A nightlife guide for Houston, Texas. Where to go, what to do, where to eat. A guide to enjoy the fine city of Houston.
With a special blend of contemporary artistic trends, unique formality and southern comfort, Houston, Texas introduces an exceptional and illuminating nightlife. Residents and visitors alike scour the city's activities - activities that rival even the largest of cities. Houston's downtown atmosphere seems to welcome all with open arms, offering an endless list of restaurants, bars, clubs and festivities. The young and the young-at-heart can soak in the good vibes and enjoy the fascinating activities night after night, experiencing the concoction that is Houston. Of these goings-on, the most enticing are the performances at the Theater District, the fine cuisine of downtown Houston, the exhilarating play of Houston athletic teams and the enriching, diverse seasonal festivities held each year. A night on the town, indeed.
The phrase "less is more" is uttered cautiously in Houston, as most of the city's buildings are as visually stunning as the activities held inside. The Theater District is no exception. Consisting of several theatre and music halls, the Theater District provides an often unforgettable artistic experience. The Alley Theater hosts an array of classic and contemporary plays, all performed by a local team of actors and actresses. Every Tuesday through Sunday night, the team can be seen performing premier acts, including "The Phantom of the Opera," "Little Shop of Horrors," and more modern plays, such as "Steel Magnolias." Also a staple of the District is Houston's Music Hall, which hosts six major musical productions per year. The Theater Under the Stars program offers performances at the Miller Outdoor Amphitheater, where plays are viewed under the glow of the night sky. If the performing arts don't satisfy your nighttime urges, Houston's sporting events are second-to-none.
With the recent construction of a baseball stadium, Houston's athletics are booming. Minute Maid Park, home of the Astros, is an innovative, state-of-the-art facility that caters to the needs and wants of all baseball fans. The stadium offers a wide selection of seating, dining and entertainment for the entire family. The baseball season lasts from early April until late October, and many special events are held in the stadium during the off-season months. Not far from the stadium is the Compaq Center, home of NBA's Rockets and WNBA's Comets. Houston's professional basketball teams have a consistent winning history, and thousands pack the Compaq Center's seats in hopes of another victory. If you plan to eat before the event, you will find Houston offers the finest of Southern dining.
Located in the heart of the Four Seasons Hotel is the modernistic restaurant commonly known as Quattro. Featuring an extensive list of Italian-American gourmet foods, Quattro is a dining experience that tantalizes the senses. While a warm, zesty aroma swiftly carries throughout the restaurant, customers enjoy an equally visual delight. A recent $3 million renovation transformed Quattro into a living canvas. The walls are carefully decorated with leather and a fiery red color scheme, with accents too many to list. Stainless steel beads fall from the edges of fancifully marked curtains. Lit candles form a soothing atmosphere - perfect for a romantic meal for two, or just to meet friends at the bar. Whatever the occasion, Quattro will suit your needs.
Considered the premier Southern-style restaurant of Houston, Brennan's will transport you to the exotic world of New Orleans through its incredible taste. Brennan's is an extension of the prominent restaurant family hailing from Louisiana, where they began their food empire. Their style seeps into Houston culture with the introduction of "Texas Creole", a variety of foods mixing Southwestern ingredients with genuine Creole dishes. This daring and colorful menu is matched only by the extravagant wine list that accompanies it, completing a fantastic meal. A beautiful patio hidden by looming oak trees is quite the romantic setting, while the chef's table is just as appealing. If reservations are made far enough in advance, you can dine in a glass, fully-enclosed dining room in the center of Brennan's kitchen - where the magic happens. Fearing you are sent home on a not-quite-full stomach, Brennan's treats you to a complimentary praline for the ride back. Overall an extraordinary dining experience, Brennan's is not to be missed.
Depending on the time of year, you can experience one or more of Houston's seasonal festivities. Perhaps the most recognized is the Houston International Festival. Each year, a distinct culture is highlighted and celebrated from late April until early May. All aspects of cultures are represented, from arts and crafts to food and music. Over one thousand international artists are chosen to present their works on several stages set up across the festival. While one culture remains the focus of the festival, all cultures and diverse lifestyles are acknowledged, and this is an extremely enjoyable way to further cultural understanding.
Other special events include the Greek festival, honoring the food, wine music and traditions of ancient Greece; Juneteenth, a festival celebrating the abolishment of slavery in Texas; and various festivals fill the calendar throughout the year.
Houston remains a cultural and artistic epicenter, joining styles and themes from around the globe to produce its own unique flair. The sights, sounds and smells of downtown Houston create an awe-inspiring ambiance that satisfies even the most traveled individuals. As Houston grows, it will continue to be a quality source of nighttime entertainment and enjoyment to all.
