The Best Instagrammable Places in Houston
The Best Instagrammable Places in Houston
50 ways to take your Instagram game to the next level!
Houston, Texas is one of the most Instagrammable cities in America. With so many great spots for taking pictures, it's hard to know where to start! I love exploring the city with my camera and discovering the Instagrammable places and best Houston hidden gem attractions that are often overlooked. If you're looking for some of the best places to take your next Instagram picture, these 45+ locations should give you plenty of inspiration!
Welcome to H-Town!
Don't let this big city fool you. The creativity in America's most culturally diverse city, Houston, TX runs deep. So when it comes to the perfect photo opportunity there are so many instagrammable spots in the "Bayou City". From iconic landmarks to gorgeous street art murals to cool new areas to explore there are photo opportunities everywhere in H-Town.
I moved away from H-Town recently (to Oklahoma City) but this city will always have a special place in my heart. And I'm always happy to share a few of my favorite Instagram worthy places in Houston. So whether you're a Houstonian or just visiting Houston, these are some of the best places in Houston, TX to take pictures.
How to Use This Guide
Instagramming Houston can be an overwhelming task--there are just too many insta-perfect aesthetic places. Save time and gas money, by checking out the interactive Google Maps links to help you navigate to make the most of your shoot!
The Best Places to Take Pictures in Houston
Here's a list of my favorite colorful places in Houston to take pictures. So let's get this party started!
Make sure to check back, because as I discover more Houston Instagram spots, I'll make sure to add them here.
No photographer? No problem! Most of the photos in this guide I took myself. Here’s my MUST-HAVE list of self-photography equipment to take professional-looking photos of yourself.
Tonantzin Tlalli "Mother Earth"
Location: 1407 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006
I stumbled upon this mural one day while out for a morning jog. The Tonantzin Tlalli mural is an Aztec-themed story told through different scenes.
Biscuit Paint Wall by Sebastien Boileau
Location: 1435 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77006
Located on the side of the former Biscuit Home’s building in Montrose, this colorful mural has become Instagram iconic and making it one of the most aesthetic places in Houston. Looking for some photography inspiration? Just search #BiscuitPaintWall on Instagram.
Groovy Pink
Location: 2415 Taft St, Houston, TX 77006
Since 1969, Reeves Antiques has been anything but boring. This whole building is so instagrammable with each side of the building offering a different color palette with the same psychedelic feel.
Black Labrador
Location: 4100 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Welcome to London…Houston! With ivy-covered buildings, brick breezeways, and primary-colored doors, this pub has all the makings of a top Instagram hotspot. So "Mind the Gap" and get your cameras ready and explore!
Gray and White Zig Zag Wall
Location: 1415 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006
You can't go wrong with the zig-zag wall! The soft dual tones of white and gray are pretty plain to look at, but when you wear a bright or neon color in front of it, the magic begins. Trust me, your followers will love it!
Dan Flavin Installation at Richmond Hall
Location: 1500 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006
The Menil Collection is notorious for its cool art installations and the Dan Flavin Installation at Richmond Hall is no exception. Composed of neon fluorescent tubes that emit a soft light, making it the perfect place to snap a photo for your Instagram.
Happy Buddha by Rob DiTeodoro
Location: 2102 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003
Both colorful and zen, this wall art is amazeballs! Located in East Downtown - EDo (pronounced Ee-dough) Houston's graffiti park, this whole place is a photographer's dream and has become one of the most Instagrammed places in H-Town!
Blue and Red Diamonds
Location: 2104 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003
Instantly upgrade your Instagram feed and check out Blue and Red Diamonds. It's located right across the street from Houston's graffiti park (at One Less Thing Dry Cleaning), so it's easy to hit up both spots in one go!
Black and White Squares
Location: 2101 Polk St, Houston, TX 77003
You'll find this M.C. Escher-inspired mural at The Secret Group. And as the name of the building implies, it's pretty much a secret. You can find it tucked away along with the perfect solid black wall for photos just off of Polk Street.
Zipper Wall by Kelly Graval
Location: 2102 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003
The Zipper Wall at Mercy Night Club is a must-see. This huge, colorful wall is just pure fun! Zipper is not pictured. But trust me, it’s there.
Gray and White Geo Company
Location: 2119 Dallas Street Houston, TX 77003
This artsy building facade is definitely worth a photo opp. No business name on the building yet, but even so, it's still pretty cool.
Sugar and Cloth Colored Steps
Location: 1201 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77002
Sugar and Cloth's colored steps were an Instagrammer's paradise-- until it closed in October 2018. It was off of Main in GreenStreet, across from Forever 21 and the Sugar and Cloth Paint Wall.
Sugar and Cloth Color Wall
Location: 1201 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77002
Sugar and Color Wall - it's like a giant tub of Neapolitan ice cream! Unfortunately, this wall closed in October 2018.
GreenStreet
Location: 1201 Main St Space #101& 201, Houston, TX 77002
Houston's downtown shopping district, GreenStreet, is home to some of the most Instagrammable places in the city. From the brick-paved streets, bright colors of the street signs to the sleek lines of office buildings, there's no shortage of photo ops.
The Crystal Ballroom at The Rice Lofts
Location: 909 Texas Ave #106f, Houston, TX 77002
Day or night, the view from the balcony at The Rice Lofts is definitely Instagram-worthy! Choose from the backdrop of architecture or a Houston cityscape, and it's easy to understand why this landmark is one of the most popular photogenic sites for weddings and other events in Houston!
Main Street
Location: 610 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Houston is a city bustling with life and culture, and its downtown district is no exception. One spot that's always a hit is the corner of Main Street and Texas Avenue. The beautiful wrought iron and stonework on the historic buildings make for a great backdrop against the busy streetscape.
Houston is Inspired Mural
Location: 313 Travis Street, Houston, TX 77002
By Graffiti artist Mario Figueroa Jr - Gonzo247, this colorful mural is not only Instagrammable, but it also serves an important purpose. The wall art was created in response to the 2017 Houston floods as a way to inspire and motivate the community. You can find this "inspired" mural corner of Travis and Preston.
I Love You To The Moon
Location: 350 W 19th St, Houston, TX 77008
If you're near the Heights area then you better head over to Harold's Restaurant & Tap Room. You'll find this amorous wall begging to be photographed. To get the perfect picture without the parked vehicles, shoot a vertical picture at an angle.
Neon Lights at The Rice Box Restaurant
Location: 300 W 20th St, Houston, TX 77008
The Rice Box is a Chinese restaurant that is "lit", literally. From the bright neon lights to the fun ultra-cool Hong Kong-inspired decor, it's a great place to grab a quick bite and snap a few pics.
Greetings From Houston Postcard
Location: 3602 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Delicious and Instagrammable. Stop by Gelazzi for a scoop or two of delicious gelato. And don't forget to take a pic in front of this postcard mural to represent where you are!
Your Outlook On Life
Location: 800 Town and Country Blvd #100, Houston, TX 77024
Head on over to the City Center Shopping district and check out the mosaic art wall on the side of the Lululemon store. This zen wall displays an inspiring mantra that will help you keep your outlook on life in check.
Kendra Scott Gold Wall
Location: 816 Town and Country Blvd SUITE 131, Houston, TX 77024
Easy to miss but easy to find, the gold metal logo-embossed wall is a Kendra Scott must-take photo spot.
City Center Shopping District
Location: 815 Town and Country Blvd, Houston, TX 77024
The City Center Shopping District is a popular haven for upscale restaurants, stores, and all of the urban-suburban things! But the best part? The streets are so picture-worthy, you'll never stop taking photos.
Sabine Street Bridge
Location: 150 Sabine Street Houston, TX 77007
A great way to capture Houston's downtown skyline is from the Sabine Street Bridge. You'll find this iconic bridge straddling Memorial Drive and Allen Parkway.
Barbara Fish Daniel Nature Play Area and Picnic Pavilion
Location: 105 Sabine Street Houston, TX 77007
When taking a photo from the ramp that leads you on top of the Buffalo Bayou Cisterns, this little-known hidden gem location provides a stunning view of Houston's skyline. While you're there, make sure to check out the underground Buffalo Bayou Cisterns. It's a pretty badass spot and not to be missed!
Broadacres Neighborhood
Location: 1301-1501 South Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
A gorgeous neighborhood well known for its canopy oaks and brick-lined esplanades, Broadacres is southern charm at its best. While the area may be known for being insta-worthy, please be respectful of residents and don't block streets with your cars, park on the grass, or block sidewalks. At the end of the day, Broadacres is a neighborhood and people live there, so please be respectful.
Rothko Chapel
Location: 3900 Yupon St, Houston, TX 77006
You'll find this serene landmark quietly nestled on the grounds of The Menil Collection Art Museum. It's not just a beautiful work of art, it's also an active place of worship that is welcoming to all religions, races, and beliefs. Please keep this in mind when visiting.
Hermann Park - McGovern Centennial Gardens
Location: 1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004
Located in the heart of Houston's Hermann Park, the McGovern Centennial Gardens are the perfect insta-worthy backdrop. Still one of my all-time favorite parks in H-Town, you'll never run short on beauty and inspiration here. Here are a few not-to-miss locations within the park: the Celebration Garden, Arid Garden, Rose Garden, Friendship Pavilion, Pergola Walk, and The Mount - a winding walkway leading to a magnificent cascading waterfall located on top of the hill.
Hermann Park - Japanese Garden
Location: 6000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
Whether you're looking for a scenic location to take some family photos or want to find the perfect spot for your Instagram feed, Hermann Park's Japanese Garden is the place for you. Stone paths, crepe myrtles, dogwoods, a pond with koi fish, and a traditional Japanese tea house, the Japanese Garden in Hermann Park is an Instagrammers dream.
More of My Favorite Travel Adventures
Get inspired and take a trip to these amazing locations
Don’t forget to check out my Travel page for more ideas
Lobby - Glassell School of Art
Location: 5101 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Have you seen the lobby of the Glassell School of Art? It's an Instagram photographer's dream. The architecture of the lobby is stunning in itself, with its stories of industrial geometrical leading lines, making it a must-see on your Insta bucket list.
Cloud Column - Glassell School of Art
Location: 5101 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Chicago has "the Bean" (Cloud Gate) and now Houston has the "Baby Bean" otherwise known as, Cloud Column located on the Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza. Both sculptures are by artist Anish Kapoor and are a must on Instagram! During the summer, the area around it is filled with water and has a splash pad fountain feel to it.
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
Location: 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056
When it comes to photogenic Houston landmarks, it's hard to get more iconic than the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall. The water wall is a popular destination for engagements, graduations, and Instagrammers looking to snap some beautiful photos.
Historic Market Square Park
Location: 301 Milam St, Houston, TX 77002
Located in the heart of downtown Houston, you'll find Market Square Park. This laid-back park is a popular spot for photo shoots because it's surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, an iconic fountain, lush greenery, and summer flowers.
Smither Park
Location: 2441 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023
This Instagrammable place is eclectic, innovative, and unexpected! Smither Park is located across the street from the renowned The Orange Show (a must-see while in H-Town), which adds to its vibrant colors and charm. Every mosaic sculpture was created by local artists and differs from the next.
Love Lock Bridge
Location: 500 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019
Love Lock Bridge is a hidden gem in Houston that has quickly gained popularity due to its Instagrammable shots. Inspired by its famous Paris predecessor, the H-Town version includes street art and a pretty cool peek-a-boo cut out in the fence revealing one of the best and most interesting views of Houston's skyline.
Discovery Green
Location: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Think New York's Central Park but Houston-style. Smack in the middle of southern downtown, Discovery Green park was born Insta-worthy. With lush trees and rolling hills, but you'll find the real gems are closer to ground level: massive sculptures scattered throughout the park, green spaces, a splash pad, and a pond surrounded by skyscraper architecture, making Discovery Green perfect for photos.
Present Company
Location: 1318 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
From the bright and colorful walls to the fun and kitschy Palm Springs decor, you're sure to get some great shots here. And if that's not enough, they also offer delicious yet photogenic food and drinks to complete the scene.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Location: 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford, TX 77477
Technically not in "Houston" but definitely insta-worthy. This traditional Hindu temple is located in Stafford and is one of the largest outside of India. Intricately detailed marble architecture building and a beautifully landscaped garden make for the perfect backdrop. Please be respectful while photographing or visiting this temple.
Sam Houston Park
Location: 1000 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
Located in downtown Houston, Sam Houston Park is full of Instagrammable places like its beautiful gardens, the Scanlan Fountain, USS Houston Monument, and more. This park is great to go on urban nature walks with your family or friends, just make sure to bring your camera along.
FAQs
Where can I take Quinceanera pictures in Houston?
If you're looking for nice places to take pictures in Houston for your quince pics, the Mecom Fountain is a great choice! Just be careful crossing the street—it can get pretty hectic.
Where can I take pictures of the Houston skyline?
One of the best views of downtown Houston is by Buffalo Bayou Park. That is my favorite. You can see downtown from almost anywhere in the park, but my vote is from the Sabine Street Bridge.
Where can I take engagement pictures in Houston?
Do you want to take engagement pictures? Sometimes it is hard to find a good place. Head to brick-lined Main street in downtown Houston or the ivy-covered brick facade of The Black Labrador in Montrose, which are both Houston hot spots Instagram approved.
Final Thoughts on Instagrammable Places in Houston
As you can see, Houston is a great place to take pictures! I hope that this article has helped give you some ideas of where to go and what spots are best for taking your next Instagram picture.
Feel free to reach out on social media or leave me a comment below if you have any other questions about the city and places worth visiting while there.
Thank you for reading and I'll see ya next time.
-XOXO (as always)
Mel D.
Photography by Melissa "Mel" Drake
Where You Can Find Me on Social Media
Same place; same bat channel
@ThisIsMelDrake
THE ‘GRAM (the pretty pictures): https://www.instagram.com/thisismeldrake
PINTEREST (the inspiration): https://www.pinterest.com/thisismeldrake
FACEBOOK (a little this + a little that): https://www.facebook.com/thisismeldrake
TWITTER (the sass + musings): https://twitter.com/thisismeldrake
Save to Pinterest
*Originally published in October 2018, updated April 2021, and January 2022, this post has been updated by Mel Drake to add "Final Thoughts on Instagrammable Places in Houston", an interactive map, and new locations and images that weren't included in the original post. The post was also updated with structural and grammatical changes as well.