Everything really is bigger in Texas, including the opportunities to support Black-owned Houston, the 4th largest city in the U.S.! From finger-licking BBQ and brunch spots to creative spaces, boutique hotels, and experiences rooted in Black culture, Houston has plenty to discover. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking to experience the city beyond the usual tourist attractions, this guide will help you explore the top Black-owned Houston spots, one business at a time.
So, if you have ever wondered:
How to spend time in Black-Owned Houston?
What is it like traveling while Black in Houston?
This one-day Black-owned Houston guide is for you. There’s a lot packed into it, so feel free to spread it over two days or mix and match the stops to create a day trip to Houston that works best for you. Consider it a starting point for exploring some of the Black-owned businesses, experiences, and gems that Houston has to offer, whether you are spending 48 hours in Houston or one day in Houston.
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Let me put it this way: Black visibility in Houston is not even a question. The city has a sizable Black community, and from what I experienced, there are plenty of spaces where that community is not just present but thriving. Honestly, when I think of Houston, I think of Black culture. I mean, it is the hometown of three musical greats: Beyoncé, Megan Thee Stallion, and Lizzo!
And that sense of Black community was something I experienced firsthand while exploring the city. Whether it was getting caught up in a good old Soul Train line at Kicky Mats, connecting with other women over brunch and vision boarding at Pretty Girls That Brunch, or attending an MLK event inside a Catholic church, I found myself surrounded by Black people, culture, and community. And I loved it. There is something special about being in spaces where you can simply show up, be yourself, and feel that sense of belonging.
For some context, Houston is a diverse, majority-minority city. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, approximately 22.7% of the city’s population identifies as Black or African American alone. This is compared to 44.2% Hispanic, 23.2% white and 6.9% Asian. But beyond the numbers, what stood out to me was how visible Black life and community felt throughout my experience in Houston.
Yes, yes, and yes! I didn’t have any safety concerns while exploring Houston, and I ventured into different neighborhoods throughout my visit. If there’s one thing I’d caution you about, it’s that Houston is not the most walkable city. Much of my exploring outside of downtown required an Uber, so keep that in mind when planning your trip.
Beyond that, I found people to be friendly and welcoming. There were plenty of smiles, hellos, and casual interactions along the way. And honestly, seeing so many Black people throughout the city made me feel more comfortable and allowed me to let my guard down a little.
One of the moments when I felt the greatest sense of belonging was during a brunch gathering. Even though I wasn’t originally part of the group, I connected with a woman who was also originally from the Bronx. We hit it off; she introduced me to some of her friends, and before you know it, we were exchanging numbers!
It’s those kinds of moments that stick with you when you travel. I came to Houston to explore, but I also found opportunities to connect with people and experience a sense of community. And that made my time in the city even more enjoyable.
If I had to describe Black Houston in three words, they would be vibrant, lively, and tight-knit.
I was in Houston for a long weekend, but unfortunately, freezing rain had other plans for me! I ended up spending a couple of days stuck in my hotel, so I didn’t get to experience as much of the city as I would have liked. But during the two days I did get to explore, one thing immediately stood out: the colorful murals throughout the city, many of which celebrated and reflected Black people. As someone who loves seeing Black stories and people represented in the places I visit, I appreciated that. I felt represented just by walking around and seeing ourselves reflected in the city.
Houston also has a reputation for knowing how to turn up, and while that wasn’t necessarily what I came to the city looking for, I definitely got a taste of it at Kicky Mats. After a paint and sip, people were already talking about where they were headed next. And how did the night end? With a Soul Train line, of course! We love to see it!
The tight-knit part of Houston’s Black culture was something else I noticed. Everywhere I went, it seemed like people knew one another, came together in groups, or already had their own circles. As a solo traveler, that can sometimes feel a little intimidating when you’re trying to find your way into a space or connect with people. But I will say that I always found a friendly face wherever I went. And sometimes, that’s all you need to make a new place feel a little more welcoming.
So while I may not be rushing back because it is not the most walkable, some of the best-known and most popular spots have long lines, pricey BBQ, and the city’s apparent inability to handle freezing rain 😂), I definitely have a list of places I’d love to visit if I return. I feel like I only scratched the surface, and I’d love the opportunity to give Houston a little more justice on my next trip!
