Your Sotherly Host,At Your Service

Welcome to The Whitehall. As your Sotherly Host, it’s my pleasure to introduce you to all of the excitement and experiences that downtown Houston and the surrounding areas have to offer. Check-in here for regular updates and insider intel on our favorite things to see and do in the city.

Holidays In Houston

Keep your holidays merry and bright while visiting Houston. As we say goodbye to 2020 and welcome 2021, do so with festive cheer. Houston is known for its warm welcoming energy, and that carries over to our holiday festivities. We’ve rounded up our top three holiday events to spread happiness and joy.

Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker Sweets Virtual Film, through Jan. 8, 2021

It’s not the holidays without catching a performance of The Houston’s Ballet Nutcracker. Marvel at this special digital presentation featuring new choreography set to popular carols. Head to their website to buy tickets and start streaming.

CandleLight Open Concerts, through Jan. 6, 2021

The Listeo String Quartet will play Tchaikovsky, Strauss, Debussy, and more winter classics at Hughes Manor. This outdoor concert features electric flickering candles, setting the scene for a magical evening under the stars.

Holidays in the Gardens at Moody Gardens, through Jan. 1, 2021

Brighten up your evening at Holiday in the Gardens featuring the Festival of Lights—a mile-long trail of more than one million lights and illuminated scenes, including views of Galveston Bay. Visitors can also enjoy the Arctic Slide, ride the holiday train, and watch a 4-D theater presentation of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

A Few of Our Houston Favorites

Whether business, leisure, or a special event brings you to town, our hotel is the gateway to experiencing the heart of downtown Houston. Home to a vibrant cultural scene, and can't-miss dining, shopping, and unique activities, you'll find no shortage of things to do in Bayou City.

With an endless amount of attractions to uncover, we've narrowed it down to a few of our favorites—"must-do's", if you will. Our staff is not only prepared to welcome you to our original landmark hotel, they're also eager to show guests just what makes this city so very special.

Houston's Downtown Aquarium: Part attraction, part restaurant, part 500,000-gallon aquarium

Washington Avenue Arts District: This state-appointed Arts and Cultural District has a rich history and touts the highest concentration of working artists in Texas.

Saint Arnold Brewing Company: Indulge in craft beer, craft food, games, vibrant art, and amazing views of the city at Texas' Oldest Craft Brewery.

Houston Museum of Natural Science: One of the most popular museums in the United States where you can explore all of Africa and embark on a prehistoric safari all in one day.

Minute Maid Park: Home of the 2017 World Series Champions, the Houston Astros.

Green Street: Find the latest fashions, enjoy a delicious meal, and challenge the family to a friendly bowling game at Lucky Strike.

Houston Zoo: Home to 6,000 animals, 900 species, and a 55-acre park, it's no wonder they've been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Houston Theater District: the height of class, sophistication, and any other word one would associate with a night of culture.

Culinary Houston: Top 15 Restaurants

Houston’s culinary scene is dominated by old favorites and up and coming newbies. As the fourth largest city in the US, it’s no surprise that The Bayou City serves up a culinary scene as diverse and exciting as our rich culture. On your next visit, take your taste buds on a tour of delicious by trying one of these oh-so-delectable restaurants. If you are not sure where to start, our knowledgeable Sotherly Host will point you in the right foodie direction. We make it our top priority to be in the know.

1. Indigo - 517 Berry Rd, Houston, TX 77022, (832) 582-6388

2. Squable - 632 W 19th St, Houston, TX 77008, (832) 834-7362

3. Edgar’s Hermano - 1700 Smith St, Houston, TX 77002, (713) 495-7854

4. La Lucha - 1801 N Shepherd Dr #A, Houston, TX 77008, (713) 955-4765

5. Coltivare Pizza & Garden - 3320 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007, (713) 637-4095

6. BB's Tex-Orleans - 2701 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77009, (713) 868-8000

7. B&B Butchers - 1814 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77018, (713) 862-1814

8. Xochi - 1777 Walker St. Ste A, Houston, Tx 77010,(713) 521-2239

9. Pizaro’s Pizza Napoletana - 1000 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019, (823) 742-5200

10. La Table - 1800 Post Oak Blvd Ste 6110, Houston, TX 77056, (713) 439-1000

11. Nancy's Hustle - 2704 Polk St Ste A, Houston, TX 77003, (346) 571-7931

12. Georgie James - 1100 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, (832) 241-5088

13. Killen’s STQ - 2231 S Voss Rd, Houston, TX 77057, (713) 586-0223

14. Riel - 1927 Fairview Street, Houston TX 77019, (832) 831-9109

15. Cali Sandwich & Fast Food - 2900 Travis St, Houston, TX 77006, (713)520-0710

See Houston In A Whole New Way

Next time you head to Houston, take a day or two to explore a new side of the Space City. You’ll find dozens of themed tours at VisitHouston.com, including bike tours, brewery tours, mural tours, food tours - and so much more.

From a guided tour of the city’s historic underground tunnel system to a flavorful walking tour through Midtown’s family-owned and operated Vietnamese restaurants, you’ll see a side of Houston you never imagined.

If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss the Booze, Bites & Historical Sites Tour showcasing H-Town’s favorite watering holes. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails paired with savory bites (including Texas brisket, naturally) while you learn about the city’s only commercial historic district. Have a thing for urban art? Hit the streets in a GEM cart for a guided tour of the most colorful murals in downtown, Midtown, and EaDo.

If you’re not sure what to see first, just ask your Sotherly Host. We love introducing visitors to all the best Houston has to offer.

An Aquatic Adventure

Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is not your average aquarium. In addition to beautiful underwater exhibits, the Downtown Aquarium offers exciting rides and interactive games for the whole family.

The aquarium is just a mile away from the Whitehall Houston, so you could easily walk and enjoy the year-round perfect weather. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Louisiana Swamp, which explores the ecosystem of the bayous; Shipwreck allows you a glimpse into a sunken Spanish Galleon; and the White Tigers of Maharajah's Temple. The rides that really make this aquarium unique include Shark Voyage, where you take a train through a 200,000-gallon shark tank, the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel, Aquatic Carousel, Lighthouse Dive with an exhilarating drop, and Frog Hopper, a fun bounce ride. Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is the perfect place for the entire family to have a full day of fun, education, and adventure.

A Night Full of Laughter

Mike Epps, best known for his comedic roles in Next Friday, Friday After Next, and The Hangover, is one of the most popular stand up comedians working today.

Currently, Mike is leading an incredible lineup of comedic minds in the Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival. This incredible night of laughs and fun will be stopping by Houston on March 28. All of the hilarity will take place at NRG Stadium, just 15 minutes from The Whitehall Houston. The venue is the perfect place for such an oversized collection of talented performers. In addition to Mike Epps, Lavell Crawford of Breaking Bad fame, Karlous Miller from MTV’s Wild ‘n Out, Kountry Wayne, and DC Young Fly will be delighting audiences all night long with their comedic stylings. With incredible talent like this on display, the Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival is one event you won't want to miss.

Plan Your Escape

Houston Escape Room was one of the first of its kind in the city, opening its doors in 2014. Since then, visitors have been challenged and delighted by the various escape room experiences that Houston Escape Room offers.

The downtown location is only about 2 miles from the Whitehall Houston, and they offer 3 different experiences. The first, titled Mo’s Safehouse, requires participants to discover the clues left behind by the missing Agent Mo and ultimately find the fabled wooden nickel. The second room, The Scarlet Scandal, challenges you and your group to uncover Agent Scarlet’s secret hiding place and recover stolen treasures. The third and final room, Dark Side of the Moon, allows the players to explore the worlds of outer space while trying to stop the evil corporation Pharmaco. No matter which room you choose, you and your group will enjoy the challenging, fun, and unique escape room experiences offered by Houston Escape Room.

A Magical Beer Festival

Ever since Harry Potter climbed out from beneath the stars in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, the world has rediscovered its love of all things magic.

If you find yourself intrigued by wizards, witches, goblins, elves, potions, and all sorts of magic, then you will want to attend the Wizards Beer Festival on January 18 at The Ballroom at Bayou Place. This beautiful location, just a mile from the Whitehall Houston, will be transformed into a world of magic featuring such stops as The Lair of Secret Ciders and Potions and The Boozy Cauldron Tavern. Throughout your journey, you will be able to sample from more than 20 different types of beer and magical themed spirits. Don't forget to snap some pics because there will be plenty of photo opportunities with some of your favorite magical characters all night long. In addition to the drinks, there will also be live music and plenty of delicious food.

Celebrate Christmas with a Concert

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is one of the most popular and successful live acts in the United States.

With their progressive rock sound and incredible Christmas albums, The Trans-Siberian Orchestra has become an annual holiday tradition for many families. On Sunday, December 22, you and your family can catch a live performance from the band at the Toyota Center which is only about a mile from The Whitehall Houston. The venue is perfect for the big sound and even bigger show put on by the band. There is nothing quite like The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s renditions of holiday favorites like “Christmas Canon” and “O Come All Ye Faithful” as well as their own creations like “Wizards in Winter,” “A Mad Russian’s Christmas,” and “Old City Bar” to get you into the holiday spirit. You will not want to miss your opportunity to see a live Christmas performance from one of the most popular rock bands in the country.

