Houston , United States

Houston Cemetery Tours

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a great tour if you like history, art, hauntings, and culture. We will discuss notable people, what to look for in evaluating stained glass and inaccurate details in carvings, and burial practices.

Available options

Houston Cemetery Tours

What's included

Expert Guide

Detailed itinerary

This is the most prominent cemetery in Houston with some of the most distinguished people in Houston history. It was the first chartered cemetery in Texas in 1872. It was the first professionally landscaped in Texas. Among the dignitaries buried here are early philanthropist George Hermann, the wealthiest man in the world Howard Hughes, actress Gene Tierney, former governor Ross Sterling, and the Hobby family as in the airport and performing arts center. From Glenwood, we will also enter and tour the German Cemetery that is attached to it. We will see the only woman who won a Congressional Medal for her service in the American Civil War.

This is one of the most beautiful and largest cemeteries in the US. It has over 122 acres. It has dozens of statuaries including a 20 foot long x 10 foot high carving of The Last Supper and a 3 foot high image of the face of Jesus that appears to turn and follow you. It also has 2 Tiffany stained glass windows in a mausoleum. It also has notable famous and infamous people including guitarist Lightnin' Hopkins, former Senator Lloyd Bentsen, former mayor Oscar Holcombe, pick-axe killer Karla Faye Tucker, Mellie and Niels Esperson, and the greatest civic leader in Houston's history Jesse H. Jones. It has headstones with images of Batman and Spiderman. The cemetery has rolling hills, a lake, and ducks in it.

This is the oldest African-American Cemetery in Houston. It is in the neighborhood of Harrisburg which originally was a separate city. It predates the existence of Houston. It has former enslaved people, folks who were born in the 1700s, and veterans of the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War. It has been abandoned since 1967. With the advent of integration, Blacks began paying to be buried in professionally operated cemeteries.

What's not included

We can either eat lunch between the 1st and 2nd cemeteries or the 2nd and 3rd cemeteries. We normally eat at a small local Mexican restaurant, but if you prefer something else, just tell us.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

When we are in a cemetery, we ALWAYS have to be deferential to any mourners and for any funeral or burial activities that may be about to begin or are onging. We might have to skip an area where a ceremony is about to begin or in progress. Please talk quietly and do not create a disruption.

Meeting point

We meet inside the rotunda of the Houston City Hall at 901 Bagby Street, Houston, Texas 77002 on Monday through Friday. City Hall is closed on weekends. On weekends, we meet at a park bench on the east side of City Hall.

About Houston

Houston, the largest city in Texas, is renowned for its space exploration history, diverse culinary scene, and vibrant arts culture. As the home of NASA's Johnson Space Center, the city offers unique attractions, a thriving economy, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Space Center Houston

The official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center, offering interactive exhibits, historic spacecraft, and behind-the-scenes tours of NASA facilities.

Historical/Adventure 4-6 hours Moderate ($29.95 for adults, discounts available)

Museum District

A collection of 19 museums, cultural centers, and galleries, showcasing art, science, and history.

Cultural/Museum Half day to full day Varies by museum (many have discounted days)

Discovery Green

A 12-acre urban park in downtown Houston, featuring gardens, fountains, and hosts to various events and concerts.

Nature/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (some events may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tex-Mex

A fusion of Texan and Mexican cuisine, featuring dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and nachos.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan with substitutions.

BBQ

Slow-smoked meats, often served with tangy BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and baked beans.

Main Course Meat-heavy, but vegetarian options like smoked jackfruit are available.

Gulf Seafood

Fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, including shrimp, oysters, and crab.

Main Course Can be prepared in various ways to suit dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Space Center Houston tours Kayaking on Buffalo Bayou Hiking in Memorial Park Spa treatments Picnics in Discovery Green Yoga classes Museum District visits Theater District performances

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The crowds are moderate, and major events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo take place during this time.

15-30°C 60-85°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

CST (GMT-6) / CDT (GMT-5) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Houston is generally safe for tourists, but as with any large city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

George Bush Intercontinental Airport • 22 miles (35 km) north of downtown
William P. Hobby Airport • 7 miles (11 km) south of downtown

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and affordable, but coverage is limited to certain areas. Good for reaching major attractions and the Medical Center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Montrose The Heights

Day trips

Galveston Island

50 miles (80 km) • Full day

A barrier island off the coast of Texas, offering beautiful beaches, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions.

San Antonio

180 miles (290 km) • Full day or overnight

A historic city known for its Spanish colonial missions, vibrant River Walk, and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo • February to March Houston Pride Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit the Museum District on Thursday nights for free admission to many museums.
Explore the Houston Farmers Market for fresh produce and local delicacies.
Take advantage of the city's diverse dining scene by trying Tex-Mex, BBQ, and Gulf seafood.
Use the METRO Q App for real-time updates on public transportation.
Check for free events and concerts at Discovery Green throughout the year.