Houston Day One
H-town's new Metro light-rail system has transformed downtown Main
Street into a hub of popular clubs and nightlife. But during the
day, use the Metro to get to
Hermann Park for a stroll
around the pond and through the park's woody habitat, home to 30
species of birds, including the blue-billed heron and the
snakebird.
After exploring the park (and working up a sufficient appetite),
you'll be ready for some true
Texas barbecue. (Everybody knows the
Lone Star State is synonymous with mighty fine 'cue.) At
Otto's (5502 Memorial Drive, 713-864-2573), you may find
yourself meeting George Bush Sr. over brisket. After eating at
Goode Co. Barbeque (5109 Kirby Drive, 713-522-2530), you'll
want to do as the sign says and "give some serious thought to
thanking your lucky stars you're in Texas." Besides excellent grub,
this joint has an old-time jukebox and a self-serve ice chest full
of beer.
Burn off any excess calories you indulged in while chowing down at
lunch by walking through the
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
(1001 Bissonnet Street, 713-639-7300,
www.mfah.org), which houses an impressive
assortment of Impressionist and Expressionist art, including the
second-largest Jackson Pollock collection in the world. The weekly
lectures and films are also worth sticking around for. If you'd
rather do your walking outside - and if you like to see and be seen
- take a few laps around
Memorial Park (6501 Memorial Drive,
713-845-1000,
www.texashiker.com/
Memorial_Park_Houston.htm) or try hiking the park's mountain-bike
trail, great for hiking and cycling.
While it's hard to believe, after all that barbecue, sooner or
later you will be hungry again.
O'Rourke's Steak House (4611
Montrose, 713-523-4611,
www.finesteaks.com) is a Museum
District standout, with an extensive wine list, a talented pianist,
and excellent service. Also at the top of Houston dining is
Tony's (1801 Post Oak Boulevard, 713-622-6778), where the
red-walled dining room and impeccable, attentive staff let you know
you're surrounded by Houston's power crowd.