Explore Houston’s Cistern History on a Unique Guided Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and walking on slightly uneven and wet surfaces.
Overview
Step inside Houston’s historic underground water cistern for a fascinating 30-minute guided experience. Discover the engineering marvels and stories behind one of the city’s most unique landmarks.
Cistern History Tour
Starting at $15 | Ages 9+ | 30 minutes
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Book online ahead to secure your spot!
Rates
- Individual (Ages 9+): $15
- Seniors, Military, Students and Youth: $12
- Free First Thursdays generously sponsored by KBR
Duration
30 minutes
About
Learn about the architecture of this unique space and the history of Houston’s water system.
Schedule Wednesday — Friday 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm Saturday/Sunday — 12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm
Please note: children under the age of 9 are not permitted in the Cistern.
Parking Please plan on arriving 30-minutes before the tour to allow time for parking and check-in at the Cistern entrance located at 105-B Sabine St. Houston, TX 77007.
Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern. Overfill parking is available in City Lot H, located at 1643 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007, just to the east of Fonde Recreation Center.
Please note that ticket purchases are non-refundable. All proceeds support the work of Buffalo Bayou Partnership, a non-profit organization.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking on wet and uneven surfaces inside the cistern; sturdy shoes will keep you steady.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled tour to accommodate registration and safety briefings.
Bring a light jacket
The underground cistern maintains a cool temperature year-round, so a jacket might enhance your comfort.
Not suitable for children under 9
Due to safety and space limitations, this tour is recommended for ages 9 and up only.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons often seen near the bayou
- Eastern gray squirrels in local parks
History
Houston’s underground cistern was built in 1926 for emergency water storage and flood protection, reflecting the city’s early infrastructure innovations.
Conservation
Buffalo Bayou Partnership emphasizes sustainable urban renewal, focusing on flood management and green space preservation in the area surrounding the cistern.
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Adventure Hotspots in Houston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Provides safety and traction on wet surfaces inside the cistern.
Light jacket or sweater
Keeps you warm in the consistently cool interior of the cistern.
fall specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated before or after the tour, especially during hot Houston summers.
summer specific
Small flashlight or phone light
Can help illuminate darker areas, though tours typically provide adequate lighting.