audio tour houston

• Redeem Password

Houston Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Tour Details

Upgrade to bundles & save.

Gulf Coast Tours: Self-Guided Drive SAVE WITH BUNDLES $138.91 $39.99

Action+ Annual Unlimited Subscription of 160+ Tours for $99.99 SAVE WITH BUNDLES $99.99

Self-Guided Driving Tour of Austin and Houston Bundle SAVE WITH BUNDLES $29.98 $24.99

Welcome to the houston tour.

Welcome to Houston! On this two-hour Houston tour, we’ll see everything that makes Houston unique, from historic districts to stunning parks and, of course, the famous Space Center! This self-guided audio and GPS tour takes you through Houston with maximum flexibility, safety, and value. Simply hop in your own car, get the tour guide app set up on your phone, and get started. All audio plays automatically based on location.

About the Tour

Start by the bayou, which has long been the lifeblood of this city, and hear about the deadly battles which took place along the river. Then visit Sam Houston Park, where past and present collide in the architecture, offering a hugely varied glimpse into life in the area.

Next, head to the Historic District and get to know some of Houston’s complex past. At Christ Church Cathedral, hear a quintessential story of a southern community back in the 1800s. Then continue on to Emancipation Park and get familiar with the significance of Juneteenth within Houston.

As you drive through the Museum District, uncover the secrets behind some of Houston’s more notorious urban legends, then visit the grandest green space in the city: Hermann Park. It even features a zoo!

After that, swing through the famous Rice University and hear the tale of a wild senior prank pulled back in the ‘80s, engineered by a student still known only as “the mastermind.”

Continuing on to MacGregor Park, get the scoop on how the intense Hurricane Harvey impacted Houston, then learn about the importance of oil and gas to this city. Finally, get some stellar space facts and visit the world-famous Johnson Space Center! The tour concludes here.

Upgrade and Save:

Upgrade now to one of these bundles and secure the best value!

• Austin + Houston:    Explore Austin & Houston for $24.99 per car and save 17%.

Looking to expand your tour? 

• White Sands National Park:   Combining Austin, the live music capital of the world, with a visit to White Sands National Park, a dazzling expanse of gypsum dunes, creates a unique and memorable trip.
• Santa Fe Walking Tour:  You can combine a trip to Austin, the live music capital of the world, with a visit to Santa Fe, a city rich in art, culture, and history, for a truly unforgettable experience.

Want all of our tours?   Upgrade to   Action+ :

• An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 160+ tours.
• Unlimited use throughout the year.
• Includes free access to new tours as they are released.

Where To Start?

Starting Point Address: Lamar St  La Branch St, Houston, TX 77010, USA

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Our journey through Houston will encompass all of its rich, complex history, from the battles that forged the state of Texas to the importance of African American history within the city and, of course, the famous Space Center. So buckle in and hit the road! First, we'll hear about the tribe who controlled the land before Europeans showed up and how they lost it.

Bayou Battleground

As we drive, we'll pass the Buffalo Bayou River and get some insight into its tremendous importance during Texas's war for independence from Mexico.

Bayou Park & Cisterns

Next, we'll arrive at the Buffalo Bayou Park, where we'll get a chance to see the enormous cisterns the once quenched the thirst of the entire city! We'll also learn how the city transformed and found new uses for these cisterns once they weren't needed for drinking water any longer.

Sam Houston Park

Our drive takes us past Sam Houston Park next, where a row of preserved historic homes display how Houstonians from all walks of life lived, from freed slaves building new lives for themselves to affluent merchants.

We'll park at City Hall and hear about the challenges of building it during the Great Depression. We'll also get a good look at the statues of Houston's founders which stand before the hall, and learn about how those statues had to wait over 80 years to be built!

Pennzoil Place

We'll keep driving until we see Pennzoil Place, a pair of huge black towers looming over Houston. Here, we'll pick up some facts about the imposing buildings and the innovative architect behind them.

Historic District / Market Square Park

Our route takes us next through Houston's Historic District, chock full of gorgeous old buildings. We'll also hear about the multiple fires which swept across the old City Hall, and the celebrities like Johnny Carson who have partied in this very district!

Chase Tower / Frescoes

The next sight we'll see is the Chase Tower, the tallest building in all of Texas. Here, we'll uncover some secrets of its construction, like how the original design was hazardous to air traffic and it sports a helipad that's never been used!

Christ Church Cathedral

Next, we'll park at the Christ Church Cathedral, Houston’s very first religious congregation which dates back to 1859. We'll also hear about the generous stranger who's responsible for a steer's head being part of the church seal.

