Midtown Houston

Houston City Guide content connected to Midtown Houston. Find inspiration, event guides, and our favorite places to eat, drink and explore.

Surviving Houston without a car

Surviving Houston without a car

Living in Houston without a car can be quite the challenge. With Lodgeur’s apartments at Mid Main Lofts in Midtown, there are plenty of options for those who don’t own or rent cars. From bike-sharing programs to public transportation, this bustling city has something for everyone looking to get around quickly and conveniently.

In this blog post, we will explore the different methods you can use to navigate Houston without relying on your own wheels!

Walking

With Lodgeur’s Midtown location boasting a WalkScore of 91, you can easily walk to many destinations within the city. This is a great way to get some exercise while exploring the city. Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts boats 10 restaurants, coffee shops and bars downstairs or within one block of Lodgeur’s furnished apartments. There is even a barber shop, dentist and optometrist downstairs. If you’re willing to venture out for a 5-minute walk, you can reach dozens of places to eat and drink.

Public Transportation

Public Transportation

Houston offers a light rail system that travels through downtown, Midtown, and the Museum District. This is a great option for commuters and visitors alike as it runs regularly throughout the day and night. The Metrobus also operates in Houston with several lines that run throughout the city, often connecting to light rail station. All you need to do is purchase a MetroQ card from any of the transit centers around the city, and you’re ready to go!

Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts is situated directly on the METRORail Red Line (Ensemble Station), with direct access to downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, NRG Arena/Reliant Park, and the Museum District. It doesn’t get any faster, cheaper or easier to explore Houston. (Our travel nurse guests almost always choose to use METRORail over their own cars to get to TMC quickly and cheaply.)

The easiest way to explore Houston is to stay in apartments with a METRORail station. Check out our blog post on exploring Houston by METRORail.

Bike Sharing

Houston is home to several bike-sharing programs: B-Cycle, LimeBike, and Mobike. All of these services allow you to easily find a nearby bike station, check out a bike, and pay for it with a credit card. You will find bike-sharing programs all over downtown and the Museum District.

Ridesharing

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Houston. All you have to do is download the app, enter your payment information, and request a ride. This is an easy way to get around the city without having to worry about parking or other transportation fees. Just look for the Uber/Lyft pickup spots at the parking garage.

Park your ride

If you arrive in Houston by car, we have gated garage parking available for you. Even if you’re going to take the METRORail to downtown or TMC for work, you have complimentary garage parking available for your car.

With Lodgeur’s furnished apartmnts at Mid Main Lofts, you can explore Houston without relying on your own car. From walking and bike-sharing to public transportation and ridesharing, Lodgeur has all the options you need to make getting around the city easy and convenient.

Check out all the great places you can walk to from Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts.

Houston’s February events and celebrations

Houston is a vibrant and lively city with plenty of events and activities to enjoy all monthlong. From the Houston Rodeo and Garden Show to the Lunar New Year Festival and free, local events, there’s something for everyone in Houston this February.

Lunar New Year Night Market & Lantern Festival

Free entry

Chinese dragon at the festival

Image courtesy of Visit Houston.

Houston’s Lunar New Year Night Market features a wide variety of traditional foods, activities, and entertainment for all ages. Visitors can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine from numerous vendors while watching vibrant cultural performances. As part of the celebration, attendees can also participate in the light sculpture decorating and lantern lighting for an additional fee.

Event details.

Feb. 4 & 5
401 Franklin St., Houston, TX 77201
10 am – 11 pm
www.eventbrite.com/e/lunar-new-year-night-market

Hands on Houston: Beaded Bracelets

Free

Hands on Houston is a volunteer organization that hosts events for the community to come together and create art. One of their most popular events is Beaded Bracelets, where participants can learn how to make colorful beaded bracelets. This event provides an opportunity for people of all ages to get creative while having fun with friends or family. During the event, attendees will have access to a wide selection of beads in various shapes and sizes, allowing them to design unique pieces that reflect their own personal style. They’ll also receive guidance from current resident artist Lakea Shepard. The event is free and open to the public while supplies last.

Event details.

Feb. 4
4848 Main St., Houston, TX 77002
11 am – 3 pm

Houston Home + Garden Show

$

The Houston Home + Garden Show is an annual event that celebrates the beauty of nature and brings together home improvement professionals, green living experts, and local businesses. This year’s show is chock-full of new exhibitors, experts, and activations with an emphasis on gardening that will capture the essence of the Spring season: making old things new and giving a fresh take to your treasured spaces.

Event details.

Feb. 3 – 5
NRG Park
$10 general admission

First Saturday Arts Market

Free

people on the picture gallery

Image courtesy of First Saturday Arts Market.

Houston’s First Saturday Arts Market is a popular outdoor event that takes place the first Saturday of every month in the Historic Houston Heights. Enjoy live music, grab a bite to eat from one of the food trucks, and check out some of the featured works from local and regional artists. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or just want to enjoy an afternoon in the company of artisans, First Saturday Arts Market is the perfect way to experience Houston’s thriving local art scene.

Event details.

Feb. 4
540 W. 19th St., Houston, TX
11 am – 6 pm

Monster Jam

$$

monster trucks

Image courtesy of Monster Jam.

This monster truck extravaganza features the world’s best drivers competing in intense races and performing outrageous stunts. You won’t want to miss out on all of the high-octane action as these massive trucks tear up the track while they perform jaw-dropping feats of strength and agility. Get ready to witness an unforgettable spectacle at the Monster Jam in Houston!

Event details.

