Greenway/Upper Kirby, Houston: What to See & Do + Where to Eat, Drink & Stay

Planning a trip to Lone Star State’s bustling city of Houston? Carve out some time to explore the hip Greenway/Upper Kirby neighborhood. Situated just west of Downtown Houston and adjacent to the prestigious River Oaks community, this dynamic district is packed with antique shops, indie art galleries, and a buzzing arts scene.

At the heart of Greenway/Upper Kirby, there’s always something happening on Alabama Street, and the famous weekly Urban Harvest Farmers Market is not to be missed! The beautifully designed urban oasis of Levy Park offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, and Highland Village is the place to go for some retail therapy!

If you’re interested in the arts, the Color Factory promises a one-of-a-kind experience, and the world-renowned private art collection of The Menil Collection is a short stroll away.

Can’t decide how to map out your perfect Houston holiday? Plan your trip with this ultimate guide for what to see & do, where to eat & drink, and where to stay in Greenway/Upper Kirby, Houston.

What to see & do in Greenway/Upper Kirby

Color Factory

Take a rainbow-hued journey through the vibrant world of art at the Color Factory in Upper Kirby. Experience the joy of color through interactive installations, immersive rooms, and carefully curated moments inspired by the surrounding city.

You can’t miss the Color Factory’s distinctive white structure adorned with vibrant stripes at the intersection of Kirby Drive and Richmond Avenue. The exterior’s kaleidoscope of colors serves as a preview of what to expect once inside this lesser-known Houston tourist attraction!

At the Color Factory, you’ll step into a world of wondrous hues as you explore the museum’s 10 rooms filled with immersive art exhibits and mesmerizing displays. Connect with your inner child and dive into a giant ball pit. Sketch a portrait of the person sitting across from you. Hold hands to power an animated and musical display. Dance under a downpour of shimmering confetti.

Enjoy sweet treats, surprise giveaways, and complimentary digital photos along your journey through this multi-hued homage that’s become one of Houston’s favorite museums.

Levy Park

Escape the city for a few hours in the tranquil surroundings of Levy Park. Home to beautifully landscaped green spaces, an expansive playground area for kids, and a performance pavilion hosting theatrical productions, the park is a favorite go-to for locals and visitors.

Established as a private park by the philanthropic Levy family in the 1940s, Levy Park boasts an impressive range of activities and attractions. Wander through the tranquil oasis and admire the park’s rotating public art installations and sculptures by local artists. Find a quiet spot for a picnic and relax with a good book to chill out on your Houston travel itinerary.

One of the park’s finest features is the expansive playground area with its unique structures, climbing walls, and slides that provide endless fun for children. During Houston’s hot summers, they can cool off under the interactive water feature.

Enjoy live music performances, fitness classes, yoga sessions, and movie nights under the stars. Concerts, dance performances, and theatrical productions happen at the park’s performance pavilion.

A.D. Players Theater

Need a dash of culture on your Greenway/Upper Kirby visit? Catch a show at the renowned A.D. Players Theater. Founded in 1967 by Jeannette Clift George, this popular theatrical institution has been enriching the city’s cultural landscape for decades. The theater produces high-quality, family-friendly productions with a focus on faith-based and inspirational content.

The A.D. Players Theater is a staple in the local theater scene, producing plays that draw inspiration from literary classics, contemporary works, and adaptations of well-known stories. You can enjoy a repertoire of thought-provoking dramas, comedies, musicals, and children’s productions.

Enjoy an intimate and immersive experience on the company’s main stage, the Jeannette and L.M. George Theater, or the smaller black box theater known as The George Theater. Expect professional-grade sound and lighting systems and an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Alabama Street

The beating heart of the Greenway/Upper Kirby neighborhood is the vibrant thoroughfare of Alabama Street. If it’s action you’re looking for, this is where to find it!

Dating back to the early 20th century, this bustling boulevard boasts buildings with a mix of architectural styles that reflect the city’s history and growth. Appreciate the unique character and charm of the area as you wander along the road.

