The summertime wanderlust is coming on strong, and you're ready to get away from it all without straying too far from home. Book a night at Hotel Sorella, pack a weekender bag and head to CITYCENTRE, Houston's premier mixed-use destination for world-renowned restaurants, prime shopping and endless entertainment.
Whether you're planning a getaway with girlfriends or a date with your main squeeze, working up a sweat or spending quality time with family, we've got you covered for a fun-filled 36-hour itinerary.
For a getaway with girlfriends
First things first: Treat yourself to some pampering at CITYCENTRE's LifeSpa & Salon, which offers an array of massages, wraps, scrubs, peels, facials and more to help you unwind after a long week.
Polish off your spa trip with a mani and pedi — and a light sandwich or an organic smoothie from the LifeCafé downstairs — before making a beeline for the Kendra Scott jewelry boutique, where colorful baubles and geometric gemstones reign supreme. You can find plenty to like in the pre-made designs, but linger over champagne and cupcakes at the in-store Color Bar until creative genius strikes and you'll leave with a custom, one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry (or, more likely, a full ensemble).
Up next, a cooking class at Sur La Table, the place to perfect your julienning skills. By the end of it, you and your girls will be masters of the kitchen . . . or at least of the day's featured dish. Julia Child who?
The only remedy for a late night of gossip and girl talk in your Sorella suite is a brunch of migas and bottomless mimosas at Cyclone Anaya's.
Don't fill up too much on snacks, because dinner and drinks await at RA Sushi, a Japanese fusion restaurant with a naughty cocktail menu. Opt for the Strawberry Saketini (with Absolut Citron, Nigori sake, strawberry puree and lemon juice) to pair with the Viva Las Vegas Roll (kani kama crab and cream cheese rolled in rice and seaweed, lightly tempura-battered and topped with spicy tuna, crab and sliced lotus root, finished with sweet eel sauce and spinach tempura).
The only remedy for a late night of gossip and girl talk in your Sorella suite is a brunch of migas and bottomless mimosas at Cyclone Anaya's before reluctantly going your separate ways.
For the family
Family vacations don't have to mean tent camping and sing alongs. Whether you've got toddlers or teenagers, CITYCENTRE can keep them busy with retail therapy — think Baby, go green for eco-friendly toys and clothing, Charming Charlie for on-trend accessories and Urban Outfitters for twenty-something-appropriate apparel.
Catch a matinee at Studio Movie Grill, where the silver screens offer flicks appropriate for all ages and the menu boasts plenty of kid-friendly options (in addition to adult-appropriate beverages), then get a dose of culture while appreciating art and listening to live music during CITYCENTRE's Summer Art Series.
Have dinner at Houston Texans Grille, where dad can catch a game on one of many big screens and where kids eat free on Saturdays. End the night with a sweet treat from froyo favorite Red Mango.
For breakfast? Look no further than Flora & Muse. Mom can savor a cappuccino with her quiche while the kids are distracted by a fluffy stack of buttermilk pancakes.
For the sporty sightseer
Terry Hershey Park, which stretches along Buffalo Bayou just a short drive from CITYCENTRE, has become a haven for hikers and cyclists. Load up your gear and prepare for physical exertion by sipping on a nutrient-packed smoothie from Jamba Juice along the way.
After a day of traversing The Anthills, you'll be ready for dinner at Texas de Brazil. A flat price gets you all-you-can-eat at this newly-opened churrascaria, from gourmet vegetables and seasonal soups and salads to Brazilian-style grilled meats.
Wind down with music on CITYCENTRE's lawn and arise with complimentary Namaste Sundays with Awakened Yoga at lululemon athletica, the chic workout shop where stretchy pants and sporty tanks in bright colors and flattering silhouettes abound — because who says you have to look sloppy while you sweat?
Wrap up your weekend with lunch at Ruggles Green. This environmentally-conscious restaurant serves up some of CultureMap's favorite tacos in town.
For date night
What's more romantic than a quick break from reality? Check in at Hotel Sorella, drop off your bags, then divide and conquer to prepare for a night worth remembering.
Ladies can find a date night dress at Anthropologie, a bag or shoes to match at Elaine Turner . . . and a little treat for underneath at European-inspired lingerie boutique, belle la vie. Gents will do well to stop by Dryden Kreps for a new suit and tie before slipping into Paul Carter Jewels for something especially sparkly.
Enjoy an intimate dinner at Eddie V's Prime Seafood or BRIO Tuscan Grille, then sink into the plush sofas at Monnalisa Bar at Hotel Sorella to enjoy shaken martinis and live music (on the schedule every Thursday through Saturday).
No one will call you out for sleeping in.
