Globetrotting: Staycationing


Downtown Houston.

By Alisa –

While I do plan a lot of travel inside and outside of this country, there’s plenty to be experienced right in our own backyard. Houston has so much to offer as one of the largest cities in the United States, especially during the summer travel months. We have a plethora of places to experience a wide variety of cultural events that are sure to make beautiful memories for both young and old alike.

Beach Getaway

For families with smaller children, Houston offers a balance of fun in the sun with a quick getaway to Galveston. There, a stay at The Hotel Galvez offers a poolside view only steps away from the beach. And, of course, there’s Pleasure Pier over the ocean with rides on the pier and cotton candy! Grab a bike at the hotel, and take a stroll beachside!

For those who like the gulf but not necessarily the beach, there’s the Kemah Boardwalk, featuring games, rides and family-friendly activities.  Every Friday in July, visitors can enjoy a spectacular display of fireworks in Kemah around 9:30 pm while enjoying a cocktail from one of the many restaurants located up and down the boardwalk.

City Attractions

In Houston “city proper,” visitors can find a day at the zoo or a trip to a park as adventurous as any day in the sand. During the month of July, the Trails and Parks (TAP) Summer Passport series offers free activities for families to canoe, fish and practice their archery skills. Stay at Hotel Zaza for a luxurious staycation, and enjoy the spa complete with an oxygen bar. Drop over to the museum next door with sketchbook in hand, and spend the day composing your own creations amongst the fine masters.

The Marriott Marquis is steps away from Discovery Green where guests will find lawn games and music throughout the summer at their Sundays in the Park offerings. The hotel boasts six restaurants and has a unique feature of a rooftop lazy river. It’s like being on a total vacation while staycationing in your back yard!  Complete your stay with a visit to the spa where the offerings are as unique and specialized as any you would expect to find around the world.

Culinary Adventures

For wine lovers and foodies, there are some of the best restaurants in the world in Houston. Make your way through the many farmer’s markets, take a lesson from a local chef and learn about pairing wines with your own unique creations. There is such a wide variety of festivals and cultural events that staying “home” and being on a “vacation” can be as rewarding as a traditional trip, not to mention less stressful and a whole lot of fun.

Happy Wandering!


Do you have a travel story about a place you love? I would love to hear from you! Email me alisa@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.