It is said that the Cheyenne respectfully named the African American soldiers that they fought against in the Indian Wars (1866-1891) "Buffalo Soldiers" for their ferocity in battle. While the first official army units were not formed until 1866, African Americans have fought in every major American war since the Revolutionary War in the late 1700s. Visit this museum to learn about the men and women who have fought for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. They have a fine collection of well-preserved photos, uniforms and other memorabilia and artifacts.

Cézanne is conveniently located above the popular Black Lab Pub. In the intimate, 40-seat venue you'll get a full-body jazz immersion experience. The performances are top-notch, and you can literally rub elbows with local, regional and national jazz greats. Keep your toes tapping to the lively music while sipping on a cocktail. It's the perfect place for a romantic evening, especially if you want to impress your date.

Located in the Museum district of Houston, this non-profit organization is committed to encouraging the process and history of craft. Major focus is placed on items made of fiber, metal, glass, clay and wood. The center also arranges exhibitions, where creative crafts of local as well as national artistes are put on display. And if you want to know more about this form of art, attend one of the many workshops, gallery talks and demonstrations organized by the center. The Asher Gallery, a store within the Craft Center, also has works of old and new artists for sale.

Art critics, architects and the religious community all eagerly awaited the 1997 completion of this golden-domed chapel, the cornerstone of the University of St.Thomas campus. Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, the final result is a stunning example of what Johnson terms "deconstructionist" architecture. The granite-and-brick chapel's starkly fluid exterior blends in with the rest of the academic quadrangle, and proves a fitting cache for the treasures within. Viewed in the chapel's natural lighting, the 14th-century corpus, concave stations of the cross and other religious statuary attain new dimensions.

This gallery carries a wide array of fine, contemporary and abstract art, along with sculpture, watercolors and more for your viewing pleasure. Different exhibits and artists are scheduled throughout the year, including the works of Sandra Colley, Sandra Sherrod, V. Chin, Andrea Wilkinson, Jim N. Hill and Louise Williams. Visitors to the salon admire the simple shapes of Hill's cowboy images and the beautiful hill country depicted in Williams' paintings. Come and see for yourself. You might end up walking out with something new for the living room.

Beautifully made statues designed by human hands provide hours of pleasure in this scenic outdoor garden. Well-known artists like Rodin, Giacometti, Matisse and many others have works on display. Cross the street after a tour through the Museum of Fine Arts and take a stroll down the red granite walkway that is surrounded by the Noguchi crafted wall. Viewing such wonderful creations in the great outdoors is soothing.

The vision of philanthropists, John and Dominique de Menil, The Rothko Chapel is a block away from the extraordinary art museum, The Menil Collection. The abstract expressionist Mark Rothko created 14 immense paintings for the sacred space, and the meditative aura that resulted is the true definition of tranquility. Renowned architect, Phillip Johnson, along with Houston's own Howard Barnstone and Eugene Aubrey designed the octagonal brick structure that overlooks Barnett Newman's sculptural tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Free to all and open to people of all beliefs, the independent site made it to the official National Register of Historic Places.

The Cockrell Butterfly Center, housed in The Houston Museum of Natural Science, promises an experience like no other. An impressive array of over 1,500 butterflies from across the world call the tropical conservatory their home. The three-leveled glass enclosure is an enchanting rainforest, punctuated with fascinating flora and an alluring waterfall. Marvel at exotic species of the arthropod, Blue Morpho, Atlas Moth, Red Peacock, Owl Butterfly and Longwing, to name a few. Housing some of the largest and rarest specimens, the vibrant assortment paints a picture of paradise.

Since opening its doors in 1987, this artist's collective has featured, promoted and educated artists and developed community awareness in the visual arts. Through dedicated programs and presentations, individuals and families have come together to meet and appreciate the varied cultural skills that exist in today's society. Visit this gallery in the downtown area, and support a non-profit organization that enhances the creative process of many different art styles. Hours depend on event.

This modern gallery, founded in 1973 to honor the late Sarah Campbell Blaffer, offers educational programs and exhibits for both University of Houston students and the public. Showings in the gallery change regularly, and many periods of history have been exhibited over the years. The current emphasis is on contemporary art of the past century. Previous exhibits have focused on German Expressionism, Vienna Moderne, 20th-century illustrations, and many others. The efforts of the Fine Arts department and this gallery are a definite contribution to the art of our society. Call for information about special showings.