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There's more to Houston that just bright lights and a little Western flair. In fact, you'll find that many of Houston's attractions lie just outside the city. Case in point: These two must-visit parks near Houston. One park lies on the river, while the other is known for its vast biological diversity. Either way, both make for a memorable getaway.

Big Thicket National Preserve
Big Thicket National Preserve is located about two hours outside of Houston. Here, you can find species from very different habitats living among each other in a relatively small area. Take a hike on a variety of different trails, ranging from a brisk boardwalk stroll to an extreme 15 mile trek. The preserve is also a popular destination for birdwatching, as approximately 185 migratory bird species make Big Thicket their home between March and early May. Canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts travel to Big Thicket year-round to cruise the Neches River and Village Creek.

Stephen F. Austin State Park
You'll find Stephen F. Austin State Park just 30 minutes from the outskirts of Houston, so it makes a quick day trip for anyone looking to get outdoors. This scenic retreat offers traditional camping activities such as hiking and fishing, as well as the more modern geocaching. If you'd like to keep it simple, go fishing for catfish along the Brazos River. There are wide variety of campsites to accommodate your camping needs, whether they be a place to hook up your RV, a cabin for shelter, or just a little spot to put your tent.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Arup Malakar

Tap into your passion for craft beers at Saint Arnold Brewing Company. Houston's first microbrewery, Saint Arnold opened in 1994 and has since become a much-loved and respected beer label with dozens of brews to its name. In fact, the brewery's famous Fancy Lawnmower beer, a smooth German-style Kolsch, has become a staple of craft beer pubs across the country.

The small staff at Saint Arnold truly loves their beer and the community that surrounds it, offering weekly tours and hosting special events, such as the annual Feast of Saint Arnold, an enormous fundraiser that features a four course meal of beef, pork, fish, and poultry alongside seasonal and year-round brews. Stop by the modern warehouse brewery for a taste of what’s in the kegs and pick up a few souvenirs and bottles of your favorite beers to take home with you.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/jchapiewski