Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
You've put in your nine-month wait time, survived those first harrowing weeks with a newborn, and you're finally ready to tackle the great big world... or city of Houston... with your baby. The only problem is where do you even start? Rest easy, mama, because we're here to help! We've rounded up 14 of the best activities for you to do with your baby around the Bayou City.
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
If there's one thing I remember distinctly about my childhood summers, it's summer camp. When I first started going to camp, I was around 7-years-old and dreaded the thought of spending an entire week away from my parents. However, after my first summer at camp something changed; I spent a week waking up to music, befriending my cabin-mates, learning how to (somewhat) perfect my (otherwise non-existent) archery skills, and painting, including a ceramic raccoon I was VERY proud of (Mom, I hope you still have that!).
Here are 13 overnight summer camps that are all about two hours or less from the Houston area. Most of the camps offer week-long stays for campers, with a couple offering shorter or longer stints as well. All of them promise to give your kids a hefty dose of fun and memories to last a lifetime. And for more summer and vacation camp ideas, check out our comprehensive camp guide and full directory of camp listings.
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
There is no shortage of great indoor play spaces around the greater Houston area, that's for sure. And unique additions like Glowzone are what make that play scene so great - this indoor spot is lit by black lights and glowing colored lights and full of fun. From the go-karts to geometric climbing walls, there is so much to do it's impossible to feel bored. It's a great indoor playground for families with preschool-age children through teenagers. (And even just adults!)
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
All moms of toddlers can probably agree that their mini humans are full of an overwhelming amount of extra energy. It's incredible to me (and, quite frankly, exhausting) to see just how fast my own toddler can run circles around the house no matter what time of a day it is. For this reason, we have a running list of favorite outdoor parks, playgrounds and splash pads to head to when his energy levels are at an all-time high and we need to get out of the house. But on those days when the weather isn't cooperating or we just need a change of scenery, Houston is home to great indoor play spaces that serve the same purpose. As an added bonus, many of these places also have areas for babies to "play" and learn, which is the perfect combination for my almost 3-year-old and almost 3-month-old.
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
While the long, lazy days of summer are met with excitement and anticipation as the school year draws to a close, after a couple weeks of no plans or structure you probably start hearing your kids utter the infamous, "I'm bored!" with increasing frequency. Worse yet, you may find that to quell that inevitable boredom, they've started conducting their own experiments around the house. Encourage that inventive, curious nature without compromising the state of your house by signing your kids up for a science-themed summer camp.
Below you'll find a plethora of camps around Houston that encourage children to think outside the box, foster a love of the sciences and keep boredom at bay, all while presenting educational information in an entertaining way. And for more summer and vacation camp ideas, check out our comprehensive camp guide and full directory of camp listings.
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
Gathering around the table with family and friends to enjoy a festive meal is a hallmark of the holiday season, and one that is often enjoyed multiple times throughout the November and December months due to Thanksgiving and Christmas occurring in rapid succession. However, having two big holidays so close together can become overwhelming for even the most dedicated cook, and there's no shame in needing a break from the kitchen come Christmas Day (and no judgment on our part if you treated yourself to a Thanksgiving dinner out, too!).
We've rounded up a variety of restaurants around Houston that are opening their doors on Christmas Day, spanning everything from fancy brunches to low-key diners, so you can take a break from the kitchen and enjoy a meal out with the family. And don't forget to check out our holiday guide for more events and things to do during the season.
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
Ready to get a jump on all of your holiday shopping, but don't want to frequent the same tired stores you always visit? A holiday craft market and fair is the perfect answer. You'll find an assortment of handmade treasures crafted by local artisans that will make unique gifts for everyone on your list. Check out these markets around town.
Submitted by Rachael Cherry on
While a traditional turkey dinner enjoyed at home with close family and friends may be the first image that comes to mind when thinking of the Thanksgiving holiday, it's not always a feasible reality. Whether you're overwhelmed with the thought of hosting a large group, facing a variety of dietary restrictions or preferences or just wanting to try something different this year, there are plenty of Houston restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day ready to take the stress out of the holiday for you.
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