Minute Maid Park

Our route then passes Minute Maid Park, the famous baseball stadium designed to imitate the Golden Age of baseball.

Emancipation Park

Next, we'll see Emancipation Park, a lovely recreational space with a rich history. We'll hear about emancipation, Juneteenth in Texas, and how this park became an epicenter for the Black community in Houston. Then, we'll get the real facts on some of Houston's most notorious urban legends.

Museum District

As we drive, we'll enter Houston's Museum District, home to fascinating museums covering everything from Black history to natural science to fine arts and beyond. If you want a really deep dive into the city of Houston, this is the place to be.

Hermann Park

Next, we'll pass Hermann Park, home to plenty of attractions for the little ones, including an entire zoo featuring cheetahs, chimps, and more!

Rice University

Our route brings us through the Rice University campus next, where we'll get some insight into the founder and hear about a baffling--and very ambitious--senior prank conducted by an alum known only as "The Mastermind."

Rice Statue

Next, we'll see the subject of the prank itself: the William Marsh Rice Statue, and learn about how the pranksters banded together to protect one of their own from repercussions.

As we continue through the Rice campus, we'll see the strange, pyramid-shaped building known as Skyspace. Here, we'll get a quick rundown of what this odd building is for, and how you can experience its beautiful sky viewings for yourself.

Hermann Park, Part 2

As we loop around we'll see Hermann Park again, and hear about the American and Japanese friendship which led to the creation of a famous Japanese garden within the park. Then, we'll hear the harrowing tale of the devastating Hurricane Harvey and how it impacted Houston.

MacGregor Park

We'll keep driving past MacGregor Park and listen to the story of how he revolutionized Houston's transit system by replacing the donkeys it relied on for far too long.

Old Spanish Trail

As we drive, we'll end up on the Old Spanish Trail. Once upon a time, it spanned the entirety of the country! This trail stretched over 2,750 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. Next, we'll look down get the inside scoop on the importance of oil and gas in Texas's development, and look up at the stars to hear about NASA, the infamous Apollo 13 mission, and world-famous astronomer Carl Sagan.

Johnson Space Center / Conclusion

Finally, we'll arrive at the sprawling, 1,600-acre Johnson Space Center, where astronauts train before being sent into space. We'll hear about the missions that launch from this site and even get an opportunity to look around the facility! This is where our tour officially ends.

Alt: San Jacinto Museum of History

One optional detour takes us to the San Jacinto Museum of History, where you can learn about the battles that shaped Texas, like the famous Battle of the Alamo!

Alt: Discovery Green Park

Another detour leads us to Discovery Green Park, a perfect place for those seeking a little rest and relaxation or looking for some extra activities.

Alt: Houston Graffiti Building

We can make an optional stop at one of Houston's funkiest sites: the Houston Graffiti Building. Home to a graffiti mural festival since 2015, it's a great place for aspiring artists and photographers!

Alt: Holocaust Museum

The next museum detour show us to the Holocaust Museum, founded by a Houston resident and Holocaust survivor and dedicated to ensuring this dark era of history is never forgotten.

Alt: Houston Museum of Natural Science

Another optional detour leads to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, a huge, 5-floor museum dedicated to the wonders of life on Earth.

Alt: Museum of Fine Arts

Art-lovers will want to check out this optional detour at the Museum of Fine Arts. This museum features over 60,000 works from across every continent, so there's too much to pass up!

Alt: Children's Museum

Need to let the little ones blow off a little steam? Visit this detour at the Children's Museum, which features loads of educational exhibits and activities for kids.

Alt: Health Museum

Our last optional detour is the Health Museum, dedicated to the medical sciences and all things to do with the human body.

Preview The Tour

  what’s the best way to explore houston on this self-guided tour.

To explore Houston on this tour, simply hop in your own car, set up the tour guide app on your phone, and let the audio guide you automatically based on your location.

  Where does the tour start, and what’s significant about this location?

The tour starts by the bayou, which has been the lifeblood of Houston. You’ll hear about the historic battles that took place along the river.

  What can visitors discover at Sam Houston Park?

At Sam Houston Park, visitors can explore the rich architecture that offers a glimpse into Houston’s past and present.

  What’s interesting about the Historic District in Houston?

The Historic District in Houston has a complex past. Visitors will learn about the area’s history and get to know some of its stories.

  What’s the significance of Christ Church Cathedral in the Historic District?

