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Shop Til You Drop!
The Houston metroplex has it all! From eclectic shopping districts famous for the impossible to find and the unusual, to top international shopping destinations like The Galleria, there is something for everyone.
. The Galleria - The nation’s 4th largest mall, with more than 375 stores, including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, two Macy’s and a Saks, you can easily spend the day exploring, shopping, then relax the evening away at any one of the beckoning, mouth-watering, dining destinations. 5075 Westheimer Rd. 713-966-3500.
. Highland Village – Don’t forget to head east of the Galleria to visit this shopping complex which caters to the discriminating shopper. This upscale center is home to many of Houston’s most prestigious retailers and fine dining establishments. 4055 Westheimer – 713-850-3100.
. Katy Mills - With hundreds of shops offering goods at outlet prices, shopping has never been this easy. Just a sampling of great places to visit are: Off 5th - Saks Firth Avenue Outlet, Neiman Marcus Last Call Center, Kirkland’s Outlet, Bed Bath & Beyond, Circuit City, BOSE, and Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. Don’t miss a stop at your favorite eatery either, before heading back out to shop for that perfect pair of shoes. 5000 Katy Mills Circle, Katy - 281-644-5050.
. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch – This sophisticated shopping district was created to house upscale shops and restaurants in an old era Main Street setting. The perfect place for a shopping spree, or a relaxed family outing at any of the year-round events held in Heritage Square. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd – 281-395-5533.
. Memorial City Mall – This newly renovated and modern, family-friendly shopping center boasts 1.5 million square feet of shopping pleasure with fun things for kids including an ice rink, a double decker carousel, a play castle fun area and 16 movie theaters. Anchored by Macy’s, Sears, Target and Dillards, the mall also features 3 casual dining restaurants along with a variety of food court restaurants. 303 Memorial City – 713-464-8640.
. Market Street – Incredible shops clustered around a town square create a unique shopping ambience that must be experienced. Dine at any one of the top notch eating establishments before ending your day at the movie theater. Situated just west of The Woodlands Mall and connected to the area and other surrounding businesses via the Woodlands Waterway Trolleys (Free). Woodlands Town Center, The Woodlands
. Old Town Spring - Explore over 150 shops located in this quaint, restored, railroad town and don’t miss attending the many fun filled events held throughout the year. Search for that hidden treasure tucked away in any one of the antique shops, or take time out to patch up a sick doll at the Doll Hospital. Located just a few miles east of I-45 exiting off FM 2920 Spring/Cypress.
. Outlets at Conroe - Buy famous name brands at significant savings at this conveniently located outlet center off I-45 at the north end of Conroe - 1111 League Line Rd, Conroe - 936-756-0904.
. Portofino Mall - Experience the beauty and elegance of this Venetian style mall, where you can take a gondola ride, relax on a patio by the water and enjoy the sound of water spilling over the many water features. 19075 I-45 S, Conroe - 936-271-4440.
. Traders Village – This 105 acre flea market in Northwest Houston is the largest one on the Texas Gulf Coast. With over 1,000 shops and a million shoppers each year, shoppers are treated to a street fair-like atmosphere. 7979 N. Eldridge Pkwy - 281-890-5500.
. Uptown Park - Truly the place to indulge yourself as you experience the many fine specialty shops, pamper yourself at one of the spas, or just take in the beauty of the lush landscaping dotted with fountains, designed to create an atmosphere reminiscent of an Italian piazza. Located at Uptown Park Blvd at the northwest corner of Post Oak and Loop 610.
. West Oaks Mall – Conveniently located at Westheimer and Hwy 6, this established and newly renovated mall, features over 100 shops and restaurants anchored by Sears, Macy’s, Dillards, and Steve & Barry’s. 1000 West Oaks Mall – 281-531-1332.
. Willowbrook Mall – This 1.53 million square foot mall features the most sought after retail shops and is anchored by Dillards, JC Penny, Macy’s and Sears. 2000 Willowbrook Mall – 281-890-8000.
