An Out-of-This-World Weekend in Houston
More than a Bayou City
Words by Abby L. Johnson Photo Courtesy of Melissa Taylor
Though Austinites may be known for their fierce loyalty to the capital city, there’s more to this great state waiting outside city limits. The expansive (and nearby) city of Houston offers plenty in the way of culinary delights, cultural excursions, and worthwhile views.
Day One
The approximately three-hour drive from Austin to Houston is dotted with charming small towns and quaint pit stops. Allow ample time for the drive because it is worthwhile to stop along the way at the many antiquing hubs, even if it’s only to window shop.
First-time visitors will be surprised by the sheer size of Houston’s cityscape. After taking it all in, make your way into the epicenter of town and settle in for the stay. An easy choice is the newest luxury edition to the Space City: the boutique hotel, Blossom Houston. Centrally located, Blossom Houston is convenient for travelers who want to be in the heart of Houston and also experience an elevated hospitality experience. The gorgeous interiors give a nod to not only the hotel’s namesake with pops of pink and rich greens but also to the city’s deep roots in the aerospace industry with subtle space-oriented design elements sprinkled throughout. After settling in and to unwind from the day’s journey, enjoy a cocktail in the hotel lobby before heading out for dinner. Eunice is a great option not too far from the hotel. With exceptional service and a focus on Southern-inspired seafood specialties, this is a spot that supremely captures the essence of the city.
Blossom Hotel Amenities
Day Two
Wake up early to get a head start on exploring this massive metropolitan area. Order room service from the hotel, or head over to Sinfull Bakery for a sweet treat to get the day started. This retro-inspired bakery has a deceptively modest brick façade that hides an adorable plant-based bakery filled with freshly baked sweet eats. After adequately filling the belly, it’s time to head for the stars with The Infinite. This unparalleled virtual reality experience takes visitors aboard the International Space Station. Once VR headsets are firmly in place, the ground seems to shift from below and participants are able to physically walk as avatars through the space that appears to be the ISS. After a trek through outer space, enjoy the other worldly art exhibits that finish out the experience.
Head back to the hotel and lounge at the rooftop pool, or get moving in the fully outfitted gym, complete with Peloton bikes, before getting a good night’s rest.
Golfstrommen 
The Infinite VR Experience
Day Three
On the final day, it’s time to see the museums for which the city is so well-known. The Museum of Fine Arts is absolutely unmissable, and the exhibits rotate often so be sure to plan with that in mind. Once you’ve had an eyeful of art, head over to Post Market for lunch. There are plenty of choices inside this industrial, yet elevated, foodcourt-style market. In keeping with the seafood theme, Golfstrommen is one unique spot that shouldn’t be missed. Taking its cues from Norwegian cuisine and gulf coast offerings, there isn’t another quite like it. After filling up on seafood, take in the incredible city views from the Post Market rooftop. The sight may almost rival that of The Infinite.
It’s impossible to see the whole city before it’s time to drive home, but the knowledge that Houston is just a few hours away will make the end of the weekend more tolerable.
Homesick Blues
For East Austinites missing a bit of home on their weekend away, there are plenty of options to alleviate hunger for the familiar. Both East Side King and Salt & Time have Houston locations inside the Post Market —just steps away from the Blossom Hotel.
