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We Hit All the Best Spots in Pearland and Here’s How to Be a Tourist Like a Pro!

things-to-do-pearland

I recently had the pleasure of spending some time in Pearland, and was surprised that there were so many hidden gems here!

From lush parks perfect for a retreat to activities that keep you on your toes, Pearland is brimming with fun. The dining scene is equally impressive, offering everything from comfort food to local favorites that you won’t find anywhere else.

These are the spots that left a lasting impression on me, and I’m sure they’ll do the same for you. So, come along for an insider’s guide to the best things to do in Pearland!

Check out the Sculptures at the Pear-Scape Trail

Media credit: visitpearlandtx

Website: https://visitpearland.com/pearscape/

Address: 5750 Magnolia Parkway Pearland, TX 77584

Contact details: 

Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm

If you’re exploring Pearland, you can’t miss the Pear-Scape Trail—a lively and unique public art project that brings a splash of color to the city. These quirky, four-foot fiberglass pears are  hand-painted by local artists, scattered across town. 

Not only are they fun to find, but each pear tells a story, capturing the spirit and heritage of Pearland in creative ways. You will discover the start of the trail at the Delores Fenwick Nature Center, where it all begins. 

From there, the journey will take you to some of Pearland’s most charming spots, like the City Hall Gazebo, Zychlinski Park, Bakefish Brewing Company, and Independence Park. 

The Pear-Scape Art Trail, which kicked off in 2016 thanks to the vision of the Pearland Convention & Visitors Center, has become a must-do for both locals and visitors alike.

Pro tip:
Signing up for the digital passport’s a fun way to track your progress as you check in at each sculpture location. Plus, the more pears you find, the more points you earn—redeemable for cool prizes from Visit Pearland!

Drop by the Sri Meenakshi Temple

Website: https://www.meenakshi.org/

Address: 17130 McLean Rd, Pearland, TX 77584

Contact details: +1 281-489-0358

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:30am to 8:30pm

The Sri Meenakshi Temple in Pearland is truly a serene spot for devotion, worship, and meditation. The moment you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the architecture—it’s like a slice of India right in Texas.

Every deity you can think of is represented here, and the temple follows the Hindu calendar to the letter, ensuring that every festival and occasion is celebrated with full reverence. 

If you’ve never witnessed it, the sight of the majestic chariot being paraded around the temple during festivals is a spectacle you don’t want to miss. 

They also host cultural performances, set up stalls, and organize other events that add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Now, let’s talk about the cafeteria—it’s open almost 12 hours a day, serving up some seriously delicious South Indian cuisine. The quality is top-notch, and you can taste the authenticity in every bite. 

Pro tip:
If you prefer a quieter experience, visit early in the morning when the temple is less crowded. You’ll have more space to soak in the tranquility.

Visit the 1940 Air Terminal Museum

Website: http://www.1940airterminal.org/

Address: 8325 Travelair St, Houston, TX 77061, United States

Contact details: +1 713-454-1940

Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 8am to 5pm

The 1940 Air Terminal Museum is like stepping back in time to the golden age of aviation. Housed in a beautifully preserved art deco airport terminal, it’s a nostalgic glimpse into the early days of air travel. 

The museum is packed with old artifacts, and there are even photos of celebrities who once passed through these halls, adding a touch of glamor to the experience.

Outside, you’ll spot a vintage plane in the parking lot, but the real treasures are inside. Although only the first floor is open to the public, it’s filled with fascinating exhibits about the airlines that once operated out of Hobby Airport.

We found ourselves especially drawn to the display showcasing the evolution of flight attendant uniforms over the decades, not to mention the airline art and branding that’s changed so much over the years. 

And getting up close to an actual Lockheed aircraft? That was a highlight. If you’re into aviation or local history, you’ll definitely enjoy your visit here.

Pro tip:
If you have the opportunity, don’t miss the annex. It’s a bit of a walk, but worth it to see the trainer, a helicopter, and another airplane up close. 

Learn about the Environment at the Delores Fenwick Nature Center

Website: https://www.parks.pearlandtx.gov/facilities/delores-fenwick-nature-center

Address: 5750 Magnolia Pkwy, Pearland, TX 77584, United States

Contact details: +1 281-652-1960

Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9am to 5pm

The Delores Fenwick Nature Center is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and families alike. With its interactive exhibits and a chance to see live baby alligators, this place is both educational and exciting.

The variety of wildlife on display is amazing—alligators, fish, turtles, crawfish, frogs, and lizards! The trail area, although currently quite exposed due to newly planted trees, offers an interesting winding path rather than a simple loop. 

Just across Magnolia, there’s another walking trail paved with concrete, lined with fruit trees and bushes that you’re welcome to sample from.

This location truly allows you to witness nature at its finest. It’s incredibly engaging and kid-friendly, with plenty of spots to sit and observe the local fauna and birds. 

The fresh air and scenic surroundings also make it a perfect backdrop for outdoor photography.

Pro tip:
Bring binoculars! They’ll come in handy for spotting the many nesting herons and roseate spoonbills that call this area home.

Walk the Shadow Creek Ranch Nature Trail

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Website: https://www.parks.pearlandtx.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/40/2138

Address: 1801 Kingsley Dr, Pearland, TX 77584, United States

Contact details: +1 281-412-8900

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 10pm

If you want to reconnect with nature without leaving Pearland, this spot is perfect. With plenty of benches to rest on, a drinking fountain for both you and your pet, and shaded areas to escape the sun, it’s designed for comfort.

