Houston: Space City

When you turn your head from the stars and look around at Houston, you’ll still find plenty of areas for your family to explore. Whether alien or human, these are some of the Earthling sites you won’t want to miss the next time you’re in the neighborhood.

• The Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens: More than your average slice of Americana, this 28-room mansion belonged to the unfortunately-named Ima Hogg before she donated it to the Houston Museum of Fine Arts in 1957. Included with that donation were Miss Hogg’s beautiful collections of both Native American works and pieces by foreign artists. Visitors will love experiencing the home of a true Texas original.
• Houston Zoo: Whether you want to see baby flamingos or a ferocious T-Rex, the Houston Zoo is the place for you. In addition, you can watch Baylor the baby elephant scratch his belly on a tree trunk, or squirt milk into the mouth of a waiting lion. The only risk is that you might be overwhelmed by all the cuteness on display.
• The Battleship Texas: Where can you find the world’s last existing dreadnought? Why, in Houston, of course. The Battleship Texas served in the Occupation of Veracruz and both World Wars, and visitors today will be guided by crew members who served in those events. For a truly unforgettable experience, grab a group of friends and apply to spend the night onboard the ship.
• Kemah Boardwalk: Children of all ages (and parents too) will fall for the vast selection of rides at the Boardwalk. Of course, that also means they’ll be twirled in circles on the Ferris Wheel and swung on Pharaoh’s Furyand you can only imagine what happens on the Drop Zone. Afterwards, enjoy dining at one of the festive restaurants, including the original Joe’s Crab Shack.