Anytime I’m searching for things to do in new cities, trendy makes its way to the search bar. I’m not sure why, considering trendy means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Still, I find that trendy spots tend to appeal to a younger crowd and often offer places ripe for photo ops.
While visiting Houston over the summer, these were the trendiest spots I hit.
1. The Color Factory
The Color Factory is actually labeled as a museum, though it is much more interactive than the “museum” title suggests. It is suited for people of all ages, though many 20 somethings were hitting this spot.
It’s easy to see why. The Color Factory is a bright, interactive experience that appeals to every sense. Before the tour begins, grab a QR code where you can load your pictures from each station. Trust me, you’ll want to take photos.
The tour exits from the lobby after a brief introduction and your first snack. (Colorful snacks are available in every room, matching the theme of that station). You move through the rooms in a small group of people, taking pictures, and interacting with colorful balls, lights, and aerodynamics along the way. One station gave tourists pink glasses in order to read the writing on the walls. Another station was filled with bright, metal, tubes that sprayed a specific scent. I was skeptical, but the smell of freshly mowed grass was uncanny.
The tour ends in a huge ball pit, perfectly suited for children and adults alike. Pit isn’t exactly an accurate term considering the entire room is filled with clear balls over lights, made to resemble stars.
End your tour with a black gelato cone and an opportunity to download all your photos. Make sure to stop and smell the sand between your toes!
2. Rooftop Cinema Club
If you’re looking for an elevated (literally) cinema experience, search no further. The Rooftop Cinema club is exactly as it sounds, a movie theater on a rooftop. Bright, plush, adirondack chairs sit in front of a massive movie screen, framed by the Houston skyline.
The cinema club shows classics and older hit movies. When I visited, I watched Mean Girls. Check the website to see what movies are playing that week. Also make sure you select the seats you want when booking because different sections and seats are different prices. Traditional movie snacks are available for purchase, as well.
The sunset view of the Houston skyline is certainly a perfect photo op. The cinema club itself is also decorated in bright colors and flowers, making it an appealing experience.
The cinema is outside, so make sure you plan accordingly and watch the weather.
As one of the only rooftop cinema experiences in the country, make sure you stop by the next time you’re in Houston. It’s well worth the price.
3. McIntyre's Downtown
McIntyre’s is a multi-level bar and arcade, complete with cocktails, live music, and food trucks. The upper level of the bar offers any drink you can imagine with swings overlooking the city, TVs playing the latest sports games, and tables equipped with Jenga sets. I sipped an Espresso martini while enjoying the indoor swings with views of downtown Houston.
The main level of the bar boasts live music, bright murals, and arcade games. I competed with my friend at a basketball game and failed miserably.
In the downstairs portion of the bar, there is a rotating food truck. Check McIntyre’s website or Facebook page to see what food truck will be there during your visit.
This garage-esque portion is open air and offers plenty of sports/games to suit your fancy. There is a large shuffle-board, life-size version of Cup Pong, darts, and more.
This is the type of bar to hit up if you’re looking for entertainment and atmosphere, in addition to drinks.
I’d recommend any of these trendy spots the next time you visit Houston!
This makes me want to go there!