Itinerary

Houston is a vibrant city with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you plan a fun and budget-friendly 3-day itinerary. Since you’re looking for local favorites and want to avoid the crowds in December, I’ve crafted a plan that balances relaxation with exploration. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Thursday - Museum Day

Morning:

• Breakfast at Common Bond Café & Bakery: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite. They have amazing pastries and breakfast options that won’t break the bank.

Mid-Morning:

• Houston Museum District: Head over to the Museum District, which is easily accessible via public transport. You can visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science (check for any discounted tickets or free admission days). It’s a fantastic place to explore, and you can easily spend a few hours here.

Lunch:

• The Raven Grill: After your museum visit, grab lunch at The Raven Grill. They offer a great lunch menu with Tex-Mex options that are both tasty and affordable.

Afternoon:

• The Menil Collection: This is a must-visit! It’s free and features an impressive collection of art. The museum is usually less crowded, especially in December, so you can enjoy the art at your own pace.

Evening:

• Dinner at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen: Treat yourself to some local seafood. They have a great variety of dishes, and you can find budget-friendly options on their menu.

Night:

• Stroll through the Museum District: If you’re up for it, take a leisurely walk around the area. The architecture and parks are beautiful, especially in the evening.

---

## Day 2: Friday - Explore Local Favorites

Morning:

• Breakfast at Blacksmith: This coffee shop is a local gem! Enjoy a great cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich to fuel your day.

Mid-Morning:

• Visit the Houston Zoo: The zoo is a fantastic place to spend a few hours. It’s budget-friendly, and December is a great time to visit since it’s less crowded. Check for any special events or discounts.

Lunch:

• Lunch at The Pit Room: After the zoo, head to The Pit Room for some authentic Texas BBQ. Their brisket and sides are delicious and reasonably priced.

Afternoon:

• Buffalo Bayou Park: Take a stroll or rent a bike (if you’re feeling adventurous) at Buffalo Bayou Park. It’s a lovely area to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can also check out the art installations along the way.

Evening:

• Dinner at Velvet Taco: This place is known for its unique taco combinations. It’s casual, fun, and budget-friendly!

Night:

• Explore the Heights: If you’re up for it, take a short bus ride to the Heights neighborhood. It’s charming and has some lovely shops and cafes to explore.

---

## Day 3: Saturday - Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Breakfast Klub: This spot is famous for its Southern-style breakfast. Try the wings and waffles – it’s a local favorite!

Mid-Morning:

• Visit the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston: This museum is free and features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. It’s usually not crowded, so you can enjoy the art in peace.

Lunch:

• Lunch at Pho Binh: After the museum, head to Pho Binh for some delicious Vietnamese food. Their pho is a local favorite and very budget-friendly.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center: This is a beautiful place to unwind and enjoy nature. It’s free to enter, and you can take a peaceful walk along the trails.

Evening:

• Dinner at El Tiempo Cantina: End your trip with some fantastic Tex-Mex at El Tiempo. Their margaritas are a hit, and the food is delicious!

Night:

• Catch a Show or Live Music: Check out local listings for any live music or shows happening in the area. Houston has a vibrant arts scene, and you might find something fun to enjoy!

---

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary in Houston that’s budget-friendly and filled with local favorites. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! If you have any other questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask!