Your 3 Day Guide to a Staycation in Houston

You’ve had a long week, and what better way to de-stress than by taking a quick weekend staycation in Houston? For those who don’t know, a “stay-cation” is a vacation where you stay at home! Thankfully for us, Home is one of the best cities in the nation, with some of the truly incredible restaurants, shops, and activities! Below, we have compiled a guide of sorts for you to follow if you decide to embark on a weekend vacation at home. Join us to explore unique cocktails, rejuvenating wellness classes, and classic eateries. This guide will take you from mouth-watering sushi to sizzling fajitas as the days go on, so make sure to hitch a ride on this journey of flavor and adventure. This weekend, the locals become tourists. We are here to give you our best suggestions for what to check on on your ultimate Houston stay-cation.

On Friday, we are starting with two dinner suggestions – Soto for the sushi lovers and March for the luxurious. To keep with the Montrose theme, we have the Houston classic Anvil Bar & Refuge on the list as well. Options for night-time activities include catching a movie at the River Oaks Theatre, watching a comedy set at The Riot Comedy Club, or listening to a live show at House of Blues.

Saturday has us waking up bright and early for Hatha Yoga at Discovery Green, which is followed by a hearty meal at The Breakfast Klub in Midtown. Next up is Meow Wolf’s newest art exhibit, Radio Tave, where you will experience a psychedelic experience that is sure to blow your mind. Then we have a late lunch at The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation and a quick stop at La Carafe before heading to Drunk Shakespeare at The Emerald Theater to end off our day.

On the last day of the staycation, we are checking out the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern before driving over to Little Hen for brunch. Then, shopping at The Galleria followed by a sweet treat at the nearby Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen. Barbeque at The Pit Room marks our last meal of the weekend, as we end off our trip by taking a night walk through Rice University.

Check out the guide below for the best stay-cation Houston has to offer!

Friday | Eat and Drink

Soto

It’s time to start our action-filled weekend with sushi at Soto. This is our favorite sushi place in Houston, so it just had to be on the list. It’s Friday night, you just got home from work, and you’re choosing this weekend to celebrate yourself. That means Sake is a must. Soto is always known for its great cocktails. No way to go wrong, isn’t that right?

We recommend you start off with the Shishito Peppers. They are crisp, spicy, and will shock your system just enough to keep you awake for the rest of the night. For the sushi itself, you have to try out the Salmon Over Fire and Smoked Tuna Tataki. However, if you want to have real fun with your night, please consider trying the Omakase, where the chef picks your dinner. This is what we did last time, and it was 100% worth it.

Address: 224 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006

March Lounge

Let’s say sushi’s not your thing. That’s okay, we completely understand. Thankfully, the Montrose neighborhood has lots of great options for fine dining, and Michelin-starred restaurant March might just be the finest of them all.

That’s right, Houston is chasing Michelin Stars. If you were on a real vacation, you would dine at the best your location has to offer… why not do the best for a staycation? March is an ever-changing destination that regularly changes its menu throughout the year to explore different parts of the Mediterranean region. Right now, the Republic of Venice has taken the stage to show off what cuisine they have to offer.

March is an experience just as much as it is a restaurant. You start your evening off in the lounge area, where unique cocktails and snacks showcase the region on display. Then they take you into the dining room where the real fun starts. We aren’t going to spoil that part, you’re just going to have to check March out yourself. Don’t worry – there will be no regrets.

Address: 1624 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006

Anvil Bar & Refuge

This industrial-chic spot with more cocktails than you can count is about as perfect as bars come. It’s on the same street as Soto and March, so there really is no excuse not to head on over after your dinner. Anvil Bar & Refuge is known for their critically acclaimed bar program that includes 100 classic and seasonal cocktails. From a Hot Buttered Rum to a Blue Hawaiian, there is a drink here for every taste.

One of our favorite things about Anvil Bar & Refuge is their Happy Hour. On Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., all drinks on the menu are 50% off.

This place is an iconic Houston staple and has been named one of the best bars in the world. All their offerings are worth tasting, so make sure when you check them out, you bring friends so you guys can try a variety of drinks. Anvil Bar & Refuge is not a place you want to miss on your dream staycation.

Address: 1424 Westheimer Rd Ste B, Houston, TX 77006

Friday | Activities and Shopping

River Oaks Theatre

Silence your phones and dim the lights, because the River Oaks Theatre is back in business and back on our list of the best places to go in Houston. Checking out a movie at this locally-loved theater is a great thing to do any day of the week, but perfect for a Friday night start to your inner-loop adventures.

