Soak up the arts and culture scene in downtown Houston, which offers an exciting variety of museum, art, and theater opportunities. For travelers seeking an enriching vacation, TravelSkoot shows you the best cultural offerings in Houston.
The Foucault Pendulum swings from a cable hooked to the ceiling at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, an impressive display of the Earth's rotation. The pendulum is just one of the museum's exhibits, many of which are interactive, with touch screens and holographic video displays to guide you through your journey. For a real hands-on experience, check out the Fondren Discovery Place, where you can use your muscles to light a lightbulb or check out the working replica of the 650-ton Corliss steam engine.
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The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts comprises two opulent, acoustically distinguished theaters specially designed to present musical performances. The 2,600-seat Sarofim Hall is home to the Broadway in Houston series, staging shows such as "Chicago" and "The Full Monty." Zilkha Hall, an intimate 500-seat venue, showcases chamber music and smaller productions as part of the Uniquely Houston series. The Artista restaurant offers lunch and dinner, as well as post-show desserts and beverages. During intermission, check out the view of downtown from the balcony.
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The Alley Theater, with its glamorous red-carpeted staircase, makes you feel the magic of the stage as soon as you walk through the doors. Performances continue the spell, with the resident acting company playing classics from Shakespeare to Stoppard, as well as premiere productions such as Tennessee Williams's "Not About Nightingales," Eve Ensler's "Lemonade" and Edward Albee's "The Play About the Baby." Both stages are intimate enough to provide good views from any seat. Enjoy post-show discussions with the cast after some performances.
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As the actual working terminal for Hobby Airport from 1940 to 1954, the 1940 Air Terminal Museum evokes a golden age in Houston’s rich history of flight. Visiting the art-deco terminal is a sentimental journey back in time, before the age of jets, when folks actually dressed up to fly. Visitors can peruse photos, old uniforms or memorabilia from classic airlines of yore like Pioneer, Pan-Am, and Braniff. Then take a load off at the museum’s airport viewing area, and ponder “progress” as you contrast the past with today’s jets in action, at Houston’s new Hobby.
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The spectacular atrium lobby at the Hilton Houston North Texas hotel sets the tone for the magnificent stay that awaits you. The design of the beautiful atrium was inspired by London train stations and includes a full service Starbucks cafe. Guest will enjoy spacious accommodations, including a choice of four unique suite-style rooms with comfortable and convenient amenities. Dine on classic American Cuisine at the Cafe restaurant, where the lunchtime Pasta Bar comes highly recommended. Or choose from the small plates menu at Vino Wine Bar, which feature wines from around the world and delicious tapas-style appetizers. Kick back and enjoy true Southern hospitality at some of its best at the Hilton Houston North hotel in Texas.
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