Feb. 11
One NRG Park
Doors open at 5:30 pm
Tickets start at $20
www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/houston-tx

Valentine’s Day at Solstice

Free

people walking on the street

Image courtesy of SOLSTICE by Studio Iregular at Discovery Green.

Studio Iregular’s art installation, Solstice, wraps up its final art programming event on Valentine’s Day! Solstice is comprised of a series of mirrored and LED arches that reflect the transformation of Earth when the sun is at its closest and furthest from the equator. Guests will be able to experience the longest day of the year to the shortest in an explorative and interactive format. And later that evening, Will Brandon of America’s Got Talent will perform a spectacular fire show from 6-9 p.m.!

Event details.

Feb. 14
Discovery Green
6 – 9 pm
www.discoverygreen.com/event/valentines-day-at-solstice

The Love Project Live “Til Death”

$$-$$$$

“The Love Project is a Documentary and Live Music event focused on the journey of falling in love. We interview Houston residents, asking them about their deepest love and their most difficult heartbreak. These filmed responses are woven into our documentary, as we compose music that represents the feelings conveyed, and we play them live.  Our goal is to create an all-inclusive space where we can all come to connect, heal and grow as lovers.” -Sharee Davis

Event details.

Feb. 14
339 West 19 Street Houston, TX
7 – 10 pm
www.prekindle.com/event/22573-the-love-project-houston

Indian Film Festival of Houston

$$-$$$

The Indian Film Festival of Houston is an annual event that celebrates the wonders of Indian cinema by showcasing a variety of films, documentaries, and short movies. Drawing in audiences from all walks of life, this 3-day event strives to provide inspiring and thought-provoking stories from India’s vibrant film industry.

Event details.

Feb. 23 – 25
1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004
Tickets start at $19
asiasociety.org/texas/events/15th-indian-film-festival-houston

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

$-$$$

Houston rodeo

Image courtesy of RODEOHOUSTON.

Houston Rodeo is an annual event that celebrates the city’s rich western heritage. This 3-week event features a variety of activities and attractions including professional rodeo competitions, live music performances (Parker McCollum performs Opening Day!), carnival rides, interactive exhibits and more. From bull riding to barrel racing to mutton bustin’, this family-friendly extravaganza offers something for everyone. With over one million visitors each year, Houston Rodeo has become one of the largest events in the state. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or just want to experience the legendary Wild West culture first-hand, don’t miss out on this incredible event!

Check out our post here on the top 10 things to do at Houston Rodeo and here for where to stay and how to get to Houston Rodeo.

Event details.

Feb. 28- March 19
NRG Stadium
www.rodeohouston.com

The perfect staycation weekend in Houston

Shoeshine Charley's Big Top Lounge at The Continental Club

If you’re looking for a perfect weekend staycation in Houston, Midtown is the place to be! With its plethora of great restaurants and bars, as well as its close proximity to downtown attractions, Midtown makes for an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy all that Houston has to offer without needing a car.

From delicious eats at some of the city’s best restaurants, craft cocktails at hip bars and lounges, and plenty of entertainment venues – there will never be a dull moment during your long weekend in this vibrant neighborhood. So if you’re ready to have an unforgettable time while staying close to home, keep reading – we’ve got all the details on where you should eat, drink and play during your fantasy weekend in Midtown Houston!

Head to Midtown Houston on Thursday for an unforgettable weekend of food, drinks, and entertainment! From delicious eats at some of the city’s best restaurants to craft cocktails at hip bars and lounges, you’ll find plenty of options throughout the vibrant neighborhood. So get ready – it’s going to be an amazing long weekend in Midtown Houston!

Thursday evening

There’s a special event (almost) every first Thursday of the month: Mid Main First Thursday. This is your chance to explore local shops while sampling tasty bites and listening to live music – all while supporting a great cause. Catch live music at Winnie’s over seasonally-inspired cocktails.

restaurant with people in front
Winnie’s is a Midtown favorite for sandwiches and craft cocktails.

And if you’re looking for some fun after dark, then don’t miss out on Beatle’s cover band Beetle, playing at the historic Continental Club! Beetle has earned a devoted following over 20 years of performances at Continental Club, and First Thursdays are your chance to see them without a separate cover charge. Check out our blog post on First Thursdays, Midtown’s block party.

music band image
Beetle has played weekly at the Continental Club for 20 years.

Friday morning

Start off your staycation Friday with the perfect casual breakfast spot in Midtown: Tacos a GoGo! This popular eatery serves up delicious Mexican cuisine all day long and is sure to start your day off right. The menu features traditional tacos made with fresh ingredients, as well as specialties like chilaquiles, migas and huevos rancheros. And don’t forget about the amazing selection of drinks including Mexican coffee and aguas frescas.

wall with images
Tacos a GoGo is your go-to for tacos and coffee in a no-frills setting.

Once you’ve had your fill of filling eats, explore the area with a self-guided walking tour of Midtown Houston. With its impressive collection of murals and public art, you’ll be sure to find plenty of Instagrammable moments throughout your journey! (Check out our blog post on Midtown’s rich mural scene.)

Friday afternoon

Big Kat's Barber Shop
Freshen up with the barbers at Big Kat’s.

Stop by Big Kat’s Barber Shop to get weekend-ready with a fresh haircut. Located right in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood, Big Kat’s offers old school barber services with a modern twist. From classic cuts and fades to more contemporary styles such as undercuts and edgy looks, Big Kat’s Barber Shop will get you on point for the weekend.

Friday evening

food image
Mai’s Restaurant was Anthony Bourdain’s regular stop in Houston.

