Top Things to do in Houston
Top 5 Things to do in Houston, Houston
Discover the best top things to do in Houston, United States including Harmony-Preston Valley Trail, Houston Nature Center, Root River State Trail, International Owl Center, Outback Ranch.
1. Harmony-Preston Valley Trail
2. Houston Nature Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
3. Root River State Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By Steve51522 - Des Moines, United States
My wife and I got a chance to spend 4 days riding on the Root River State Trail at the very end of September 2020. We stayed in Lanesboro (see my google review for the wonderful Scandinavian Inn) and did most of our rides as out and backs from Lanesboro. The trail is in very good condition - all blacktop, very few ruts, and only a few significant bumps (most notably the bridge transitions east of Rushford). I was on a road bike and my wife was on an electric cruiser and we were both fine. Any style of bike would work well on this trail. For the most part, the trail is pretty flat - a typical old rail line converted to a bike trail that runs through a very long valley. Exception #1 is a long gradual uphill starting about 5 miles west of Fountain all the way into Fountain. This was not a bad hill at all on the way up and of course, even better on the way down. There is also a hill on the far eastern end of the trail as you get close to Houston. We did not ride on this section of trail - it was closed for just the week we were there for repairs. Most of the trail is tree-covered and just lovely. You are often following the river. You'll see farm fields, beautiful vistas, limestone bluffs, and all of the little towns along the way. The ony part of the trail that was non-scenic is about 2-3 miles just west of Rushford where the trail follows a highway (but maybe 25-50 feet away from it). It wasn't a problem - and that's the kind of quibble that passes for a negative on this fabulous trail! We got there on a Sunday and rode that afternoon. Saw several people on the trail, especially between Lanesboro and Whalan. We heard from several people that that is generally the busiest part of the trail. The rest of our time there (Monday through Wednesday) the trails were pretty empty - good for Covid times.
4. International Owl Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 66 reviews
You'll find up to four live owls, children's owl art from around the world, an owl-themed gift shop, and enjoy a program by one of our educators. During COVID-19 we are requiring pre-registration and all visitors over age two must wear masks. Full COVID-19 protocols can be found on our website, https://www.internationalowlcenter.org/visit.html
Reviewed By workhardplayhard27 - Mantorville, United States
This is an out-of-the-way gem in Southeastern Minnesota. It is located in an old storefront on the main street through Houston. Upon entry you can't help but notice the gorgeous owl art projects posted on the walls. They hold a yearly owl art contest that draws entries from all over the world. They are breathtaking in their beauty and creativity. In the back of the center are four live owls that are brought in daily from their more expansive homes outside of town. It is obvious that the owls are well cared for and enjoy the stimulation provided in the center. There is an owl presentation given by staff three times daily (10:30, 12:45, and 3:00). The presentation is very informative and interactive. I highly suggest that you plan your visit around one of the presentation times. The staff is so very helpful and willing to answer questions. I think you will find, like I did, that the staff is what makes this such a great place to visit. This attraction may be a bit out of the way, but it is well worth your time to visit.
5. Outback Ranch
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 3 reviews
Located Just South West of Houston, MN in Yucatan Valley Horse Trails, Hiking Trails, Snowmobile Trails RV Electrical Camping, Cabins, Bunk Houses, Primitive Camping, Tenting, Outdoor experience of the west Banquet Hall, Indoor Venue, Outdoor Venue Indoor Entertainment Stage, Outdoor Entertainment Stage Outdoor Riding Arena, Outdoor Pens, Pastures Indoor Deluxe Stall Barn, Historical Cowboy Stall Barn Scenic Overlooks, Approx 2500 acres of pristine Trail Riding Approx. 32 miles of Trails & connected to 100 miles of Grant -In-Aid State Snowmobile Trails Horse Boarding
