The Esplanade on Navigation
A vibrant urban concourse in Houston's EADO, featuring colorful shipping container shops, lively markets, and public art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy markets
The Esplanade on Navigation
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy markets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban concourse in Houston's EADO, featuring colorful shipping container shops, lively markets, and public art.
"A beautiful addition to the neighborhood, host to weekend markets and a great place to walk, shop, and relax."
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Markets and events are the main draw; plan your visit around them!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Street parking and a gravel lot are usually easy to find.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Shipping Container Shops
Along the Esplanade
Discover unique art, crafts, and goods from local vendors housed in colorful shipping containers.

Community Markets & Events
Throughout the Esplanade
Experience lively weekend markets, from farmers' markets to flea markets and food festivals.

Public Art & Murals
Various locations
Admire the eye-catching murals adorning shipping containers, adding a splash of color to the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Markets and events are the main draw; plan your visit around them!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Street parking and a gravel lot are usually easy to find.
🛍️ Support Local Vendors
Discover unique crafts, food, and more from creative local businesses.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Relax
Enjoy the green space, benches, and tables for a peaceful outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Markets and events are the main draw; plan your visit around them!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Street parking and a gravel lot are usually easy to find.
🛍️ Support Local Vendors
Discover unique crafts, food, and more from creative local businesses.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Relax
Enjoy the green space, benches, and tables for a peaceful outing.
🎨 Admire the Art
Don't miss the vibrant murals on the shipping containers!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Esplanade on Navigation for its vibrant atmosphere, unique shipping container shops, and engaging community markets. Many appreciate the free parking and the relaxed, welcoming environment, making it a worthwhile destination for exploring local art and culture. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for crowds during peak event times.
"Beautiful area! Enjoyed walking The Esplanade with hubby! We came to the Comp La Flor Market! People are really nice and all. Vendors very creative and humble! Food was good and we found parking for free!"
Patricia Maldonado
"This is a very nice public concourse with trees, sidewalks, and space for small shops and vendors. Parking is easy to find along the street or in a gravel lot next to it. It's usually not very crowded, even during weekend events (pictures from 12/3/22 Tamales Festival)"
David Hsu
"This is a beautiful addition to the neighborhood. It's host to weekend Farmer's Markets, Flea Markets and Music venues. Otherwise you can take a walk, rent a bike, relax on numerous benches and bring a lunch and sit at a table under the trees. Or order from several Mexican restaurants across the street. Free street parking is available and there's no fee."
David Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Esplanade on Navigation is located at 2800 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX 77003. It's accessible by car, and public transport options may be available depending on your starting point.
Yes, free street parking is generally available along the street, and there's also a gravel lot next to the esplanade. Parking is usually not an issue, even during events.
The concourse features sidewalks and open spaces, making it generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Yes, you can rent a bike and ride to the esplanade. There are also benches and tables available if you bring your own lunch.
The best way to explore is on foot to fully appreciate the shops, art, and atmosphere. You can also rent bikes for a different perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to The Esplanade on Navigation itself is free. However, individual vendors or specific ticketed events may have their own admission fees.
The Esplanade is a public concourse and is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific market or shop hours vary, so it's best to check event schedules.
The markets themselves are typically free to enter. You'll only pay for any items you purchase from vendors.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check specific event rules or local ordinances regarding pets. Many outdoor public spaces allow leashed dogs.
Admission fees for special events like festivals can vary. It's recommended to check the event organizer's details for specific pricing information.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of local vendors in shipping containers selling unique crafts, art, clothing, and more.
There are often food vendors at markets, and several Mexican restaurants are located across the street.
Absolutely! The local vendors often have handmade items and one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for souvenirs.
Yes, the markets feature creative and humble local vendors, offering a great opportunity to support small businesses.
Prices can vary widely depending on the vendor and the item. You can find affordable crafts as well as more unique, higher-priced art pieces.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful shipping container murals are fantastic photo backdrops. The general concourse area also offers pleasant scenery.
While not explicitly stated, public spaces often allow personal photography. For commercial shoots, it's best to inquire about permits.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and vendors, and avoid intrusive photography.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the murals without harsh shadows. Evenings can offer a different, atmospheric glow.
The 'Music Box' mural and the vibrant shipping container installations are highly recommended for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Budget Travelers
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of EADO: Art and Community
This space actively fosters community engagement through regular weekend markets, including farmers' markets, flea markets, and specialized events like the Comp La Flor Market. These gatherings provide a platform for local entrepreneurs and offer visitors a chance to discover unique, handmade goods and delicious food. The atmosphere is often described as friendly and relaxed, making it a welcoming spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the creative pulse of Houston.
Beyond the markets, the Esplanade offers a pleasant environment for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or simply relaxing on one of the many benches. It's a testament to urban revitalization, showcasing how public spaces can be transformed into dynamic centers for art, commerce, and community connection.
Navigating the Markets and Events
Social media buzzes about specific events, like the Comp La Flor Market and Night Markets, highlighting the diverse offerings which can include food trucks, live music, tarot readers, and aura photography. To make the most of these events, it's advisable to check the Esplanade's or associated organizers' social media pages for the most up-to-date schedules and vendor lists. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to avoid the largest crowds and secure the best parking.
For those interested in vending, opportunities often arise, as seen in posts seeking participants for night markets. This indicates a dynamic environment where local businesses and creators are encouraged to participate and showcase their talents.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit