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The next time you get hungry, consider heading out for some amazing BBQ. Dickinson and the surrounding area offer outstanding BBQ joints to help satisfy your cravings. Whether you're in the mood for a lot of food, or you're hankering for the spiciest BBQ sauce you can find, check out these local spots for a delicious meal. more Dickinson BarBQue & Steakhouse Located at 2111 Fm 517 E in Dickinson, Dickinson BarBQue & Steakhouse is one of the favorites in the area. It is open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Choose from meats such as ham, chicken, pulled pork, brisket, or turkey breast. Steaks range in size from 7 oz. to 24 oz. Don't pass up on the appetizers, with options such as fried pickles, hand-battered onion rings, and gator tators. If you're not exactly in the mood for BBQ, consider the burgers or sandwiches. Red River Bar-B-Que Company Head about four miles outside of Dickinson for Red River Bar-B-Que Company. This restaurant is located at 1911 E. Main St. in League City. Start your meal with bar-b-cue nachos, fried mushrooms, jalapeno shrimp poppers, or smokin' wings. If you're in the mood for a light meal, consider the chopped brisket taco salad or the salad bar. Bar-b-que plates include pork ribs, sausage, brisket, or a meat combo. Don't forget your sides, which include cole slaw, Mom's Potato Salad, macaroni and cheese, and fried okra. There are daily specials, allowing you to try something new every time you visit. Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q At just over five miles from Dickinson, Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q is a great option when you're in the mood for something amazing. Located at 21361 Gulf Fwy in Weber, this restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Come in for breakfast and grab brisket and egg, jalapeno sausage and egg, or bacon and egg breakfast tacos. For lunch and dinner, choose your meat, including options such as pork loin, jalapeno sausage, pulled pork, brisket, and spare ribs. Kat's Barbecue Head to 3805 FM 646 Rd N in Santa Fe for Kat's Barbecue. This is only about six miles from Dickinson and is a local favorite. You can get your meats by the pound, on sandwiches, or on plates. They offer kids' meals, including chopped beef or a grilled cheese sandwich. Try the Kat's Plate, which includes pulled pork, ribs, brisket, sausage, and your choice of three sides. Sides include mac and cheese, BBQ beans, potato salad, mac salad, and coleslaw. Another option for your meal is a baked potato with all the toppings. Finding delicious barbecue isn't difficult when you're in Texas. Head out to some of the best BBQ joints in the area, and find your new favorite today. Whether you're in the mood for classic BBQ or something a little different, you're sure to find something for everyone with the BBQ options around Dickinson. This photo, “ Pulled Pork Sandwich,” by Richard used under CC BY-SA 2.0. “ Pulled Pork Sandwich” is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Summer is nearly here and that means that every family will be planning their summer vacations. Many of those families will be taking road trips. Road trips are a great way to go on vacation without spending too much on travel expenses. You can see the country first-hand while heading toward a great destination. Texas is full of places to visit that you can easily drive to. The scenery and other destinations along the way make it more fun to drive than to fly. If you are planning a road trip through Texas this summer, here are the three best road trips in Texas. more Alien Watching in Marfa, TX Marfa, TX is the home of some mysterious apparitions at night. They have appeared there, seemingly at random, for over one hundred years. The lights can be seen at night in different colors and movements. Some speculate that they are the result of government experiments, but they have been there since before any government experiments started. Others think that it might be because of alien activity, but there isn't any proof of that either, but scientific research has not shown a reason for the lights. Regardless, you can road trip to Marfa for a few days to see them. They are a great night-time vacation activity to get into. Plus, Marfa is near Big Bend National Park, which is a great daytime activity. Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, TX If you want to road trip to a major city in Texas but still be able to relax, try Austin. It's a great place to experience the excitement of the big city, but also be able to find a place to relax. The Lake Austin Spa Resort offers a variety of relaxing activities for the whole family that will help you unwind. The Spa offers all of the usual spa amenities like massages and relaxing activities. You can take a quiet tube ride through the lake to get some sun and relaxation. You can also get the Best Facial Ever, which is said to take 10 years off of your face. There are other relaxing outdoor and city places nearby if you want a longer and more varied vacation. Austin is a great destination for vacationers. Sports Arenas in Arlington, TX If you are into professional sports, then Arlington is the place for you to road trip to. Arlington has several sports venues and teams. Basketball season is winding down, but baseball season is starting up. There are a scheduled 30 games for the Texas Rangers in a short period of time, ensuring that you can get all of the sports action that you want. Plan your road trip appropriately and you can catch several different games during your stay. Road tripping is a great way to travel if you have the appropriate plans and vehicle. Plan ahead to make sure that you have everything that you need to travel safely and comfortable. Visit your local Kia as well to get your car tuned up before you leave. If your car can't make the trip safely, any Kia dealer can help you find one that can do the job. This photo, “ Roadtrip,” by einalem used under CC BY-SA 2.0. “ Roadtrip” is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

