Houston, TX during the livestock show and rodeo is the perfect family getaway with tons to do for both parents and kids — bbq contest, horse show, trail rides, carnival and so much more. Plus, the concert line-up this year is beyond amazing with Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, Little Big Town, Garth Brooks and several other country stars.
Luckily, we have Amanda Vlastas who runs West University Moms (@westuniversitymoms and www.westuniversitymoms.com) to give us the insider scoop:
Favorite Hotels
Hotel Zaza, Marriott Marquis Houston, Hotel Granduca (if you decide to go without the kids!)
The new Marriott Marquis is close to the Discovery Green, a great park that always has its own activities going on along with art installations, splash pools and a pond with boats. Its also has its own Texas shaped lazy river which is sure to keep the kids occupied!
Favorite Restaurants
With the kids: El Tiempo Cantina (several locations) is a must for Tex-Mex, Brookstreet BBQ, Goode Company BBQ, Pappas Bros
Date night: Steak 48, Mastro’s and Tiny Boxwoods for delicious food in a lovely atmosphere.
Kid Friendly Activities in Houston
Children’s Museum, Health Museum, Natural Science Museum and the Houston Zoo are all practically within walking distance. And, make time for a day trip to Kemah Boardwalk (rides and amusements on the waterfront in Galveston Bay) and a visit to the Space Center.
Rodeo Highlights
The Junction (formerly Kids Country) is a kid-focused area that tests visitors’ sense of adventure with rides, games and fun exhibits. It also offers fun for the kiddos like camel rides, a petting zoo, pig racing, a double carousel and more.
Enjoy live music at the Champion Wine Garden and savor more than 70 wines at this oasis next to NRG Stadium.
Check-out the amazing concert line up with all the best country music stars (book a babysitter via Best Buds Babysitting or care.com and treat yourself to a night out!).
Shopping
Children’s stores – Fundamentally Toys, Imagination Toys & Shoes/CardSmart, Doodles Baby Gifts and More
Women’s Apparel – Luxington Boutique, Collectivo, Pomp and Circumstance
Unique to Houston –Al’s Handmade Boots, My Flaming Heart and Jubilee
The Houston Rodeo takes place from 2/27 to 3/18 and more information is available at: https://www.rodeohouston.com.