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030

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2. Catch a Concert at White Oak Music Hall

📷 White Oak Music Hall

Live music was definitely one of the things we missed most during the pandemic, but the good news is that White Oak Music Hall has lots of awesome shows coming up this year and beyond. White Oak hosts multiple shows per week, in genres ranging from rock to country, hip-hop, R&B, and more. This trendy venue also has three separate stages– upstairs, downstairs, and an outdoor amphitheater, guaranteeing that there will always be an exciting new show going on.

Upcoming events include Electric Feels: An Indie Rock Dance Party, Jukebox the Ghost, Caamp, and Glass Animals. Be sure to check out their website for info about these shows and more. For empty nesters in Houston, checking out a cool new band is the perfect date night activity!

Hours & Location

📍2915 N Main St, Houston, TX 77009

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3. Explore McGovern Centennial Gardens

📷 Hopscotch

For a gorgeous green space retreat in the city, you have to check out McGovern Centennial Gardens! This is an eight-acre park that’s situated in the Museum District and right by the Houston Zoo. Featuring beautiful themed gardens, over 50 species of trees, and a 30-foot mound with city views, this park is a can’t-miss when it comes to fun things to do in Houston.

If you’re someone who loves to go for walks and explore the many parks and green spaces in town, you’ll definitely enjoy admiring the diverse array of flowers, trees, and other plants that make up the gardens. This is an ideal activity for empty nesters in Houston!

Hours & Location

📍1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004

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4. Visit Saint Arnold Brewing Company

📷 UNATION

Saint Arnold’s has been a longtime favorite among all kinds of Houstonians, but we think it would be an especially great spot for empty nesters in Houston to enjoy a relaxing day out. With an extensive covered patio, lawn games, and a cool faux-church bar, Saint Arnold’s has a really chilled atmosphere to enjoy some refreshing beers and delicious food.

Speaking of beer… there are so many yummy flavors to sample– the crisp Lawnmower, H-Town Pils, flavorful Amber Ale, Art Car IPA, or the fruity Raspberry AF, to name a few. And with rotational seasonal selections as well, Saint Arnold’s always has something new brewing. You definitely won’t be disappointed by the food either– mouth-watering pizzas, tasty appetizers and small bites, and delectable sandwiches are all on the menu. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of flight sampling or a casual dinner out, Saint Arnold’s has got you covered!

Hours & Location

📍2000 Lyons Ave, Houston, TX 77020

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5. Have Date Night at Brenner's on The Bayou

📷 Brenner’s on The Bayou

Feel like treating yourself? We couldn’t imagine a better spot for date night than Brenner’s on the Bayou! This upscale restaurant is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including greenery all around, a waterfall, and a beautiful gazebo. If you choose to eat out on the deck, you will be completely immersed in these gorgeous views and ambiance. Hungry and thirsty? We got you!

Brenner’s menu boasts a phenomenal selection of specialty cocktails, scotch and bourbon from around the world, and exquisite wines. For dinner, you will choose from a variety of fine-dining fare, including oysters, crispy duck leg confit, filet mignon, gulf red snapper, lobster tail, and more. An evening at Brenner’s on the Bayou is sure to be a wonderful date night treat.

Hours & Location

📍1 Birdsall St, Houston, TX 77007

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5 Fun Outings for Empty Nesters in Houston

Now that the house is empty, there’s no excuse not to check out these fantastic spots and activities! Whether it’s a relaxing day out or a night on the town, there are so many fun and exciting things to do for empty nesters in Houston.