National Pet Month is quickly approaching, and pet owners around the country are looking for the best ways to celebrate with their pets. There are plenty of great ways to celebrate with your pet. What matters most is that you're together. Stores, restaurants, and cities around the country are planning events. Take advantage of these opportunities to have fun in new and exciting ways with your pet this May. If you are looking for a new way to celebrate National Pet Month, here are three ways to celebrate National Pet Month. more Dinner Out With Your Pet Like any other celebration, going out to dinner is a great way to celebrate. There are a lot of pet-friendly restaurants around the country. Take your pet there to get something special. Just make sure that whatever you two end up eating is appropriate for your pet's species. It's easy to find a place where you can have dinner under the stars with your best friend. Look for places with plenty of outdoor seating and encourage people to bring their pets. You could also bring a pet-friendly cupcake for your pet to mark the occasion. Going Shopping Another way to celebrate National Pet Month is to go shopping with your pet and splurge on something to make your pet more comfortable at home. Many pet stores will have sales for the month that you can take advantage of to get fun stuff for your pet. If you've been waiting to replace your dog's bed, try to find one the is more of an upgrade than a replacement. If your pet has everything that he/she needs, try finding treats that your pet will like. It's okay to spoil your pet more during National Pet Month. Just do so responsibly so that you don't make your pet sick. Getting Caught Up on Pet Care Needs While it is fun to spoil your pet and go fun places, you also need to make sure that your pet is caught up on his or her health needs. Pets need vaccinations and medical checkups to ensure that they will stay healthy for a long time. National Pet Month was started to promote better pet care. Celebrate the month by ensuring that your pet has his or her medical needs met. Veterinary services should be at a slight discount during the month. So, take advantage of sales and other opportunities to ensure that your pet stays as healthy as possible. There are plenty of ways to celebrate National Pet Month with your pet. While it can be fun to celebrate, make sure that you do so responsibly. Make sure that our pet has his or her health needs met first. Also, make sure that you have the appropriate tags or other credentials if you are going to take your pet out. There will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate throughout the month. Take advantage of these opportunities to have a great time with your pet for years to come. This photo, “ Is there a problem officer?” by James Havard used under CC BY 2.0. “ Is there a problem officer?” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Houston is a town that never stops moving. This vibrant city has plenty of opportunities for fun and excitement, whether you're a long-time resident, a newcomer, or are just passing through. However, because there's such a wide variety of recreational opportunities in Houston, it can be hard to know which events are right for you. If you want to make sure that you have a great time in Houston this April, make plans to attend some of the city's upcoming events. more Brian Robison Reel 'Em In Foundation Fishing Tournament There's almost nothing more relaxing than spending a day fishing, and if you're an angling enthusiast, then a perfect event in Houston is the annual Brian Robison Reel 'Em In Foundation Fishing Tournament on April 1. Although it's a newer event, only in its second year of existence, the tournament is a great opportunity for fun. After the fishing tournament, which will feature Robison, who is a Minnesota Vikings defensive end, and other NFL players, there will be a silent auction and a VIP dinner, making the tournament an all-day event that you'll want to attend every single year. Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair Great food and drink is a long-standing tradition in Houston, and if you want to sample some of the area's finest cuisine and learn about its culinary roots, visit the 14th Annual Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair. Taking place over four days — April 6-9 — this beloved event provides some great chances to enjoy mouth-watering food and drink. At The Grand Tasting, you can sample food from some of the world's top chefs, and the Sip & Stroll allows you to experience delicious food with a drink in your hand. If you love food and live in Houston, the Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair is the perfect event for you. 94.5 FM Buzzfest If you're someone who loves great music, then you're probably always on the hunt for a music festival. Fortunately, if you are in the Houston area on April 15th, you can attend the latest edition of the 94.5 FM Buzzfest. Hosted by a local Houston radio station, this annual concert features some of the best alternative music of today and yesteryear. By attending Buzzfest, you'll be able to enjoy some great music and may even make some new friends. Tickets may sell out quickly, so make sure to get yours as soon as possible. Texas Rockin' Seafood Festival It's been said that everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes its seafood. If you're the type of person who loves seafood and great music, then the perfect event in Houston this April is the annual Texas Rockin' Seafood Festival. Scheduled for the weekend of April 21st, the Rockin' Seafood Festival will feature local vendors selling some of the most delicious seafood you've ever had, including crawfish, shrimp, and crab. There will also be several excellent bands to add to the fun and excitement.   Spend some time at one of these April events in Houston, and you're guaranteed to have a fun time that you'll want to recreate year after year. This photo, “ Houston,” by Katie Haugland Bowen used under CC BY 2.0. “ Houston” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Connecting with people who share the same interests as you can be difficult in a large state like Texas. While many people attempt to network on the internet, one of the best ways to meet people with your same goals and interests is by attending conventions. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to be on the cutting edge of business and technology, or a fan of comic books, games, or sports, Texas offers several exciting conventions that you need to know about. more By attending upcoming conventions around Texas, you'll be able to make new friends and increase your networking capacity. El Paso Comic Con No one does conventions quite like comic book enthusiasts, and if you're interested in attending a comic book convention in Texas, you should consider taking part in the El Paso Comic Con. This year's convention takes place April 21-23 and offers you a great opportunity to meet fellow Texas comic book fans and the creators of some of your favorite books. If you want to attend the El Paso Comic Con, you'll need to buy either a $55 weekend pass or a $120 VIP pass, which gives you premium access to the weekend's most exciting exhibits. Featured at this year's Comic Con will be such guests as former "X-Men" writer Chris Claremont, WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, and actors Alan Tudyk and Nicholas Brendon. South by Southwest 2017 Perhaps the world's most well-known convention is back this year and is better than ever: South by Southwest (SXSW). Unlike other conventions, SXSW is comprised of different festivals that feature influencers in both the arts and business. As in years past, SXSW 2017 will feature an Interactive Festival for networking opportunities, as well as festivals focused on music, movies, and comedy. A few of this year's most exciting sessions include conversations with popular figures like Nick Offerman, Rachael Ray, Buzz Aldrin, and U.S. Sen. Corey Booker. SXSW 2017 takes place March 10-19. If you're interested in being part of this year's convention, you need to buy a pass. You can buy an individual pass for whichever festival you most want to attend, or a $1,550 Platinum Pass for access to the entire convention. Fan Expo Dallas If you're like many people, then you have a wide range of interests, which means that you'll want to visit a convention that has options for all of your favorite things. For a convention with a variety of exhibits and personalities, you should consider attending Fan Expo Dallas. Scheduled March 31-April 2, Fan Expo is a convention designed for fans of comics, science fiction, horror, video games, and anime. Truly, this convention has something for everybody. Notable figures at this year's Fan Expo include Stan Lee, Tim Curry, Adam West, and Mark Hamill. Tickets for Fan Expo Dallas are available now, and cost $89 for an individual three-day pass. You can also purchase a premium pass for $129 for access to all events and guests. Attend one of these exciting upcoming conventions around Texas and make memories that will last forever. This photo, “ All Texas,” by Kevin Dooley used under CC BY 2.0. “ All Texas” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

If you're planning to visit Houston, a walking tour is a great way to see the many attractions that this large metropolis offers. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or a huge fan of NASA (or all of the above!), Houston has something just for you. more Underground Tunnel Tour Did you know that Houston has seven miles of pedestrian tunnels 20 feet below the downtown core? This underground tunnel network not only connects 80 different buildings but also has its own collection of shops and restaurants. If you've never seen an underground city before, you'll want to check this out. You can grab a map and go on a self-guided tour or have a local show you around. Houston Historical Tours offers three guided underground tunnel outings. You'll visit historic buildings such as the JPMorgan Chase Tower and the Wells Fargo Plaza. Depending on the tour, you may also see Pennzoil Place, the award-winning skyscraper designed by Philip Johnson and John Burgee. Walking Food Tours As the largest city in Texas, Houston has so many fine restaurants that you may as well let a local show you the hottest spots to eat. The Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau offers three different walking food tours that each explore a specific neighborhood: Downtown, Montrose, and The Heights. For each three-hour tour, your guide will take you to various restaurants and explain the area's history and culture. The food may include Italian, Modern American, Tex-Mex, Progressive French, Spanish, and Classic Southern cuisine. Foodies will appreciate this relaxed excursion that combines culture with dining recommendations. Downtown Walking Tour We would be remiss if we didn't include the classic downtown — above ground, this time — walking tour. If you're a fan of history and architecture, you won't want to skip this attraction. Many buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s are still standing, including the 1847 Kellum-Noble plantation-style house, which is the oldest surviving building constructed in Houston. You may also see the 1870 home of the civil rights leader Jack Yates. Additionally, you'll pass through one of the many parks in Houston, such as Sam Houston Park or Buffalo Bayou Park. For your lunch break, you may stop to eat at the Hard Rock Cafe or at one of the restaurants in Market Square Park, depending which tour you sign up for. Space Center Houston Don't worry, we haven't forgotten about NASA! There are more than 400 things to see at Space Center Houston, most of which you won't find anywhere else in the country. If you opt for a self-guided tour, make sure to stop by the Starship Gallery to touch a real moon rock. To go behind the scenes of the NASA Johnson Space Center, sign up for the NASA Tram Tour. For a VIP experience, you can sign up for the Level 9 Tour. It includes a free lunch at the Johnson Space Center and exclusive access to buildings not available to regular visitors. How cool is that? Houston is a large city with many interesting attractions. Plan ahead of time and choose a walking tour so you can get the most out of your visit! This photo, “ Space suits at Space Center Houston,” by Heather Cowper used under CC BY 2.0. “ Space suits at Space Center Houston” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

If you're planning on taking your date our for a meal in Dickinson, Texas, you'll want to take advantage of some of the best-quality restaurants in town. more Opus Bistro Located in the heart of town, Opus is the place to go for savory seafood. Try the crab served with asparagus and a hearty Hollandaise, or the creamy fettuccine with crab and shrimp. We love Opus because you don't need to be a total foodie to enjoy it: Bring your friend who relishes the classics; he or she will be impressed by the Caesar salad and French onion soup. Asparagus Parmesan and the juicy Portobello Mushroom are delectable alternatives for vegetarians. Reservations for dinner are welcome, and you can make them up to a full month in advance by calling Opus from 5 to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Getting hungry? Enjoy a peek at the catering menu. Monterey's Little Mexico If crunchy nachos and mouth-watering spice is your thing, then Little Mexico in downtown Dickinson, Texas, is your place. It offers a casual, warm atmosphere that's great for dining with family and dates alike. Try the Stacked Enchilada with fresh spinach and chicken, or the Steak al Carbon, which offers succulent meat mixed with ranchero sauce and cheese. The feisty flavors are a delight to experience. To reserve a spot for lunch or dinner, give them a call or contact them online. Stomps Stomps is a quality American restaurant that shows off exactly what the Texas restaurant atmosphere is about: good cuisine and good times. The best asset to this sweet restaurant, with its cozy, barn-like feel, is its home-cooked food. All-time favorites include the thick and juicy, much-loved Texas hamburgers that'll keep you coming back for more. Reservations aren't necessary at this casual restaurant, but feel free to call them if you have any concerns about not getting a table. Gilhooley's Restaurant This mid-priced, seafood-serving, patio restaurant offers dim lighting for an intimate experience, and wholesome, tasty food. It's a good eatery-bar for a laid-back first date. Try their famous fried oysters, or keep it simple with fish and chips. Take a friend for a late-night drink or to catch up. If you're interested in joining the fun, there's no need to reserve in advance. Eculent For a special occasion, Eculent is your city wine bar where you can get together in an intimate setting with someone you love. The food is of outstanding arrangement and is vegetarian-friendly. The menu includes urban selections such as the "Tree of Life," which features Tete de Moine and cultured butter. The "Edible Forest" dish serves up enoki mushrooms with escargot. Don't forget to order a glass of "Vineyard Snow," which is wine glacee: a tasty treat. Reservations for Eculent can be made via OpenTable. On your next road trip to Dickinson, Texas, don't forget to make time to eat well at some fantastic venues. You'll have plenty of opportunity and tastes to select from. This photo, “ Scallops,” by Jeremy Keith