Rice TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rice, Texas.
1. Cotton Wood Trailer Park
SERENE OUTDOOR ESCAPE
Cotton Wood Trailer Park is one of the top attractions in Rice, Texas according to traveler favorites. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere that this park offers. The park provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and recreational opportunities available in this small Texas town.
2. The Ranch Saloon
LOCAL NIGHTLIFE HOTSPOT
The Ranch Saloon ranks as one of the must-see attractions in Rice, Texas. This popular bar and club offers visitors a taste of authentic Texas nightlife with live music and dancing. Locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy cold drinks and the friendly atmosphere that defines small-town Texas hospitality.
3. Rice Village
HISTORIC SHOPPING HAVEN
Rice Village is a bustling, historic haven tucked in the heart of Houston that has been a treasured destination since 1938. The area is undergoing a landmark transformation to become Houston's first walkable garden district, embracing the natural greenery and trees that define the space. Visitors can enjoy a diverse mix of upscale eateries, design boutiques, and national brands nestled among oak-lined avenues and leafy spaces.
4. Rice Memorial Center
UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY HUB
Rice Memorial Center, known as "RMC," is located in the center of Rice University's campus. The center serves as the main student hub and gathering space for the university community. Visitors exploring Rice University will find this an essential stop to experience campus life and student activities.
5. Baker College Commons
HISTORIC CAMPUS BUILDING
Baker College Commons is one of the distinctive residential colleges at Rice University. The commons area serves as a central gathering space for students living in this historic building. Visitors touring the university can observe this quintessential example of Rice's residential college system in action.
6. Herman Park
URBAN GREEN OASIS
Herman Park is a beautiful green space located in Houston's museum district just across from Rice University. The park offers visitors several attractions including the Japanese Garden and Houston Zoo, as well as recreational activities like pedal boats and golf courses. It serves as a perfect spot to relax, take a walk, or jog while exploring the area around Rice.
7. Houston Medical Center
WORLD'S LARGEST MEDICAL COMPLEX
Houston Medical Center claims the title of the largest medical center in the world and is located a short walk from Rice University. The massive complex provides numerous opportunities for internships and research, along with convenient restaurants and accommodations for visitors. Its proximity to Rice makes it an interesting destination for those exploring the area.
8. Bodegas Taco Shop
AUTHENTIC TEX-MEX CUISINE
Bodegas Taco Shop is a popular restaurant for Rice University students, especially on weekends, serving authentic Tex-Mex food and drinks. This locally-owned eatery is situated in the heart of Houston's Museum District, making it an ideal lunch spot while sightseeing. Visitors can experience the vibrant local food culture while refueling during their exploration of the area.
9. Museum of Fine Arts
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston is one of the largest art museums in the country, located near Rice University. Visitors can explore historic art and interactive exhibits or capture Instagram-worthy pictures throughout the impressive galleries. The museum offers a cultural highlight for anyone visiting the Rice area and seeking artistic inspiration.
10. Tiger Noodle House
STUDENT-FAVORITE ASIAN CUISINE
Tiger Noodle House is a beloved dining destination for Rice University students located in the nearby Rice Village shopping district. The restaurant serves authentic Asian cuisine with a focus on noodle dishes and traditional favorites. Visitors can experience a local culinary hotspot while exploring the vibrant Rice Village area.
11. Insomnia Cookies
LATE-NIGHT SWEET TREATS
Insomnia Cookies is a popular dessert spot in Rice Village known for serving warm cookies and cold milk until late hours. The bakery is a favorite among Rice University students seeking sweet treats during study breaks or evening outings. Visitors can indulge in freshly baked cookies while experiencing a taste of local student life.
12. Dave's Hot Chicken
TRENDY SPICY COMFORT FOOD
Dave's Hot Chicken is a trending restaurant in Rice Village that specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken with various spice levels. The casual eatery has become a go-to spot for Rice University students looking for flavorful comfort food. Visitors can test their spice tolerance while enjoying this modern take on Southern cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
13. Japanese Garden
TRANQUIL CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
The Japanese Garden is a serene attraction nestled within Herman Park near Rice University. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese landscaping with winding paths, peaceful water features, and meticulously maintained plant life. The garden offers a contemplative escape from urban surroundings and a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
14. Wonder World Park
HISTORIC CAVE EXPLORATION
Wonder World Park is a one-of-a-kind theme park known as the first show cave in Texas, located in San Marcos. Visitors have enjoyed touring the Balcones Fault Line Cave for over 105 years, experiencing a unique geological wonder. The park now features many other attractions for family fun and entertainment beyond its historic cave system.
15. World Heritage Center
SPANISH COLONIAL HISTORY
The World Heritage Center in San Antonio serves as a gateway to the city's five Spanish colonial missions: Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and The Alamo. The center welcomes visitors with engaging exhibits that detail the fascinating and complex history of these important historical sites. Visitors can discover the long-lasting impacts of the missions on the region's culture and development through interactive displays and educational materials.
Rice Restaurants
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Rice Beaches
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