Plan a date or family outing at Hermann Park Conservatory, a Houston favorite for couples and families alike. Its location in the Museum District makes it ideal for an afternoon relaxing after visiting the zoo and museums. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy in the Japanese Garden. There are numerous water features throughout this large park, including a reflecting pool, fountain, and McGovern Lake. Weekend paddleboats provide a fun activity, as does a train that traverses the park. Joggers enjoy the exercise trail shaded by live oak trees. The park is a favorite setting for special occasion photographs, so bring your best camera and snap away.

Throughout the year, the park hosts numerous events, including a Kite Festival in the spring. There are regularly art installations throughout the park, which provide interesting and contemplative backdrops for an afternoon picnic.

Hermann Park Conservatory
6201-A Hermann Park Drive
Houston, TX 77030
(713) 524-5876
http://www.hermannpark.org
http://www.yelp.com/biz/hermann-park-conservancy-houston-2

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/hummymummy

Get your sweet treats at Sprinkles in Houston. Although a chain cupcake bakery, customers rave about the fresh deliciousness of the confections. Favorite flavors include the chocolate marshmallow, red velvet, and strawberry but even boring old vanilla still tastes great at Sprinkles! You can even expect gluten free and vegan options. Check the website for today’s flavors, including seasonal specialties. Sprinkles is popular and will often sell out, so get there earlier in the day for the best selection. Although expensive at $3.75 each, these gourmet cupcakes are generously sized.

Sprinkles
4014 Westheimer Road
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 871-9929
http://www.sprinkles.com/cupcake-bakery-locations/houston
http://www.yelp.com/biz/sprinkles-cupcakes-houston

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/simple up

Ruggles Green is a casual place where you can always find good food that's good for you. Come in and take a seat – there’s no ceremony here. You’re not going to find any waiters – just step up to the counter. The menu items use local organic ingredients from 17 different area farms, so you know it’s fresh. All the meats are hormone and steroid free, and all of the desserts use natural, organic sweeteners. Also, those eating gluten free will find lots of great options. There’s even a selection of organic wines! 

Ruggles Green
2311 W Alabama St
Houston, TX 77098
(713) 533-0777
http://www.yelp.com/biz/ruggles-green-houston

Public Domain/Public Domain