If you’re looking for a perfect weekend staycation in Houston, Midtown is the place to be! With its plethora of great restaurants and bars, as well as its close proximity to downtown attractions, Midtown makes for an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy all that Houston has to offer without needing a car.
From delicious eats at some of the city’s best restaurants, craft cocktails at hip bars and lounges, and plenty of entertainment venues – there will never be a dull moment during your long weekend in this vibrant neighborhood. So if you’re ready to have an unforgettable time while staying close to home, keep reading – we’ve got all the details on where you should eat, drink and play during your fantasy weekend in Midtown Houston!
Head to Midtown Houston on Thursday for an unforgettable weekend of food, drinks, and entertainment! From delicious eats at some of the city’s best restaurants to craft cocktails at hip bars and lounges, you’ll find plenty of options throughout the vibrant neighborhood. So get ready – it’s going to be an amazing long weekend in Midtown Houston!
There’s a special event (almost) every first Thursday of the month: Mid Main First Thursday. This is your chance to explore local shops while sampling tasty bites and listening to live music – all while supporting a great cause. Catch live music at Winnie’s over seasonally-inspired cocktails.
And if you’re looking for some fun after dark, then don’t miss out on Beatle’s cover band Beetle, playing at the historic Continental Club! Beetle has earned a devoted following over 20 years of performances at Continental Club, and First Thursdays are your chance to see them without a separate cover charge. Check out our blog post on First Thursdays, Midtown’s block party.
(The Museum of Fine Arts Houston also has free admission on Thursday evenings.)
Start off your staycation Friday with the perfect casual breakfast spot in Midtown: Tacos a GoGo! This popular eatery serves up delicious Mexican cuisine all day long and is sure to start your day off right. The menu features traditional tacos made with fresh ingredients, as well as specialties like chilaquiles, migas and huevos rancheros. And don’t forget about the amazing selection of drinks including Mexican coffee and aguas frescas.
Once you’ve had your fill of filling eats, explore the area with a self-guided walking tour of Midtown Houston. With its impressive collection of murals and public art, you’ll be sure to find plenty of Instagrammable moments throughout your journey! (Check out our blog post on Midtown’s rich mural scene.)
Stop by Big Kat’s Barber Shop to get weekend-ready with a fresh haircut. Located right in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood, Big Kat’s offers old school barber services with a modern twist. From classic cuts and fades to more contemporary styles such as undercuts and edgy looks, Big Kat’s Barber Shop will get you on point for the weekend.
It’s time for dinner! Enjoy an upscale dinner with friends at Mai’s Restaurant. This Vietnamese eatery is known for its flavorful, made-from-scratch dishes that pair perfectly with their vast selection of wines and beers. From delicious starters like the imperial rolls and spring rolls to entrées like the bun thit nuong and com tam bi do, you won’t be disappointed. Anthony Bourdain made a point of stopping by on every Houston trip. You should, too.
After dinner, stop by Double Trouble for craft cocktails on the ground floor of Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts. This hip bar specializes in classic drinks with a twist, like the “Smoke & Mirrors” made with mezcal and passionfruit. Enjoy the music of local DJs (and sometimes national acts) as you listen to great tunes and sip on your favorite libations.
The Brass Tap’s famous brunch boards are perfect for sharing with friends or family – they come loaded up with all sorts of tasty treats like charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, meats and vegetables. And if that doesn’t sound tempting enough, the mimosa flights let you sample four different flavors of bubbly goodness – from classic orange to guava-pineapple. Remember to make your reservations in advance as the Brass Tap has lines every weekend.
After lunch, spend your afternoon wandering around Midtown’s independent shops. My Flaming Heart is great for handmade clothes you won’t find anywhere else. Sig’s Lagoon is great for browsing through vintage record albums. FYHA Shop is the place to get cool Houston gear.
After a day of exploring, kick off your Saturday night with a drink at Holman Draft Hall. This open-air watering hole is well known for its impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try their signature cocktail – the “Midtown Mule” made with local Houston vodka. Then grab some friends and test the swings outside while you munch on chicken tandoori nachos.
Treat yourself to a Sunday brunch at The Breakfast Klub. This soul food spot is renowned for its chicken and waffles, but they also serve up other classic breakfast favorites like omelets, pancakes, and French toast. The line is consistently long – even on weekdays. Go early and enjoy some great food with friendly service.
After brunch, spend your last day in Midtown enjoying a performance across the street from Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts at MATCH Theater. This venue is one of the best spots in town to catch live music, dance performances and plays.
No matter what kind of activities you choose to take part in during your stay in Midtown Houston, this district is sure to provide plenty of entertainment and excitement. It’s basically a walkable buffet for the senses.
For more Midtown recommendations, check out Lodgeur’s posts on the best brunch spots, cool shops in Midtown and the places you can easily walk to from Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts.
If you want to roam a bit further, check out this 4-bedroom cliffside bungalow on the Oasis at Lake Travis.
