They say everything IS bigger in Texas…and HOUSTON is no exception! This Texas metropolis is America’s fourth-largest city and home to a dynamically diverse cultural scene that is worth a visit any time of year! Though a typical LGBTQ traveler might choose to visit during pride Houston in June, let me tell you how to experience an unforgettable Easter weekend in gay Houston!
1.Stay Downtown
Immersed in downtown Houston and easily accessible via interstate, you’ll find the Aloft
Houston Downtown. This contemporary hotel offers stylish rooms and a rooftop bar and pool with spectacular views of surrounding high rises. It’s also a short drive from local attractions including Buffalo Bayou Park – a 52-mile slow-moving waterway marking the site of Houston’s founding in 1836. Walk along its banks and trails until you find the most picture-perfect view of downtown.
2. Get Cultured!
Houston is a well-regarded arts mecca, offering everything from magnificent works of art at the Museum of Fine Arts (which is currently undergoing a $450 million expansion expected to be completed this year) to innovative exhibitions at Houston Center of Contemporary Crafts. For the science buff, the Space Center Houston is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the lunar landing – this is the number one attraction for international visitors and the first Smithsonian Affiliate in the greater Houston area. Finally, for the quirky types, the Eclectic Menagerie Park sits just off of Highway 288 – southwest of downtown. This public art installation consists of more than a dozen humongous metal sculptures. You’ll be in awe of giant spiders, cows, Snoopy and so much more!
3. Indulge!
Treat yourself to a fantastic breakfast at Weights and Measures. This stylish Midtown eatery, bakery and bar offers extraordinary American food. Check out the cake donuts + fried chicken…outstanding! In the East End neighborhood, try the vibrant Coral Sword cafe. Enjoy a great cup of coffee while playing a classic board game at one of their communal tables. Don’t forget to take a selfie in front of their colorful mural!
For late night drinks, nibbles and a little live music, Goodnight Charlie’s in Montrose serves tasty drinks and street tacos! Make sure to savor the Hot Chicken taco! It’s my personal favorite! Parking can be tricky, so consider taking Lyft! Close by is Bar Boheme, “the place” to have Easter Sunday brunch and Drag Show. Yup…it gets busy and service a little slow; but, not to worry, the girls will make sure you’re entertained! Remember, it’s always best to call and reserve a table!
4. Feed your Instagram!
Look beyond Houston’s hustle and bustle to find a plethora of Instagram-worthy backdrops!
One of the best is located east of downtown. Here, you’ll find memorable murals on many
buildings as well as graffiti covered parking lots. If you yearn for more, head over to the Heights and snap a selfie in front of the “Greetings from Houston” mural. The best part…it’s alongside a gelato shop…so indulge while you’re there! Another worthwhile location is the “Rainbow Flag” mural located in the heart of Houston’s Montrose area. The mural by artist Chris Izaguirre its located next to Blur bar – it makes a great backdrop for a group photo! Finally, the most Instagram worthy place is Smither Park. This hidden gem, located in the middle of a residential neighborhood, features elaborate mosaic structures created by local artists using recycled and discarded materials! Here are countless fun, interesting and colorful backdrops for the perfect portrait or selfie!
5. Do some hoppin’!
Easter in Houston marks the return of Bunnies on the Bayou! Bunnies on the Bayou is, not only one of the largest known outdoor cocktail parties in Texas, but, more importantly, a charity and advocacy event in support LGBT-focused programs and non-profit organizations in the Houston area. So prepare yourself! This Easter Sunday at Sesquicentennial Park, the 40th annual Bunnies on the Bayou will draw shirtless hunks wearing bunny ears and cotton tails and flamboyant characters wearing over-the-top bonnets! Easter fun! Make sure to purchase tickets early! You won’t want to miss out on Bunnies on the Bayou!
6. Get your groove on!
Now, let’s talk about one of the city’s most popular gay nightclubs: Rich’s! This is the place to dance your bootie off and meet guys! Rich’s will make for a spectacular Easter weekend with Revelry: six superstar DJs, five parties, three venues and over-the-top visual productions! Pull out your best circuit outfit and get ready to Revelry! For those not into the circuit scene, there’s the iconic Eagle leather bar, as well as neighborhood bars such as JR’s where visitors can enjoy drinks, music and Houstonian hospitality!
7. Fashion forward!
Easter day fashion is all about breezy fabrics, bold patterns and pastel hues. For starters,
consider lavender, teal or citrine colors for t-shirts and sneakers. Floral prints are a must paired with a neutral color for a balanced appearance. For night ensembles, go cowboy edgy with boots and a fedora! You’re in Texas after all!
Here are three outfit ideas for your Houston Easter getaway alongside shoppable links so you can accomplish these looks with your own spin to them!
SHOP THE LOOK
SHOP THE LOOK
SHOP THE LOOK
Photos Chel Wardell
Jorge Gallegos
Not just a pretty face
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