Alabama Street is lined with a mix of shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering an eclectic range of experiences. Wander along the street, explore unique clothing stores, browse art galleries, and discover local artisans and specialty shops.

When it’s time to dine, you’ll find numerous restaurants and eateries, from trendy brunch spots to hidden holes in the wall. Exploring the side streets and alleys off Alabama Street can reveal hidden gems and unexpected surprises!

Urban Harvest Farmers Market

One of the neighborhood’s best assets is the Urban Harvest Farmers Market. Held every Saturday along the Buffalo Speedway, this vibrant and thriving marketplace brings together local farmers, artisans, and producers to display their goods. It’s a must if you love fresh, high-quality, locally sourced products and want to connect with the community!

Renowned for its commitment to sustainable agriculture, vendors offer fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and artisanal and specialty foods. At the Urban Harvest Farmers Market, you’ll find an array of artisanal bread, cheese, honey, sauces, spices, and handmade preserves.

Beyond the delectable food offerings, the Urban Harvest Farmers Market also features various activities and events. Cooking demonstrations by local chefs inspire using seasonal ingredients, while workshops and classes educate attendees about sustainable gardening, composting, and other related topics. Live music performances and entertainment abound, adding to the already vibrant atmosphere.

Highland Village

Another fantastic place to burn a hole in your pocket is Highland Village. Boasting a modern blend of high-end retail, dining, and entertainment, this open-air shopping center is a shopaholic’s heaven.

You’ll find an impressive array of high-end fashion brands, including renowned designers, upscale retailers, luxury boutiques, and flagship stores. This is the place to shop for the latest fashion trends, designer accessories, or exclusive beauty products!

Highland Village is home to several of Houston’s favorite restaurants, like the ever-popular P.F. Chang’s China Bistro for outstanding Chinese cuisine and the swanky RA Sushi.

Where to eat & drink

Wondering where to eat in Greenway/Upper Kirby? This dynamic neighborhood boasts excellent culinary offerings, from laid-back lunch spots to five-star fine dining establishments.

For the best crepes in town, Sweet Paris is the place to go! This delightful eatery serves sweet and savory options made with fresh ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Tuck into classic Nutella and banana crepes, or go for a savory option like ham and gruyere. It’s an excellent spot for a casual meal or a sweet treat.

Nestled in a serene garden setting, Tiny Boxwoods is a beloved neighborhood brunch spot. Boasting a warm and inviting atmosphere and a tranquil ambiance, it’s ideal for a laid-back brunch of avocado toast and eggs Benedict. If you’re a night owl, they also serve dinner in a magical fairy-lit setting!

For an upscale dining experience, Roka Akor is a standout choice. This contemporary Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar combines traditional and modern flavors. Indulge in prime cuts of beef, expertly prepared sushi, and flavorful grilled dishes. The sleek, sophisticated décor and impeccable service set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

When it comes to enjoying a laid-back atmosphere with friends, Kirby Ice House is a local favorite. This spacious, relaxed beer garden offers an extensive selection of craft beers and cocktails. Grab a table on the large outdoor patio and unwind over drinks and live music.

Hip and chic, Five Central is a trendy gastropub combining innovative cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Expect artisanal pizzas, gourmet burgers, creative small plates, and a curated selection of craft beers, wines, and handcrafted cocktails.

Known for its lively Irish pub atmosphere and live music performances, McGonigel’s Mucky Duck is a must if you’re looking for a fun night out! Enjoy traditional Irish fare like fish, chips, shepherd’s pie, and a wide selection of beers and whiskies. And singing. Plenty of loud Irish singing!

Where to stay

As it’s situated along one of the city’s main highways, Greenway/Upper Kirby is an ideal neighborhood to stay in Houston for travelers. There’s only a limited selection of accommodation in the area proper, however, with just a handful of hotels and vacation rentals.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, extend your search to neighboring areas like Galleria/Uptown and Montrose or further afield to Downtown Houston, the Houston Museum District, Midtown, or the Energy Corridor.