Welcome to Third Ward
You’ve arrived at a historic moment. Whether you’re from around the corner or out of town, you’re stepping into one of Houston’s most dynamic neighborhoods —where music, art, activism, and culture converge. This guide invites you to experience the legacy of Third Ward and its community institutions before and after the show.
Where You Are
About Third Ward
Established in 1836, Third Ward is one of Houston’s original neighborhoods. Over the decades, it has evolved into a vibrant center of African American culture, education, and activism. Legal segregation post-Civil War led residents to build a self-sustaining community rich in Black-owned businesses, music, and cultural institutions. Notable figures such as Jack Yates, George Floyd, and artists like Lightnin’ Hopkins, Arnett Cobb, Solange Knowles, and Beyoncé all have deep roots in Third Ward.
About Project Row Houses
Founded in 1993 by artist Rick Lowe and a visionary group of local creatives, Project Row Houses reimagined a block of historic shotgun houses as a site for art, community, and transformation. Today, PRH serves as a national model for socially engaged art and neighborhood-based development, supporting artists, youth, and families while preserving the
cultural fabric of the Third Ward.
About the Eldorado Ballroom
Originally opened in 1939 by Anna and Charles Dupree, the Eldorado Ballroom quickly became a cornerstone of Houston’s Black music scene, hosting legends like B.B. King and Etta James. After decades of dormancy, the venue underwent a significant restoration led by Project Row Houses and reopened in 2023, reclaiming its status as a cultural beacon in the Third Ward.
Explore Third Ward
Local Landmarks
Emancipation Park (3018 Emancipation Ave.)
Founded in 1872 by formerly enslaved people, this 10-acre park is a powerful symbol of freedom and one of the oldest public parks in Texas.
SHAPE Community Center (3815 Live Oak St.)
Founded in 1969, SHAPE is one of Houston’s most enduring Black community centers, dedicated to cultural education, wellness, and social justice through programs that empower youth and families.
Trinity United Methodist Church (2600 Holman St.)
A spiritual anchor with a deep history in local movements since 1865.
Texas Southern University (3100 Cleburne St.)
A historically Black university established in 1927, TSU is a cornerstone of higher education, culture, and civic leadership in the Third Ward.
Project Row Houses (2521 Holman St.)
Tour the installations, historic homes, and social practice projects that make PRH a national leader in community-based art.
Shop Local
Doshi House (3419 Emancipation Ave.)
A vegan-friendly coffeehouse and community nook offering soulful teas, paninis, and pastries in a cozy, historic bungalow.
Kindred Stories (2310 Elgin St.)
A Black woman-owned bookstore connecting readers with books and experiences that expand on the intersections of Black identity, marginalized voices, and the world at large.
The RADO Market (2310 Elgin St.)
An all-day cafe & neighborhood market for the Third Ward community bringing culturally-conscious prepared foods, fresh groceries, locally-sourced products, and a bistro-inspired menu.
Frenchy’s Chicken (3602 Scott St.)
A Third Ward institution started by the Creuzot family serving fried chicken, red beans, dirty rice, and other Creole staples.