used under CC BY 2.0. “ Scallops” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Taking your family out to eat isn't always an easy task. If you end up at a place that isn't as welcoming to families, you might feel uncomfortable, while pricier establishments make it feel like you're spending a small fortune. But here in the Dickinson, Texas, area, you can find several restaurants that welcome your family and make the experience more affordable. more Gio's Flying Pizza & Pasta Most kids love pizza, so Gio's Flying Pizza & Pasta is a great spot to take your family. It's located on FM 517 W., just west of I-45 South, in Dickinson. Dine in for dinner and choose from a variety of pizza and pasta dishes, like Pizza Blanco, topped with creamy Alfredo sauce and three types of cheese, or the meat special, piled high with bacon, pepperoni, hamburger, Canadian bacon, and Italian sausage. If you'd rather eat at home, this restaurant offers takeout and pizza delivery within the area. The children's menu includes two pasta options along with chicken tenders for pickier eaters. Jimmy Changas Located in League City, which is less than five miles from Dickinson, is Jimmy Changas. This Tex-Mex spot offers several tools that make dining with your family more enjoyable, like the free app that allows you to view the wait time and add your party to the list (for groups with six people or fewer). Younger kids often struggle with waiting for a table, so this will simplify the process. The kid's menu is available for those ages 12 and under and includes favorites like mini cheese quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, chicken nuggets, and macaroni and cheese, served with a drink and soft-serve ice cream. The menu also includes tasty appetizers, soups and salads, grilled entrees, and Tex-Mex favorites. Gluten-free options also are available. Jimmy's also has a full bar. Red River Bar-B-Que & Grill Another family-friendly dining spot in the area is Red River Bar-B-Que & Grill, where you can enjoy delicious and authentic Texas barbecue with the whole gang. Smoked meats on the menu include pulled pork, spicy sausage, brisket, ribs, and chicken. Each entrée comes with mouth-watering side dishes like potato salad, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes with gravy, onion rings, French fries, baked beans, or pinto beans. Kids ages 12 and under can try a meat plate or stick to the basics, such as a corn dog, hot dog, grilled cheese sandwich, burger, or chicken tenders, served with fries and a drink. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of homemade coconut, chocolate, lemon, or pecan pie, or some peach cobbler served warm with ice cream. Kelley's Country Cookin' Also in League City, Kelley's Country Cookin' offers classic Southern comfort food that your family will enjoy. Breakfast is available all day, so if your children love eggs, French toast, or pancakes, make sure to come here. The menu also includes lunch and dinner options for kids, such as a hot dog, grilled cheese sandwich, fish sticks, or strips of chicken or country-fried steak. You can also find heart-healthy menu options along with daily specials and promotions for seniors. Give yourself a break from cooking tonight and head to one of these family-friendly restaurant locations in the Dickinson area. This photo, “ Pershing Hill hosts WATCH D.O.G.S. father initiative,” by Fort George G. Meade Public Affairs Office used under CC BY 2.o. “ Pershing Hill hosts WATCH D.O.G.S. father initiative” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

If you want to experience true Southern life, check out these classic activities that you can do in or near Houston, Texas. more Dance the Two-Step Grab your cowboy boots and head to Big Texas Dance Hall and Saloon for a fun evening of dancing. There are two locations in the Greater Houston Area, and the dance hall holds up to 850 people. On Friday and Saturday evenings, it'll be full to capacity, but you'll enjoy a country vibe with decorative wagon wheels, Texas flags, and stuffed foxes adorning the interior. Three large bars keep the drinks flowing all night, and it's one place that still allows smoking indoors. Be sure to check out the wall of video games, including classics like the Terminator 2 pinball machine. Visit the Beach The beaches near Houston offer unique experiences to visitors. Quaint beach towns with shop-lined streets and plenty of surfers are within an hour-long drive from Houston, so you can enjoy a beach getaway without having to spend too much time getting there. Surfside Beach is one of the favorite destinations, home to burger bars and tiny restaurants that serve fresh, tasty seafood. You can also bring your furry friends to this spot, since dogs and horses are allowed. Stewart Beach is a great destination for families, with its souvenir shops, a snack bar, and a boardwalk with rides. Check Out the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo There are few activities more quintessentially Southern than the rodeo, so if you want to feel like a true Texan, be sure to visit the annual event. It runs for 19 days in either February or March of each year, and while the rodeo and livestock show seem like the main events, there are activities for all ages. Performers take the stage every evening, so you can enjoy live music or comedy acts, and carnival rides will help take you back in time. There