. The Woodlands Mall - With over 200 stores and a variety of seasonal activities planned throughout the year, this popular shopping destination offers more than just the standard mall experience. Hop a water taxi and take a ride on the picturesque waterway before stopping of for lunch or dinner at any of the nearby dining establishments. 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr.
Museums in the Houston Area
EXPLORE THE PAST, EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE
Take a walk back in time as you stroll historic halls and gardens; amaze at the inner workings of the human body; quietly contemplate the horrors of World War II. Houston’s museums are here to provide you with an opportunity of discovering who we were, where we are, and where we are going.
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens – 1 Westcott St. – In the former home of Miss Irma Hogg, Philanthropist, more than 20 room settings trace the evolution of American style. Houses the American decorative arts collection from The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Fee. Guided tours available. 713-639-7750 for times of operation.
Children’s Museum of Houston (The) – 1500 Binz St. – 14 galleries feature hands on exhibits such as a science station, Mexican village, and Think Tank. Fee. 713-522-1138 for times of operation.
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston – 5216 Montrose Blvd. – Two galleries focus on national, international and local artists. Educational programs and lectures offered. Free. 713-284-8250 for times of operation.
Heritage Society – 1100 Bagby St in Sam Houston Park – Outdoor museum features 9 historic homes and buildings plus a museum gallery. Fee. 713-655-1912 for times of operation.
Houston Museum of Natural Science – 1 Hermann Circle – Focuses on astronomy, geology, anthropology, paleontology and natural history. Daily shows offered at the IMAX Theatre and the Burke Baker Planetarium. Fee. 713-639-4629 for times of operation.
Holocaust Museum Houston – 5401 Caroline St. – Holocaust is displayed through photos, oral histories and videotapes. Dedicated to help promote awareness of the dangers of prejudice and hatred. Donations. 713-942-8000 for times of operation.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center – 4501 Woodway Dr. – 155 acre nature sanctuary is home to a variety of native wildlife and plants. Hiking trails and a Discovery Room provide interactive opportunities. Donations. 713-524-2526 for times of operation.
John P. McGovern Museum of Health & Medical Science – 1515 Hermann Dr. Computer simulators, video touch screens, and interactive exhibits provide learning about the human body. Fee. 713-521-1515 for times of operation.
Katy Heritage Museum – 6002 George Bush Dr. – Pioneering history comes alive through old photos, artifacts, and vintage farming equipment from Katy’s farming past in this 9,600 sq. ft museum. Free. 281-391-4800 for times.
Katy Heritage Park – 5990 George Bush Dr. – Restored historical buildings include the Wright Museum, The Featherstone House, and the Stockdick House. Free – 281-391-4800 for times of operation
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston – 1001 Bissonnet. Permanent collection contains over 51,000 pieces, which include pre-Columbian, Asian, African gold collection, European art from antiquity to early 1900’s, modern and contemporary works. Fee. Guided tours available. 713-639-7300 for times of operation.
Rienzi – 1406 Kirby Dr. – Houses 18th and 19th century European art and antiques from The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston in the former home of Caroll Sterling Masterson and Harris Masterson III, philanthropists. Fee. Guided tours available. 713-639-7800 for times of operation.
Rothko Chapel – 1409 Sul Ross St. Octagonal sanctuary contains 14 large Rothko paintings along with a Barnett Newman sculpture in the courtyard. Free. 713-524-9839 for times of operation.
San Jacinto Monument and Museum – 1 Monument Circle, LaPorte - Rising 570 feet above the Battleground of San Jacinto, the monument is dedicated to those who fought for Texas independence. Fee. 281-479-2421 for times of operations.
Fun Things To Do
FAMILY OUTINGS, HOUSTON STYLE
Pack a picnic, load the family in the car, and hit the road in just about any direction, because you’ll find that no matter where you go - there’s plenty of fun for the whole family!
