Summer Fun is Here for Everyone in Houston Homes

As the weather warms up, people from Houston homes are looking for things to do to get out of the house and beat the heat. The good news is that many Houston institutions are opening up again, although at a reduced capacity. Everyone over age 10 must wear a mask when out in public, and establishments are taking extra cleaning precautions. Stay home if you’re sick, but otherwise pack your hand sanitizer, sling on a mask, and enjoy your city.

 

The Houston Museum of Natural Science has recently reopened. Now is a great time for Houston real estate owners to purchase a membership, as all levels of membership are offered at a 25% discount. All visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online to avoid crowds at the box office. The HMNS takes the health and safety of all visitors and staff seriously and is implementing precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19. High-touch areas are disinfected often, and staff will help direct visitors to help maintain social distance. All visitors over age 10 must wear a mask, and the museum is operating at 25% capacity. Tickets are timed to keep capacity low. All “high touch” exhibits will be closed.

 

However, there’s still plenty to do. Check out the dinosaur skeletons and the gem collection. See some of the treasures of Ancient Egypt and learn about local wildlife you might see on Houston real estate. Add on a ticket to the Cockrell Butterfly Center and observe butterflies in their natural habitats. Visit HMNS online to see what’s open, buy tickets or a membership, and find out about safety measures.

 

For families looking for a day-long program for kids, the Houston Parks & Recreation department offers a summer enrichment program. The program is offered at multiple Community Centers throughout the city. Kids participate in fun activities, including fitness, birdwatching, and nature exploration. Meals are included. Programming begins at 8 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. The cost per week is just $30, and the program is offered through August 7th. Visit the Parks & Recreation Department online to learn more and register.

 

 

Once the heat starts, there’s really nothing to beat a delicious ice cream cone. Fortunately, there are tons of great ice cream shops near all Houston homes. For a very special treat, head to Houston Heights and stop in at Fat Cat Creamery. This bunch of cool cats creates amazing, small-batch ice cream with locally-sourced ingredients. There are five year-round flavors--Cat’s Meow Mexican Vanilla, Milk Chocolate Stout, Waterloo Strawberry Buttermilk, Amaya Coffee & Cream, and Chai Tea Coconut, which is dairy-free.

 

Specialty flavors are introduced on a regular basis for a limited time. Keep your eyes peeled for favorites like Salted Butter Caramel, Raspberry Beret Sorbet, and Pumpkin Cheesecake. Other delicious options from the cats include soft serve, bonbons, sundaes, push pops, and ice cream sammies. They also make a whole bunch of yummy toppings right in the shop. You can also opt for an old-fashioned soda, a float, or a milkshake. Need a little caffeine boost? The cats will happily make you a fresh cup of coffee with locally-roasted beans. Their current hours are Monday through Friday from noon to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visit Fat Cat Creamery online to place a pick-up order. Follow them on social media to learn about new flavors and specials as soon as they’re offered.

 

 

Take out is a summer institution for people in Houston homes. It’s just too hot to fire up the stove or the oven. Many restaurants have opened their patios or dining rooms at limited capacity for dine-in options. They are also continuing to offer take-out options so everyone can enjoy the best of Houston’s great restaurants.

 

Taco Tuesday is a great tradition, and The Annie Cafe & Bar has a delicious offering you won’t want to miss. This summer, Houstonians can pick up three prime beef tacos, complete with The Annie Chile con Queso, avocado and tomato salsa, and pickled vegetables, all served up on corn tortillas. Round out the Tuesday special with Annie’s margarita to go.

 

If you’re in the mood for takeout but it’s not Tuesday, don’t miss the other offerings at The Annie. There are four other to-go dinner packages offered all week long. Each one starts with your choice of soup or salad. Choose between wild mushroom soup, tortilla soup, kale salad, or caesar salad. Then pick out your side dish. Options include french fries. jalapeno cheddar grits, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts with bacon and bleu cheese. The entree choices are Gulf red snapper, chicken with mushrooms, cipollinis, and bacon, filet mignon, or mushroom rigatoni. You can add a margarita to any take-out option.

 

The Annie Cafe & Bar is also open for dine-in. Book your reservation online and take your special someone out for a fantastic meal to celebrate an occasion or just because. Current open hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m. Follow their Facebook page to find out about weekly specials and other offerings.

 

We hope this list gives you some ideas to get you going on planning a fun, safe summer. While there’s been lots of change and upheaval in the last few months, we still believe in the strength, kindness, and creativity of our fellow Houstonians. Let’s make 2020 a summer to remember!