15 of the Best Things to Do in Montrose Houston

Montrose is one of Houston’s most popular neighborhoods. From its dazzling museums to its rich LGBTQ+ history, cafes, pocket parks and more, there’s always something to enjoy in Houston’s Museum District.

Things to see and do in Montrose Houston

1. Explore the Menil collection

The Menil Collection of Houston is a true hidden gem. THE free museum is home to a wonderful assortment of artwork with exhibits ranging from the arts of Africa, the ancient world and the Pacific Islands, to medieval and Byzantine art, modern and contemporary pieces, and an exhibition on surrealism – the latter presenting an original Dalí.

The Menil Collection campus also has a beautiful lawn on his land. Shaded by live oaks and populated with numerous works of art, the lawn is an idyllic green space for a picnic, a Frisbee toss or a space to snuggle up against a tree trunk with a book in hand.

During your visit, be sure to take a look at the popular and colorful Installation by Dan Flavin at Richmond Hall.

1533 Sul Ross Street.

2. Meditate inside the Rothko Chapel

A stone’s throw from the Menil Collection is the Rothko Chapel. The space is a kind of surreal sanctuary. Calm and meditative, the chapel houses 14 original murals by Rothko. Inside, visitors are invited to contemplate art, divinity, or anything else that comes to mind.

Outside the chapel, the grounds include a reflecting pool dedicated to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., where the Barnett Newman Museum is located. Broken obelisk hovers above us.

3900 Yupon Street

3. Save money at Westheimer

Westheimer may or may not be the most walkable neighborhood in Houston. One of our favorite ideas for a first date (or 100th date) is to spend an afternoon walking around the block enjoying coffee, cocktails, pinball, and thrift shopping.

On one block, Westheimer is home to some of Houston’s most popular thrift stores. Stop by Pavement, Leopard Lounge and Lo-Fi for wonderful thrifted finds.

Elsewhere in Montrose, enter the thrift store vortex of Area 52. The space-themed thrift store in Montrose features a microgalaxy of streetwear, sneakers, and stellar designer fashion on W. Alabama Street.

Multiple locations

4. Go clubbing at Numbers

The Numbers nightclub is a alternative music paradise in Houston since 1978. Since its inception, the underground venue has hosted legendary artists such as Siouxsie & The Banshees, Björk and Nine Inch Nails. He continues to bring new wave music to the people.

In addition to music, Numbers Nightclub offers markets, alternative events and theme evenings. Numbers Nightclub is open from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

300 Westheimer Road.

5. Explore the region’s LGBTQI+ scene

Montrose has a long LGBTQI+ history. As such, the Houston neighborhood is home to a thriving number of wonderful LGBTQI+ bars, most of which within walking distance.

Between Montrose Blvd and Hopkins St., you can bar crawl between a dozen of our favorite Pride bars, including JR’s Bar & Grill, Lola’s Depot, Ripcord, and the legendary South Beach Houston!

Multiple locations

Where to Drink in Montrose

6. Agora

Whether it’s coffee or wine, study or summer, a solo adventure or a double date, Agora is a great place for all occasions. THE Greek property on Westheimer is one of the best coffee shops in Houston.

1712 Westheimer Road.

7. Siphon

Named after the nifty device that brews coffee, Siphon is a Cafe Montrose which offers an excellent range of coffees, teas, craft beers, wines and much more. With a breakfast and lunch menu, as well as occasional live music, Siphon is a great place to spend the morning, afternoon, or night.

701 West Alabama Street

8. Poisoned Girl

Poison Girl is a resident haunt of Montrose suitable for all drinking moods. Its deep red walls, soft lighting and spirit sanctuary can add or remove romance depending on your mood.

Their whiskey selection is excellent. Pinball machines are close at hand, as is a back patio for outdoor fun.

1641 Westheimer Road. B

9. West Alabama Icehouse

Opened in the 1920s, the West Alabama Ice House is The oldest bar in Houston – and that has hardly changed. Montrose’s outdoor patio bar is a simple cooler that serves beer and wine only.

Its grounds have picnic tables, ping-pong tables and a basketball hoop in the courtyard. If you’re hungry, head to the nearby Tacos Caliente food truck for delicious, inexpensive homemade tacos.

1919 W Alabama Street

10. Grand Prize

Nestled on the eastern edge of Montrose, just north of Museum Park you’ll find Grand Prize. With a front porch, music and a vibrant display of twinkling lights in the front window, Grand Prize feels more like a house party.

Downstairs, guests can enjoy a wide selection of craft beers as well as cocktails, wines and more. The place has a pool table, jukebox, as well as a kitchen. The upstairs has more of a nightclub vibe, with a disco ball, a bar and lounge booths on the sides.

1010 Banks Street

11. Rudyard’s

Affectionately known as “the Montrose living room“Rudyard’s Pub is a neighborhood venue filled with pool tables, gourmet delights and draft beers.

The venue also has a stage upstairs which regularly hosts comedy evenings with stand-ups ranging from local legends, open-micers and touring headliners.

2010 Dr. Waugh.

12. Shelter

Recently named to Esquire’s Best Bars in America 2024 list, Refuge is a moody cocktail lounge from amateur mixologist, Bobby Heugel. Anvil’s sister concept, Refuge is an elegant place to enjoy classic, innovative and original cocktails.

1424 Westheimer Road, office A

Restaurants

13. Mala Sichuan

14. Little’s Oyster Bar

Also named one of America’s Best Bars 2024 by Esquire, Little’s Oyster Bar occupies the former Pappas Seafood House Location in Montrose. The restaurant/bar offers a selection of seafood.

Appreciate oysters, shellfish and even caviar if you’re feeling adventurous, accompanied by a range of champagne, wines and cocktails. Be sure to try The Windward Isle on their cocktail menu.

3001 S Shepherd Dr.

15. Uchi

“Uchi” translates to “house” in Japanese, perfectly capturing the cozy and warm atmosphere of this place. award-winning restaurant on Westheimer. Adorned with beautiful wooden lighting fixtures, sleek contemporary furnishings and ornamental touches, its ambiance is only surpassed by its exceptional menu, especially sushi. Editor’s tip: Choose the chef’s recommendation for an unforgettable dining experience.

904 Westheimer Road.