Kevin & CuquisKevin & Cuquis
Things To DoThings To Do
CITYCENTRECITYCENTRE
CityCentre is about 5 - 10 minutes away from the bride's childhood home, where the Moran Hotel is, and has lots of shops and restaurants to explore. There is live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday on the green space, and if the weather is good in October, there are lots of opportunities to sit and walk outside in the area. Some favorite restaurants include: - RA Sushi - Sweet Paris - Sal y Pimienta (Uruguayan Steak House) - Texas de Brazil (Brazilian Steakhouse) - Fenelli's (Italian pastries and Gelato) - North Italia - Bellagreen (vegan / vegetarian options here) - Daily Gather (Farm to Table American Food) - Sweets (great macaroons) - Jenni's Ice Cream - Hopdaddy (Burgers) For activities: - Escape Room - Bowling - Star Cinema Grill (movies with lunch / dinner provided) And lots of places to shop!
Postino Town & CountryPostino Town & Country
Postino is right in Town and Country, which is right before you hit CityCentre. It is a great place for brunch, lunch or dinner with the best bruschetta boards and Italian Cuisine. Gluten free options available here.
Shake Shack Town and CountryShake Shack Town and Country
If you are in need of a Smash Burger, Shake Shack is the bride's go-to burger place. Crinkle cut fries dipped in their shakes are delicious, and they also have delicious chicken sandwiches if you aren't craving a burger!
CAVACAVA
Looking for a quick grab and go food place that mimics Chipotle, but is Mediterranean? Cava is absolutely delicious. Create your own bowls or order one of the premade bowls and watch them prepare it in front of you. Make sure to try the Cucumber lime mint drink at the fountain station. P.S. The bride things it may be better than Chipotle.
FuddruckersFuddruckers
For those who want a good old fashion American Burger, Fuddruckers is a classic burger joint near the Sonesta Suites.
The Flying Biscuit CafeThe Flying Biscuit Cafe
Great place to go for breakfast or brunch on weekdays and weekends! Just across the street from the Westin.
Liberty TacoLiberty Taco
If you're in need of a good Mexican Taco (whether a breakfast taco or with brisket, pork, beans, or barbacoa), this is the place for you! Also near the Westin Hotel.
Churrascos Memorial CityChurrascos Memorial City
Another great Latin American Steakhouse, Churrascos has a variety of Latin American options that is in the same area as the Westin Hotel. A brunch buffet on Sundays and then lively delicious food for lunch and dinner. Churrascos was catered for Cuquis's mom's wedding, and Cuquis can attest they make a delicious mojito ;). Cuquis took Kevin here for the brunch buffet, and it is all you can eat. Do not forget to stock up on the plantain chips and the chimichurri as that is their staple! Located on the second floor in the building behind and to the left of the Westin.
Memorial City MallMemorial City Mall
If you are in need of a place to shop, you can get to Memorial City Mall via the Skybridge from the Westin Hotel. They also have the Cinemark Movie Theater, and additional places to eat!
Memorial Villages Farmers MarketMemorial Villages Farmers Market
From 9 am - 1 pm every Saturday, the Hunters Creek Village neighborhood has a weekly farmers market at their First Congregational Church. Cuquis took Kevin the previous summer and enjoyed eating arepas at a Venezuelan vendor, buying fresh jam, chocolates and even receiving free flowers! Potentially could be a fun outing for the morning of the wedding!
Ciro'sCiro's
If you are looking for downhome comfort Italian cooking, then we recommend Ciro's Italian Grill! Located behind Hotel Zaza and near Memorial City Mall, the family who runs this restaurant have children that went to the same elementary school as Cuquis. Their truffle risotto is divine, their stuffed artichoke is amazing, and their fig and prosciutto pizza is amazing.
TreebeardsTreebeards
If you are looking for good southern comfort food, such as baked beans, mashed potatoes and fried chicken, then go to Treebeards in Bunker Hill! Enjoy this restaurant in the quaint neighborhood of Bunker Hill, just 5 - 7 minutes up the road from Cuquis's childhood home. Cuquis and Kevin have eaten here and it was where Kevin got to meet Cuquis's former counseling supervisor! When the weather is nice, the glass doors open and you can eat outside and enjoy the sun.
Tiny’s Milk & Cookies MemorialTiny’s Milk & Cookies Memorial
Right next door to Treebeards, if you are looking for something sweet, walk over next door to Tiny's Milk and Cookies for a coffee, ice cream, cookie or pastry! Cuquis's neighbor first introduced Cuquis to it, and the Kevin and Cuquis went with Cuquis's Tía Diana and her Tío Catarino. It's a grab and go place, but there is plenty of outdoor seating around to relax and enjoy when the weather is nice.
Empire Turkish GrillEmpire Turkish Grill
The Empire Turkish Grill has been a staple with Cuquis's family, and Kevin got a chance to try their cuisine on New Years Eve in 2021. Just down the road from the bride's childhood home, Cuquis and her family have eaten or gotten takeout from this restaurant since the bride was in elementary school. So if you are looking for good Turkish or Middle Eastern food, this is the place! Fun fact: When Cuquis was six years old, she wanted to drop out of school and go work at the Empire Turkish Grill ;)
The Union KitchenThe Union Kitchen
Best place for brunch and also does global cuisine with a bit of southern and southwest flair! Best beignets if you go here!
Chicken Salad ChickChicken Salad Chick
Are you a fan of chicken salad. Then you will LOVE Chicken Salad Chick! They take chicken salad and revamp it with different flavors, toppings and the creaminess of the chicken salad is to die for. You must also try their grape salad, where it's green and red grapes covered in this yogurty sauce that is so refreshing. *Chefs kiss*
Kolache FactoryKolache Factory
Kolaches are a big staple here in Texas. Basically a large pig in a blanket or a bun stuffed with delicious goodness, this Czech delight has been a fan favorite of Cuquis and family for a long time. They have the original sausage and cheese, the ham and cheese, the jalapeño, sausage and cheese, as well as Cuquis's favorite, the Ranchero kolache, which is eggs, bacon, sausage and a bit of jalapeño in it. Of course they have multiple seasonal options, and fruit options as well! This location is off of I-10 and Campbell Road, the closest to where many will stay. But there are several locations around the Houston area. Recommend either picking up or delivering as they don't have a lot of tables to sit out.
Goode Company BBQGoode Company BBQ
Looking for some good Texas BBQ? Goode Company BBQ has everything from brisket, pulled pork, mac and cheese so good that it is lip smacking good!
The Pit RoomThe Pit Room
In Memorial City, there is another BBQ joint that is quite well known in Houston. The Pit Room is known for its authentic Texas BBQ. Perhaps it's a sign to do a taste test between the two different BBQ joints to see which one reigns supreme!
Taste of TexasTaste of Texas
If you are looking for upscale Texas cuisine, Taste of Texas is the place to be. Reservations are required, but you will be granted with the amount of food being as big as Texas. This restaurant is across the street from Sonesta Suites, one of the recommended hotels.
Lupe Tortilla Mexican RestaurantLupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant
Another great Tex-Mex restaurant that is 5 minutes from the bride's childhood home. You can get Texas size margaritas or a margarita flight if you want to sample their specialty drinks!
Corner Bakery CafeCorner Bakery Cafe
If you are looking for a quick bite, a coffee or just a calm place to chill, the Corner Bakery is Cuquis's go to place to meet up with her colleagues. They have everything from soups and sandwiches, to pastas and salads, and if you want a sweet treat, they'll have it!
Marq-E Entertainment CenterMarq-E Entertainment Center
The Marq-E Entertainment Center to home to lots of activities and event places if you are looking for a good time. From seeing Houston Improv shows, to an Escape Room, to Dave and Busters where you can play arcade games, and one of the biggest movie theaters in Houston, Regal Cinema, with IMAX!
Izakaya-WaIzakaya-Wa
Cuquis and Kevin have been here multiple times and is a great place for those who enjoy Japanese food and tapas. This restaurant serves small bites of Japanese food that can be shared amongst the table. This is five minutes away from the bride's childhood home. Cannot do reservation but it's first come first serve. You can also call to order food to go!