is also a rodeo parade, midway games, and plenty of stands selling unique and tasty food and drink. Catch a Sporting Event Depending on the season, you can enjoy a variety of sporting events in Houston. During the fall, cheer on the Texans at NRG Stadium, or root for the Rockets at Toyota Stadium between October and April. If you prefer baseball, you can also catch an Astros game at Minute Maid Park, located close to the center of Houston. Eat Good Food Texas is best known for its BBQ, so make sure to sample some of the smoked meat topped with tangy, sweet sauce while you're in the area. Chef Ronnie Killen serves award-winning dishes at Killen's Barbecue, with tender brisket, beef ribs, and house-made sausage links on the menu. Gatlin's BBQ is another top choice, serving baby back ribs, spareribs, and beef ribs, all paired with dirty rice and beans. Don't forget to finish your meal with a classic Southern dessert like cobbler or banana pudding. After tackling any or all of these Southern activities, you'll be nearly ready to call yourself a Houston local. This photo, “ Rave Wave Ride at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Carnival,” by Katie Haugland Bowen used under CC BY 2.o. “ Rave Wave Ride at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Carnival” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

As the holidays draw near, many people in the Houston, Texas, area are looking for new events and activities to add to their list of traditions. Check out these spots to get into the holiday spirit. more Zoo Lights Starting in mid-November, the Houston Zoo transforms into a holiday spectacular with amazing displays of lights and other decorations. The event runs through mid-January, so you can visit the zoo before or after Christmas to see more than 2 million twinkling lights. Visitors can also walk through the animal enclosures, and while some of the animals will be asleep, certain types are more active at night. The event also includes a holiday train, an interactive talking zebra, an Enchanted Forest, and Holly Berry, a classic Cadillac that puts on a light show to music. Admission is between $10 and $20 per person. Festival of Lights The Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens is a favorite among families in the area. It's one of the largest holiday celebrations within the region, showing off more than a million lights with 100 animated displays that are set to music. After you walk through the lights, visit the outdoor ice skating rink, take a photo with Santa Claus, and enjoy a ride down the Arctic Slide. The Festival of Lights takes place daily from 6 to 10 p.m. through January 8, 2017. Admission is $10.95 with ice skating, and the arctic slide costs $7 per single ride, $20 for 10 rides, or $25 for an all-day ride pass. If you visit the festival on a Thursday, bring a nonperishable food item to receive two-for-one admission. Donated items will go to local food banks. Discovery Green If you're looking for outdoor attractions, pay a visit to Discovery Green, the spacious park in Downtown Houston. There is something here for everyone, from a massive canopy of LED lights to a display of lighted colorful bouquets of flowers. You'll also find an outdoor ice skating rink, suitable for all ages. Admission to the park is free, although skating costs between $8 and $17, which includes skate rental. Alley Theatre Catch a holiday-themed show at the Alley Theatre, where you'll find two options that run through the end of December. "A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story of Christmas" is better for families, telling Charles Dickens' classic tale of the power of the Christmas season, while "The Santaland Diaries" is an adults-only comedy that brings the words of David Sedaris to life. Tickets range from $35 to $130, depending on the date and seating area. The Nutcracker This ballet performance is another favorite among those who enjoy dance and the well-known story of Clara and her journey through the Kingdom of Sweets and the Land of Snow. The show takes place at the Wortham Theater Center on December 5 and 6, 12 and 13, 18 through 24, 26, and 27. Tickets start at $39. With activities for people of all ages taking place in Houston this December, it's easy to find events and happenings that will become new favorites among your family and friends. This photo, “ festival of lights Dec 23 rd 2010,” by Mark Taylor Cunningham used under CC BY 2.o. “ festival of lights Dec 23 rd 2010 " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

History fans and those who appreciate classic architecture will enjoy a trip to Houston, Texas, where you'll find some of the most interesting sites in the country. From museums to nature reserves to monuments, Houston is home to some attractions that you just can't miss. more Washington on the Brazos Nearly two centuries ago, delegates from settlements across what is now known as Texas met together to draft and sign the Texas Declaration of Independence, creating a constitution for the newly formed republic. The spot where that took place sits within the 293-acre historical site called Washington on the Brazos, and it now includes a variety of other things to see. Start at the Visitor's Center to see interactive exhibits that teach about the Texas Revolution timeline, then browse through the Star of the Republic Museum. Other attractions within this massive