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by Susannah Wollman
“Summertime, and the livin’ is easy…” The music plays softly on the old turntable, conjuring up the sound of Ella Fitzgerald and easy jazz. Takes you back, all the way to 1934, when George Gershwin wrote the classic song for “Porgy and Bess.” Summertime was lazy back then—the heat made everyone move slower. No air conditioning, but no coronavirus, either!
Summertime in Houston today is a bit busier, but with COVID restrictions, playing and having a good time in the area is a little curtailed. Nevertheless, we have rounded up 7 social-distance-friendly places from free to $$$ for visiting this summer. If you’re a resident of this area, use the time to get to know your own backyard.
1) Visit a museum
Houston is resplendent with museums! The Houston Museum Pass is a twenty-four-pass that lets you and your family visit Houston’s history and culture in comfort. Much more than the exhibits they house, these centers of learning are awe-inspiring, cutting edge, and totally immersive. The pass ($21.95-$27.95) is good for 24-hours from the first visit, so make your reservations in advance. There are nine different museums currently open for visiting.
Photo Credit: MFAH.org
2) Typhoon Water Park Houston
Located in Katy, Texas, Typhoon Water Park is open for cooling off on those hot-weather days. You do need reservations and a pass, but season passes are only $44.95 and you can enjoy this favorite Houston passtime all summer long. (Due to COVID restriction, reservations are required.)
Photo Credit: TyphoonTexas.com
3) Beyond here be dragons!
The TXU Energy Presents Dragons event is at the Houston Zoo. Everyone loves the imaginary roar of the fire-breathing beasts that brave knights fought to save maidens in distress. But is there some truth to those myths? Come find out (reservations required).
Photo Credit: HoustonZoo.org
4) Kemah Boardwalk
This is your summertime destination. With events and activities for all ages, families can enjoy fabulous waterfront restaurants, amusements, rides, retail stores, festivals and seaside shows every day. The FantaSea Yacht Dinner Cruises are available weekend afternoons and evenings to cruise Clear Lake, Kemah, and Galveston Bay. (Reservations required.)
Photo Credit: VisitHoustonTexas.com
5) Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
This not-to-be-missed attraction is open every day with events planned throughout July! Hike the 5 miles of nature trails, go birding, celebrate blackberries or play bingo on the lawn. Contact the Arboretum to make reservations for activities.
Photo Credit: HoustonArboretum.org
6) Urban Famers Market
Visit the Urban Farmers Market on Saturdays and purchase delicious, locally-grown produce and hot foods to take home with you. Open every Saturday morning, year ‘round from 8:00 – 12:00. (You can also pre-order and drive through to pick up your order if you don’t want to walk around. More info here.)
Photo Credit: VisitHoustonTexas.com
7) Hurricane Harbor
So much water fun, from family rides, to thrill rides, to gentler things for tots as well. Reopening on July 3rd, COVID restrictions are in place, so check with them before going.
Photo Credit: KHOU.com
Don’t let the summer heat, the estimated 9 days of rain in July, or the restrictions of COVID-19 keep you from enjoying your summer vacation. Whether you’re traveling to Houston or you’re lucky enough to live there year ‘round, be safe, follow protocols for avoiding the spread of the virus, and if you do happen to need us, America’s ER is always there to help!