To the dismay of many, the popular 75-year-old River Oaks Theatre closed back in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It reopened in 2025 thanks to the efforts of new owner Culinary Khancepts and artistic director Robert Saucedo. Changes to the theatre include new plush seats added to create a more intimate environment and a diverse menu that includes a range of items from tuna tartare to chicken sliders.

River Oaks Theatre showcases a wide range of movies. Visitors can buy tickets to new releases, popular classics, and eclectic indies at this retro neon establishment. Catch a movie at this popular institution to end your Friday night with a bang!

Address: 2009 W Gray Street, Houston, TX 77019

The Riot Comedy Club

Watching a show at The Riot Comedy Club is another great way to spend your Friday night. They claim to be “Houston’s Hottest Comedy Club,” and if you want any proof of whether or not that’s true, just check out their Youtube Channel – you won’t be disappointed.

Friday is a great day to go because that’s when the comedy club brings in headliners from all around the country. Recent headlines have included America’s Got Talent’s very own Andy Huggins and Ahamed Weinberg from Comedy Central. All upcoming talent is listed on the venue’s website, where you can buy tickets to the show of your choosing. They offer reserved tables and general admission at a range of prices depending on what night you go and who you are seeing.

The Riot Comedy Club has a Full Bar and is 21+, so make sure to keep the kids at home for this outing if they are coming along for the staycation!

Address: 2010 Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77006

House of Blues

House of Blues is one of Houston’s premier music venues. They have hosted acts such as Post Malone, The 1975, and Leon Bridges in the past and continue to bring in new touring artists that light up the two-story building and get the crowd moving. House of Blues is home to all genres – from Country to Heavy Metal – and is a great place to rock out with friends. They don’t always have bookings on Friday nights, so make sure to check the calendar on the website before heading over. This is one of Houston’s coolest music venues and deserves a spot on the list. It wouldn’t be a staycation without live music, and House of Blues has some of the best.

House of Blues may be small, but it makes up for it with killer drinks and great performances. It’s standing room only – so make sure to grab those sneakers before you head out!

Address: 1204 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77002

Saturday | Eat and Drink

The Breakfast Klub

It’s Saturday morning, and to start your day off strong, we recommend you check out The Breakfast Klub in Midtown. This causal spot always has a line out the front, and for good reason. It is home to some of the greatest morning fare you can find, and that’s not just us talking. Good Morning America, USA Today, Esquire, and Forbes Magazine have all rated The Breakfast Klub as one of the “best breakfast restaurants in the nation.” It’s not a place you want to miss.

Some of the most popular items at The Breakfast Klub include their “katfish and grits” and “wings and waffles.” The buttery biskits are also a must. They even sell custom merch, seasoning, and pancake mix, so patrons can take The Breakfast Klub home with them. We certainly want to. The Breakfast Klub is masterfully tasty, and it’s on every out-of-towners must-visit list when traveling to Houston. So tell us, why shouldn’t it be on yours?

Address: 3711 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation

Next stop – the capital of Tex-Mex itself, The Original Ninfas on Navigation. The restaurant’s trademark claims they have “the best Mexican food in Texas since Texas was in Mexico,” and – after trying their food ourselves – it’s difficult to disagree. One of the most interesting things about Ninfas is their history, which dates back to 1973 when the restaurant’s namesake Mama Ninfa started selling Tacos el Carbon out of her family’s struggling pizza and tortilla factory. This strange and new dish she created would eventually come to be known as Fajitas. The same fajitas that you will find at any Tex-Mex restaurant from El Paso to Austin. It all started here in Houston at The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation.

If you’re staying in Houston and haven’t been to this staple before, you need to go. Even if you have been before, this is a place that’s worth the repeat. The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation is just that good.

Address: 2704 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX, 77003

La Carafe

This fantastic little Wine Bar is housed in Houston’s oldest confirmed building. Keeping with the historical theme this Saturday night, aren’t we? La Carafe conducts business with a centuries-old wine registry and is supposedly Haunted. It’s the perfect follow-up to the home of the first fajitas.

La Carafe is dark, moody, and rife with eclectic decor. The second floor has a balcony overlooking the city with views you can enjoy while you drink, but it’s only open on Fridays and Saturdays. Not that the first floor isn’t exciting enough, with its stained glass and old paintings. They even have a jukebox and the occasional Live Piano Performance on weekends.