Christ Church Cathedral tells a quintessential story of a southern community in the 1800s, offering insights into Houston’s past.

  What can visitors learn about at Emancipation Park, and why is it significant?

At Emancipation Park, visitors will discover the significance of Juneteenth within Houston’s history.

  What mysteries are revealed in the Museum District during the tour?

The Museum District reveals the secrets behind some of Houston’s urban legends, adding a touch of mystery to the tour.

  What’s unique about Hermann Park, and what does it include?

Hermann Park is Houston’s grandest green space and even features a zoo for visitors to enjoy.

  What intriguing story from Rice University is shared during the tour?

Visitors will hear about a wild senior prank pulled back in the ’80s, engineered by a student known only as “the mastermind” at Rice University.

  Where does the tour conclude, and what famous attraction is featured?

The tour concludes at the world-famous Johnson Space Center, where visitors can learn fascinating space facts and explore this iconic institution.

  What’s the historical significance of the bayou in Houston?

The bayou in Houston has historical significance as the city’s lifeblood, where critical battles took place in its early history.

  What architectural styles can visitors expect to see in Sam Houston Park?

Visitors to Sam Houston Park can expect to see a wide range of architectural styles, offering a diverse glimpse into life in Houston.

  What’s the story behind Juneteenth, and why is it important in Houston?

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. In Houston, it holds particular significance due to its historical ties to freedom and equality.

  Can you share a fun fact about the Museum District?

The Museum District is home to a wide array of cultural institutions and is known for its diverse arts and urban legends that add a touch of mystery to the area.

  What attractions can visitors explore within Hermann Park besides the zoo?

In addition to the zoo, visitors can explore beautiful gardens, museums, and enjoy recreational activities in Hermann Park.

  What makes the Johnson Space Center a must-visit attraction in Houston?

The Johnson Space Center is a must-visit because it offers visitors the opportunity to learn about space exploration, see real spacecraft, and even meet astronauts.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Nearby tours.

Austin Tour: Self-Guided Drive

$ 14.99 / Car

Self-Guided Driving Tour of Austin and Houston Bundle

$ 29.98 $ 24.99 / Car save 17%

Sending login info,please wait...

Sending info,please wait...

Sending register info,please wait...

All tours are valid for a lifetime. Buy now, travel whenever—coupon code on the next screen. Subscribe to our newsletter below.

Know about new tour launches, get exclusive access to sales and much more. Subscribe to our newsletter below—coupon code on the next screen. 

• Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Self-guided Driving Tour Of Houston

Expiration: 30 days after purchase.

Welcome to Houston! On this two-hour tour, we’ll see everything that makes Houston special, from historic districts to stunning parks and, of course, the famous Space Center! This self-guided audio tour allows you to explore Houston’s historic wonders with maximum flexibility and value. Recommended: Purchase one tour per vehicle. Everyone can listen at the same time! Here's how it works: Within 30 min, we'll send you two things: a unique password and an app. Download the app onto your phone and enter the password. Then download the tour inside. When you arrive, drive to the Visitor Center. Once there, launch the app and simply follow the instructions! Stick to our recommended route and speed limit for the best experience. ​ This tour is in English.

Refund Policy: No refunds.

Welcome to Houston! On this two-hour tour, we’ll see everything that makes Houston special, from historic districts to stunning parks and, of course, the famous Space Center! This self-guided audio tour allows you to explore Houston’s historic wonders with maximum flexibility and value. Recommended: Purchase one tour per vehicle. Everyone can listen at the same time! Here's how it works: Within 30 min, we'll send you two things: a unique password and an app. Download the app onto your phone and enter the password. Then download the tour inside. When you arrive, drive to the Visitor Center. Once there, launch the app and simply follow the instructions! Stick to our recommended route and speed limit for the best experience.

Included Venues

See location on an interactive map.

Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, Refund Policy

Terms & conditions, privacy policy, refund policy.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Earn onekeycash when you sign in and book an activity.