Alkek Velodrome – 19008 Saums Rd, Cullen Park – This challenging 333 meter concrete oval with banking turns of 9 to 33 degrees was built for the US Olympic Festival and is one of 21 velodromes nationwide. Fee. 281-578-0693.
Battleship Texas – 3523 Hwy 134, LaPorte – The only surviving battleship to serve in both World Wars, and the world’s last battleship patterned after HMS Dreadnought. In a long line of firsts - she was the first to launch aircraft; carry 14 foot guns; use commercial radar; and be a U.S. Museum Ship. Fee. 281-479-2431 for times of operation.
Bayou Wildlife Park – 5050 FM 517, Alvin – Tram tour provides visitors with a chance to observe animals as they freely roam. Petting zoo, pony rides and picnicking is also available. Fee. 281-337-6376 for times of operation.
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (The) - This spacious and beautiful outdoor amphitheater is considered the area’s Performing Arts Center. Surrounded by towering pine trees, guests are able to enjoy world class performances along with a variety of other programs in a wonderful setting. 281-363-3300, 2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands.
Downtown Aquarium – 410 Bagby St. – Amusement rides, a train ride through a shark tank and about 200 species of marine life are featured. Fee. 713-223-3474 for times of operation.
Forbidden Gardens – 23500 Franz Rd – This 1 hour guided tour of the 40 acre outdoor museum features 2 large exhibits recreating China’s Forbidden City & the tomb of the First Emperor Qin. Fee. 281-347-8000 for times.
FunPlex – 13700 Beechnut Street. Fun for the whole family includes bowling, miniature golf, roller-skating, children’s play areas, 3 cinemas, and hundreds of games and rides. Fee. 281-530-7777 for times of operation.
Gulf Greyhound Park – 1 block west of I-45 @ Exit 15, in La Marque. Enjoy the thrill of live greyhound racing along with simulcast horse racing all year round at this 110 acre complex. Billed as the top greyhound racing complex in the world, it also boasts a variety of dining options.
Hermann Park – 6001 Fannin – 445 acre park contains a zoo, museum, miniature train, water playground, jogging and hiking trails, golf and picnic facilities, plus migratory bird watching opportunities. Fee for golf, paddleboats and train. Free entrance, Free entertainment Mar. - Nov. 713-284-8350 for information.
Houston Zoo – 1513 N. MacGregor Dr. – More than 800 species and 4,500 animals are housed on this 55 acre park, along with a children’s zoo, and education center. Fee. 713-533-6500.
Kemah Boardwalk – 215 Kipp Avenue. Visit waterfront restaurants, quaint shops, enjoy daily shows, thrill to wild rides at the fun filled amusement park. Fee. 281-334-9880
Minute Maid Park – Downtown @ Crawford and Texas – Baseball stadium, home of the Houston Astros, is adjacent to Union Station, which has a renovated train terminal built in 1911 and a running vintage locomotive. Fee - Guided 1 hour tours. 713-249-8687.
Moody Gardens, Galveston – Explore the world’s oceans from within the 12 story pyramid where several different marine habitats are featured, including the Penguin Exhibit. Also visit the Rainforest and Discovery pyramids and the RideFilm and IMAX Theaters. Fee – Passes include admission to all attractions. 800-582-4673
Port of Houston Turning Basis – 7300 block of Clinton Dr. Narrated 90 minute boat tours of the Port of Houston aboard the 100’ Sam Houston. Free. 713-670-2416 for hours. Reservations recommended 2 months in advance during the summer.
Reliant Park – One Reliant Park – Contains Reliant Stadium, home to the Houston Texans and RodeoHouston; Reliant Center; Reliant Astrodome; and Reliant Arena. 713-629-3700 for ticket information.
Sam Houston Race Park – Features live and simulcast thoroughbred and quarter horse racing. Live racing is seasonal on the 7/8 mile turf track and on the one mile oval dirt track. Fee. 281-807-8760 for hours.
Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center – 15315 Beaumont Hwy – 2,800 acre wildlife area and State Park is home to a variety of bird and alligator, and is wintering home for hundreds of migratory waterfowl. Fee 281-456-2800 for times of operation.
Space Center Houston – 1601 NASA Pkwy. Johnson Space Center’s visitor center details the story of the manned space flight program in a hands-on environment featuring simulated space voyages, mission control panels, the NASA Tram Tour, the Robotics exhibit, along with the Astronaut Gallery and Starship Gallery. Fee. Guided tours available, along with films in the IMAX theater. Fee. 281-244-2100.
Splashtown – 21300 I-45, Spring – A popular Six Flags water theme park providing fun in a tropical setting. Fee. 281-355-3300.
Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center – 15315 Beaumont Hwy – 2,800 acre wildlife area and State Park is home to a variety of bird and alligator, and is wintering home for hundreds of migratory waterfowl. Fee 281-456-2800 for times of operation.
Houston's Theater District
ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE
Feel the chills run down your spine as you take in another splendid show, at any one of the 9 world class performing arts companies, in The Theater District. Second only to New York City for the greatest number of theater seats in a concentrated area, The Theater District is conveniently located between I-45, Walker, Bayou, Preston & Milam Streets. This 17 block area in downtown Houston, is sure to beckon you time and again, as it entices you with the broad range of changing programs, presented by these internationally acclaimed companies.
. Alley Theatre – Performs year round and is one of the nation’s most well known professional, resident companies. 713-220-5700 - www.alleytheatre.org.
. Broadway in Houston – Featuring touring blockbuster hits from London’s West End and Broadway. 713-629-3700 – www.broadwayacrossamerica.com.
. Da Camera of Houston – Specializing in innovative jazz and chamber music programming. 713-524-5050 – www.dacamera.com.
. Houston Ballet – Performing multiple ballets each year, the company has risen to the level of international acclaim. 713-227-2787 – www.houstonballet.org.
. Houston Grand Opera – Extensive travel, recordings and television appearances along with Tony, Grammy and Emmy awards are just some of the company’s many proud claims. 713-228-6737 – www.houstongrandopera.com.
. Society for Performing Arts – Unafraid to test artistic waters, SPA provides a rich and varied program of entertainment. 713-227-4772 – www.spahouston.org.
. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) – Resident company of Hobby Center for Performing Arts, TUTS brings classical and premier musicals to the Houston stage. 713-558-2600 – www.tuts.com.
. Uniquely Houston – A wide range of local talent are presented at Zilkha Hall at Hobby Center. 713-315-2525 – www.thehobbycenter.org.
...AND THE BEAT GOES ON OUTSIDE THE THEATER DISTRICT
Venture outside The Theater District and you’ll be pleased to discover that many awarding winning performing arts companies are within easy reach, waiting for the opportunity to tempt you with a variety of programs.
A.D. Players – Originally founded as a ministry to reach out through the Arts, the company focuses on family programming. 2710 W. Alabama St., 713-526-2721, www.adplayers.org.
Ensemble Theatre – This African-American Theatre is one of the oldest and most notable in the Southwest. 3535 Main St., 713-520-0055, www.ensemblehouston.com.
Houston Friends of Music – In conjunction with Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, the programming offered is some of the finest in chamber music. Located in Alice Pratt Brown Hall, 713-348-5400, www.houstonfriendsofmusic.org.
Houston Symphony - Philanthropist Irma Hogg started the Symphony in 1913 and it is the oldest performing arts organization in Texas. Located in Jones Hall - Courtyard level, at 615 Louisiana St. 713-224-7575. www.houstonsymphony.org
Verizon Wireless Theater – Experience a wide range of musical performances from jazz, dance, soul, rock and roll, to Broadway. 520 Texas Ave. 713-230-1600. www.verizonwirelesstheater.com.
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