site include Independence Hall, the Barrington Living History Farm, and the Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site. Before you leave, pay a visit to the Washington Emporium Gift Shop to pick up souvenirs. San Jacinto Monument and Museum of History This historical site is in La Porte, which is about 30 miles from Houston. It honors the brave soldiers who fought in the Battle of San Jacinto. When you visit the museum, you can learn more about the tumultuous history of the Spanish Southwest and Texas, and how relationships formed between these regions. Collections in the Museum of History include French trappings from a 1684 expedition, Spanish art, treasure, and arms, antique weapons, artifacts from the Civil War and early America, and ancient Aztec and Mayan artifacts. The San Jacinto Monument stands 15 feet taller than the Washington Monument, making it the tallest war memorial in the world. The grounds also include the USS Texas, a warship built more than 100 years ago. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the ship. Rice University If you're looking for a place to see unbelievable architecture, Rice University is the place to go. The campus spans over 300 acres, with more than 70 main buildings that showcase unique style and design elements. McNair Hall, which houses the Jones School of Business, is an especially famous building, situated in front of the main campus fountain. Market Square When the founders of the city laid out plans for the area, those plans included Market Square. It served as the commercial hub of Houston when built in 1836, so when you visit the spot today, you can get a glimpse into what life was like in the city more than 100 years ago. Take a walk through Market Square Park and dine on delicious cuisine, such as the contemporary American fare at Hearsay Gastro Lounge or Latin entrees at Batanga. Houston is a city rich with history, so if you're looking to learn more about the area, visit these fascinating attractions in the area. Visitors enjoy learning more about the struggle to gain independence and how the city became what it is today. This photo, " 20080419_7143,” by etee used under CC BY-SA 2.o. " 20080419_7143 " is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Whether you're in Houston for a vacation or live in the area, there are few attractions that you simply can't miss. more Houston Zoo The Houston Zoo provides a unique look into the wildlife that lives in the area as well as animals that come from around the globe. More than 6,000 animals live at the zoo, and over 2 million people come to see them each year. A trip to the Houston Zoo can help children and adults learn more about the world around them while fostering knowledge and appreciation for various animals. During the month of October, the zoo also hosts Zoo Boo, an event that allows families to celebrate Halloween together. It includes trick-or-treating and a variety of other Halloween-themed activities for kids. The Houston Museum of Natural Science This spot is the most popular museum in Houston, and for good reason. The exhibits available for visitors to view include those that educate about nature, history, art, and other cultures. There are three permanent exhibits at the museum: the Hall of Ancient Egypt, which offers a unique look into the life of an ancient Egyptian, the Morian Hall of Paleontology, where you can learn more about prehistoric life and the dinosaurs, and the Alfred C. Glassell, Jr. Hall, which showcase a variety of large species of fish. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and admission is $25 for adults, $15 for kids ages 3-11, college students, and seniors, $8 for military personnel, and free for kids under age 2. You can check out the three permanent exhibits for free on Thursdays from 2-5 p.m. Minute Maid Park The Houston Astros play at Minute Maid Park, so during baseball season, be sure to pick up tickets to a game. If you can't make it during the regular season, you can still take a tour of the ballpark and learn more about the history of the team. There are plenty of concessions available for sale, and some of the favorites include fare from Extreme Dogs, where you can build your own specialty hot dog, Hand Made Funnel Cakes, Kickin' Nacho Portable, and Little Bigs, where chefs serve up pulled pork and burger sliders. Children's Museum of Houston When you're in Houston with kids, make a plan to visit the Children's Museum of Houston. Its purpose is to transform communities throughout the area through child-centered and innovative learning. Here kids can enjoy hands-on educational experiences that teach them about art, history, science, culture, nature, and much more. There is something for all ages, including the Tot*Spot, which has activities that are ideal for young children up to 35 months. Buffalo Bayou Park Get outside at Buffalo Bayou Park, a winding 160-acre space that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. It includes a nature play area, hiking and biking trails, a dog park, and places to sit, relax, and enjoy the tranquil setting. Instead of doing the typical dinner and a movie outing this weekend, make a plan to visit some of these cool spots throughout Houston. This photo, " Houston Children’s Museum,” by sikeri used under CC BY 2.o. " Houston Children’s Museum " is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Gay Family Kia.