Check availability

• About this activity

Houston Tour: Self-Guided Drive

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Explore a vibrant, unexpected city full of surprises
• Visit NASA’s world-famous Johnson Space Center
• Revisit the dramatic battles which made Texas what it is
• Get the story behind historic sites like Emancipation Park
• Tour with flexibility; stop wherever and whenever you want

Activity location

• 1611 Lamar Street
• 77010, Houston, Texas, United States of America

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Fri, May 3 -
• Sat, May 4 $14
• Sun, May 5 $14
• Mon, May 6 $14
• Tue, May 7 $14
• Wed, May 8 $14
• Thu, May 9 $14
• Fri, May 10 $14
• Sat, May 11 $14
• Sun, May 12 $14
• Mon, May 13 $14
• Tue, May 14 $14
• Wed, May 15 $14
• Thu, May 16 $14
• Fri, May 17 $14
• Activity duration is 365 days 365d 365d

Are you gearing up for a road trip and looking to elevate the experience? Consider our self-guided audio tour your essential travel companion. Immerse yourself in captivating narratives tailored to your surroundings, easily activated by GPS as you drive. The best part? Purchase once and the tour is yours for a full year, available for offline use at any moment. Feel the freedom to pause and explore hidden gems or soak up breathtaking vistas at your leisure. Whether weaving through bustling city streets or tranquil rural landscapes, our audio tour provides the perfect backdrop to your journey. Embark with us and craft unforgettable memories – all within the span of a year!

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
• What's included What's included Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
• What's included What's included Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
• What's included What's included Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
• What's included What's included Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
• What's included What's included Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
• What's included What's included Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
• What's included What's included Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
• What's included What's included Unique password: access your tour on Action Tour Guide App
• What's excluded What's excluded Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
• What's excluded What's excluded Food/Drinks

Know before you book

• Embark on a self-guided journey with the Action Tour Guide app, serving as your comprehensive guide, audio narrator, and map in one convenient package.
• Secure a vehicle prior to the tour. A single purchase is sufficient for the entire vehicle, not requiring individual bookings per passenger.
• Post-booking, expect an email containing the Action Tour Guide app download link and a unique password to unlock your exclusive tour access.
• Experience a tour crafted by local experts, brought to life through the storytelling of creative writers and the voice of professional narrators.
• Engage with animated videos at numerous stops, offering visual insights into unseen aspects, from historical scenes to hidden interiors.
• Your purchased tour remains valid for one year from the booking date, offering flexibility should your travel plans evolve—no need for booking adjustments within this period.

What you can expect

Recommended: Purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time!

Welcome to Houston’s self-guided driving audio tour! As you drive, you’ll see everything that makes Houston special, from historic districts to stunning parks and, of course, the famous Space Center! This self-guided audio tour allows you to explore Houston with maximum flexibility and value.

After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Action Tour Guide app, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there.

New, extra validity — now, it’s yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!

This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

Points of Interest along the Houston:

• Buffalo Bayou Park
• Sam Houston Park
• Houston City Hall
• Pennzoil Place
• Market Square Park
• JPMorgan Chase Tower
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Minute Maid Park
• Emancipation Park
• Houston Museum District
• Hermann Park
• Rice University Campus
• William Marsh Rice Statue
• James Turrell's Twilight Epiphany Skyscape
• MacGregor Park
• Old Spanish Trail
• Johnson Space Center
• San Jacinto Museum of History
• Discovery Green Park
• Houston Graffiti Building
• Holocaust Museum
• Houston Museum of Natural Science
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Children's Museum
• James Turrell Twilight Epiphany Skyspace
• Health Museum

Benefits Over Live Guides and Group Tours:

• This is a flexible and self-led tour that uses location-sensing technology as you drive.
• The tour features in-depth audio narration that plays as you drive.
• You can purchase just one tour for the entire car and use it as many times as you wish.
• The audio tour is valid for one year after download, and you can use it as often as you want within that time.
• Once downloaded, the tour works completely offline, and you can tour your way by choosing when to start, stop, fast-forward, or rewind.
• If you need any help, you can always reach out to a real person via call, chat, or email.

Cleaning and safety practices

Social distancing.

• Contactless ticket redemption
• Social distancing measures in place

Safety measures

• Masks required
• Temperature checks given to staff

HOUSTON'S BEST TOUR - LOVED BY LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE!

Welcome to the most diverse city in the USA—Houston. The flavors, sounds, and visuals of this city provide something for everyone. At Howdy H-Town we love this diversity and welcome people of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and identities to join our Walking Tours. Join “THE BEST TOUR GUIDE IN HOUSTON” today

Public Tours | October – April

Howdy H-Town Private Tour

Looking for an amazing experience tailored specifically to your requirements and interests? Look no further! Our experiences are fully adaptable to suit you and your group’s needs, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re planning a group tour or a VIP visit to Houston, we can create custom tours for groups of all sizes and backgrounds. Just let us know your group size, budget, and interests, and leave the rest to us. “Howdy H-Town” is ready to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

Tour Houston's Greatest Street Art Locations

We will guide you through many well-known local areas marking some of Houston’s unique art features. From Sculptures, Graffiti Art, Architecture, and Small Bars. Experience Houston’s amazing street art.