It’s time for dinner! Enjoy an upscale dinner with friends at Mai’s Restaurant. This Vietnamese eatery is known for its flavorful, made-from-scratch dishes that pair perfectly with their vast selection of wines and beers. From delicious starters like the imperial rolls and spring rolls to entrées like the bun thit nuong and com tam bi do, you won’t be disappointed. Anthony Bourdain made a point of stopping by on every Houston trip. You should, too.

After dinner, stop by Double Trouble for craft cocktails on the ground floor of Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts. This hip bar specializes in classic drinks with a twist, like the “Smoke & Mirrors” made with mezcal and passionfruit. Enjoy the music of local DJs (and sometimes national acts) as you listen to great tunes and sip on your favorite libations.

cocktail image
Order doubles of Double Trouble’s coffee and cocktails.

Saturday morning

The Brass Tap’s famous brunch boards are perfect for sharing with friends or family – they come loaded up with all sorts of tasty treats like charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, meats and vegetables. And if that doesn’t sound tempting enough, the mimosa flights let you sample four different flavors of bubbly goodness – from classic orange to guava-pineapple. Remember to make your reservations in advance as the Brass Tap has lines every weekend.

Bring friends to help with the Brass Tap brunch board.

Saturday afternoon

After lunch, spend your afternoon wandering around Midtown’s independent shops. My Flaming Heart is great for handmade clothes you won’t find anywhere else. Sig’s Lagoon is great for browsing through vintage record albums. FYHA Shop is the place to get cool Houston gear.

Saturday evening

Holman Draft Hall
Holman’s open-air setting is best at sunset.

After a day of exploring, kick off your Saturday night with a drink at Holman Draft Hall. This open-air watering hole is well known for its impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try their signature cocktail – the “Midtown Mule” made with local Houston vodka. Then grab some friends and test the swings outside while you munch on chicken tandoori nachos.

Sunday morning

Breakfast Club
The long lines outside every day are proof of great food at The Breakfast Club.

Treat yourself to a Sunday brunch at The Breakfast Klub. This soul food spot is renowned for its chicken and waffles, but they also serve up other classic breakfast favorites like omelets, pancakes, and French toast. The line is consistently long – even on weekdays. Go early and enjoy some great food with friendly service.

Sunday afternoon

building image
MATCH brings theater and dance productions to an intimate stage.

After brunch, spend your last day in Midtown enjoying a performance across the street from Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts at MATCH Theater. This venue is one of the best spots in town to catch live music, dance performances and plays.

No matter what kind of activities you choose to take part in during your stay in Midtown Houston, this district is sure to provide plenty of entertainment and excitement. It’s basically a walkable buffet for the senses.

More recommendations

For more Midtown recommendations, check out Lodgeur’s posts on the best brunch spots, cool shops in Midtown and the places you can easily walk to from Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts.

The murals of Midtown

Midtown Houston is a walkable neighborhood filled with vibrant murals that bring life and color to the city. Nearly every block has unique street art to enjoy.

Come walk around and experience all of the amazing street art that makes this part of town so unique!

Discover why street art makes Midtown Houston such a unique and captivating place. With its dynamic atmosphere, plenty of walkable streets and vibrant murals – you’ll be blown away by your experience! Take the time to explore this one-of-a-kind area for yourself today.

For more unique art stops in Houston, check out our list of hidden gems.

Lodgeur’s favorite Asian restaurants in Houston

B2J Suancai Fish on Bellaire Food Street specializes in a spicy tilapia soup, but you can usually order a bowl of beef soup if you arrive earlier in the day.

Welcome to Lodgeur’s guide to our favorite Asian restaurants in Houston!

How to use this guide.

We understand that what’s perfect for a business traveler is not always perfect for a family vacation. So we’ve identified each location and activity with an emoji to give you a quick visual and help you make easier decisions. Your trip should be about exploring, not researching.

We’ve also provided indicative pricing from $ to $$$$.

  • 😎 See this symbol and you’re headed to a place drenched in cool. It’s probably new on the scene, on a few of the top “must visit” lists, and great for a photo op.
  • 👶 See this symbol and you’re promised a family-friendly place where you would be comfortable taking children of all ages. They may have a kid’s menu, kid’s pricing, and an understanding of people of all ages.
  • 💼 See this symbol and you’re all set for dinner with the boss, a workgroup, or an expense account.
  • 🏙 See this symbol and you’re in for a local treat. It will be very Houstonian but not necessarily traditional. These are some of our personal favorites in the city.

Houston is home to more than 1200 restaurants centered on food from East or Southeast Asia, including James Beard Award winners. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an exquisite dinner, there’s something for everyone in Houston’s vibrant Asian restaurant scene. From traditional Chinese cuisine to Japanese sushi bars and Korean BBQ joints, these eateries offer up delicious dishes from all over Asia.

With such a rich selection of Asian food in Houston, choosing the best is a moving target. This is Lodgeur’s list of great choices you may not find on all the other lists. It includes up-and-coming restaurants and established favorites.


Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar

💼
🏙
👶

$$

chips and salsa at Loro
Wonton chips and salsa at Loro Asian Smokehouse.

Located in a renovated Church in the Heights neighborhood, Loro merges Texas bbq with Southeast Asian flavors. Founded by James Beard Award winning chefs Tyson Cole of Uchi and Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue, Loro is a casual foodie heaven with a legendary happy hour menu.

The Malaysian curry chicken rice bowl, smoked beef brisket, green0curry hush puppies, and oak-grilled zucchini with cashew sambal are Lodgeur favorites. Due to the incredible variety of creative and delicious dishes, Loro is certainly one of the few barbecue restaurants where carnivores and vegetarians can both leave with a full stomach!

