Travel Diary: Houston, Texas
Pretty much my only introduction to Texas up to this point has been Tom Hanks in Apollo 13 telling “Houston they have a problem, and maybe few seasons of Friday Night Lights. Disturbed by my own ignorance, I was determined to visit the Lone Star State and discover for myself, are things really bigger in Texas? Hubby had to work so with a little bribery, (mostly just food) my brother agreed to accompany me as my insta-husband for the weekend!
We took the red-eye from California at 1 AM and arrived in Houston at 6 AM. Would I recommend this? Ummm, NO. What was I thinking? We were so concerned with maximizing our time, that we didn’t quite take into account that lack of sleep and uber excitement makes for a knock-out punch cocktail called delirious exhaustion. But truck on we did!
After picking up our rental car we proceeded to one of the most recommended coffee spots in Houston, Bebidas! We were welcomed the pretties decor, and the friendliest coffee connoisseur who brought our coffee out to us and asked if we needed any special creamers (what amazing service)! We also ordered some delicious breakfast tacos (the egg and bacon were my favorite). A not to miss spot!
Then after a quick car nap at the nearby Target parking lot (so tired) we were off and running again!
We had some time before we could check into our hotel so we took to the highways and drove to Galveston to check out that beautiful Gulf Coast!
The strand is where you will find the iconic Galveston postcard wall.
The strand is also where you will find have the cutest boutique stores and LaKing’s Confectionery, where you can’t pass up the opportunity to sooth that sweet tooth! Like something straight out of a 1950’s soda shop the decor is charming to say the least!
For the coolest, most eclectic collection of fun gifts and souvenirs Hendley Market is not to be missed!
Now let’s talk about the best cake I’ve ever had in my entire life. Do not leave Galveston without having lunch at ShyKatz Restaurant & Bakery. The owners are super sweet and happy to show you the ropes: Pick a seat, order at the counter, pick out your favorite mug, and serve yourself all the coffee you want! The fried chicken sandwich is legit! And the strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting is to die for.
Not to mention the rustic decor felt made my heart melt.
We went around back to check out the pretty garden, which gave me lots of ideas for my future garden.
From what I gather, Buc-ee’s is a Texas institution. But I must warn you, once you visit this pit stop, you’ll never want to stop at a regular gas station ever again. It’s THAT amazing!! Come for gas, the cleanest of restrooms, a car wash, “Don’t mess with Texas” souvenirs, all your BBQ and picnic needs, a heavenly BBQ sandwich from the sandwich station, Buc-ee’s themed snacks, coffee with all the fixings you could ever wish for, and don’t forget to say “Hey!” to the bronze Buc-ee’s Beaver out front.
The hat and picture was my idea…my brother could barely contain his excitement (are those daggars he’s throwing at me with his eyes?! LOL).
BBQ Heaven….
We stayed at the St. Regis, Houston for two glorious nights. Our room was immaculate, and the honor bar was fully stocked! Also, the free champagne happy hour everyday is not to be missed. They also have traditional English high tea each afternoon, but remember to make reservations.
I’m a huge animal lover so no matter what city I’m in I always make an effort to visit the local zoo. Luckily we purchased a CityPass for Houston, which included admission to the ZOO, Houston Space Center, Museum of Natural Sciences and more! All at 50% off regular admissions.
I’m a huge fan of the space program so visiting the Houston Space Center was a dream come true. Not only were the exhibits super informational, but the Tram Tour gave us an up-close look at mission control and the astronaut training facility!
If you love Instagram then you will LOVE The Whimsey World by Shelbi Nicole. So many colorful room and props to Instagram your heart out.
Next up, the Museum of Natural Sciences. See a giraffe skeleton, watch a planetarium show, (the one narrated by Tom Hanks was my favorite) and walk alongside dinosaurs. The gem exhibit was also incredibly beautiful and impressive, I would go again just for that.
And finally, before getting on our flight back to California we could not resist one of the best cupcakes in Houston from Crave Cupcakes. So many flavors so little time!
My biggest takeaway was how polite and sweet everyone was to us. What’s really big in Texas are people’s hearts. I can’t wait to go back and explore another city in this beautiful state.
xoxo
Enid