A 30-minute, fully guided Cistern History Tour walks visitors through the history and architecture of this former underground drinking water reservoir in Houston, TX. Built in 1926 and decommissioned in 2007 after an irreparable leak was found, the 87,500-square-foot Cistern was rediscovered by Buffalo Bayou Partnership in 2010 and restored into a public space defined by 221 slender concrete columns and a striking 17-second echo.

Full participation involves walking about a quarter mile in 25 minutes, though stationary or seated tours can be arranged for guests who prefer them. Tours run Wednesday through Sunday, with last entry at 6:15pm, and reservations are required.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: No children under the age of 9 are allowed inside the Cistern.
• Physical limitations: Full participation requires walking about a quarter mile in 25 minutes. Stationary or seated tours can be arranged for those who need them.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: This is not an experience for children under 9.
• Individuals with disabilities: Stationary or seated tours can be arranged; notify the Cistern Attendant upon arrival.
• Pets: Animals are not permitted.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: 30 minutes.
• What's included: A fully guided tour of the Cistern's history and architecture.
• Who will be present: A docent will lead the tour, along with other guests booked for the same time slot.
• Photo/video: Photography is allowed, but tripods or stands are not permitted.
• Specific rules to follow: No eating, drinking, or gum-chewing, no smoking, no running or excessive noise, and all bags must be secured. Guests must follow all posted Cistern rules and staff instructions.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: This is an indoor experience.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive about 30 minutes early for parking and check-in. Latecomers may not be admitted.
• Parking: Limited free parking is available at The Water Works lot (105-B Sabine Street) and along Sabine Street. Additional parking is available at City of Houston Lot H and along Allen Parkway.
• What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Anything else I should know before going on this experience?

• The Cistern is a dim space with no windows; guests experiencing difficulties should proceed to the nearest exit.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds or rescheduling are allowed once the experience is booked.