arts + culture

midtown houston cultural arts district

We are the Midtown Cultural Arts & Entertainment District established by the state of TX.

We also have an Entertainment Zone established by the COH!

Located between Downtown and The Texas Medical Center, this lively area boasts over 40 art venues and 90 arts organizations. With its eclectic mix of chef-owned restaurants, coffee shops, and nightlife, the district offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, providing countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.

From engaging with public art and attending performances to enjoying unique dining and social activities, the Midtown Cultural Arts and Entertainment District creates a welcoming environment where you can explore new experiences, relax in vibrant spaces, and connect with the community.

“The Midtown cultural district has a big wow going for it.”

Beginning in the summer of 2011, a plan for Midtown Houston was developed to ensure that cultural arts and entertainment are inclusive of all forms of expression, and that diverse programs and projects are accessible to everyone. Midtown Houston was the first Management District in the state to earn a Cultural Arts and Entertainment District designation by the Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA), awarded September 2012.

Located between Downtown and The Texas Medical Center, this magnetic, urban mixed-use neighborhood in the heart of the city features more than 40 art venues, 90 arts organizations, an eclectic mix of chef-owned restaurants, coffee shops and nightlife options. Bike to a park, sip a craft cocktail, walk your dog, take in a play, throw a few darts, sample some sweets, savor unique art, and learn to dance. We’ve got it all!

FAQs
Q: What is the Midtown Cultural Arts and Entertainment District?

Cultural districts are special zones that harness the power of cultural resources to stimulate economic development and community vitality. These districts can become focal points for generating businesses, strengthening employment opportunities, attracting tourists, stimulating cultural development and fostering civic pride.

Cultural districts such as the Midtown Cultural Arts and Entertainment District which is associated with the Redevelopment Authority can be part of creative placemaking or placekeeping efforts. It’s important to remember that TCA cultural district designation is most likely to be awarded to a district that is already defined in terms of leadership, geographic boundaries, branding, and current assets.

Midtown is the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhood in Houston so once you get here, we don’t believe you do. Between Zipcar, the METRORail, the B-Cycles and walking, we’ve got it covered. Our walkscore is 86. We’re the #1 walkable community in Houston.

Please find a list of places to park in Midtown here.

Q: Are there pet-friendly restaurants in the area?

Yes. There are a few here. And our list isn’t complete; we would love it if you let us know where you discover more.

visit our public art

Murals

Home to an array of street art, Midtown’s public art offerings add charm and character to the community. These murals not only beautify our streets, they also create jobs for local artists and drive economic growth. Come explore how these artistic treasures turn common spaces into visual celebrations.

HueMan:Shelter

A Public Art Project Coming To Houston. Discover the powerful narratives of resilience and community through art and storytelling with HueMan:Shelter.

cultural institutions

Explore Midtown Houston’s vibrant cultural scene, where big-name institutions and small, unique gems invite you to relax and connect. Discover how our diverse arts community fosters creativity and enriches our dynamic neighborhood.
Apollo Chamber Players, renowned for their rhythmic flair and virtuosity, engages audiences with globally inspired music. Their sold-out performances at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, and features on NPR and American Public Media’s Performance Today highlight their international acclaim. With over 50 commissioned works and a feature film that has won international accolades, Apollo continues to expand its influence through innovative projects and collaborations with diverse arts organizations.

3400 Main St. Ste. 297, Houston, TX 77002

Preservation Houston, the city’s sole nonprofit dedicated to historic preservation, has championed the protection of Houston’s irreplaceable resources since 1978. From spearheading the adoption of a citywide preservation ordinance to the successful revitalization of historic districts like the Old Sixth Ward, Preservation Houston has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s preservation landscape. Through advocacy, education, and committed action, the organization has fostered a deeper appreciation for Houston’s architectural and cultural heritage, contributing to the revitalization of neighborhoods and the recognition of preservation as a vital tool for economic development.

3907 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

The historic Heinen Theatre, the jewel of Houston Community College’s Central College campus, is an elegant and intimate venue that reflects its Art Deco charm with stunning stained-glass skylights. Originally designed by renowned architect Joseph Finger the building opened in 1924 as Temple Beth Israel in 1924. Decades later, it became the first home of the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Now a Recorded Texas Historical Landmark, the theater continues to be a beloved space for the performing arts community, offering a well-equipped, affordable performance venue for a wide range of productions.