About half of the dishes are served tapas style, making it easy to taste and share a variety of flavors. The food comes out lightening fast and the frozen cocktails hit the spot every time. Indoor seating and covered picnic benches outside with fans. Loro works well for large groups and families.

Contact info.

www.loroeats.com
1001 W 11th Street, Houston, TX 77008
(713) 930-2326

Opening hours.

Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm

Siu Lap City

💼

🏙 👶
$

The Texas love for barbecue includes barbecue from around the world. Sir Lap City serves up authentic Chinese BBQ in a no-frills atmosphere. Try the BBQ pork and fresh bok choi for a happy belly.

Contact info.

https://www.siulapcity.com
2808 Milam St Houston, TX 77006
(713) 236-8171

Opening hours.

Tuesday – Sunday: 9:30 am – 6 pm

PopFancy Dessert Bar

👶 😎
$

purple light coffee shop

An image from the Harry Potter theme at PopFancy.

Step inside the mouth-watering world of PopFancy Dessert Bar, Houston’s most stylish spot for creative and delicious desserts and drinks. Celebrate your favorite fandoms in honor of Harry Potter, BTS, 1990s anime–just to name a few! With all its fandom attention to detail you’re sure to find something that resonates with you. Don’t forget to dress up too – guests of any age are welcome! Want easy access? Purchase tickets online so you can skip the line at entrance for only $1.

Contact info.

www.popfancypops.com
9393 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036
(281) 974 – 2452

Opening hours.

Tuesday – Sunday: 12 pm – 12 am

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

💼

👶
$

Kura Sushi restaurant in Houston is a playful dining experience. The menu features a variety of sushi, sashimi, and rolls starting at $3/plate. But it’s not just the food that makes Kura such an enjoyable place to eat – there’s also their famous conveyor belt system and robot waiters!

Contact info.

www.kurasushi.com
3510-A Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 636-2696

Opening hours.

Open every day from 11:30 am – 9 pm

JINYA Ramen Bar

💼 😎 🏙
$$

asian small meal

Katsu-pork bao at Jinya Ramen Bar in Midtown Houston.

Get your ramen-fix satisfied at Jinya Ramen Bar in Houston! With over 20 toppings, you’re sure to find a flavor that tantalizes your taste buds. From the traditional miso and shoyu flavors to more daring combinations like spicy garlic tonkotsu or vegan ramen, this popular spot is guaranteed to please everyone’s palate!

Contact info.

http://jinya-ramenbar.com/locations/detail/midtown
3201 Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77006
(832) 925-8596

Opening hours.

Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 1 am

B2J Suancai Fish

😎
$

Suancai Fish soup

The fish soup is the star of the show at B2J Suancai on Bellaire Food Street.

The menu at B2J Suancai is pretty limited but the space has a comfortable, playful vibe. Most days, you should expect to order the signature tilapia soup. It comes in a Texas-sized bowl for sharing and you can choose the add-ins. We recommend adding in the tofu, black mushrooms and pickled cabbage. Afterward, head next door to PopFancy for a fun treat.

Contact info.

b2jfish.com
9393 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036
(713) 239 – 2864

Opening hours.

Tuesday – Sunday: noon to 9 pm

Spicy Girl

💼 😎 👶
$$

Asian food on the table

Spicy Girl offers mostly Szechuan dishes, along with Peking duck, and some Thai-style curries. Spicy Girl is known for its friendly, attentive service and generous portion sizes, so plan on taking home leftovers! Order the pan-fried soup dumplings as well; they’re a must-try.

Contact info.

www.spicygirlhtx.com
917 Winbern Street Unit B, Houston, TX 77002
(832) 623-7990

Opening hours.

Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm

Mai’s Restaurant

💼 😎 🏙 👶
$

Mai’s Restaurant in Houston is a popular Vietnamese restaurant that has drawn Anthony Bourdain on his visits to the city. Mai’s is known for its distinct flavors and fresh ingredients, as well as its environmental stewardship. Traditional dishes like pho and bun bo hue coexist with more modern creations like grilled pork banh mi sandwiches and shrimp summer rolls on the menu. Whether you want to try traditional Vietnamese cuisine or something new, Mai’s is sure to have something on the menu that will satisfy your taste buds!

Contact info.

www.maishouston.com
3403 Milam Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713)520-5300

Opening hours.

Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 3 am

Wanna Bao

💼 😎 🏙
$$

For a delicious taste of Szechuan cuisine, look no further than Wanna Bao restaurant in Houston. Located Midtown, this modern Chinese restaurant is best known for its soup dumplings. The menu features an array of appetizers and sides as well as vegetarian options – making it easy for all diners to find something they’ll love.

Contact info.

www.wannabao.com
2708 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77006
(832) 623-7265

Opening hours.

Open every day from 11:30 am – 9:30 pm

Fukuoka Sushi Bar & Grill

💼 🏙
$$

Fukuoka serves up consistently good sushi and ramen that won’t break the bank. The fried rice, yakisoba and ramen make Fukuoka a great choice for parties that have a mix of seafood lovers and avoiders.

Contact info.

www.fukuoka-sushi-bar-grill.com
2808 Milam Street #C, Houston, TX 77006
(346) 406-4832

Opening hours.

Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm

Friday: 11 am – 12 am

Do Houston like a local – Look beyond the usual suspects.

Houston’s museums, sports and parks are all well known but the fourth largest city in the US has a wealth of other interesting experiences waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a unique experience just begging for insta posts, you’ll find it here.

Here are Lodgeur’s favorite uniquely Houston experiences:

PopFancy Dessert Bar

At PopFancy Dessert Bar, Houston’s most aesthetic dessert spot, visitors can find an ever-changing array of creative and delicious treats and cocktails. Every few weeks, the bar celebrates a different fandom with specially crafted desserts that pay homage to each fandom. Find your people and revel in all the gorgeous attention to detail for your favorite fandom.

