Why Do People Visit the Beer Can House?

Let’s go to Houston and visit the Beer Can House! Wait. What? No, not to watch an Astros game, or to visit the Museum of Natural Science, and not explore the Space Center.

Let’s visit the Beer Can House. It’s literally a house with aluminum beer can siding.

We take a closer look at the Beer Can House, so you can decide if it’s worth a visit.

Let’s check it out!

What Is the History of the Beer Can House?

In 1968, John Milkovisch started creating a unique landscaping space of metals, rocks, and marbles around his home in Houston, Texas. He decided he didn’t want to mow grass anymore, so he completely covered the front and back yards. He enjoyed finding ways to use ordinary things so that nothing was wasted.

As he worked on the patio space, John would drink beer. He knew that he wanted to do something with the saved cans but couldn’t figure out what. He strung some together like garland and decorated the trees. After a few failed attempts at other art forms, John had an epiphany.

Using the tops, bottoms, and pull tabs, John created curtains. Then he flattened the cans and used them as aluminum siding. John had been saving empty beer cans for 17 years. Not only did they fill his own attic space but his mother’s attic space as well. He spent 18 years decorating what’s now known as the Beer Can House.

John was a creative artist who imagined how to use the beer cans and other ordinary items for a purpose. His wife, Mary, recalled how he even used some empty beer cans to cover the windows to reduce their utility bill. Although some people would pass by and roll their eyes, others would stop and give suggestions.

John enjoyed the company but continued with his vision. In 2001, the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art acquired the Beer Can House, and it now stands as a folk art monument.

Pro Tip: Love beer as much a John Milkovisch? Try these 7 Cheap Beers Perfect For Summer Camping.

Where Is This Odd House?

You can find the Beer Can House at 222 Malone Street in Houston, Texas. This is a residential street, so be mindful when you visit.

Is the Beer Can House Open to the Public?

Due to COVID-19, the Beer Can House was closed for several months. Now it’s open for a few hours on Saturdays and Sundays with advanced reservations. Tours are limited to eight people. Masks are required, and social distancing is encouraged. You’ll also want to keep an eye on the weather because the tours are partially outdoors.

Is There RV Parking Nearby?

Street parking is available near the Beer Can House, but you won’t want to drive your RV. Take a day trip into Houston and experience the sights and sounds of the city first. Then return to your RV that evening. Make sure to pay attention to road signs that indicate where parking is available.

Again, it’s a residential street, so be considerate and don’t block driveways.

Pro Tip: When on your road trip, make sure to be extra careful on these Most Dangerous Roads in Texas.

Why Do People Like to Visit the Beer Can House?

According to one estimate by Ripley’s Believe It or Not, more than 50,000 beer cans adorn the Beer Can House. It’s a work of art and a proud symbol of recycling. However, it’s not just empty beer cans. It has clinking pull tab curtains and concrete blocks inlaid with beautiful glass. It also includes holes in the fence filled with tiny marbles and various lawn art sculptures.

If you like quirky attractions, you’ll enjoy visiting the Beer Can House.

The tour lasts less than an hour, and it’s only $5 per ticket. You’ll have room left in your day to explore more of the Houston area.

Should You Visit the Beer Can House?

Don’t drive to Houston only to visit the Beer Can House. But if you’re already in the area, consider venturing over to Malone Street. Make sure to get your advance tickets first. It’s a fun piece of art, and you’ll learn more about John and Mary when you go inside the house. However, if unique art isn’t really your thing, you may want to skip it altogether.

Yes, someone actually covered a house in aluminum cans. But instead of tacky and weird, visitors call it interesting and unique. John Milkovisch was a regular guy who recycled his beer cans. And what he created is truly a work of art. Will you visit the Beer Can House the next time you’re in Houston?

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: