Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

This museum is a part of Houston’s foundation and has served for over 80 years as an educational and cultural epicenter for the city and surrounding area with world-class exhibitions that draw visitors from across the U.S. The stunning, light-filled Caroline Weiss Law building is one of only two museums designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in the nation and the Audrey Jones Beck building is an outstanding architectural example by award-winning architect Rafael Moneo. Don’t miss the neon glowing tunnel by James Turrell that connects the two buildings under Main Street, as it is a work of art in itself. The MFAH is a versatile and ever-changing complex which features internationally-acclaimed traveling exhibitions and permanent collections, two art schools, a decorative arts center, a sculpture garden and an auditorium that showcases everything from cutting-edge films to fascinating lecture series. Like the Louvre or the Met, you can’t possibly see everything in one day, but the museum is built for comfort for those who plan to be there awhile, with plenty of comfortable seating and a Café Express which includes a lovely outdoor courtyard for an al fresco lunch.