Past fandom themes included Harry Potter, BTS and 90’s anime. Costumes encouraged for guests of all ages. Tickets to skip the entrance line are available online for $1.


William Price Distilling Company tour

The William Price Distilling Company offers free guided tours each week, where this local business creates craft batches of whiskey, vodka, gin and liquor. (Lodgeur’s favorite is the Honey Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey.) During the tour, visitors will learn about the distillation process and get to try some samples.

Cocktail classes and distillery tours available for online bookings. William Price offers an unparalleled special events calendar – even hosting World Cup watch parties at 4am for key teams.


Astros ballpark tours

The Houston Astros (World Series champs and hometown heroes!) offer tours of their ballpark, Minute Maid Park. For ‘Stros fans, nothing comes close to the Astros tour. This Houston experience gives you access to all kinds of behind-the-scenes looks at Minute Maid Park. You’ll get to see all kinds of things that are usually hidden from the public. You might even meet some of the players!


Downtown tunnels

The tunnels underneath downtown Houston are the reason you won’t see many pedestrians outside. The underground passageways were created as a convenient way for Houstonians to get around downtown without dealing with Houston’s scorching heat and humidity.

With over six miles of subterranean tunnels filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, Houston insiders know to head below ground when it’s time to meet up for lunch. You can access the tunnels from the lobby of most large office buildings downtown. If you’ve already gotten your steps in for the day, we recommend using a tunnels map.


Cisterns Tour

cistern tunnels image

Houston’s underground cisterns offer a unique tour experience for visitors. The Houston Cisterns are an 85,000-square-foot network of tunnels that form the city’s underground water system. Photos are a must at this known for its ethereal, architectural vibe.

Tours guide you through this fascinating and beautiful subterranean world as you learn more about Houston’s history and culture. $10 entry fee.


Honey Art Cafe

At Honey Art Cafe, you can eat, drink and enjoy art all at the same time! The aesthetic cafe serves delicious food and drinks, and also has a rotating art exhibit on display. Best known for its simple but beautiful art projects that can be enjoyed in the cafe over a bougie coffee and adorably decorated macaron. This is a great place to visit for adults and children alike.


Texas Art Asylum

Texas Art Asylum is the city’s most unique art and craft supply store, and it oozes character. Brimming with sensory experiences, this shops resells donated art supplies – a mix of new and gently used supplies, like canvases, paint brushes, partial bottles of paint, beads and fabric scraps. They’ve also got lots of great vintage books, the occasional antique, awesome ephemera and doll parts galore. The for-profit social enterprise claims to have diverted 2 million pounds of art supplies from local landfills into the hands of local artists.


First Thursdays Block Party

The first Thursday of (almost) every month, Houston’s Midtown neighborhood comes alive with a block party featuring specials from local restaurants, bars, and businesses. Enjoy live music, great food and drinks, a night market, and an atmosphere full of Houston culture. Check out our post here with all the details.

First Thursdays are Midtown’s Block Party

Midtown Houston is Houston’s most walkable neighborhood and on the first Thursday of the month, the neighborhood comes alive with a block party. Restaurants, bars, and businesses stay open late and put out their best deals and specials for visitors to enjoy.

Mid Main Gallery in Midtown Houston
Mid Main Gallery features a rotating exhibit of local art.

The Mid Main Gallery (street-level gallery at the mixed-use development Mid Main Lofts) features an exhibition by a different local Houston artist each month. On First Thursdays, the artists usually attend and mingle with the public to share more about their work.

Winnie’s for food, drink and music

Winnie’s is known for its cocktails and sandwiches. This lively spot usually features live music on its outdoor patio, where children are also welcome. Check out their rotating list of seasonal cocktails, or the flight of frozen cocktails served up in a signature treasure chest.

fast food on the table
Winnie’s sandwiches are a must try!

Continental Club for outdoor live music

The Continental Club is a Houston institution with a decades-long reputation for bringing iconic live music to Houston. (Guests may also be familiar with the Continental Club’s sister location in Austin.)

The Beetle (a Beatles tribute band) has been rocking the Continental Club every Thursday night for 20 years and has earned a devoted following. The First Thursday wrist band grants you free entry to the show. On First Thursdays, the band typically plays on the outdoor stage and children may attend.

music band on the stage
Beetle has been performing crowd favorites at Continental Club for 20 years!

Night market for supporting local small businesses

One street is blocked off for pedestrians to enjoy a night market with locally made products ranging from clothing to home decor items. The hanging lights add a festive vibe. (Lodgeur’s favorite is the locally-made brisket queso.)

Details

The first Thursday at 6pm, most months. Check the calendar here for dates. The event occurs 8 months out of the year – usually avoiding the hottest summer months and the busy Christmas season.

The $10 entry fee is donated to a different charity each month and usually gets you a few beers or other drinks from local breweries, distilleries and wine merchants like St. Arnold Brewing Company, William Price Distilling and Curated Cellar Club. It also covers entry to Shoeshine Charley’s Big Top Lounge at the Continental Club.

Park in the gated parking garage at Mid Main Lofts for a small fee. The address is 3550 Main Street.

See you at the next First Thursday

Whether you’re looking for a place to eat, drink, or shop, First Thursdays has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a low-key night out in Houston, be sure to check out First Thursdays at Mid Main.

Local musicians performing at Shoeshine Charley’s Big Top Lounge during a First Thursday block party.

The Complete Guide to Planning a Family Outing to MATCH Theater

The Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston is next door to Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts.

If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly activity in Houston, look no further than MATCH Theater! Their children’s plays are always entertaining and engaging. But if this is your first time visiting, it can be a little daunting trying to figure out what to do. Lodgeur’s team brings their children to MATCH performances fairly often, so we’ve put together this guide to help make the planning process easier for you.

What is MATCH?

MATCH is the Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston. MATCH has three different theater venues:

  1. The Main Street Theater
  2. The Midtown Theater
  3. The Studio Theater

Make sure you know which theater is hosting your event!

This post is about the Midtown Theater, which seats 200 people and is located at 3400 Main Street in Houston’s Midtown neighborhood. It’s a multi-use facility that houses several theaters, performance spaces, and art galleries. In addition to plays, it also hosts other events such as music concerts, comedy shows, dance performances, lectures and workshops.

When Should We Go?

MATCH offers children’s plays year round and tickets are available to individual plays or in season packages. The theater typically performs 5-7 children’s plays each year, with some performances designed for children who have sensory needs.

On January 15, 2023, MATCH is hosting a Family Fun Day from 1-5pm. The event is a free event with live music, theater and dance, along with bounce houses, chalk artists, stilt walkers and food trucks.

What Should We Wear?

MATCH is a casual theater experience, so there’s no need to dress up. However, if you’re planning on seeing a play in the Main Street Theater, it’s recommended that you dress a bit nicer as that theater is considered the most formal. (Some children wear costumes when attending children’s plays that are specific to the play.)

Where do we park?

You have two options for parking at MATCH. Some street parking is available for a fee, but it fills up quickly. Download the ParkMobile app to pay by phone.

A better option is to park in the parking garage at Mid Main Lofts, 3550 Main Street, with two entrances on Travis Street, and a third on Holman Street. It’s across the street from MATCH and we’ve never seen them run out of parking spaces. You will receive a ticket when you enter and the fastest way to exit is to keep your ticket with you and use the machine near the elevator to pay before you drive out.

Add on brunch, lunch or dinner

MATCH is located in Midtown, Houston’s most walkable neighborhood. A great way to turn a theater outing into an experience is to add on a meal before or after the play.

Across the street from the theater are Brass Tap, Holman Draft Hall and Kura Revolving Sushi Bar. Walk to the other side of the parking garage and you have Winnie’s and Home Slice Pizza.

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar is popular with kids for its playful food delivery technology. Robots bring the drinks to your table. A conveyor belt lets kids see small dishes of different foods to try (under $4/plate), that guests can pull off the belt. Each table has a screen that takes orders as well. Once you order a dish, it comes whizzing to your table on a second conveyor belt and stops right at your table.

self serving machine

Choose food from the bottom conveyor belt or order it on the screen for delivery on the top conveyor belt. Deposit your plates in the slot on each table as you finish.

Brass Tap is a popular weekend brunch destination known for its signature brunch boards and mimosa flights. It gets busy on the weekends, so make a reservation if you’re visiting then. In good weather, the Brass Tap will open up the dining space to provide a patio-style vibe.

Bass Tap bar

Image courtesy of Brass Tap.

Holman Draft Hall serves brunch from 11am to 3pm on weekends. It has covered and open-air seating, along with fire bowls for cold weather. Brunch boards should be ordered by 2pm the Thursday before your visit. Kids love the swing chairs outside. Order at the bar.

two little girls in a swing chair

Lodgeur youngest team members love the swings and tacos at Holman Draft Hall.

Winnie’s offers sandwiches, fries and cocktails, with indoor and patio seating. The sandwiches may be a big for most kids, but we always see plenty of families at Winnie’s.

Winnie’s sandwich place

Winnie’s attracts lots of families to the picnic tables on its patio.

Home Slice Pizza recently opened up its first Houston location of this popular Austin pizzeria. This funky pizza joint has NY-style thin crust pizza with enough of a mix of fresh salads and sandwiches to feed the pickiest crowd. Indoor and covered patio seating.

Home Slice Pizza place image

Home Slice Pizza is a crowd pleaser, with pizza build-to-order or by the slice.

Spicy Girl is a Lodgeur favorite, known for its dumplings and bao. They serve up fresh Chinese food and the service is always friendly.

Spicy Girl restaurant image

Team Lodgeur loves the soup dumplings and curry at Spicy Girl in Midtown.

Upgrade to a weekend staycation

Lodgeur 1-bedroom fully furnished apartment at Mid Main Lofts in Midtown.

The Midtown neighborhood has so much to explore that we recommend staying a night or two to make a weekend of your theater outing. We offer fully furnished studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments in Mid Main Lofts, in the apartment community above the parking garage. With its gorgeous pool and outdoor grills, Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts is popular for Houston staycations.

When you stay with Lodgeur, you can enjoy all the amenities of Mid Main Lofts while having easy access to MATCH Theater and parking included. Plus, you’re in a great spot for sightseeing and exploring Houston’s most walkable neighborhood. We offer 24/7 check-in to keep things easy. We want you to feel relaxed and ready for a fun weekend of theater and more.

For more info on visiting Midtown

Check out our Houston City Guide for more info on places to eat, sleep and play. Top picks for families coming to see a production at MATCH are the posts on brunch and lunch in Midtown, places to eat and drink within walking distance of our furnished apartments at Mid Main Lofts, and places you can access from Mid Main Lofts on the METRORail.

train image

Midtown is the perfect base for a family staycation to explore Houston’s museums, parks and restaurants. It has walkable destinations, garage parking and easy access to the METRORail.

TMC healthcare travelers: your guide to extended stay housing in Houston

woman with boxes

You’re on the front line, defending and protecting the lives of those in need. You work for the people, with the people, and oftentimes, away from the people. But you don’t have to feel alone while doing so.

There’s nothing worse than feeling isolated and disconnected when you’re away from your home. That’s why Lodgeur exists—to give healthcare travelers like you the convenience, flexibility, and comfort you need while on assignment in Houston.

This blog post will outline why Lodgeur’s furnished housing is the perfect solution for healthcare travelers looking for extended stay apartments Houston. We’ll cover our locations near Texas Medical Center and Midtown, and why we offer the best value for healthcare travelers.

Explore fully-furnished apartments near Midtown and Texas Medical Center

The Texas Medical Center is the largest medical complex in the world, and home to some of the most advanced healthcare facilities. It’s also incredibly close to our serviced apartment buildings: Elan Med Center and Mid Main Lofts.

Lodgeur at Elan Med Center

Elan Med Center is located within TMC itself, and serves patients, travel nurses, and doctors on medical residencies. Here we have 6 fully-furnished, one-bedroom apartments within walking distance of MD Anderson. (Because it’s such a short commute to the hospital, medical professionals typically rent electric scooters to get around TMC!)

Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts

Mid Main Lofts is located in Houston’s most walkable neighborhood: Midtown. Here we have dozens of serviced apartments (ranging from studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms) just minutes away from a variety of restaurants, bars and shops!

Healthcare travelers can also take advantage of the METRORail by Mid Main Lofts, with direct access to TMC and downtown. It’s only $3/day for unlimited rides, and it takes a maximum of 12 minutes to get to TMC—no traffic roulette!

So no need to pay the hefty $200 a month for hospital parking—we’ve got you covered.

Rent fully-furnished apartments with flexible lease terms

At Lodgeur, we understand your travel assignments change quickly, and often don’t fit into the standard leases of other housing options. That’s why we offer completely furnished apartments on flexible terms.

You can book a stay with us for a few days, weeks or months! Guests who book for 30 nights or more can terminate their stay with just 14 days’ notice, or even prolong their stay if their employment contract is extended. For travel nurse contracts that are often extended or canceled on short notice, this is a huge benefit and cost-saver.

We also include everything you need to make your extended stay comfortable and move-in ready, from the kitchen appliances and linens to fast wifi and fancy toiletries.

Moreover, Elan and Mid Main Lofts offer additional amenities that make staying with us a truly unique experience. Each building has a pool and as an upscale gym that’s open 24/7, so you can access it anytime your schedule allows without having to navigate sketchy areas in a new city. Both Elan Med Center and Mid Main Lofts feature secured, gated parking garages as well.

Enjoy biweekly housekeeping services during extended stays

We know healthcare travelers often live on the go and may not have time for tedious and stressful cleaning duties. That’s why we provide regular housekeeping services for our extended stay guests.

During extended stays, our team of experienced staff will clean your apartment every two weeks, so you can focus on what’s important—providing quality care to your patients.

Book an extended stay apartment in Houston during your next clinical rotation

You fight hard for your patients each and every day. We want to ensure you have the peace of mind to know your home away from home is secure and will be taken care of while you’re out saving lives.

Lodgeur provides top-notch furnished apartments with flexible terms and all of the amenities you need for a comfortable, extended stay, so you no longer have to worry about finding housing in a new city or paying for expensive parking at the hospital.

With extended-stay housing in Midtown and TMC, Lodgeur offers hassle-free housing solutions for healthcare travelers. Learn more about our extended stay housing options or book your apartment today. We look forward to hosting you soon!

Go-to lunch and brunch spots near Midtown Houston

How to use this guide.

We understand that what’s perfect for a business traveler is not always perfect for a family vacation. So we’ve identified each location and activity with an emoji to give you a quick visual and help you make easier decisions. Your trip should be about exploring some of the best brunch and lunch spots in Midtown, not researching.

We’ve also provided indicative pricing from $ to $$$$ for each restaurant in Midtown Houston.

🥞 See this symbol and you’re headed to a popular restaurant in Midtown Houston that also offers brunch specials on the weekend.

☕️ See this symbol and you’re in for the best of both worlds: breakfast and lunch options all in one place.

😎 See this symbol and you’re headed to a place drenched in cool. This restaurant is probably new on the scene, on a few of the top “must visit” lists, and great for a photo op.

👶 See this symbol and you’re promised a family-friendly lunch place where you would be comfortable taking children of all ages.

💼 See this symbol and you’re all set for lunch with the boss, a workgroup, or an expense account.

🏙 See this symbol and you’re in for a local treat. It will be very Houstonian but not necessarily traditional. These are some of our personal favorite restaurants in the city.

The Breakfast Klub

☕️ 😎 🏙 👶
$

cookies on a plate

If you’ve never experienced southern chicken and waffles, The Breakfast Klub needs to be your next Midtown brunch stop. Just don’t let the long line scare you off- it moves quickly! They also have amazing pancakes and excellent diner-style coffee. Trust us, the wait is totally worth it.

Contact info.

https://thebreakfastklub.com
3711 Travis Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 528-8561

Opening hours.

Monday – Friday: 7 am – 2 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8 am – 2 pm

Home Slice Pizza

☕️ 💼 😎 🏙 👶
$

two pizza slices on plates

Pizza, wine and beer at Home Slice Pizza, next door to Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts.

Home Slice Pizza is an Austin favorite that just opened across the street from Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts. Home Slice serves up New York style pizza by the slice or the pie, along with subs, salads, wine and beer. Choose from cozy indoor booths, the relaxed covered patio, or take-away.

P.S. The spinach and ricotta pizza is a Lodgeur favorite!

Contact info.

https://homeslicepizza.com
3701 Travis Street, Houston, TX 77002
(832) 810-7437

Opening hours.

Sunday, Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – midnight
Closed Tuesdays

Tacos A Go Go

☕️ 💼 😎 🏙 👶
$

restaurant image

Authentic Mexican tacos, burritos, and tamale recipes amaze the taste buds, while the fresh salsas will have you raving! They’re also open early for the breakfast crowd, most of who go for the potato, egg, and cheese or the chorizo, egg, and cheese tacos.

P.S. You might find the Lodgeur team here pretty much at any time of day, from breakfast tacos to brisket tacos at lunchtime!

Special offer.

Residents and guests at Mid Main Lofts can enjoy a 10% neighborhood discount!

Contact info.

https://www.tacosagogo.com
3704 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 807-8226

Opening hours.

Monday – Friday: 7 am – 10 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8 am – 10 pm

Holman Draft Hall

🥞 😎 🏙
$$

food on plates

Image courtesy of Holman Draft Hall

Holman Draft Hall offers Boozy Brunches every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am – 5 pm! Hang out on the dog-friendly patio and enjoy brunchuterie boards (great for groups of 4 or more), mimosa carafes, and frozen cocktails. Just make sure you place your brunch board order in advance! You can start your order here.

Contact info.

www.facebook.com/HolmanDraftHall
820 Holman Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 533-9392

Opening hours.

Monday – Friday: 3 pm – 2 am
Saturday & Sunday: 11 am – 2 am

Piola

💼 👶
$$

Piola pizzeria image

Image courtesy of PiolaUsa.

If you’re looking for something in between super casual pizza joint and formal, expensive Italian, check out Piola. The menu offers a wide variety of Italian-style thin-crust pizza, pastas and salads in an elevated setting with indoor and patio seating.

www.piolausa.com
3201 Louisiana St., Suite # 103, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 524-8222

Opening hours.

Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 9:30 pm
Friday: 11 am – 10:30 pm Saturday: noon – 10:30 pm Sunday: noon – 9:30 pm

Spicy Girl

💼 😎 👶
$$

food on plates

If you’re looking for traditional Sichuan dishes, Spicy Girl is going to be your next obsession. This restaurant provides great service and offers generous portion sizes, so expect to take home leftovers! Make sure to also order the soup dumplings, they’re a must-try.

Contact info.

www.spicygirlhtx.com
917 Winbern Street Unit B, Houston, TX 77002
(832) 623-7990

Opening hours.

Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm

d’Alba

😎 👶
$$

D’Alba restaurant image

Image courtesy of d’Alba.

D’Alba serves up fresh pasta, salads and pizzas, along with plenty of healthy shareable and vegetarian choices. This spot is a destination for brunch cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

Contact info.

www.dalbahtx.com
3304 Milam Street, Houston, TX 77006 (346) 319-5790

Opening hours.

Open weekdays: 11 am to 11 pm Saturday: 10 am to 11 pm Sunday: 10 am to 9 pm

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

💼 😎 👶
$$

food on a plate and chopsticks

There’s nothing like Kura’s Revolving Sushi Bar in Midtown. The moment you’re seated, you can grab a plate off the conveyor belt and start eating! Come hungry because plates start at just $3. And after a certain number of plates, you’ll receive a tiny, take home prize.

Contact info.

www.kurasushi.com
3510-A Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 636-2696

Opening hours.

Open every day from 11:30 am – 9 pm

Winnie’s

🥞 💼 😎
$$

food on a plate

Winnie’s Cocktail Bar is an automatic eye catcher with its bright pink exterior and outdoor patio. Kick back and enjoy signature frozen cocktails, tasty sandwiches (like the Nashville Hot Mushroom) and the oyster bar for lunch! And if you’re one for aesthetically pleasing drinks, don’t even think twice about ordering the frozen treasure chest flight.

P.S. You can enjoy $5 house cocktails everyday til 5 pm. They also have killer weekly specials for such as $1 wing Tuesdays, trivia nights, half price raw oyster Thursdays, and Sunday brunch at their Midtown Houston location. Check the website for the full list of seasonal specials.

Contact info.

www.winnieshouston.com
3622 Main Street Suite A, Houston, TX 77002
(713) 520-0660

Opening hours.

Tuesday – Sunday: 12 pm – 12 am

Mai’s Restaurant

💼 😎 🏙 👶
$

Mai's Restaurant image

Image courtesy of Mai’s Restaurant.

Authentic pho and Vietnamese noodle dishes for lunch? Why, yes, please! Mai’s is a Houston institution and earned Anthony Bourdain’s devotion for its Hanoi-style cuisine.

Contact info.

www.maishouston.com
3403 Milam Street, Houston, TX 77002
(713)520-5300

Opening hours.

Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 3 am

The Brass Tap

🥞 💼 😎
$$

food on a plate

Image courtesy of Brass Tap.

If getting to choose from over 150+ craft beers while enjoying burgers and tacos sounds sounds like the perfect lunch combo, you need to check out Brass Tap! Whether you’re stopping by to watch the game or enjoying $20 beer buckets with some friends, you’re in for a treat.

The Brass Tap also offers weekend brunch specials at their Midtown Houston location! Stop by between 11 am- 3 pm Saturday and Sunday for mimosa flights, sriracha chicken biscuits, thick French toast, and their popular hangover burger with fried egg and applewood bacon!

Special offer.

Lodgeur guests can enjoy a 10% discount!

Contact info.

www.brasstapbeerbar.com
922 Holman Street, Suite A, Houston, TX 77002
(281) 501-0319

Opening hours.

Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 12 am
Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 2 am

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