Lily Huynh/The Cougar
Houston has officially kicked off the summer with love bugs, humidity and soccer. Whether you’re staying in the city between vacations or spending the entire summer here, there is still so much to do beyond summer classes, work or endlessly scrolling at home.
The problem is that many Houstonians rarely experience everything the city has to offer. We get so comfortable with our routines that we forget to step outside of them, sticking to the same neighborhoods, restaurants and weekend plans.
That’s ironic because Houston is known for so much. It’s one of the largest cities in the United States, home to NASA and the famous phrase, “Houston, we have a problem,” while also boasting one of the country’s most diverse populations and food scenes. Yet, ask the average Houstonian about their city, and they’ll probably tell you it’s boring or that “there’s nothing to do.”
Houston really does have a problem, but it isn’t a lack of things to do. It’s that too many locals aren’t taking advantage of their own city.
Part of the reason is that Houston is so spread out. Many people spend most of their time in the area where they grew up. Someone from Alief may rarely venture to The Heights, while someone from Katy might never have a reason to visit the East End.
Who can blame them, Houston is far from Houston and with rising gas prices and nightmarish traffic, it makes sense why people stay in their side of town. But with foreigners here for the world cup this summer, it’s time for the locals to explore the city like tourists.
Beyond space city
Houston isn’t typically considered a major tourist destination compared to Miami, LA, New York City etc. But, the city does consist of many cool attractions. For starters, we are home to NASA Johnson Space Center, one of the most significant space centers in the world.
But that’s only the beginning; the city also has something for everyone including multiple types of parks and museums, a zoo, an aquarium and a beach only an hour away, just to name a few.
But most importantly, Houston is known for having the best food.
Houston is home to countless cultures, making the food scene endless. From Tex-Mex, BBQ, Indian food, hot pot, the possibilities are endless. You might even be overwhelmed by too many appetizing options, that’s how good the food is here.
Houston may not be everyone’s dream vacation destination, and that’s okay. The beauty of the city can be found in the countless experiences waiting just outside your usual routine.
Whether it’s cheering alongside strangers at a World Cup watch party, trying a restaurant you’ve never heard of or simply spending an afternoon exploring a neighborhood you normally drive past, there’s always something new to discover.
This summer, stop waiting for your next trip to feel like an adventure. Sometimes the best way to fall in love with a place is to experience it like you’ve never been there before.
Opinion@thedailycougar.com