3517 Austin St., Houston, TX 77004

The Central Visual Arts Gallery is located on the Central College campus of Houston Community College. For over 30 seasons, the gallery has been a hub for artistic expression, featuring exhibitions by local, national, and international artists across various mediums. The gallery provides a platform for both established and emerging artists. It continues to serve as an educational resource and cultural destination for art lovers and students alike.

3517 Austin. Houston, TX 77004

Houston Met Dance is passionate about dance across all ages and experience levels. With nearly 30 years of involvement in Houston’s arts community, the company provides classes in a variety of dance styles for children, teens, and adults, serving more than 1,000 students weekly. Through its educational outreach, Houston Met Dance engages over 7,000 K-12 students each season with free performances and in-school demonstrations, inspiring the next generation of dancers. The organization remains a leader in diversity and vitality in Houston’s dance education and performance scene.

4916 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

The Catastrophic Theatre is an ensemble-based company committed to creating an exchange between artists and audiences through bold, original performances. Since 2007, Catastrophic has commissioned and produced provocative new works that grapple with life’s complexities, inviting multiple interpretations rather than providing answers. The theatre’s audience is an active collaborator, embracing the challenge of exploring unknown, thought-provoking artistic journeys.

3400 Main Street, Suite 285, Houston, TX 77002

The Indo-American Association (IAA) is a non-profit organization founded in 1993 to promote the cultural arts of the Indian subcontinent. Known for its thoughtfully curated seasons, IAA presents a diverse lineup of music, dance, and theatre, featuring both traditional Indian arts and cross-cultural collaborations with artists from around the world. Celebrated for its role in bringing world-class talent to Houston, IAA has introduced many firsts, such as promoting Indian-origin World Music and launching a successful digital platform.

3400 Main Street, Suite 1, Houston, TX 77002

NobleMotion Dance (NMD) is one of Texas’ premier dance companies, known for its high-energy performances and innovative collaborations across the arts and sciences. Since its founding in 2009, NMD has earned Houston’s Best Dance Company title multiple times and garnered national attention, including a feature on the Emmy Award-winning show American Crime. The company has a reputation for integrating cutting-edge technology and light artistry into emotionally compelling performances that resonate with diverse audiences. NMD’s mission is to create work that fosters dialogue, inclusivity, and understanding through the power of dance.

3400 Main Street, Suite 5, Houston, TX 77002

Musiqa is a contemporary music ensemble that enriches the community by integrating new music with other modern art forms. Founded in 2002, Musiqa has premiered over 30 new works and provided free arts education to more than 50,000 public school students. With innovative collaborations and award-winning programming, Musiqa makes modern repertoire accessible to diverse audiences. Their mission is to inspire through cutting-edge performances and interdisciplinary projects.

3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

Main Street Theater, founded in 1975, offers inclusive theater experiences for all ages, abilities, identities and backgrounds. Their MainStage presents intimate, literary plays for adults, while their Theater for Youth features engaging performances based on children’s literature, both locally and on tour. They perform at two locations: their Rice Village home and the Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston (MATCH).

Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston, 3400 Main St., Houston, TX 77002

Founded in 2001, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) works to advance the understanding of contemporary craft through exhibitions, educational programming, and artist support. HCCC highlights art made from diverse craft materials like clay, fiber, glass, metal, and wood, fostering a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages. As one of Houston’s key arts institutions, HCCC emphasizes inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of background. 

4848 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

DiverseWorks, founded in 1982, invites the public to explore new artistic perspectives through exhibitions, performances and discussions. They foster equity and diversity in the arts, supporting local and international artists, and encouraging bold, socially relevant projects.

3400 Main Street, Suite 292, Houston, Texas 77002

Located in the iconic Isabella Court building, the Isabella Valise/Devin Borden Gallery offers a unique and personalized art experience. The gallery features fine and decorative arts, operates on select days and is available for viewings by appointment. They also provide a versatile meeting space for special events.

3913 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002

Founded in 1990, Inman Gallery has established itself as a leading platform for contemporary art, focusing on artists from Houston and beyond. The gallery’s artists have exhibited at prestigious institutions like New York City’s Whitney Museum and The Centre Pompidou in Paris, and have their works included in the collections of major museums.

3901 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

The Community Artists’ Collective champions inclusivity within Houston’s art scene, fostering connections for African American artists and diverse communities through cross-cultural exchange. With core values of education, entrepreneurship, and community development, the Collective offers exhibitions, resources, and support to empower artists and citizens to use their creative talents to address economic, cultural, and social challenges.

