The heights are such a vibrant area of Texas and steeped in architecture that dates back to the 1890s. There is a lot to see and do in this charming town, and we have gone ahead and listed the top 5 things that should be on your to-do list. Regardless of if you are visiting for the first time, or on a return visit, you won’t want to miss these attractive features.
1) Take a Stroll Down 19th Street
Historic 19th street is the central hub for shopping in The Heights. There is so much to see and do here, and it is the perfect blend of the 1800s architecturally, and the trending shopping that is so prevalent in today’s society. There are plenty of boutiques, restaurants, thrift shops, and “hipster” shops that you will be sure to find enjoyable. The feel of the street alone, how it is a shining example of the heart of the city, is enough to make you want to wander here for hours. If, while exploring, you get tired, visit my favorite coffee shop: Boomtown Coffee; for a quick pick-me-up.
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2) Check Out Some Live Music
If you feel most at home during a live entertainment show, this is the section that you will want to pay close attention to. While I have found The Heights to be an excellent spot for live music, my favorite three have got to be: Heights Theater, White Oak Music Hall, and Fitzgerald’s. Although all are popular places to stop in, so they won’t be some undiscovered gem without people around. But that said, even during the busy times, I have never felt like I did not belong, or that I was drowning in the crowd. Everyone is here to have a good time, and you can feel in the atmosphere of the venue.
3) Eat Fresh at Coltivare Pizza & Garden
This is probably one of the freshest restaurants that you will ever eat at, hands down; thanks to chef Ryan Pera. You won’t doubt the freshness that is found here, especially considering the 3,000 square foot garden that is just outside, in the side yard. Unlike most of Texas, this restaurant isn’t all about comfort food; instead, what you will find here are inspired takes on classics. Some examples of this being: oxtail Sugo with housemade pasta, butternut squash pizza, and whole wood-roasted fish. While you are here, you will especially want to try the drinks and desserts.
4) Visit Fat Cat Creamery
One of my favorite things to do when I visit a new place or am returning is to find the best ice cream parlor in the city and indulge myself in the delicious cream confections. And that is why no trip to The Heights would be complete without a trip to Fat Cat Creamery. By using fresh, local ingredients and unique flavors, this parlor turns traditional ice cream into unlike any that you would have tried before. These amazingly unique flavors like Milk Chocolate Stout and Bourbon Pecan Pie are sure to make you swoon in delight by their flavor combinations. If you still haven’t had your fill of amazing sweet desserts, or require a carb overload, make sure to give Hugs and Donuts a try; they are just next door! With more unique flavors, you are sure to find something that will make you want to come back again and again.
5) Go Old School at Johnny’s Gold Brick
The atmosphere of The Heights would be described as vintage, and Johnny’s Gold Brick perfectly portraits that with this hip throwback bar. There is a fantastic roster of classics from Manhattans and Moscow Mules to the Boiler Maker. You are sure to find any drink that you could think of here, plus some new inventions that you would not have even thought of. If you are planning a trip to the heights, it is highly recommended to visit this bar and see what it was like in the gold old days.
We hope you have enjoyed exploring our top five favorite activities in the beautiful Houston Heights