There is no way you can visit Houston without making a stop at The Breakfast Klub. It’s a Houston staple for a reason! One piece of advice: get there early. If you don’t, be prepared to wait in a long line. I’d recommend arriving before 10 a.m. if you want to avoid a lengthy wait.
I ordered the pancakes and fried chicken, and y’all, it was SO good! The chicken was crispy, freshly made, and perfectly cooked. Just delicious! I’m already looking forward to my next visit because I still need to try the chicken and waffles and grits. Clearly, one visit wasn’t enough!
Want to experience Houston’s Black brunch scene? I recommend checking out Pretty Girls That Brunch to see if they have an upcoming event. They regularly organize brunch gatherings at different Houston restaurants, which is a great way to discover local spots while connecting with other Black women and the community.
You can also check out some of the top Black-owned Houston brunch spots for more inspiration. Because when in Houston, why not make brunch part of the experience?
If there’s one thing Houston isn’t short on, it’s places to learn about Black history. And you know I love a destination where I can mix sightseeing with a little history lesson! Here are a few places worth adding to your itinerary.
Start with the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, where you can learn about the contributions of the first Black soldiers to serve in the U.S. Army during peacetime. One interesting tidbit? Native Americans reportedly gave them the name “Buffalo Soldiers” in recognition of their bravery and resemblance to buffalo on the battlefield.
You can also visit the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC), which preserves and showcases the history and cultural contributions of Africans and African Americans, with a focus on Houston, Texas, the Southwest, and the African Diaspora.
For something a little unexpected, check out the National Museum of Funeral History. I know, a funeral museum might not be the first place you’d think to visit on a Black history tour, but hear me out! The museum explores African American funeral traditions, including New Orleans’ second-line celebrations, where music and dancing become part of honoring the departed.
Photos from Buffalo Soldiers National Museum
If you want to add more context to your exploration of Black Houston, I highly recommend taking a Black history walking tour. This was actually one of the experiences I had hoped to do during my visit, but unfortunately, the weather had other plans! I narrowed it down to two tours that would be at the top of my list if I return.
The first is offered by The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park. Their From Plantation to Emancipation: The Freedom Experience explores Houston’s history through three historic homes designated as UNESCO Sites of Memory as part of its Routes of Enslaved Peoples Project: the 1847 Kellum-Noble House, the 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage, and the 1870 Yates House. It’s an opportunity to learn about slavery, emancipation, and the people and places that shaped Houston’s Black history.
My second pick is a tour through the Freedmen’s Town Visitor Center, which offers guided walking and biking tours on Saturdays. You can also opt for a one-hour visitor center experience that includes the row house galleries and the African American History Research Center at the Gregory School.
Both tours offer a chance to go beyond reading historical markers and learn more about the people, places, and stories that shaped Black Houston. I didn’t get to experience either one this time around, but they’re definitely on my list for a return visit!
Houston has a vibrant Black art scene, and there are two ways I recommend exploring it through a Black cultural lens.
First, make your way to Project Row Houses in the Third Ward, one of Houston’s oldest historically Black neighborhoods. What started as an effort by seven Black artists to transform a row of shotgun houses has grown into a community-based arts and cultural organization. Today, the houses serve as spaces for art, community programs, and initiatives that support single mothers. It’s a great example of how art can do more than beautify a neighborhood. It can also bring people together and support the community.
And of course, you can’t talk about Houston’s art scene without mentioning its colorful street art and murals! The city deserves its own mural crawl. If you’re exploring downtown, check out Downtown Houston’s public art and mural guide to map out some stops. Grab your camera, take your time, and enjoy the creativity you’ll find throughout the city. Because sometimes, the best art galleries are right out on the streets!
(left) Project Row Houses; (right) street murals
You can’t visit Houston without getting into its BBQ scene! The city is known for its barbecue, so why not experience it through some of its Black-owned spots? Whether you’re craving brisket, ribs, or all the fixings, there are several places worth adding to your list.
Here are a few Houston Black-owned BBQ spots to check out that are the most recommended by locals:
Come hungry, because this is one part of Houston’s food scene you won’t want to skip! You can do a Houston Black-owned BBQ crawl with these spots.
