4 minute read
In for the Long Haul
by ⌘ ⇧ ⌥
OK, SO YOU WEREN’T BORN AND RAISED IN HOUSTON, BUT YOU’VE BEEN HERE LONG ENOUGH TO CALL THE CITY HOME. AND WHILE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU KNOW THE PLACE WELL ENOUGH TO GIVE TOURS, YOU MAY NOT FULLY REALIZE ALL THE THINGS THAT MAKE IT AWESOME. FORTUNATELY, NOW YOU DO.
VISIT THE TURRELL SKYSPACE
A modern marvel, the dramatic pyramid-like “Twilight Epiphany” outdoor Skyspace at Rice University designed by acclaimed artist James Turrell is a must-see. The open ceiling sunset light show is a brilliant wash of orange, pink, purple and glowing blue achieved by ingenious ceiling lighting interplaying with nature’s light. Reservations are required for sunset, but sunrise is also an option. Want more Turrell? Try MFAH’s permanent Turrell tunnel installation or the Skyspace at the Live Oak Friends Meeting House.
GO BATTY ON WAUGH DRIVE
It’s one of Houston’s peculiar secrets that a bat colony inhabits the Waugh Drive bridge over Buffalo Bayou. Watch millions of bats swarm under the bridge and exit in a steady flow for their nightly insect feast. During summer, show up 30 minutes before dusk. Bring a blanket and grab a spot on the hill next to the bridge for optimal bat viewing.
CULTURE UP AT HOUSTON’S MUSEUMS
Feel like an art insider with the Museum Experience, which features four walkable zones to help visitors learn more about Houston’s 20 impressive museums. The July 26 event centers on Zone 3 and showcases special programming at the Jung Center of Houston, the Contemporary Arts Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Walk or bike to each venue stopping at tasty food trucks along the way, no parking required.
GO ON A GLENWOOD CEMETERY TOUR
Pick a beautiful morning and take a 90-minute, guided walking tour of the Glenwood Cemetery. Docents will tell stories of the famous and not-so-famous Houstonians who rest here and point out the exceptional statuary on the Victorian monuments. Be sure to stop and say hello to Howard Hughes.
GET OUT OF YOUR RUNNING RUT
Leave your ‘hood and flaunt your running form on one of our prettiest urban green spaces, the Buffalo Bayou Park trail. It’s a nice hilly loop, less than 5 miles long, bordering the bayou on one side and Memorial Drive on the other. Make sure to stop by the “puffball” spraying fountain near Waugh. Very cool. Need a longer run? Jog on to Rice, Hermann Park or Memorial Park.
RAPIDS TO SKYSCRAPERS
See views of the Bayou City most don’t: from the bayous. Schedule a kayak (or canoe) excursion on the 26-mile official Texas paddling trail on Buffalo Bayou. And yes, there are natural rock rapids, kind of. Just show up ready to row—all skill levels welcome. Reserve in advance at bayoucityadventures.org or strike out on your own with maps, rentals and shuttle service available at buffalobayou.org.
HORSE AROUND WITH THE HPD
Yes, Texas law officers still do ride horses. The Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol utilizes a unique combination of donated and purchased horses, and they love attention. Equine lovers can bring apples, carrots and peppermint candy to feed the herd at the Mounted Patrol Facility stables. No horsing around! Pre-instructions are required at the start of your visit.
VISIT CHINATOWN
Arrive hungry. Pick up fresh fish at the massive Hong Kong City Market in Hong Kong City Mall, hit the amazing food court or dig into dim sum at Ocean Palace. Shop for jewelry, hand-dyed fabrics or lucky bamboo. Finish the day at one of several dessert bars in Dun Huang Plaza. Bubble tea, anyone?
REACH NEW HEIGHTS ON 19TH STREET
With blocks of boutiques, antiques and a dusting of cafés, the eclectic 19th Street shopping district is a haven for locals who avoid mall shopping. Fun events like the monthly First Saturdays Arts Market, and White Linen Night on Aug. 2 featuring artists, musicians and businesses in the ’hood, will keep you buzzing socially like a June bug.
SHOP, GRAZE AND BE AMAZED
Not just a local supermarket, Central Market offers an overwhelming display of, well, everything. Local or imported, you name it, it can be found among maze-like aisles. The market regularly hosts cheese tastings, wine tastings, outdoor grilling demos, cooking classes and concerts. It’s always a party! Always grab a basket; you’re not getting out of here with just a gallon of milk. Allow yourself to get lost in the maze (hint: look up to get out). Quell your growling tummy with samples of cake, cookies or dozens of specialty breads baked daily.
HPD MOUNTED P A T R O L
CHINATOWN HONG KO N G M A R KET
19TH STREET
CENTRAL MARKET