The Ion, 4111 Fannin St. Houston, TX 77004

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) honors the legacy of African American service members by showcasing their stories and contributions through visual arts, performances, educational programs, and exhibitions. Dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of the Buffalo Soldiers, BSNM highlights the role of African American men and women from the Revolutionary War to present-day military conflicts. By sharing these stories, the museum seeks to build pride, patriotism, and a deeper public understanding of their vital role in shaping the nation.

3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004

The Ensemble Theatre, founded in 1976 by George Hawkins, is the oldest and largest professional African American theatre in the Southwest. Located in Houston’s Midtown Arts District, it produces contemporary and classical works portraying the African American experience, with over 15 world premieres and 100 regional premieres. The theatre also engages over 30,000 youth annually through educational programs and workshops. Nationally recognized, The Ensemble has received numerous awards for its contributions to Black theatre and American culture.

3535 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

Eyeful Art Murals and Designs, founded by French artist Sebastien Boileau creates unique hand-painted murals for a variety of public and private spaces. The company collaborates with architects, designers, and businesses to craft custom designs that reflect each client’s vision. Their experienced team offers murals on any surface and scale, blending creativity with technical expertise.

3402 Crawford Street, Houston, TX 77004

First Thursday on Mid Main is a lively monthly block party hosted by the businesses of Mid Main and Mid Main Lofts. This community event brings together live music, art shows, and special offers, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Midtown Houston. With a focus on supporting local nonprofits, First Thursday events feature collaborations with organizations such as the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, blending culture and philanthropy. Attendees can enjoy complimentary drinks and explore rotating exhibitions.

3500-3700 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

Gallery Sonja Roesch specializes in contemporary reductive and concept-based art, representing both emerging and established international artists. Known for exhibits of large-scale sculptures by artists such as Mac Whitney and John Clement, the gallery also features works by notable figures like Jac Leirner, David Simpson, and local talents like Myke Venable. Founded in Germany in 1991 and relocated to Houston in 1996, the gallery continues to promote minimalist aesthetics and strong programming.

2309 Caroline Street | Houston, TX 77004

MATCH serves as the premier performance venue for small and mid-sized arts organizations in the region. Recognizing the need for a central hub in Houston’s expansive art scene, MATCH provides a dedicated space for artists and arts lovers alike, promoting synergy and accessibility. With four performance spaces, rehearsal studios, gallery space, and offices, it offers diverse organizations the resources needed to grow and thrive. MATCH’s commitment to inclusivity and affordability helps sustain Houston’s rich and dynamic creative community.

3400 Main Street HOU TX 77002

Shabach Enterprise is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting African American community outreach and cultural appreciation through the performing arts. The organization’s flagship program, “Fade to Black,” showcases ten short plays by African American playwrights.

3400 Main Street, Houston TX 77002

Lawndale Art Center is a multidisciplinary contemporary space dedicated to exploring and discussing the critical and social issues of our time through art. It fosters community engagement by presenting a diverse range of exhibitions, lectures, film screenings, readings, and performances. Lawndale supports artists and cultural communities through its Artist Studio Program and various institutional collaborations.

4912 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002

The Houston Fire Museum preserves and highlights the history of firefighting in Houston and beyond through a collection of historical equipment, memorabilia, and exhibits. It offers educational programs and community events to promote fire safety and honor the contributions of firefighters. The museum also features a gift shop with unique firefighting-themed items, allowing visitors to take home a piece of fire service history. Through its exhibits, programs, and gift shop, the Houston Fire Museum celebrates and preserves the legacy of firefighting in the community.

2403 Milam St., Houston, TX 77006

impact Report

Midtown Houston has evolved into a cultural hotspot, boasting a Texas Cultural Arts District designation that fuels creativity, drives economic growth, and supports a thriving arts scene.
Total 10-year economic impact for the Midtown Cultural Arts and Entertainment District.
$ 0
Full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs supported by arts and cultural organizations in Midtown.
0
Arts organizations now associated with Midtown, up from 24 in 2012.
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Midtown Houston maintains associations with over 100 arts organizations, representing a remarkable leap from the 24 groups that called Midtown home in 2011. This impressive growth is a direct result of Midtown’s designation as a State of Texas Cultural Arts District, the first management district in Texas to achieve such recognition. Awarded in 2012, the Cultural Arts District designation from the Texas Commission on the Arts has been pivotal in fueling our economy, contributing $161 million, and creating and supporting over 4,300 jobs.

We deeply understand the significant impact that cultural and public art have on enhancing community wellbeing and driving economic development. As we move forward, Midtown remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering an environment where creativity and innovation flourish, ensuring that the arts continue to play a significant role in our community’s vitality and success.

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