Howdy H-Town Street Art Tour

2.5 HRS|1 Mile|$50

Enjoy many great local treats in Houston's EADO

Taste Houston’s flavors as your guide takes you on a food tour. Food, art, and history. See how EADO has evolved from Houston’s original Chinatown into the fastest-growing neighborhood in the country.

Howdy H-Town Food Tour

3.5 HRS|2 Mile|5 Venues|$90

See everything that Houston offers on our bike tour

Over the last 20 years, Houston has evolved into an extremely bike-friendly city and continues to grow. With bikes and Houston’s growing bike trails, we can explore many more great features Houston offers. 

Howdy H-Town Bike Tour

2.5 HRS|6 Mile|Great For All Ages

Take a tour around EADO and downtown Houston.

Howdy h-town walking tour.

2 HRS|2 Mile|$30

Houston is rich with amazing street art highlighting its divers culture throughout the city

Houston is a foodies paradise!

Houston’s diverse range of restaurants and food options makes it an exciting destination for food lovers. With a variety of cuisines available, from Tex-Mex to Vietnamese, visitors can indulge in a unique culinary experience. The vibrant culinary scene in Houston is constantly evolving, so there’s always something new to discover, making it a must-visit destination for any foodie.

Have Questions? Contact Us Today!

Chat with us now.

If you would like to know more about any of our tours or other experiences, ple ase contact us and we will be happy to help!

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM

Explore Houston's streets, bayous and public spaces with Howdy H-Town’s friendly and enthusiastic guides! Houston walk and bike tours. Book now!

Our Five Star Tours and Experiences

Explore Houston’s streets and public green spaces with Howdy H-Town ’s friendly and enthusiastic guides! These fun and informative tours are the BEST way to explore this amazing city .

Start me up: The Stones kick off North America tour in Houston

By Arathy Somasekhar

HOUSTON (Reuters) - The Rolling Stones kicked off their North America tour at a packed venue in Houston on Sunday, with people traveling from various cities to watch one of the world's most enduring rock bands amid worries that this could be their last tour.

The show was the first of 16 performances, set across the U.S. and Canada through July.

Fans flocked to the NRG Stadium in Houston in Rolling Stones t-shirts showcasing the band's iconic lips and tongue logo.

The band, formed more than six decades ago, opened with "Start me up" with Mick Jagger walking onto the stage in a shiny striped jacket, a gray sequined shirt and black jeans. People immediately started to dance along to the 1981 classic.

Jagger, who is 80, danced, skipped and ran across the stage while showcasing his vocal range.

"Hello Houston, it's good to be back in the lone star state," Jagger said, adding that band visited NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston and making quips about Texas-based convenience store chain Buc-ee's.

He performed alongside Keith Richards, 80, and Ronnie Wood, 76, the surviving core of the band.

"Every time I see them, it's such a joy. They're amazing. They take such true joy in playing," said Greta Brasgalla, 56, who traveled from El Paso, Texas to watch the band for the seventh time. She also plans to watch The Rolling Stones in Atlanta in June.

While the band's press relation team declined to give an attendance figure, ticket sales website StubHub noted that less than 2% of total tickets in the venue were available two hours before the show.

The band attracted people of all ages to the stadium, with a significant proportion of the audience over 60.

The 18 songs played over 2 hours included a mix of classics and three from the latest record "Hackney Diamonds", the Stones' first album of original material since 2005 and the first recording since drummer Charlie Watts died in 2021.

Other songs they played included "Jumping Jack Flash", "You can't always get what you want" and "Out of Time", all to massive applause.

Richards, whose song-writing partnership with Jagger is one of the most enduring and successful in rock, sang "Little T&A."

The Stones closed the show with "(I can't get no) Satisfaction". They head to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival for a special performance this week.

Fans, however, worried that this could be one of the last tours by the Stones.

"Every time we see them, we wonder if it's going to be the last. That's our fear," said Savannah Welch, who traveled from Austin and brought along her son Charlie.

(Reporting by Arathy Somasekhar in Houston; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)

The Best of Houston Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

• Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
• Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
• Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
• Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
• Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
• Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
• Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
• Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
• Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
• Entry/Admission - Sam Houston Park
• Entry/Admission - Houston
• Entry/Admission - JPMorgan Chase Tower
• Entry/Admission - Christ Church Cathedral
• Entry/Admission - Minute Maid Park
• Entry/Admission - Houston Museum District
• Entry/Admission - Hermann Park
• Entry/Admission - Rice University Campus
• Entry/Admission - James Turrell's Twilight Epiphany Skyscape
• Entry/Admission - Houston Graffiti Building
• Entry/Admission - Holocaust Museum Houston
• Entry/Admission - The Houston Museum of Natural Science
• Entry/Admission - Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
• Entry/Admission - Children's Museum Houston
• Entry/Admission - The Health Museum
• Entry/Admission - Space Center Houston
• Lamar St @ La Branch St, Houston, TX 77010, USA After booking the tour, search your email for the phrase "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email and an instructions email. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular
• How to start the tour: Once onsite, open the Action's Tour Guide App: • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If there are multiple tour versions, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
• Amazing savings: • Driving Tours: Save money by purchasing a single tour for the entire vehicle, avoiding individual fees per person like on a bus tour. Connect your phone to the car speakers to share the audio.
• Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It's perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
• Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
• Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
• Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
• Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
• Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app's features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Lamar St @ La Branch St Houston, TX 77010, USA After booking the tour, search your email for the phrase "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite. See address & details
• 1 Buffalo Bayou Park Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 2 Sam Houston Park Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 3 Houston City Hall Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details Pass by Pennzoil Place
• 4 Market Square Park Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 5 JPMorgan Chase Tower Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 6 Christ Church Cathedral Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 7 Minute Maid Park Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 8 Emancipation Park Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 9 Houston Museum District Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 10 Hermann Park Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details

More to explore in Houston

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

The Best of Houston Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour provided by Drive with Action

Rolling Stones kick off 48th tour with ‘Hackney Diamonds’ cuts and classics in Houston

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

The Rolling Stones opened their Stones Tour ’24 Hackney Diamonds on Sunday to a sold-out crowd of more than 70,000 fans at NRG Stadium in Houston.

The Stones played just three new tracks from the album, choosing to focus instead on classic hits including “Start Me Up,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” and “Satisfaction,” according to a press release. The decision to focus on older material was not unsurprising for a group with more than six decades of songs to choose from.

It was the rockers’ first performance of material from their 2023 effort “Hackney Diamonds” since the album’s surprise release at the 600-seat club Racket in New York last October. (Fans and celebrities packed that tiny venue expecting merely a Stones show and instead were treated to a breadth of new songs — and a Lady Gaga cameo.)

He was called a gentrifier. Then he opened his laundromat to L.A.’s underground bands

How a nondescript Highland Park laundromat turned into an underground music scene for experimental bands and rollicking shows.

April 1, 2024

As the tour rolls on, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood and company plan to make stadium stops in Glendale, Ariz.; Las Vegas; Seattle; East Rutherford, N.J.; Foxboro, Mass.; Orlando; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Cleveland; Denver; Chicago; Vancouver; Inglewood; and Santa Clara.

When the Stones hit SoFi Stadium this summer, they’ll be accompanied by the War and Treaty on July 10 and the Linda Lindas on July 13.

“Hackney Diamonds” is the rockers’ first studio album of original material in nearly two decades, following 2005’s “A Bigger Bang.” It’s also the Stones’ first LP since the death of founding drummer Charlie Watts in 2021. It’s the first time the band has been on the road since its 60th anniversary tour in 2022, and the tour will also feature a stop at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on May 2.

“Charlie was one of the funniest guys I’ve ever known,” Richards told Times music critic Mikael Wood in 2021, “and the most unlikely man to be famous. He hated that side of the job and used to savagely take the piss out of it.”

‘You haven’t heard the last of Charlie’: Rolling Stones on a bittersweet tour and new music

Mick, Keith, Ronnie and Steve Jordan on saying goodbye to Charlie Watts, filling a legend’s drum seat and why it was ‘the right decision to keep going.’

Oct. 7, 2021

When “Hackney Diamonds” game out, Wood wrote in his album review, “The songs blend the same ingredients the Stones have been using since the beginning — blues, rock, soul, country, gospel — but they’re tighter and punchier than on any of the band’s previous late-era LPs.”

Meanwhile, according to Rolling Stone , back at the Houston concert one fan said, “People say Joe Biden is too old to be president. They need to look at Mick!”

That said, the Rolling Stones’ 48th tour is sponsored by AARP.

