Houston Final Four weekend guide

HOUSTON — Final Four weekend is almost here and that means it’s time for Houston to welcome tens of thousands of visitors with some good old-fashioned Texas hospitality.

No game ticket? No problem! There are plenty of other things to do in H-Town this weekend, including the March Madness Music Festival and Fan Fest.

No doubt, H-Town can be a little overwhelming for visitors so it’s good to have a game plan. That’s why we’ve put together this guide that includes events, how to get to them and where to park.

The three-day music festival is free, but you need to go online to get a ticket in advance. You’ll need a government-issued ID at the gate that matches the name on the ticket and they’re not transferable.

The concerts are outdoors at Discovery Green, which is right across from the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston. It’s going to be hot and humid so wear cool clothes and comfy shoes. Don’t forget to check out our latest Houston forecast.

Tickets for Friday’s AT&T Block Party featuring Houston native Megan Thee Stallion are already gone.

Maggie RogersLil Nas X

Tim McGrawKeith UrbanLittle Big TownMickey Guyton

MORE: Hours, transportation options, where to park, FAQs

March Madness Music Festival bag policy: What’s not allowed inside

You don’t have to be a basketball fan to have a blast at Fan Fest downtown at the GRB Convention Center.

The family-friendly event will include interactive games, celebs, athletes and autographs. We’re the only TV station broadcasting live inside the GRB so be sure you stop by and say howdy!

Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door. Kids 12 and younger get in free. Fans with tickets to Final Four or the Astros and Rockets games this weekend also get in free.

MORE: Ticket info, hours, parking

DAILY SCHEDULE: Plan your day at Fan Fest

You can register for Final Four events here

Parking and traffic in downtown Houston can be rough on a regular day. Add the Final Four events plus Astros and Rockets games and you’re best bet is to leave the driving to someone else.

If you’re going to the Final Four festivities, you can ride the METRORail for FREE from Friday, March 31 through Monday, April 3. The free rides are on the red, green and purple rail lines. You can plan your route here on the RideMetro app.Rideshare apps and taxis are another option but be prepared for surge pricing and long waits. Rideshare and taxi locations:

Pedicabs will be running downtown Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 8 a.m., and Monday from noon to 6 p.m. Here’s a map of where you can catch a ride.

There is plenty of parking in downtown Houston, but there will also be a bunch of people, so plan ahead.

One of your best options is to park on the north side of downtown in the Theater District or University of Houston-Downtown, then jump on the METRORail.

You can also use one of several parking apps like DowntownHouston.org. Just click on the garage or lot icon of your choice. Some apps will allow you to reserve a space now for the Final Four weekend. Some will even show you how many spaces are available.

Here are some downtown parking hacks!

Some streets downtown will be closed all weekend so plan accordingly.

Avenida de las Americas between McKinney and LamarMcKinney between LaBranch and Crawford StreetLaBranch between Lamar and McKinney StreetLamar between LaBranch and Crawford Street

All METRORail rides are free this weekend and the light rail will take you from downtown to NRG Stadium and back.

You can also catch a FREE shuttle to and from the fan zones, stadiums and surrounding locations from March 31 through April 3. Look for the wrapped Buick Encore GXZs, Envisions and Enclaves at these three hub locations:

NRG Stadium – Orange Lot #13South Transit Center (Adjacent to George R. Brown Convention Center)Buffalo Wild Wings @ Midtown Crossing (510 Gray St. Suite C Houston, TX)

Check your hotels for free shuttle rides, as well.

There is plenty to do in the Houston area during the Final Four festivities in Houston, but if you want a break from basketball, there are plenty of other options across the city.  Here are 11 hidden gems in or near downtown Houston and some of the best places to enjoy the city’s diverse cuisine. 

If you’re driving to the games, here’s a map of the parking spots at NRG Stadium.

On Friday, March 31, which is Reese’s Men’s Final Four Friday, all lots are FREE.For games on Saturday, April 1, and Monday, April 3, the yellow, blue and green lots at NRG are open and cost $50.

MORE COVERAGE: 2023 Final Four in Houston

PLAYLIST: Final Four coverage