Arts & Culture • Entertainment • Food & Drink • Living • Things to Do • Come Early, Stay Late • Drinks • Pet Friendly
Stay Downtown: Girls Weekend Edition
Ladies, it’s time to get the gang back together! While things may be looking up, it’s possible not everyone in the group is ready to get back to the jet-setting life they lived before. With tons of restaurants and ample opportunities to catch up with the girls, Downtown Houston is the perfect destination for a much-needed staycation. Not sure what that looks like? Let us paint the picture for you.
RELAX, REFRESH RECHARGE
Because nothing says relaxation like a trip to the spa, it’s imperative that this is on your itinerary for the weekend. From body scrubs and massages to facials and treatments, Downtown has it all. Our pick? Pure Spa at Marriott Marquis. Soothe your skin with the Deep Cleansing facial, de-stress with a Customized Touch massage or settle down for a good ole mani/pedi [or go all in and do them all!].
SWEAT IT OUT
Working out may not be everyone’s favorite way of spending quality time with friends, but if it is your jam, you’re in luck! If you love a good spin sesh, head to RYDE for a premium indoor cycling experience. These rhythm-based classes will leave you motivated, energized and excited to spend the day with friends.
EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH #DOWNTOWNHOU
One of the best things to do on a girls trip is make a few resys and order everything delish on the menu. It’s no secret Houston’s food scene is topnotch—which means you have some difficult decisions ahead. With that said, whether you’re looking to indulge, have a casual sit-down situation or a mix of both, there’s a table just for y’all!
Notable Mentions:
- For a swanky steak supper: Guard & Grace
- For an award-winning experience: Xochi
- For when you want to try it all: Bravery Chef Hall
- For dinner that’s Insta-worthy, yet delicious: Batanga
DO IT FOR THE GRAM
When you’re not documenting your dishes and drinks, you’ll definitely want to capture the incredible street art that livens up the neighborhood. From the Astros-themed creations to the #MadeinHOU murals, this city’s art scene is the perfect addition to your grid.
Must-see murals: Sky Dance (1413 Louisiana), WindowWorks: Feels Like Summer (1313 Main) and Zero Hunger (710 Crawford). Check out a full list here.
PARTY ON MAIN STREET
Since the early days of the hood, Main Street and Market Square have always been where the party’s at. With a string of bars and clubs that can only be described as quintessentially #DowntownHOU, a stop here is a must. From dive bars and wine getaways to 80’s-themed hangouts and street patios, there’s a spot here for everyone to let their hair down.
BRUNCH WITH THE BESTIES
Who doesn’t love a good Sunday brunch? We highly recommended wrapping up your weekend getaway with a scrumptious late morning meal. Some of our favorite brunch items are the carrot cake french toast at Osso & Kristalla, the Hill country chicken and waffle at MKT Bar and the crab cake benedict at Hearsay Gastro Lounge (Market Square & On the Green).
**GIRLS WEEKEND IN DOWNTOWN HOUSTON: 3 DAY ITINERARY**
Day 1
- Start your morning with breakfast and coffee at Day 6 Coffee Co. — we recommend the Lavender Latte (hot or iced) and a kolache of your choice (brisket, boudin, sausage or vegan)
- Rent a BCycle at Market Square Park and explore the bayou trails
- Grab lunch at Bravery Chef Hall and take a photo with the Houston is Inspired mural
- Uber to BBVA Stadium to support the Houston Dash
- Snap a photo with the Hold It Down mural near the stadium
- Relax, drink and listen to live music on the patio at Batanga. Our choice: split a few “platitos” and a small paella. The Lamb and The Spaniard (cocktail) are both *chef’s kiss*
Day 2
- Sleep in (!!!)
- Kick off the day with a 10:45 AM spin class at RYDE
- Head back to your hotel for a quick shower and refresh
- Have a relaxing lunch with cocktails on the patio at Irma’s Southwest
- Indulge in a spa-filled afternoon at Pure Spa
- Get dolled-up for a night out with dinner at Xochi
- Take the METRORail, or Uber, up to the Historic District for drinks and conversation at The Pastry War, followed by a dance party at Cherry Bar
Day 3
- Time to brunch — Bring on the mimosas, french toast and eggs benny!
- Enjoy the Houston heat (we’re serious). Lounge poolside at your hotel and snag a cabana if you can!
- Pop over to the Lobby Bar at C. Baldwin Hotel for pre-drinks
- Return to your room to freshen up for your last girls weekend dinner at Guard & Grace
- After indulging in delicious food and wine, head to the House of Blues for live music
Mentioned in this Post
Bravery Chef Hall
409 Travis St
Osso & Kristalla
1515 Texas Avenue
Irma's Southwest
1475 Texas Avenue
Day 6 Coffee Co.
910 Prairie St
Xochi
1777 Walker St
MKT BAR
1001 Austin St
Hearsay on the Green
1515 Dallas St
House of Blues
1204 Caroline St
Guard & Grace
500 Dallas St
Market Square Park
301 Milam St
Marriott Marquis Houston
1777 Walker St
C. Baldwin Hotel
400 Dallas St
RYDE
802 Rusk St
Sky Dance
1415 Louisiana St
The Pastry War
310 Main St