Looking for a fun way to wrap up your day? Head to Kicky Mats for a creative experience with a little Black culture and a whole lot of fun! You’ll get to paint your own custom mat, choosing from designs that celebrate Black culture and creativity. Just be sure to think about how you’re getting your masterpiece home, especially if you’re flying!
You can also bring your own drinks, so gather your friends (or make some new ones), get creative, and enjoy the vibes. And don’t be surprised if the evening ends with a good old-fashioned Soul Train line. Because what’s a night out without a little dancing?
Want to keep the evening going? Houston has plenty of Black-owned bars to add to your nightlife list! I haven’t personally visited or vetted these spots, so I can’t speak to the experience firsthand, but this list of Black-owned bars in Houston is a great place to start exploring your options.
Looking to support Black-owned businesses beyond restaurants and attractions? Consider staying at a Black-owned hotel or bed and breakfast during your visit! Houston has a few options worth exploring if you want your accommodations to be part of your Black travel experience.
Here are two to add to your list:
Wanderstay Boutique Hotel
Houston’s First Black-Owned Boutique Hotel
Located in Houston’s historic East End (EaDo), Wanderstay Boutique Hotel offers a creative alternative to traditional chain hotels. Owned by world traveler Deidre Mathis, who made history as the first Black woman to own a hostel in the United States, the adults-only, pet-friendly hotel features themed guest rooms, local art, and a community-centered atmosphere. It’s a stay with a little personality and a connection to the city’s creative spirit!
La Maison in Midtown
An Intimate Bed and Breakfast with Southern Charm
If a more intimate stay is your style, check out La Maison in Midtown. Located in Houston’s Midtown neighborhood, this Black-owned bed and breakfast offers a boutique experience with personalized hospitality. With just seven guest rooms, it provides a cozy alternative to a larger hotel.
Want to explore even more options? Check out the Black Hotel Guide’s list of Black-owned hotels in Houston, which includes additional properties to consider when planning your stay.
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Have a little extra time in Houston? Consider extending your trip with a day trip to Galveston! Located about an hour south of Houston, this coastal city offers a change of scenery, from beach views and historic architecture to local shops and restaurants. You can spend the day strolling through the historic Strand District, enjoying the waterfront, or learning about Galveston’s rich history, including its significant role in Black history and the story of Juneteenth.
It’s an easy way to add another destination to your Houston itinerary while discovering even more of the stories and culture that make Texas special.
Houston is absolutely worth turning into a long weekend, if not longer! Between the freezing rain and the sheer size of the city, there was still so much I didn’t get a chance to experience. And that’s part of what makes Houston such an interesting destination.
Houston is a true melting pot, with more than 145 languages spoken across the metro area. It’s also BIG, covering approximately 660 square miles within the city limits. So don’t underestimate how much ground there is to cover. You’ll want to plan your activities by neighborhood and give yourself plenty of time to explore.
And let’s not forget the food! Houston takes dining out seriously, ranking ninth in a study of U.S. cities with the highest restaurant spending. Between the BBQ, brunch spots, and Black-owned restaurants in Houston, there’s plenty to keep your appetite busy.
I left with a greater appreciation for the vibrancy, diversity, and community that make Black Houston special, along with a list of places I still want to visit. So give yourself more than a couple of days, come hungry, and make room to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions. There’s so much more to discover! Houston is definitely worth a visit.
This post is part of my 50 States Challenge, where I document my journey as a Black woman visiting all 50 states by 50. As a U.S. travel enthusiast and Black travel curator, my goal is to build the largest collection of Black-owned travel guides and reflections on traveling while Black.
Through Unlock Black Journeys: The Podcast, I am also archiving the Black experience across all 50 states, one conversation at a time.
Texas is State 16 I traveled to. I’ve traveled to Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas.
Would you visit Houston, TX?
Because sharing is caring and it costs nothing!
Welcome to the Franny the Traveler blog! I’m Dr. Franny, a national award-winning educator, entrepreneur, author, and Black travel enthusiast on a personal mission to make every destination a Black-owned destination. As I visit all 50 states and 50 countries by age 50, this Black travel blog is a growing collection of Black-owned city guides, itineraries, travel tips, and reflections on traveling while Black for the conscious traveler. I’m so happy you’re here!
