If you want to experience true Southern life, check out these classic activities that you can do in or near Houston, Texas.
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.
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