Next Stop, Houston

Experience Houston's Rodeo season in style with VIP hotel stay + shopping

As Houston gears up for Rodeo season, happening March 4-23, you can be a part of the action. Elevate your experience with a stay at The Post Oak Hotel and a visit to River Oaks District, the city’s premier destinations for luxury, fashion, and indulgence.

Whether you're saddling up for a night of Western glam or unwinding in opulent comfort, these iconic locations promise an unforgettable Rodeo experience.

The Post Oak Hotel: Houston’s ultimate luxury stay
Begin your rodeo adventure at The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston, Texas’ only Forbes Double Five-Star Hotel and Spa. With impeccable accommodations and world-class amenities, this sanctuary of sophistication is the ideal place to rest after a day of Rodeo festivities. Indulge in the Forbes Five-Star Spa, offering tailored treatments to rejuvenate and refresh before stepping out in style.

Photo courtesy of The Post Oak Hotel

For Rodeo's Kick-Off Weekend, The Post Oak Hotel presents an exclusive package designed for those seeking an elevated experience. Guests will receive two VIP tickets to the highly coveted Rodeo Cook-Off VIP tent on February 27, 28, and March 1, along with a Rodeo-themed welcome amenity at check-in, access to the Rodeo Saloon, and two complimentary specialty themed cocktails, among other elite perks.

With complimentary transportation to and from River Oaks District and NRG Stadium, this package ensures seamless luxury and convenience. Reserve your exclusive rodeo experience here.

The Rodeo Saloon: Western charm meets upscale elegance
Step into the Rodeo Saloon, an exclusive pop-up at The Post Oak Hotel that reimagines the traditional Western saloon with a sophisticated touch.

Rodeo Saloon at The Post Oak Hotel Photo courtesy of The Post Oak Hotel

Enjoy expertly crafted rodeo-inspired cocktails, savor rare whiskey selections, and soak in an ambience where rustic charm meets modern luxury. Whether you're unwinding before a night out or toasting to a memorable evening, The Rodeo Saloon sets the perfect scene.

River Oaks District: The pinnacle of Houston shopping & dining
No Rodeo wardrobe is complete without a statement look, and River Oaks District is Houston’s ultimate destination for high fashion.

Home to world-renowned designers like Hermès, Cartier, Dior, Harry Winston, and Patek Philippe, this luxurious enclave offers the finest in Western-inspired couture and accessories, ensuring you dazzle from the arena to apres-Rodeo soirees.

Photo courtesy of River Oaks District

Beyond fashion, River Oaks District is a culinary hot spot, boasting Houston’s most sought-after dining experiences. Whether you’re savoring exquisite bites at one of the many epicurean signature restaurants or indulging in a cocktail before the night’s festivities, the district offers an unparalleled fusion of style and gastronomy.

Photo courtesy of The Post Oak Hotel

Stay in style at The Post Oak Hotel.

Experience Rodeo season like never before
This Rodeo season, embrace the best of Houston’s elevated lifestyle, where luxury and tradition come together seamlessly.

From the refined indulgence of The Post Oak Hotel to the fashion-forward allure of River Oaks District, this uniquely curated experience promises to make your rodeo celebrations truly unforgettable.

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Whatagallery

Real-life Whataburger fan art museum will open during SXSW in Austin

Photo courtesy of Whataburger

Whataburger's classic orange and white aesthetic lends itself to lots of fan art.

Something about the orange and white stripes of Whataburger have had a hold on Texan hearts for 75 years. Now locals and visitors alike can dive into the aesthetics in a new fan art gallery popping up at South by Southwest (SXSW). The Whataburger Museum of Art (WMOA) will be open to the public and badge holders March 8 and 9.

It is a silly idea, but the art on display showcases some real skill, from a contemplative still life of a semi-crumpled bag to a touching portrait of people wearing Whataburger merch while hugging their dog. The unique architectures shapes many of the images.

Getting folks to pay attention to an art gallery during the busiest time of the year is easier said than done, so there will be some other incentives to stop by. On March 8, that means visitors will get to try the limited edition Monterey Melt from the Whataburger Food Truck on the patio. But there are more artsy draws, too.

Work by Chris Clark in Whataburger Museum of Art SXSW Portraits make the fan art more personal.Art by Chris Clark, photo courtesy of Whataburger

The Whataburger Day Dot Room invites visitors in on the action. They'll take "day dots" — color-coded stickers used in food service to keep track of freshness — and cover the interior of a white restaurant interior. Presumably, it'll look like the famous "Obliteration Room" by Yayoi Kusama.

Some visitors will also get to take home limited edition table tents, the pop-up paper triangles that display specials at some restaurants. They'll be exclusive to Whataburger's 75th anniversary and SXSW 2025.

Some of the art is designed to be seen in person, including sculptures and digital installations, so festival-goers interested in experiential art may get some inspiration here.

Danny Pechal in Whataburger Museum of Art SXSWWhataburger Museum of Art

Finally, it'll be held at Wanderlust Wine Co. downtown (610 N. Interstate Hwy. 35), making it easy to get to from the music hotspot that is the Red River Cultural District. The press release announcing the museum does not specify if Wanderlust will be continuing normal operations.

Although this is ultimately a marketing stunt, the artistry is surprisingly sincere. The idea grew organically when Whataburger decided to pull together fan art into one place online, later resulting in a dedicated Instagram account and in even more artists tagging their work. This will be the first time the gallery is shown in person.

“Sometimes a burger is so delicious, the hospitality so sincere that mere words won’t do.That’s why some of our customers turn to paintbrushes and knitting needles. The creativity of our fans never ceases to amaze us,” said Whataburger president and CEO Debbie Stroud in the release. “From illustrators and muralists to digital creators, these artists have transformed their love for Whataburger into incredible works of art."

Work by Rachel Odom in Whataburger Museum of Art SXSW Don't ask your nail tech for this.Art by Rachel Odom, photo courtesy of Whataburger

The WMOA @ SXSW exhibit is open March 8-9 from 11 am to 6 pm.

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