South x SaigonSouth x Saigon
For those who are curious about Vietnamese-Cajun inspired cuisine (also known as Viet-Cajun), Cuquis did some research and believes South x Saigon is the closest restaurant that serves this type of cuisine, while having the best reviews. For those that don't know what Cajun cuisine is, it is specific to Louisiana (the next state over), and is known for its crawfish, shrimp and crab boils with sauces that pack a good flavorful heat! Bride and groom are open to try it if others are!
Flip 'n PattiesFlip 'n Patties
Are you into Filipino food? Look no further! Flip 'n' Patties was recommended by our Filipino friends and it is delicious! Want to try Halo Halo? Look no further! I would recommend getting a sampler plate of all of the meats and garlic rice, which is all served on a bed of banana leaves.
Ninfa'sNinfa's
If you are looking for Tex-Mex cuisine (which is a staple in Texas that combines Southwest food with Mexican cuisine) Ninfa's is a Houston favorite. This is the Memorial location that is close to the bride's grandparents house, but there is another one on Post Oak by the Galleria that you can also go to: Post Oak Location: 1700 Post Oak Blvd #1-190, Houston, TX 77056 Post Oak Website: https://ninfas.com/menu/lunch-dinner/ Phone: (346) 335-2404
Izakaya HiIzakaya Hi
Izakaya Hi is another Japanese restaurant that has a variety of Japanese and Korean cuisines. So, if you are craving sushi, they have am amazing menu. If you are craving bulgogi or spicy pork bulgogi, they have bento boxes and bowls. If you are craving poké, they will have something for you here!
Cafe CaspianCafe Caspian
If you are looking for great Persian food, Café Caspian is one of the best places in town! You'll be transported to the Middle East with their beautifully decorated restaurant.
Saigon Alley RestaurantSaigon Alley Restaurant
Looking for a good Vietnamese restaurant? Saigon Alley Restaurant so far has one of the best Vietnamese food in town. So if you like Vermicelli Noodles, Pho, spring rolls and fried rice, this is the place for you!
Ashiana Indo/pak Restaurant, Banquet & CateringAshiana Indo/pak Restaurant, Banquet & Catering
If you are craving Indian food, this is the neighborhood Indian restaurant the bride's family likes to eat from. You have all of your classic Indian and Pakistani food!
Edith L Moore Nature SanctuaryEdith L Moore Nature Sanctuary
Cuquis introduced Kevin to this nature sanctuary, where it is the perfect place to hike around, climb on rocks, and explore and listen for birds. It should be migrating season in October so you may be able to spot some birds passing through! Easy walking paths. Cuquis used to come here in elementary school and it's next door to Cuquis' old preschool and kindergarten. Those who are birders or bird enthusiasts, if you haven't already, download the Merlin ID app to be able to identify local or migrating birds in the area!
Mi PueblitoMi Pueblito
If you are looking for Colombian Food, this is the place if you want to try authentic Colombian dishes! They also have an assortment of pastries in their pandería (bakery) section. Favorite Dishes: Bandeja Paisa, Empanadas, Ajiaco Bogotano. But there are a lot that is good here!
Golden RoasteryGolden Roastery
Have you been wondering what the infamous Dubai Chocolate tastes like? Well, get transported to the middle east at this chocolate and nut shop just 15 minutes away from Cuquis's childhood home. You can try their version of the Dubai Chocolate, that is milk chocolate with a pistachio puff pastry (called kunafah) filling, that just bursts with creamy, nutty flavor. You can also try their strawberries covered in Dubai Chocolate, as well as a variety of other middle eastern delights. You can also buy candies, other bars of chocolate, coffees and teas, and sit down and enjoy the experience.
Tacos Del JulioTacos Del Julio
If you're looking for more authentic Mexican food and authentic Mexican enchiladas, this is the place we go to and order from!
Latin BitesLatin Bites
We went here in the summer of 2024 and the cocktails are really good. If you are open to Peruvian food, and if you like ceviche and small bites, they have Happy Hour everyday starting at 3 pm. Definitely try the drink "chicha" as it is a non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn. It's sweet and refreshing!
Buena VistaBuena Vista
Being the bride is Cuban, this is a big recommendation if you are looking to eat good Cuban food and want to fun atmosphere! Cuquis and Kevin went here last summer and got to listen to a live Cuban band called Tribu Cubano who plays every Thursday night. They also do lunch and brunch as well and the vibe brings you back to 1950s tropicana Cuba.
Chloe DaoChloe Dao
If you want to have a fun shopping experience, the bride recommends going to Chloe Dao's boutique in The Heights at MTK. Chloe Dao is Houston's very own local designer who won Project Runway Season 2. Chloe is the designer of Cuquis's wedding dress and has custom tailored other dresses of hers for Cuquis before. There are lots of stylish options from dresses to jumpsuits in fun bright colors. If you are thirsty you can go next door to La La Land Café and get yourself a drink.
PutteryPuttery
Interested in mini-golf but want a more intimate adult vibe? Then Puttery is the place for you! Enjoy the opportunity to eat, drink while playing. Each course is a different theme and in a different room so you have a more private experience with each your group.
The Houston Farmers MarketThe Houston Farmers Market
Houston also has it's main farmer's market in The Heights neighborhood where you can get access to more tropical fruits and produce you can't get anywhere else! Open from 6 am - 7 pm daily.
Houston DairymaidsHouston Dairymaids
Are you a cheese lover or love a good charcuterie board? Check out Dairy Maids if you are interested in Texas Artisan Cheese. Near the Houston's Farmers Market, go and do a daily cheese tasting and pick out a wedge for your next charcuterie board!
Ginger & ForkGinger & Fork
If you are looking for craft cocktails and upscale Chinese cooking that is family style, then Ginger and Fork is the place to be! It is a house renovated into a restaurant that offers an intimate vibe. Reservations are required as the place books up but it is definitely worth it!
The Original Ninfa's UptownThe Original Ninfa's Uptown
This is also Ninfa's but in another location depending on where you are located and staying. This is more in town and by the Galleria where you can do lots of shopping and walking around. This one also serves lunch too and has fun cocktails!
Dough Zone Dumpling House Houston UptownDough Zone Dumpling House Houston Uptown
Looking for soup dumplings? We recommend the Dough Zone where you can do shareables of different soup dumplings, pan friend dumplings, steamed dumplings as well as other Chinese foods. This is the Uptown Location that is close to the Galleria, but there is another location in West Houston area that may be closer for some. If you want the West Houston location, here it is: Dough Zone Dumpling Houston Westchase 11805 Westheimer Rd #370, Houston, TX 77077
The GalleriaThe Galleria
For those who love to shop, The Galleria is one of the two malls in Houston that will have all of your essentials!
Houston Arboretum & Nature CenterHouston Arboretum & Nature Center
If you are looking for more nature that is centrally located in the city, while making it feel like you aren't in the city, then you should try the Arboretum! Kevin and Cuquis have walked the nature center and you can learn more about native plants in Houston, and all pathways and walkways are wheelchair accessible. The Arboretum is a part of Memorial Park.
Eastern Glades EntranceEastern Glades Entrance
Eastern Glades is another part of Memorial Park that has boardwalks where you can walk along the water. It's another way you can walk around the park and enjoy Texas wildlife. With it being October, hopefully weather won't be too hot and will be enjoyable to walk!
VibrantVibrant
Kevin and Cuquis went here when exploring the Memorial Park landbridge with Cuquis's neighbor. This cafe is vegan with fresh food, and is a nice spot to eat and be outdoors after exploring around the park. The landbridge is just a short jaunt up sidewalk where you can look out and see the Houston Skyline ahead.
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, Museum of Fine Arts, HoustonBayou Bend Collection and Gardens, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, located in the River Oaks community in Houston, Texas, United States, is a 14-acre facility of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston that houses a collection of decorative art, paintings and furniture. Bayou Bend is the former home of Houston philanthropist Ima Hogg. This is a great spot for walking around the gardens as the gardens are paved. You can also opt to do a house tour of the mansion.
Brenner's on the BayouBrenner's on the Bayou
If you are looking for a romantic evening while in Houston, this steakhouse overlooks the Buffalo Bayou and is a staple of Houston, TX. Kevin and Cuquis went here on a date before going to see a Pink Martini concert and the food was delicious.
The Museum of Fine Arts, HoustonThe Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
If you are open to exploring the culture, the arts and prefer to be indoors, the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) of Houston, has a great selection of art in their regular collection, and every several months have different special collections that you can get tickets for. The bride has been coming to the MFA since she was a kid and recommends it for any art enthusiasts or appreciators of art.
