The Heritage Society

The Heritage Society is a museum and cultural institution located in Sam Houston Park in downtown Houston, Texas. It comprises a collection of nine historic structures dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries, including houses, a church, a school, and a bayou cabin. These buildings have been relocated to the park and restored to reflect different periods of Houston's development. Visitors can take guided tours of the interiors, which are furnished with period-appropriate artifacts and decor. The museum also features rotating exhibits in its main gallery, focusing on various aspects of Houston's social, cultural, and architectural history. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, offering a peaceful retreat from the surrounding urban environment. The Heritage Society is distinctive for its hands-on approach to history, with costumed interpreters and interactive programs that bring the past to life. It's an excellent destination for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in understanding how Houston evolved from a small frontier town into a major metropolis. The museum also hosts special events, lectures, and educational workshops throughout the year.

Don't miss

• Tour nine historic buildings, including the 1847 Kellum-Noble House and the 1891 St. John Church
• See period furnishings and artifacts that illustrate daily life in early Houston
• Explore the main gallery's rotating exhibits on local history
• Stroll through the landscaped Sam Houston Park grounds
• Participate in educational programs and special events

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Heritage Society

Cheapest way inMuseum of Fine Arts, Houston All Access Admission Ticket4.6★ · 53 travelers1–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$10 per personSee dates →Best full daySpace Center Houston Admission Ticket4.1★ · 1,468 travelers~24 hoursFrom$33 per personSee dates →Top ratedThe Escape Game Houston: 60-Minute Adventures at The Galleria5★ · 299 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$43 per personSee dates →

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Guided tours of the historic houses are offered at specific times; check the schedule in advance.
• Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash may be restricted inside the houses.
• Large bags may need to be checked; lockers are available.
• The park is a great spot for a picnic; bring a blanket and enjoy the grounds.

A bit of history

Founded in 1954, The Heritage Society was established to save historic buildings from demolition and preserve Houston's architectural heritage. It now manages one of the largest collections of historic structures in Texas, each telling a unique story about the city's past.