Exploring Houston with a Twist: The Tea Around Town® Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
If you’re looking for a unique way to see Houston’s highlights while enjoying a refined tea experience, the Tea Around Town® Afternoon Tea Bus Tour might just fit the bill. This tour combines sightseeing, history, and a touch of luxury in a cozy, pink double-decker bus—something that’s both playful and sophisticated.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the charming double-decker bus with climate control ensures comfort no matter the weather. Second, the curated selection of three premium teas paired with freshly baked scones and local bites elevates the typical city tour. Third, the live narration offers engaging stories about Houston’s landmarks, making the sightseeing both educational and enjoyable.
However, keep in mind that the price of $69 per person reflects a curated, gourmet experience rather than a full-day adventure. It’s a relatively short 1.5-hour ride, so those seeking a comprehensive tour of Houston might want to complement this with other activities.
This tour is ideal for those who enjoy leisurely, flavorful experiences and want to see Houston from a different perspective—whether you’re a visitor craving a taste of local culture or a local looking for a charming outing.
Good To Know

- Comfortable transportation with climate control and a cozy, pink double-decker bus.
- Curated tea experience with three premium teas and delicious baked scones.
- Engaging narration that highlights Houston’s landmarks and history.
- Great for relaxing and indulgent outings with a touch of elegance.
- Includes a souvenir tumbler to remember your experience.
- Passes notable sites like Minute Maid Park and Houston Public Library, offering good photo opportunities.
A Detailed Look at the Houston: Tea Around Town® Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

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The Transport: A Pink Double-Decker Bus with Comfort in Mind
From the moment you step onboard, it’s clear this isn’t your average city tour. The bus is cozy and stylish, painted in a cheerful pink shade that adds a dash of whimsy. Its climate-controlled interior ensures that regardless of Houston’s unpredictable weather, you’ll stay comfortable whether it’s hot, humid, or unexpectedly rainy.
Reviewers mention that the seating is ample and the view from the upper deck offers a delightful vantage point for snapping photos and catching sight of Houston landmarks. The bus’s design prioritizes comfort, making it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace and a touch of luxury.
The Itinerary: Sightseeing with a Flavorful Touch
The tour kicks off at the centrally located 500 Mckinney St, right across from City Hall. You’re encouraged to arrive at least 15 minutes early—timeliness is important as the bus departs promptly.
Once underway, your guide—whose name isn’t specified but is described as live and engaging—begins weaving stories about Houston’s past and present. As you pass by iconic landmarks like Minute Maid Park, Discovery Green, and the Houston Public Library, the narration adds context that makes the sights more meaningful. Passengers have shared that the guide’s storytelling style is engaging and informative, making the tour feel more like a cultural journey than just a sightseeing ride.
The Tea and Food: A Culinary Relaxation
The highlight for many is undoubtedly the curated tea service. You’ll sample three premium teas, carefully selected to complement the baked goods and bites. The scones, served warm with clotted cream and jam, are a delightful treat that many reviews praise as “freshly baked and perfectly flaky.”
The savory bites feature local specialties, giving you a taste of Houston’s culinary scene. The sweet treats round out the experience, adding a playful and indulgent touch. The pairing of teas and bites is thoughtfully arranged, allowing you to savor each sip and bite without feeling rushed.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Experience: A Balance of Sightseeing and Indulgence
Throughout the 1.5-hour ride, you get a relaxed yet enriching experience. The live narration makes the landmarks come alive, while the tea service provides a break from the hustle, offering moments of calm and enjoyment.
Many guests appreciate that the tour is accessible, with wheelchair accessibility and restroom facilities onboard. The smart casual dress code suggests that while the experience is refined, it remains approachable and comfortable.
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The Final Moments: Memories and Souvenirs
As the tour concludes back at the starting point, you’re left with a souvenir tumbler, which is a nice keepsake of your Houston adventure. Guests have noted that the value for the price—$69—is fair considering the quality of the tea, the comfort of transportation, and the engaging narration.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt start.
- All guests, including children, need tickets—so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with family.
- The tour operates rain or shine, so dress for the weather and consider bringing an umbrella if needed.
- The duration of 1.5 hours makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing rather than a full-day commitment.
- Since additional food and drinks are not included, you might want to explore nearby cafes afterward if you’re still hungry.
- The reserve now and pay later option offers flexibility for your plans.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate good food and drink, enjoy casual sightseeing, and want a comfortable, guided tour of Houston’s landmarks. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or friends looking for a light, luxurious outing.
While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it offers a delightful blend of history, local flavor, and relaxation—a winning combination for a brief escape or a gentle introduction to Houston.
Final Thoughts

The Houston: Tea Around Town® Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming way to see the city, combining the joy of a guided sightseeing ride with the elegance of a premium tea service. Its cozy bus environment and engaging narration make it a memorable, sensory experience—perfect for those seeking an elegant, relaxed outing in Houston.
The value for money is reasonable, considering the comprehensive experience packed into one short ride. While it may not satisfy someone craving in-depth historical exploration, it excels as a leisurely treat blending culture, comfort, and culinary delights.
Ultimately, if you’re after a light-hearted, stylish way to explore Houston’s sights while savoring fine teas, this tour is well worth considering.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it an easy, manageable outing suitable for most schedules.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 500 Mckinney St, Houston, TX 77002, right across from City Hall.
Is the bus accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and restroom access is available onboard.
Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, everything including the three curated teas, scones, savory bites, and sweet treats are included in the ticket price.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children of all ages need a ticket to board, making it family-friendly.
What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended to match the relaxed but elegant vibe of the experience.
Are there options for last-minute booking?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the “Reserve & Pay Later” option, allowing flexibility in your planning.
What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for Houston’s weather.
Does the tour include commentary?
Yes, a live guide will share stories about Houston’s landmarks and history throughout the ride.
This tour offers a sweet spot of sightseeing and indulgence—ideal for those wanting to experience Houston with a touch of elegance and a lot of flavor.
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