How to spend 12 hours in Houston

Kick off your action-packed day with a visit to one of Houston’s many hip coffee shops. Boomtown Coffee, a small-batch specialty coffee roaster with two locations, serves up a slew of specialty lattes in flavors like salted caramel and milk and honey—plus tasty breakfast tacos, avo toast, and more. Meanwhile, Common Bond Cafe has three locations, including one in the heart of Downtown that’s known for its sleek, colorful interiors and baked goods. Lastly, La La Land Cafe serves up organic eats plus vibrant drinks like Butterfly and Lavendar Bloom Matcha lattes.

It’s only fitting that Space City—which also boats galactic-inspired sports teams such as the Astros, the Rockets, and the Comets—is home to the world-famous Space Center, AKA official visitor center of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Dating back to 1992, the Space Center is one of Houston’s largest and most popular attractions. Travelers from all over flock for the chance to live out their childhood dreams of being an astronaut. The center is also home to over 400 space artifacts, including the world’s largest collection of moon rocks and lunar samples available for public viewing. Plus, visitors even have the chance to tour top-tier astronaut training facilities, browse through an epic collection of space suits, and more.

Throw on a pair of sneakers, tie up your laces, and stroll down bustling Main Street, which spans a whopping four miles and is dotted with unique eats and shops. Enjoy a late lunch at Fabian’s Latin Flavors (where hearty staples include burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and empanadas), or Winnie’s (which serves up southern comfort classics like gumbo, fried pickles, and chili cheese fries). Alternatively, grab something quick at Finn Hall, where you’ll find everything from burgers to acai bowls. Then, pop into one of the many unique stores: My Flaming Heart, The Fashion Time Machine, and Pocket Full of Stones Crystal Shop are just a few of our favorites.

Escape the bustle of the city at the expansive 445-acre Hermann Park, which dates back to 1914. Located at the southern end of Houston’s Museum District, Hermann Park is one of the city’s most popular places to unwind. Visitors of all ages can embark on a two-mile, 14-minute-long train ride aboard the Hermann Park Railroad; alternatively, rent a pedal boat to catch a glimpse of the stunning surroundings from out on the water. Additional park highlights include scenic walking trails, a 290-foot suspension bridge, and the eight-acre McGovern Centennial Gardens, which is home to hundreds of trees, shrubs, and flowers.

Following a fun afternoon at the park, enjoy a round of drinks — plus some apps to hold you over until dinner a bit later on in the evening—at Z on 23, which also happens to be Houston’s highest open-air rooftop bar. This spot is popular for its postcard-worthy skyline views, which are even more alluring come sunset. Once you nab a table, nosh on some light bar bites—think: flatbreads, wings, nachos and quesadillas—while perusing the drink menu. You can’t go wrong with wine, beer, or one of the classic cocktails, which include watermelon margaritas and old-fashioneds; however, if you’re feeling extra-adventurous, opt for the delicious Daiquiri. 

Dinner at GJ Tavern is truly one for the books. In fact, this dinner-only Downtown Houston haunt offers a warm ambiance, handsome interiors, and, of course, incredible food and drinks — just be sure to come hungry. Start with some oysters plus veggies like warm marinated olives and an arugula salad. For mains, consider the pumpkin cavatelli, brick chicken, or seared tuna or steak paired with an order of the crispy duck fat potatoes. Also, save room for dessert: The homemade frozen custard is *chef’s kiss.* Don’t miss the innovative cocktails or the extensive wine and spirits list, either. 

The night is still young, so head over to HandleBar to continue the fun. Described as one-part adult playground, one-part bar, this eccentric establishment is a must-visit. Sip on craft beverages as you listen to retro tunes in one of the golden booths. You can also enjoy giant Jenga or cornhole outside; alternatively, stay inside to shoot hoops at the basketball arcade game or ride one of the animals on springs (you know, the type you see outside stores for kids). Finally, don’t leave here without checking out the Magnum PI-themed room, aptly named Magnum Room (think of it as a bar-within-a-bar). This unique space features kitschy decor plus its own menu of tropical-themed beverages and shots