Houston Travel Guide

"Whimsical" doesn't even begin to describe the "over-the-top" decor at this Cordúa family Galleria-area "mainstay" where the "dark, cavernous" interior conjures up a "psychedelic" fantasyland that diners liken to a "full-scale production at Disney World"; "imaginative" South American cuisine is "well done" too and service "surpasses your expectations", so the "only complaint" is that the "noise level is extremely high"; N.B. the newer Woodlands branch is more subdued.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

Surveyors salute the "fresh, healthy meals" at these chain links that kick "fast food" "up a notch" with a "wholesome" array of Eclectic sandwiches and salads plus a "large condiment bar" to customize your order and "happy-hour specials" on wine too; prices are "cheap", though "noisy" digs and order-at-the-counter service have some relegating it to "takeout" only.

"Everything a steakhouse ought to be", this decidedly "upscale" chain lures "buttoned-down" "power" players with "flavorful", "artfully presented" chops; the "low-lit, dark-wood" digs and "attentive" service are "ideal for a special occasion or a business dinner", and even though the bill can be "way expensive", "you get what you pay for" here.

Located in River Oaks, the stately "historical home" of Houston's famed Hogg family is the "beautiful setting" for the Museum of Fine Arts' American decorative arts holdings, which include thousands of objects and furniture (circa 1620–1840) installed in some 28 period rooms; nearly as "stunning" are the "immaculately kept" gardens, which are "gorgeous" year-round and a "special treat in spring"; N.B. weekday tours require reservations.

Offering "something for everyone" just minutes from Downtown is this "huge, wonderful" park that's "home to the Houston Zoo and a public golf course" plus the recently enlarged and restored McGovern Lake, a "fabulous" Japanese garden complete with teahouse, the Miller Outdoor Theatre and its "excellent" free performances, and a miniature train that's "loads of fun for the kids"; some report it's "underutilized" in summer, but those who can take the "Houston humidity" say it's a "peaceful" "oasis" and the perfect place to "spend a day."

"Sobering, chilling and compelling", this "solemn" Montrose memorial and educational center dedicated to promoting public awareness of the Holocaust "will get your attention" with its permanent display, 'Bearing Witness', which focuses on survivors now living in the Houston metropolitan area; given that it also offers ever-changing traveling exhibits, "good films and lectures", guided tours and a well-stocked bookstore, it's "worth making time for."

At this Hermann Park heavyweight, visitors can "gawk at diamonds" in the "captivating" hall of gems and minerals, "listen to rock music while staring at stars" in the "top-notch planetarium", learn from a "world-class dinosaur exhibit" or take in a movie at the immense IMAX theater; for many, however, the real "standout" is the "fascinating" multistory glass butterfly house, whose "tropical forest"–like interior is filled with fluttering beauties that "land on your clothing" and "capture the imagination."

"Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!" – at this "exciting" zoo in Hermann Park, it's "easy to see the animals" in a natural-habitat setting that's "big enough to be interesting" but "small enough for a fun afternoon"; what's more, the creatures "look happy in their homes", which include a "standout" tropical bird sanctuary, a "special" snake house and an "innovative", "hands-on" children's area that kids consider "a blast"; P.S. "you can bring your own food and drinks."

This "amazing public course minutes from Downtown" Houston fills the bill for a "typical muni course", with "wide" and "forgiving fairways"; "it may not be the nicest" around (though some say it's in "great shape"), but it's "very playable" and a "good value for your money", thus it's "always crowded" and "getting a tee time" can be hard, though "walk-ups are usually available – especially for a single player."

The primary repository of John and Dominique de Menil's "impressive", "thought-provoking" private art collection, this Montrose museum located in the parklike Menil Compound features a "something-for-everyone" array that encompasses some 16,000 pieces from the Paleolithic era to the present day; what's more, it's "easy to tour", and the "awesome" building, designed by Renzo Piano, is "worth a visit" in its own right; P.S. as "an added bonus, it's free."

"There's not a bad seat in the house" at the Astros' home field, a "state-of-the-art" "showpiece" Downtown sporting a retractable roof that's an "unbelievable modern marvel"; other "neat features" include an antique-style train and a "variety of concessions", but some wallet-watchers suggest you "eat before you go" because the refreshments can be "pricey."

There's "art for days" at this "excellent" museum complex close to Downtown, which offers a "fantastic", "widely varied" collection "from all periods" plus many "must-see" traveling exhibits; insiders also suggest taking a "walk through the colorful and unusual tunnel" between the buildings or going for a stroll through the outdoor Cullen Sculpture Garden, home to more than 20 pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries; N.B. free admission on Thursdays.

"Calling all astronauts" – a "terrific" "combination of interactive displays, movies and tours" ensures that the "cavernous" visitor's annex of NASA's Johnson Space Center in Clear Lake is an "out-of-this-world" experience; options include "exploring various ships", "sampling space food", touching moon rocks and "trying your hand at landing the shuttle" via a simulator; N.B. for a behind-the-scenes look at Mission Control, call far in advance to reserve a spot on the four-hour Level 9 tour, which can accommodate only 12 people per day.

Folkies have been gravitating to this tucked-away Montrose club and its famous red-brick floor since the 1960s to hear local performers and big-name acts from all over North America; the space itself has even more history – several door frames and fixtures came from a mid-19th-century building; N.B. smoking's a no-no.

Those who consider Shania Twain country are in for a jolt at this real-deal roadhouse in River Oaks, where cowboy hat–wearin', Lone Star–drinkin', boot-scootin' regulars take charge of the dance floor and local and regional acts make regular appearances; don't worry if you can't two-step – there's plenty of outdoor seating and a full menu of grub to choose from.

Montrose scenesters and Euro expats and wannabes flock to this cafe-bar hybrid for its well-rounded offering of wines, beers and coffee drinks, as well as sandwiches and soups that are served late into the night; mellow live music and the works of local artists on the walls of this former art gallery add atmosphere, and on a pleasant evening a spot on the tree-canopied patio can make for a perfect first date.

Nestled above the Black Labrador restaurant in Montrose, this tiny jazz club is easily overlooked, and the cover and drink prices can be steep when a big name act is playing; still, those who discover it are rewarded with the opportunity to experience live music in a truly intimate setting.