Houston Museum of Natural ScienceHouston Museum of Natural Science
The Museum of Natural Science has a lot of great exhibits and always have an array of special exhibits every few months! Tickets are only $25 / person and $16 / children. The special exhibits have special prices so if interested in a special exhibit, check the prices! Some favorite exhibits include: - The Butterfly Sanctuary - The Paleontology Exhibit - The Gem/Stone Exhibit - IMAX And much more!
Hermann ParkHermann Park
Hermann Park was one of the first parks that Kevin and Cuquis went together when they first started dating. This is a beautiful park that has the following: - A Japanese Garden - A train that you can take to tour the park - A café called Ginger Kale (now called Sunday Press): https://sunday-press.com/ - The Houston Zoo - Miller Outdoor Theater - Rent paddle boats and boat around the lake! So if you are here and are looking for some time in nature, Hermann Park is a lovely park to walk around and explore!
Houston ZooHouston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is within Hermann Park, but has its own parking! You can enjoy a day with the animals and later walk around Hermann Park.
Miller Outdoor TheatreMiller Outdoor Theatre
This outdoor theater is within Hermann Park and offers free performances multiple days a week with local Houston artists, and visiting artists and performers. Check the website closer to October to see if the performance calendar gets updated as there is a possibility some performances will be going on the week of the wedding. You have the option of purchasing a free ticket to sit in the seats, or bring a blanket/towel and sit on the hill and watch performances from the top of the hill!
The Menil CollectionThe Menil Collection
The Menil Collection is a museum that houses the art collection of founders John de Menil and Dominique de Menil, which includes paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs and rare books. Located in the Montrose area of Houston, this is a beautiful area to walk around outside and the collection is extensive. Check the website for any events and workshops open to the public!
Tonight & TomorrowTonight & Tomorrow
If you are looking for a classy lunch or date night experience in the Montrose district in Houston, visit Tonight & Tomorrow, the French restaurant associated with La Colombe d'Or Boutique Hotel. Kevin and Cuquis had one of their dates here, when Cuquis used to go to school and lived in the area, and the vibe and atmosphere was exquisite. Kevin has even played Elton John's "Your Song" on the hotel piano! Enjoy a night of cocktails, good food and quality service.
Rice VillageRice Village
Want to explore the university district side of Houston, also known as Rice Village? This is a fun area close to Rice University where you can shop, dine and explore!
BohemeBoheme
A fun bar/restaurant that has a Hispanic vibe. Enjoy a glass of wine, cocktails and small bites here in the Montrose District of Houston. Sometimes they have themed nights, such as Friday Latin Nights, and on Sundays they have a drag brunch which Kevin and Cuquis attended with some friends last summer.
Gen Korean BBQ HouseGen Korean BBQ House
If you are looking for good Korean BBQ, this place the bride went with her maid of honor and high school friends and it was delicious! Enjoy lychee sake, and indulge in premium cuts of meat. This is the location in Midtown, which is close to Downtown Houston. There is also a location in West Houston at 12230 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077 and their phone number is (210) 998-7854.
POST HoustonPOST Houston
POST Houston is food hall, event space and cultural center that used to be the original United Postal Service office in Downtown Houston. They have every culture represented in the food hall, from elotes, to Peruvian food, to Nigerian food, to ramen, to boba, Italian and much more! Take your food also upstairs to the rooftop and enjoy their herb garden and the view of Downtown Houston skyline! Sometimes they also host art exhibits and live concerts at POST so check the website if you are coming in early to see if they will be hosting any free events. Kevin and Cuquis did salsa dancing on the rooftop with Houston's Cuban band, Tribu Cubana.
Buffalo Bayou Kayak Tours & Kayak RentalsBuffalo Bayou Kayak Tours & Kayak Rentals
If you are interested in being on the water and getting a tour of Houston's Buffalo Bayou, Kevin and Cuquis recommend during a Buffalo Bayou Kayak tour. You'll start in downtown and you'll paddle and learn about Houston's commerce and development into one of the biggest ports in the country. They also offer paddle board experiences, and other boating tours. Kevin and Cuquis did the sunset tour, but they offer bat colony tours, where you can watch the bats under Waugh Bridge come out at night, or sunset tours.
