Houston, Texas

Updated: Feb 17, 2024

On our roadtrip we spent a few days in Houston. It is located in southeast Texas near Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. We loved the world-class dining, arts, history, hotels, shopping and nightlife.

WHERE WE STAYED:

We stayed at the Hotel Vesper Houston, a Tribute Portfolio. It's a newly renovated boutique hotel experience, that combines luxury, style, and comfort in the heart of Houston's famed Galleria. It's just moments away from the iconic Galleria mall, museums & many other Houston highlights.

They have onsite dining at Caché Café for breakfast or an upscale dinner and craft cocktails at Caché Cocktail Bar.

State-of-the-art fitness center - Open 24 Hours

On Site Parking - $15 per night

THINGS WE DID:

Buffalo Bayou Park -

This is a 160-acre green space just west of downtown Houston. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, hike and bike the trails, go-to dog park. They have several places to picnic, relax, and enjoy the outdoors.

Eleanor Tinsley Park-

While in Houston we wanted to find the best spot to take a picture of the city skyline. We found that spot at Eleanore Tinsley park, which is located off Allen Parkway. This area is a great place to walk around and is part of the Buffalo Bayou Park. It has a huge open area that is perfect for capturing the city skyline. There also are walking trails, a skatepark and sand pit volleyball courts. Bring your selfy camera stand for a self portrait with the city skyline as a backdrop.

Hermann Park - Explore over 445 acres within this park!

Here are some of things to do in the park:

McGovern Centennial Gardens

Ginger Kale • Gift Shop • Bill Coats Bridge • Family Garden • Friendship Pavilion • Grand Gateway • Train & Pedals Boats

Sam Houston Park - This was an unexpected find while driving downtown. We happened along the park while exploring. What we noticed was many old homes and open areas that were within the downtown area. After finding a parking ramp, we proceeded to stroll through this area and look at these wonderfully preserved homes that are from the late 1800’s and speak to a simpler time. They had self guided tour information by using your phone and a QR code. We spent a long time wandering around and enjoying the area.

Gerald Hines Waterwall - Super close to our hotel was a fabulous landmark called the Waterwall. Located in Gerald D. Hines Warterwall Park. This is one of the most visited parks in Houston. This park is the centerpiece of one of the largest business districts in our nation. Oak trees line the sides of the park and at the end is a huge water feature. The Waterwall is a 64 foot semi circular wall. It recirculates 46,000 gallons of water. We visited the park and had the whole place to ourselves to take pictures and videos. It really is an amazing water feature. You must visit this park to capture some great photos.

https://uptown-houston.com/experience/parks/waterwall-park/

San Jacinto Park & Museum - Explore the history of an 18-minute battle that changed the course of history. The San Jacinto Museum features exhibits on the natural and human history of San Jacinto and surrounding areas. They have the world's tallest war memorial, honoring all those who fought for Texas's independence. Be sure to go to the top for awesome views of the entire area.

Houston Space Center - If you have any interest in science at all, you will have to check out the Houston Space Center. Get your tickets purchased online prior to your visit. They limit the amount of people entering each hour. Driving into the parking lot, you immediately see a replica of the space shuttle Indepence, mounted on top a Boeing 747. This gets you excited to see the rest of the exhibits. The Space Center houses many flown spacecraft. One of the most amazing sites was visiting the hanger of the Saturn V rocket. The rocket is 363 feet tall. It is impressive. Plan on spending at least two hours here and maybe more if really want to get into all the activities.

Find things to do >>> Book your tours and attractions. Buy now and pay later available!

https://www.viator.com/Houston/d5186-ttd?pid=P00157828&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selecto

WHERE WE ATE:

Velvet Taco - They feauture a variety of globally inspired tacos, all made in-house with fresh local ingredients and bold flavors.

Dine or Take Out Available

https://www.velvettaco.com/

Chips & Dip Trio

Chicken & Pork Tacos

The Breakfast Klub - VERY POPULAR - Hotspot diner for American eats, including chicken & waffles. I would highly recommend going early! The place gets packed very quickly and there will be an extremely long wait.

https://thebreakfastklub.com/