Wildlife here is abundant—you’ll likely spot blue jays, ibis, northern cardinals, northern mockingbirds, hawks soaring overhead, great blue herons, and even vireos. 

The trail is typically clean, offering lovely views and informative spots along the way where you can learn about the wetlands. It’s about .75 miles one way, so you can easily get a good walk in.

Parking is conveniently located just off the trailhead, and there are several stops along the way, including a dedicated area for nature watching.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to use plenty of sunblock, as the first mile has little shade. And be sure to use the restroom before starting your walk, as there are no facilities along the trail.

Explore the McGovern Centennial Gardens

Website: https://www.hermannpark.org/visit/mcgovern-centennial-gardens/

Address: 1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004, United States

Contact details: +1 713-524-5876

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 7pm

The McGovern Centennial Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the city, featuring a stunning variety of flowers and a relaxing Water Mount with cascading water that adds a soothing ambiance.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the green space includes a disc golf course—perfect for a fun game with friends. Families with young children will appreciate the playground, which has a seasonal water play area.

It’s an ideal location for a picnic or simply to unwind. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape in the city, this is the place to be. Nearby, you’ll find a lovely rose garden with an Asian-inspired pagoda.

Pro tip:
Parking is across the street and serves the entire park, so it can be a bit challenging to find a spot. Plan accordingly to ensure a smooth visit.

Get Some Exercise at Tom Bass Regional Park Section III

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Address: 15108 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77047, United States

Contact details: +1 713-440-1587

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 7pm

This is a fantastic spot for a daytime stroll around a charming little lake. The trail encircling the lake is just over a mile long and perfect for a leisurely walk or a casual run. It’s great to see so many young families enjoying the lake in the afternoons.

You’ll often find people fishing or simply watching the ducks, turtles, and other wildlife that inhabit the area. The 1.1-mile trail features quarter-mile markers and has been recently resurfaced, so it’s in excellent condition. 

The park also boasts several playgrounds for kids, benches for sitting and eating, and public charcoal grills for a cookout. If you’re planning a gathering, there are pavilions available for reservation for a fee.

Pro tip:
Visit in the early morning when the crowd is light and you’ll find plenty of parking.

Eat and Play at Main Event Webster

Website: http://www.mainevent.com/locations/texas/webster

Address: 1125 Magnolia Ave, Webster, TX 77598, United States

Contact details: +1 281-332-4500

Operating hours: 

  • Monday: 11am to 1am
  • Tuesday to Thursday: 11am to 12am
  • Friday: 11am to 2am
  • Saturday: 9am to 2am

Main Event is the ultimate destination for a day of fun, offering a fantastic range of entertainment options from bowling and laser tag to arcade games and billiards.

The place boasts a large selection of games, a full bowling alley, and even mini-golf! It’s an ideal spot for kids, teens, and young adults to enjoy with their friends. The buffet is a hit too, with a variety of pizzas, salads, and breadsticks.

Our personal favorite is the chicken sandwich. The regular one is great, but if you’re into spicy food, try the Nashville Chicken Sandwich. If neither appeals, you can always go for the grilled option. Plus, they offer wings, nachos, pizza, burgers, and salads.

Pro tip:
Don’t forget to purchase a play card—they’re necessary to enjoy the games!

Jump Around at the Urban Air Adventure & Trampoline Park

Website: https://www.urbanair.com/texas-nw-houston/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=website

Address: 20502 Hempstead Rd Suite 110, Houston, TX 77065, United States

Contact details: +1 832-447-1278

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday: 11am to 8pm
  • Friday: 11am to 9pm
  • Saturday: 10am to 9pm
  • Sunday: 12pm to 8pm

Urban Air Adventure Park is a fantastic spot for kids to spend a few hours burning off energy. There’s so much to do here, from jumping and rock wall climbing to dodgeball, a foam block pit challenge, and an indoor playground.

The park is easy to find and offers ample parking. Getting tickets and entry is a breeze with no long waits. They offer packages based on the duration and age of the kids, making it flexible for different needs. 

Food and drinks are available for purchase, and they even have rooms for hosting events like birthdays. The good music playing over the speakers adds to the lively atmosphere.

They also offer a membership program. For $12 monthly, kids can play unlimited, while the cheapest option at $9 per month includes only trampolines and the ninja course. 

Homeschool day on Fridays from 1-4pm offers access to trampolines and the ninja course for just $10.

Pro tip:
The $5 “parent pass” is only for parents of children 5 and under. Parents of older kids will need to purchase a full-price ticket.

Spend a Day at the Pearland Town Center

Website: https://www.pearlandtowncenter.com/

Address: 11200 Broadway St, Pearland, TX 77584, United States

Contact details: +1 713-340-0712

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm
  • Sunday: 11am to 7pm

The town center is a great spot to unwind, offering a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of stores and free parking right in front of the storefronts. The dining options are top-notch, making it easy to find a good place to eat.

One of the highlights is the outdoor seating, where you can enjoy your meal al fresco. On some nights, they even host outdoor movie screenings. 

If it gets too hot, there are two cool stone fountains you can spin to splash a bit of water on yourself—perfect for a quick refresh. 

This place is a lifesaver when you need a quick clothing item or a bite to eat. We highly recommend checking out Ugly Donuts for their amazing Korean corn dogs.

Pro tip:
If you’re looking to buy charms from Avery for your mom, head to Dillard’s. It’s much faster than going to the store in the mall.
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