More to Read

Mick Jagger sounds off at New Orleans Jazz Fest, starting a feud with Gov. Jeff Landry

Aerosmith farewell tour is back on with new L.A. date, months after Steven Tyler injury

April 10, 2024

Bruno Mars to open Inglewood’s Intuit Dome in August

April 5, 2024

The biggest entertainment stories

Get our big stories about Hollywood, film, television, music, arts, culture and more right in your inbox as soon as they publish.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Eva Hartman is a spring 2024 reporting intern with the Fast Break Desk at the Los Angeles Times. She is a senior at the University of Southern California studying international relations, where she has served as the news assignments editor and magazine editor at the Daily Trojan.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Willow Smith, Will and Jada’s daughter, says nepo baby ‘insecurity has driven me harder’

Country singer Sara Evans reveals struggles with body dysmorphia, eating disorder

May 3, 2024

Entertainment & Arts

Britney Spears twisted her ankle but is safe at home after Chateau Marmont 911 call

Jessica Pratt, out of the L.A. underworld and into a (gentle) wall of sound

The Rolling Stones Start Up Their Hackney Diamonds Tour in Houston

Between the magnetic poles of jagger and richards, by raoul hernandez , 12:48pm, tue. apr. 30, 2024.

Keith Richards wrote “Happy” a half-century ago and more. The Dartford, Kent-born English guitarist, 80, didn’t perform it Sunday night inside Houston’s immense NRG Stadium during the Rolling Stones’ Hackney Diamonds tour launch, choosing instead “Little T&A” from the following decade. Nevertheless, the bandleader’s 1,000-watt grin matched the unbounded joy with which the ground-zero UK big bang act played, for exactly two hours of still-delirious thrills.

In point of fact, Mick Jagger, also 80, now runs the ship, maybe, as demonstrated by his extraordinary event producer mojo throughout the 18-song set. Shouldering bassist Darryl Jones during his bass solo in “Miss You,” throwing a towel at 35-year auxiliary MVP and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” French horn intro Matt Clifford, then finally bowling over the closing show bow by Richards, Ronnie Wood, and himself, Jagger boosted the spirits of his band as thoroughly as he worked an audience filling up most of the 72,000 seater. According to the frontman’s stagefront poll, they swarmed in from across the state – to feed a flame that cannot under the laws of nature burn eternally.

Of course, the Rolling Stones spin between the magnetic poles of Jagger and Richards. Witnessing Paul McCartney whine to John Lennon in Peter Jackson’s dizzying Get Back doc that the bespeckled Beatle always headed the Beatles, even as his songwriting partner acquiesces to Macca’s showrunning acumen, captures the literal star magnitude of music-changing alchemy. When Richards riffed some stardust onto fan vote-in “Beast of Burden,” a song Stones legend once mythologized as his thanks, mate to Jagger for manning the ship during his long heroin addiction, he shot the singer a plaintive look.

A feisty setlist sorely missed McCartney’s Hackney Diamonds bass blowout “Bite My Head Off,” but new classic fare integrated seamlessly. Future chronology essential “Angry” summoned Some Girls as Jagger strapped on an axe and Richard chopped out the solo. Fellow single “Mess It Up” demonstrated the Stones trademark rhythmic signature, a slight lag in the drums following the guitar rather than the traditional reverse, which forever injected swing into their blues.

“My goodness, I felt that,” remarked Jagger afterward. “It felt good!”

Three-carat Hackney Diamond and first encore “Sweet Sounds of Heaven” missed the LP’s Lady Gaga not at all as Chanel Haynes unleashed feral gospel at Jagger that out-flamed even her earlier showcase on a hair-raising “Gimme Shelter.”

Meanwhile, 1966 recovery “Out of Time,” never played in America, chimed Sixties crucible pop. First bandleader Brian Jones’ marimba part twinkled from somewhere deep inside the keyboard stack of veteran Stones sideman Chuck Leavell, called out by Jagger as the evening’s birthday celerant. The latter’s ancient accent, plus the lyric and cadence, joins the Aftermath track to UK album mate “Under My Thumb.”

“I don’t think you knew it, but you get to know it as it goes along,” acknowledged rock’s most underrated wordsmith, who himself required a teleprompter consult during the sing-along.

The entire second half of any Stones convergence since their groundbreaking 1969 North American tour cascades like a meteor shower: all fireworks. Not every grain of gunpowder ignited, naturally, with “Rocks Off” wobbling early and “Tumbling Dice” rolling slightly less slick than its previous 1,000 iterations. Cartilage between bones shrinks with age.

“This is the first show of our tour,” protested Jagger afterward. “You can’t expect it all to go like clockwork.”

Cue audience choir “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.”