Downtown AquariumDowntown Aquarium
Right at the entrance of Downtown Houston is the aquarium. Enjoy the marine life and even enjoy the restaurant there. Maybe even hop on the ferris wheel outside of the aquarium!
Discovery GreenDiscovery Green
Discovery Green is a public park in the heart of Downtown Houston! Enjoy a lovely stroll along the lake, kayak along the lake, and enjoy any art installations that are being showcased in the park. Kevin and Cuquis's first date was at Discovery Green where they went to Jazz On the Green. It is right by the convention center and next to
The GroveThe Grove
Located across the street from the convention center, this two-story, ultra-urban restaurant is one of two restaurants inside Discovery Green downtown park. From its setting on the south side of the park, The Grove looks out to a stand of mature live oaks. The first level bar and dining room have dramatic floor to ceiling glass windows. The second level—a private event space—features a large outdoor bar floating among the tree tops. The menu at The Grove, designed by chef/owner Robert Del Grande, features a variety of steaks, seafood and rotisserie specialties. The bar menu offers more casual fare, such as the signature cheeseburger made famous at RDG + Bar Annie. On Sundays stop by for a brunch buffet stocked with salads, pastries and all of your brunch favorites from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Brunch is a flat rate of $35 (add a cocktail for $15 and enjoy $0.1 refills).
Meow Wolf Houston's Radio TaveMeow Wolf Houston's Radio Tave
Meow Wolf is an Interactive Art exhibition with different art installations and opportunities for unique photo ops! This was recommended by some colleagues and the bride and groom recommend it for those who are interested in the arts and immersion.
Brazos Bend State ParkBrazos Bend State Park
If you are looking to hike outside of Houston for a short day trip, we recommend Brazos Bend State Park. This park is all flat terrain and has multiple hiking trails, wetland birds, and if you are lucky...you may spot an alligator! Cuquis and her mom took Kevin here the very first time he visited in October 2021...and it was warm so crossing fingers for cooler wedding by the time the weather comes! But make sure to pack lots of water and snacks! Even the Canadian was impressed with our nature. We recommend for first timers to do the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail, which is the main trail loop tha that is .5 miles and loops around a big lack. There is an outlook you can climb up and look beyond the horizon. Overall, a lovely and easy trail to walk on. Make sure you download the Merlin ID app to hear bird calls and identify any wetland birds if that is something you are into!
Old Town SpringOld Town Spring
In North Houston, there is a historic shopping district in the town of Spring where you can eat at restaurants, go to the Tasting Room and shop! There is a railroad museum you can tour and learn about the history of Spring, TX.
ROSE Therapeutic Farm & Goat YogaROSE Therapeutic Farm & Goat Yoga
If you want a explore a bit of farm life and cuddle with goats, cows and feed the chickens, we recommend going to the Rose Therapeutic Goat Farm! Kevin and Cuquis have been and made friends with the goats. You can also go and feed the cows and do goat snuggles and cow cuddles. You must have a reservation to go. They also have Goat Yoga which you can reserve for a whole group! Reservations to the farm are required. TIP: You can pack a picnic and bring your drinks and food to eat on the farm. You are also able to Uber to the farm if you want to bring wine and not have to worry about driving back yourself. As professional counselors, we recommend this as a way to relax and decompress!
Katy Asian TownKaty Asian Town
If you are looking for one location that is just filled with all things Asian, Katy Asian town will have any type of Asian cuisine you are looking for. From Thai food, Korean, Japanese, Singaporean, Katy Asian Town will have it!
Buc-ee’sBuc-ee’s
Buc-ee's is a Texas institution as it is considered one of the largest rest stops and gas stations in the country. They have a whole food court, snacks, a place to shop for clothing items and home goods. There are multiple Buc-ee's locations in Texas, but this Buc-ee's in Katy, Texas is probably the closest one to where most everyone will be located. However, these are the other Buc-ee's locations near Houston: - Freeport/Surfside (Cuquis took Kevin here) - Richmond - Pearland - Alvin - Texas City - Cypress - Waller And then they have one near Columbus, Austin, and San Antonio if you do a road trip to the Hill Country or are doing a road trip to Houston.
