Beyond the Lab: Top Things to Do in Houston When You’re in Town for a Bioskills Event

If you’re planning to attend or host a bioskills lab in Houston or a cadaver lab in Texas, you’re stepping into much more than just a top-tier surgical training experience - you’re also visiting one of the most vibrant, diverse, and exciting cities in the country.

Houston offers a perfect balance of world-class medical innovation alongside rich cultural experiences, delicious food, and plenty of ways to relax and unwind. Whether you’re a surgeon sharpening your skills, a sales rep supporting your team, an educator, or a medical device executive, there’s something to explore and enjoy before or after your training event.

To help you make the most of your trip to Axis Houston, here’s a guide to the top things to do in the city that’s just as impressive outside the lab as it is inside.

1. Eat Like a Local - Houston’s World-Famous Food Scene

Houston’s culinary landscape is truly a reflection of its cultural diversity. With more than 10,000 restaurants representing over 70 countries, this city offers food experiences that range from Michelin-star-level dining to humble but unforgettable street food.

If your trip to Houston is part of a cadaver lab or bioskills event, you won’t want to miss trying some local favorites close to Axis Houston:

• The Pit Room - A standout for Texas-style barbecue, this spot serves up smoked meats with all the classic sides, perfect for fueling up after a long day in the lab.
• Hearsay On The Waterway - Located in The Woodlands, this American cuisine restaurant is set in a beautifully restored historic building and is a favorite of the Axis team. It’s ideal for a relaxing meal or client dinner.
• Goode Co. Taqueria - For authentic Tex-Mex, Goode Co. Taqueria offers flavorful tacos and traditional sides that showcase Houston’s rich southwestern influences.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or planning a sit-down meal, Houston’s food scene is a must-experience part of your visit.

2. Explore Houston’s Museum District

If you have a day or two to spare after your surgical training event, the Museum District offers a cultural feast that is one of the most concentrated in the United States.

Some standout stops include:

• Houston Museum of Natural Science - Perfect for families or anyone fascinated by geology, paleontology, and space science.
• The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston - Home to an extensive collection of art from around the world, including European, American, and contemporary works.
• The Health Museum - Especially fitting for medical professionals, this interactive museum combines health education with engaging exhibits about the human body and medical breakthroughs.

These institutions provide a great way to relax your mind and expand your horizons outside of the clinical setting.

3. Enjoy the Outdoors (Yes, Even in Houston!)

While Houston is known for its urban sprawl, it surprisingly offers plenty of green spaces perfect for decompressing after a busy day in the lab.

Here are some local favorites where you can enjoy a morning jog, an afternoon stroll, or just a breath of fresh air:

• Buffalo Bayou Park - A scenic park featuring trails, water activities, and stunning city views.
• Hermann Park - A large urban park with gardens, a golf course, and the Houston Zoo nearby.
• The Woodlands Waterway - Just minutes from Axis Houston, this picturesque area offers a peaceful escape with walking paths, restaurants, and shops.

The weather in Houston is generally mild most of the year, making these spots a perfect balance to the intensity of your training sessions.

4. Shop, Relax, and Unwind

For those staying near Axis Houston or downtown, the city offers plenty of options to treat yourself after work.

Here are some great places to check out:

• The Galleria - Houston’s premier luxury shopping mall, home to hundreds of stores, restaurants, and even an ice skating rink.
• Market Street - A stylish shopping and dining area just a short drive from Axis, ideal for boutique shopping and casual meals.
• Trellis Spa at The Houstonian - A top-tier spa offering massages, facials, and other wellness services to help you recharge.

Whether it’s picking up gifts, enjoying a cocktail, or getting a well-earned massage, Houston has plenty of ways to help you relax.