Or ignite, for that matter, Steve Jordan’s feral war drums on a bangin’ “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” while also alighting the conflagration video behind the band on a possessed “Sympathy for the Devil.” Last song “Satisfaction” punched out every “I can’t get NO ” with ferocity.

Name-dropping a tour of the NASA Space Center, plus Buc-ee’s beaver nuggets and Houston eatery Ninfa’s “tranquilitas,” a cannabis-infused but alcohol-free margarita, the Rolling Stones mouthpiece also alluded to the band’s second ever U.S. date – in San Antonio.

“Nineteen sixty-four was my first rodeo,” noted Jagger toward the last. “We always have a good time in Texas.”

Rolling Stones Setlist NRG Stadium, Houston, April 28, 2024

• “Start Me Up”
• “Get Off of My Cloud”
• “Out of Time”
• “Beast of Burden”
• “Mess It Up”
• “Tumbling Dice”
• “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”
• “Little T&A”
• “Sympathy for the Devil”
• “Gimme Shelter”
• “Honky Tonk Women”
• “Paint It Black”
• “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”
• “Sweet Sounds of Heaven”
• “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

Support the Chronicle  

Tim Stegall, March 12, 2014

May 3, 2024

The Rolling Stones , Keith Richards , Hackney Diamonds Tour , NRG Stadium , Mick Jagger

Mick Jagger of the rock band The Rolling Stones performs, as the band kick off their 2024 Hackney Diamonds tour at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, U.S. April 28, 2024. REUTERS/Callaghan O'Hare

By Arathy Somasekhar

HOUSTON (Reuters) -The Rolling Stones kicked off their North America tour at a sold-out venue in Houston on Sunday, with people traveling from various cities to watch one of the world's most enduring rock bands amid worries that this could be their last tour.

The show was the first of 16 performances, set across the U.S. and Canada through July.

Fans flocked to the NRG Stadium in Houston in Rolling Stones T-shirts showcasing the band's iconic lips and tongue logo.

The band, formed more than six decades ago, opened with "Start Me Up" with Mick Jagger walking onto the stage in a shiny striped jacket, a gray sequined shirt and black jeans. People immediately started to dance along to the 1981 classic.

Jagger, who is 80, danced, skipped and ran across the stage while showcasing his vocal range.

"Hello Houston, it's good to be back in the lone star state," Jagger said, adding that band visited NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston and making quips about Texas-based convenience store chain Buc-ee's.

He performed alongside Keith Richards, 80, and Ronnie Wood, 76, the surviving core of the band.

"Every time I see them, it's such a joy. They're amazing. They take such true joy in playing," said Greta Brasgalla, 56, who traveled from El Paso, Texas, to watch the band for the seventh time. She also plans to watch the Rolling Stones in Atlanta in June.

The band attracted people of all ages to the stadium, with a significant proportion of the audience over 60.

The 18 songs played over two hours included a mix of classics and three from the latest record "Hackney Diamonds", the Stones' first album of original material since 2005 and the first recording since drummer Charlie Watts died in 2021.

Other songs they played included "Jumpin' Jack Flash", "You Can't Always Get What You Want" and "Out of Time", all to massive applause.

Richards, whose song-writing partnership with Jagger is one of the most enduring and successful in rock, sang "Little T&A."

The Stones closed the show with "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction". They head to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival for a special performance this week.

Fans, however, worried that this could be one of the last tours by the Stones.

"Every time we see them, we wonder if it's going to be the last. That's our fear," said Savannah Welch, who traveled from Austin and brought along her son Charlie.

(Reporting by Arathy Somasekhar in Houston; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and Lisa Shumaker)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Join the Conversation

America 2024

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

Cartoons on President Donald Trump

Feb. 1, 2017, at 1:24 p.m.

Photos: Obama Behind the Scenes

April 8, 2022

Photos: Who Supports Joe Biden?

March 11, 2020

Women, Money and Michael Cohen

Lauren Camera May 3, 2024

Lawmakers Ramp Up Response to Unrest

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton May 3, 2024

Job Growth Slows as Unemployment Rises

Tim Smart May 3, 2024

Did Hush Money Fuel Trump’s 2016 Win?

Lauren Camera May 2, 2024

Biden Condemns Unrest on Campuses

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton May 2, 2024

Four More Gag Order Violations

PGA Tour Golf

Texas Children's Houston Open: Main Feed

Information.

Copyright © 2024 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Internet Service Terms Apple TV & Privacy Cookie Policy Support