Hruška's Store & BakeryHruška's Store & Bakery
We mentioned Kolaches before, the Czech delicacy. But, Hruška's bakery is the original bakery that sells Kolaches with the original recipe. So, if you are driving to Houston or doing a road trip, or just have some time to spare, drive to Ellinger, TX to get the original Kolaches. So good!
The Jersey BarnyardThe Jersey Barnyard
If you go to Ellinger, TX to get the original Kolaches, then you should stop along the way at the Jersey Barnyard where you can feed the Jersey Cows, shop at their family store, and take a farm tour where you can learn about the process of working on a Jersey Cow farm. They also have multiple animals there from goats, chicken and sheep, all of which you can feed! P.S. Last time the family store was selling olive oil and balsamic from the Texas Olive Oil Co., and if you see it, GET IT it's the best olive oil and balsamic we've had!
Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic SitesKreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic Sites
If you are into hiking and exploring some of Texas's Historic Sites, then you should go to this monumental site in La Grange, TX, close to the Jersey Barnyard and Hruška's. You can get beautiful views of the Colorado river, and visit the ruins of a historic brewery.
BrenhamBrenham
If you have the time and want to go explore some of our smaller towns in the Hill Country, Brenham, TX is a great way to start! Only 1.5 hours West of Houston, you can go shopping, take photos with the graffiti art, eat, go to wineries and breweries, and make sure to visit the diner "Must Be Heaven" to try a scoop of Blue Bell ice cream, specifically made in Brenham, TX.
Blue Bell CreameriesBlue Bell Creameries
Yep! That is Kevin and Cuquis in the photo! If you are in the Brenham area, then you must stop at the Blue Bell Ice Cream factory where you can do a walking tour of the history of Blue Bell ice cream, watch the production of blue bell ice cream being made and packaged, and even get a $1 scoop of ice cream! But fair warning, to watch the ice cream being packaged and made, you must get there before 2 pm on Monday - Friday as they close the observation deck. But you can still go and get your ice cream and shop!
GrueneGruene
Kevin and Cuquis visit the town of Gruene near New Braunfels, TX, a small German town that is known for it's Honky Tonk Gruene Hall - the oldest dance hall in Texas - that hosted several famous well known singers, as well as lots of cute country shops and places to dine by the river! GRISTMILL RIVER RESTAURANT & BAR is one of the most popular places to eat, and they sometimes even have live music! You can even do wine tasting and olive oil tasting here! Great place to visit if you are doing a Texas Road trip through the Hill Country!
Texas Hill Country Olive Co.Texas Hill Country Olive Co.
If you are feeling ambitious and are doing a road trip, you must stop at the Texas Olive Oil Co. and do a olive oil/balsamic taste testing! This is some of the best olive oil ever and you can learn the history of this family run business. They infuse their oils to produce multiple flavors, as well as their balsamics. It is $25/person to do a tasting. Kevin has been once with Cuquis when the Little People of America Conference was in Austin in 2023, AND Cuquis had been a total of three times.
Galveston IslandGalveston Island
If you are looking to go see our Texas beaches and enjoy some time on the coast, Galveston Island is only 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Houston. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston was one of the largest ports in the late 1800s. With a chance to explore Historic downtown, eat southern seafood, enjoy Pleasure Pier and eat are the infamous Bubba Gump Shrimp from Forrest Gump, and enjoy a day at the beach! Do a walking tour, a Duck Tour that uses a WWII vehicle that drives on land and water, or a Trolley Tour!
La King's ConfectioneryLa King's Confectionery
Cuquis and her mom took Kevin to Galveston in 2022 and one of the stops was La King's Confectionery. It's an old timey soda shopped where you can watch them make salt water taffy from scratch, eat ice cream and create a bag of delicious chocolates and candies!
Galveston Historic Seaport - Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSAGalveston Historic Seaport - Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA
Kevin and Cuquis also visited this historic museum in Galveston where you can board the ship ELISSA and learn about sea travel, trade, and what life was life at sea in the 1800s. Across from the ELISSA is a immigration museum where you can learn what it was like for early immigrants to live on a ship from Europe all the way to Galveston and learn about life as an early immigrant in Galveston, TX. Note: The immigration museum is accessible. The ship is not as it is from the late 1800s.