Mission & History

Who We Are 

The Houston Museum District Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization representing 20 member museums, arts, and cultural institutions, each with its unique focus, within a nine-square-mile footprint designated as a cultural district by the State of Texas.

The mission of HMDA is to advocate for, partner with, and promote Museum District institutions in support of their efforts to enhance Houston’s creative and cultural life. In doing so, HMDA and our members collectively serve as a catalyst that supports Houston’s economy and improves its quality of life.

Our History

Eleven institutions formed the Houston Museum District Association on January 27, 1997, and received the IRS 501 (c) (3) designation as of August 22, 1997 (HMDA Form 990 2016). In 2010, the Houston Museum District was designated as a Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts.

The Houston Museum District Association is now comprised of the following 20 museums and organizations located within an approximate nine-square-mile area: