Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and hustles and bustles with energy and excitement. It is an international destination that offers many activities for health-conscious adults. Get your daily steps in by perusing the exhibits at the city's many museums and cultural centers. Rejuvenate your mind and spirit by taking in a play or live musical performance. Partake of the wide variety of healthy food choices on the menu at local restaurants. Spend time outdoors playing on one of more than 160 golf courses, hiking and biking in the local and state parks, or stretching your legs as you cover ground at the local zoo.
Outdoor Adventures
Houston's weather is pleasant year-round, allowing you to spend a great deal of time outside. Head outdoors to enjoy Houston's natural scenery and fill your lungs with fresh air. Hermann Park, Houston's oldest park, is surrounded by such attractions as the Hermann Park Golf Course. Run on the jogging trail, bike, sit by the lake or just enjoy the peaceful Japanese garden and reflection pool located within this serene green-space. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers five miles of multipurpose trails as well as interactive exhibits to exercise your mind as well. Stop by any of the local parks for a quick afternoon getaway featuring lush greenery perfect for meditation and relaxation.
The state parks sit on hundreds of acres of expansive green-space and offer opportunities to help you stay fit. Hike and bike along multipurpose park trails, play sports including volleyball and tennis, or simply spend an afternoon romping with your children at park playgrounds. Find solitude as walk through the woods to bird watch or observe wildlife. Whether you are a beginning or an experienced golfer, spend an afternoon on the city's golf courses.
Food and Nutrition Awareness
In Houston you will find restaurants that either specialize in or include healthy dishes from around the world. If you like spicy food, go out for Asian, Indian, African or Caribbean food. Many restaurants feature organic meats and eggs among their menu options, offer whole wheat or multi-grain bread alternatives or use hand-cut fruits and vegetables. Stop by a few of Houston's farmers' markets. Canino's Produce is open every day and sells plenty of locally grown produce. Take a short drive to one of several pick-your-own-farms near downtown Houston and gather fresh fruits and vegetables. Attend local fruit and vegetable festivals and learn innovative ways to enrich your everyday diet.
Music and Movement
Houston is laden with annual festivals and lively musical performances where you can twist and move your body freely to the beat. If you are in Houston in September, stop by the annual Houston Brazilian Festival for music, food and art exhibits. Take a music and movement class, let go and get active while having a fabulous time. Enjoy summer shows by the Houston Symphony and fall concert series hosted by Discovery Green, a 12-acre park in downtown Houston.
Find inspiration as you take in a performance by one of Houston's reputable theater and dance companies. The Society for the Performing Arts in Houston brings world-renown artists and companies to Houston for music, dance and theater productions. The society offers innovative dance classes for intermediate and advanced dancers as well as classes that are open to the public. Sign up for a class and tap into your creative expression.
Sports and Physical Fitness
Houston hosts several annual marathons including the Chevron Marathon, which takes place in January. Train for a full marathon, a half marathon or a 5K run and participate in active fundraisers at the same time. Seek out one of several local health fairs scheduled each year throughout Houston to gain health and fitness tips designed to enhance your quality of life. Many of Houston's fitness centers offer multi-day guest passes and a wide range of workout classes.
Rainy Day Activities
If the weather is inclement during all or part of your stay, you can still get out of your hotel and be active. Houston has many museums and cultural centers worth visiting. These types of attractions generally require lots of walking. For instance, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is home to a planetarium, an IMAX theater and more than a dozen permanent exhibit areas. Wear comfortable shoes, strap on your pedometer, grab your umbrella and see the city.
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