Attractions

Houston's revitalized central district is home to the city's world-renowned Theater District and beautiful city parks. Covering 17 blocks, the Theater District has eight performing arts organizations and more than 12,000 seats. Includes the Alley Theatre, one of the oldest resident professional theater companies in the country, 713/228-8421, www.alleytheater.org; Bayou Place with the Verizon Wireless Theater; Jesse H. Jones Hall for Performing Arts; and the Wortham Center. www.houstontheaterdistrict.org.

The district also is home to:

The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park — The 10-acre park features 10 historic structures of which seven have been completely restored. The buildings, including oil field pioneer Henry T. Staiti's 17-room house built in 1905 and the 1823 Old Place, depict early life in Houston and Harris County. Open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Mon.–Sat. and 1–4 p.m. Sun. 713/655-1912. www.heritagesociety.org.

The Heritage Society Museum Gallery — The Museum Gallery offers permanent and temporary exhibitions relating to the history of the Houston region. These changing exhibits are augmented by selections from the permanent collection, such as Bob Bailey Studios photographs and a reproduction of the Duncan Store from Egypt, Texas. Gift shop. Open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tue.–Sat. and 1–4 Sun. 1100 Bagby. 713/655-1912.

Tranquility Park — Bounded by Smith, Rusk, Bagby and Walker streets, the park commemorates Apollo flights with a 32-level fountain and towers resembling rockets. Bronze plaques in 15 languages tell the Apollo story. 400 Rusk St.