Houston

Houston, located in the southeastern part of Texas, is the largest city in the state. Just 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, this thriving coastal area has a diverse population.

Pleasure boating is a large industry in Houston. Take a day trip on a sailboat to Galveston Bay and stroll the Kemah Boardwalk, less than an hour away. On land, immerse yourself in art at the Houston Ballet or the outdoor art in Sesquincentennial Park, such as Mel Chin’s 70-foot column structure “Seven Wonders.” Most art museums downtown are within walking distance of one another, such as the Contemporary Arts Museum or the Children’s Museum of Houston.

Shop the boutiques of The Galleria and Highland Village areas or opt for the larger Memorial City and Willowbrook malls in the metro area. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo takes over the city for several weeks in the spring with trail rides, a parade and performances.

 

In his midnight millennium speech, Pope John Paul said the most defining elements of the 20th century were the rise and fall of two oppressive ideologies that victimized millions of people, Communism and Nazism. This museum is a tribute to the victims of the Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Through changing exhibits, films and lectures, it seeks to inform future generations of the racism of the holocaust and the horrifying results of hatred. In addition to exhibits, there is a library, theater and document archives.

Situated in the lovely Hermann Park, Houston Zoo is home to more than 4500 animals from over 800 species. Experience a true wildlife adventure as you check out the lions, Komodo dragons, flamingos, tigers, gorillas, bears, and bats, just to name a few! There is a wonderful Natural Encounter area where you can get up close and personal with otters and meerkats; and be sure to take a spin on the Wildlife Carousel, featuring hand-carved and-decorated animals that showcase many endangered species of the world. If watching the animals eat makes you hungry yourself, there are two outdoor concession stands and one indoor dining area. Get ready to spend a day with the animals as you learn more about the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

Head to Harwin Street and you will experience 'guerrilla shopping' at its finest. Of course, the excursion is not actually hazardous, but you do need to be prepared to fight the crowds and do some hard-nosed haggling to get the best deal. Along the strip more than 300 stores offer enough authentic and knockoff designer merchandise to make your head spin. Featuring purses, perfumes, watches, shoes and more, the area literally sells some of the best and worst goods the world has to offer. The two most noteworthy sections are the 9800 block and the 8000 block. Specific hours and credit card acceptance will vary by store.

Wonderful shopping options are available all over Houston, but this is 'the' place to go for designer shops, unusual gifts, wonderful imports or just plain fun. After an extensive renovation, the Galleria now has more than 375 stores, and it is certain to offer exactly what you need. Clothing shops include Barney's of New York, Macy's, Gap and French Connection. Shops like Gifts of Texas and Today's News represent only a portion of available gift and novelty shops. If you are more interested in art and culture, check out Arader Galleries or the Metropolitan Museum of Art store. Eighteen restaurants cater to hungry shoppers, and the ice skating rink is a popular way to cool off.