For drinks, they only serve Wine and Beer at La Carafe, but have a wide selection of both that are overall positively rated. Oh, and they have small bar snacks too. Just make sure you’re aware of Ghosts when you stop by!

Address: 813 Congress St, Houston, TX 77002

Saturday | Activities and Shopping

Hatha Yoga at Discovery Green

Did you know that Discovery Green hosts a free Hatha Yoga class every week for any member of the public who wants to participate? The event is located at the Hess Patio Deck – a 4,700-square-foot raised deck next to the Brown Promenade area of the park – and takes place on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Hatha Yoga is part of UTHealth Houston’s Fitness in the Park series of classes. All fitness levels are welcome at these classes, so you don’t need any experience to get stretching!

Hatha Yoga uses physical techniques to channel and preserve energy within the human body. It involves Meditation, Movement, and Breath Work. The class is also described as a “basic vinyasa yoga class for enhanced awareness and a strong, healthy body.” Vinyasa Yoga refers to the flow in movement from posture to posture while practicing Hatha Yoga. This type of physical activity has many benefits, including better flexibility, posture, and balance, as well as decreased stress. Starting your morning with a Hatha Yoga class at Discovery Green is a great way to reconnect to both your body and the beautiful surrounding nature.

Address: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010

Meow Wolf Houston’s Radio Tave

Just last year, Meow Wolf opened their fifth permanent exhibition – Radio Tave – in Houston. This Immersive Art Exhibit uses color and space to create a Reality-Bending Experience that is sure to have you tripping out in no time. Stepping through the doors of Radio Tave is like entering into another dimension – one where art and sound combine into a fantastical world of surreal storytelling.

Meow Wolf has five locations: Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Denver, Grapevine, and Houston. Each museum is different from the others – Houston’s stands out by being the most expensive one yet. Radio Tave also features works by more than 50 local artists. These include hip hop artist Fat Tony, who helped curate some of the music for the exhibition, and Mario Enrique Figueroa, who served as the project’s artistic liaison. You can find pieces of Texas throughout Radio Wave – especially in Cowboix Hevven – the installation’s fully-functional, Texas-inspired dive Bar.

Meow Wolf Houston’s Radio Tave may be a little more eccentric than your usual museum, but it’s the eccentricity that makes it worth the visit.

Address: 2103 Lyons Ave, Building 2, Houston, TX 77020

Drunk Shakespeare

Come to the theater to watch a show of hilarity and mayhem. Here, five professional actors meet to put on a performance of a lifetime. One of these five actors has downed many shots of whiskey. Who may it be? Nevertheless, both the drunk and sober actors must perform a major Shakespearean play for the audience. That is you! Right now, the poor play being defamed is Romeo and Juliet. Go watch this ancient classic at The Emerald Theater, where the Houstonian members of The Drunk Shakespeare Society perform while trying to keep their fellow actors sober.

At the show, you may also join in on the fun! Enjoy Craft Cocktails while watching the show; after all, the best way to support an inebriated actor is by joining in on the fun. Drunk Shakespeare has three shows every Saturday, and tickets can be bought on their website. We hope to see you there!

Address: 412 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002

Sunday | Eat and Drink

Little Hen

We are doing the Sunday morning classic and heading over to Little Hen for Brunch. This Chic Boutique serves up classic dishes with elevated twists. Their selection includes Rose Petal Pancakes with rose water-infused maple syrup and Bourbon Batter French Toast with bacon strips and caramelized pear. On the savory side, they’ve got signature Little Hen Rancheros and Carbonara Omelets. Little Hen also has a lunch menu if you decide to sleep in a bit. Don’t worry – we won’t judge! Make sure to check out their drinks too, after all, it’s not a brunch without at least one Mimosa!

We love the floral aesthetic and decorations at Little Hen. The furniture and seating are adorned in Delicate Pastels. The entire restaurant is blooming – both the indoor and outdoor areas have botany throughout that brings the place to life. Little Hen is the best place on this list for pictures, so make sure to wear that Maxi Dress and bring your Digital Camera!

Address: 4444 Westheimer Ct Suite H-110, Houston, TX 77027

Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen

After you’ve finished shopping at the Galleria, we recommend you stop by Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen for a quick, sweet treat before continuing on your adventures. While it’s true you can get a great Sandwich here, we are going to focus a bit more on the Dessert side. They have a large variety of classics like Pie, Cake, and Cheesecake, as well as some more unique options that you won’t find at your average dessert shop in Texas. Kenny & Ziggy’s is a traditional Jewish Deli with Confections you wouldn’t normally find in theLone Star State. Rugelach (small, crescent-shaped pastries) and Old-Fashioned Mandel Bread (twice-baked Jewish cookies similar to biscotti) are just some of the historically Jewish desserts served at Kenny & Ziggy’s.

Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen is one of our favorite places to scratch that sugar itch, and it’s right around the corner from one of our favorite places to shop. For that, all we can say is thank you, H-Town!

Address: 1743 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056

The Pit Room

It’s our last meal, and while barbecue isn’t the usual first choice for a Sunday night dinner, we knew we couldn’t go the whole weekend without grabbing at least some of Texas’s favorite dishes. The Pit Room is where we embarked on our journey to devour some Traditional Texas Barbecue. All the stops are covered here – from Pork Ribs to Mustard Potato Salad. It’s counter service, so there may be a line when you stop by, but the Jalapeno Sausage makes The Pit Room worth the wait.

The Brisket is the star of the show here. It falls right off the bone with a smoky bark that isn’t too overwhelming. On the weekends, they offer Wagyu Beef Ribs – another menu standout that we recommend you try. The Pit Room is as classic as it gets, with slow-cooked meats, black pepper, and no sauce unless you ask. It’s a great place to end your staycation on a high note!

Address: 1201 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77006

Sunday | Activities and Shopping

Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern

The Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern is one of Houston’s most unique attractions. It’s a defunct underground water reservoir that was decommissioned in 2007 and turned into a beautiful public space that people can tour by themselves or with a group. It’s called a “cistern” because it reminded landscape architect Kevin Shanely of ancient Roman cisterns under Istanbul. Pretty cool, right?

The cistern hosts Art Installations, Live Performances, and – our personal favorite – morning Sound Meditation classes. You can visit the cistern most days of the week, but we specially placed it on Sunday morning in our staycation guide because of the group sound healing meditation.

This meditation is a great way to start your day by reconnecting with your body and mind. It takes place at 10 a.m. and lasts 45 minutes, so you’ll still have time to explore the reservoir before heading to brunch. The acoustics of the cistern make this meditation class an unforgettable experience that would be hard to replicate anywhere else. Whether you choose to attend the sound meditation or do a Guided Tour, we know you will have a great time.

Address: 105-B Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007

Shop at The Galleria

The Galleria is Houston’s Premier Shopping Mall. It has over 400 stores and restaurants, two hotels, and even an Ice Skating Rink. People come from all around the world to shop at this High-Scale Destination. You could spend a whole weekend here alone – it is the largest mall in Texas. No matter how many times you’ve visited, the Galleria is always worth making a stop, and there is no better time to go than during your very own staycation.

From Apple to Prada to Neiman Marcus – the Galleria has everything. It’s three stories of wonder and any product you could ever dream up. Even if you aren’t planning on buying anything, the window shopping and people watching are worth the trip alone. That and the 20,000 square foot indoor ice skating rink. The Galleria is our biggest tourist destination – and this is the weekend you’re taking a step back and becoming a tourist in your own city. That means Shopping is definitely on the agenda.

Address: 5085 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056

Rice University

We’ve had a long weekend, but we have one more stop before we call wraps on our staycation. It’s time for a quick night walk through Rice University. The school is less than 10 minutes away from The Pit Room and has some of the most beautiful architecture the city has to offer. Rice University has a variety of public art installations, many of which are outdoors, including Owl by Anny Coury and Po-um (Lyric) by Mark di Suvero. You can find more information on these sculptures here, at Rice’s public art page.

There are so many different spots throughout campus that are worth a photo-op. The outside of Lovett Hall is one of the most popular, but South Boulevard is great as well.

A calm night walk is a great way to end the long journey of excitement and exploration the weekend has brought, while observing the magnificent views of Houston’s most charming university.

Address: 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005

Conclusion

Now that was a trip! We hope you check you some of the places we have listed above during your stay-cation. Houston, while underrated, is one of the greatest traveling destinations in the world. It’s so easy to overlook the amazing places to explore just a short distance away. That’s why it’s important to take time to enjoy this diverse, unique city we all call home. We have high-end restaurants like March just blocks away from 100-year-old bars like La Carafe, and underground Sound Meditations in the same vicinity as drunk Shakespearean actors. We all get busy, but it’s so important to take time to enjoy the fun experiences life has to offer – and a staycation can be just the break you need to get back out there and explore.

Check out all Houston has to offer in this three-day guide to a perfect staycation in Houston. We have so many options for dining, shopping, and unforgettable experiences, so don’t miss out on this dream at-home trip!