Sweeter than Wine

As the holiday season approaches, it is possible to get so caught up in all of the shopping, food preparations, and family parties that you forget to take some time for yourself.

On Saturday, November 23, you can take some time to relax at the 2019 Houston Wine Fest from 11 am until 7 pm. All-day long you can sample wines from some of the best local and regional wineries, and if you are lucky, you will find a new favorite vintage. In addition to the wine, there will be live music from performers like Jackiem Joyner, Phillip Doc Martin, Actor Leon, Royal Dukes Band, and SVK Band. Feel free to bring a lawn chair to the festivities so you can comfortably sit and enjoy your wine. There will even be food from local restaurants, and cool merchandise from vendors, artisans, and artists. While the wine is the star of the show, Houston Wine Fest is an all-day affair full of laughter, music, and good times.

Happy Halloween Fun

The Halloween season is one of the most fun and exciting times of the entire year.

The Halloween season is one of the most fun and exciting times of the entire year. For some reason, Halloween is the one time all year that people truly let loose and allow themselves to be kids again. This year, you can embrace your inner child by attending the 9th Annual Houston Halloween Festival with your family. This event is put on by The Houston Zombie Walk to benefit the Too Ghoul for School Education fund, so you can have fun for a good cause at the festival. All evening long, there will be live music, food trucks from local vendors and restaurants, beer tents, a special FX blood splatter zone, a kids’ costume contest, and much more. There is even a kids’ zone for the younger members of your family. Costumes are encouraged for the young visitor and those that are young at heart. The 9th Annual Houston Halloween Festival is the perfect event for you and your family to have safe, Halloween fun this year. In fact, you will probably have so much fun that you’ll want to come back next year.

Are You Ready for Some Football?

The Houston Texans made the playoffs after the 2018 season, and they are hoping to do even more winning this year.

This NFL season, you can see the Texans play home games against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, and the Tennessee Titans. No matter which team is their adversary for the week, Coach Bill O’Brien is guaranteed to have his team ready for success. The Texan's beautiful home field, NRG Stadium, is only about 20 minutes from The Whitehall Houston. Quarterback Deshaun Watson is ready to throw plenty of touch-down passes to dynamic wide receivers DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller all season long. When the passing game slows down, running backs Lamar Miller and Duke Johnson will pick up the slack. Plus, popular superstar JJ Watt will lead the Texans defense to victory every week. The Texans are looking to make history this season, so you should plan on being a part of that history.

A Night Full of Laughs

Everyone has heard the old saying, “laughter is the best medicine,” and the Houston Improv has a calendar full of talented performers that are sure to prove the old adage is true.

The Houston Improv is the premier place for comedy in Houston and is located less than 15 minutes from The Whitehall Houston. Some of the best stand-up comedians in the country will be performing this August including D. L. Hughley, Kountry Wayne, Chingo Bling, Ben Jackson, Guy Torry, and Mo Amer. There are even shows available for the entire family like Carter Blackburn’s Magic & Comedy For All Ages performance, which combines entertaining sleights of hand with witty one-liners. The entire family, from grandpa to the little ones are sure to be delighted by Carter Blackburn’s uniquely entertaining show. No matter which performer you get to see live, you are sure to be amazed at the incredible venue and hilarious stand-up comedy.

Make Time for Wine

If you love wine and live DJs, specifically when they play Trap Music, then you will want to attend the 2019 Trap Wine Fest.

Every year, Trap Wine Fest gets a little bigger and better, and this year’s festival is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated events in Houston this summer. All of the fun takes place at Jones Plaza which is less than a mile from the Whitehall Houston, so you can easily walk to the venue. Featuring over 20 different wines to sample, Trap Wine Fest also brings together some of the hottest DJs in all of Houston to show their stuff and play some of the most popular hits in the Trap Music genre. In addition to the wine and music, local chefs will be selling unique dishes throughout the festival. Fun games and activities complete the fun in this one of a kind festival.

It's a Kick

The beautiful game, soccer, is the most popular sport in the entire world. During the World Cup, businesses shut down, not just for the day of the game, but rather for the entire month of the competition.

While the next World Cup is not until 2022, you can still enjoy world-class soccer played right in front of your eyes. The Houston Dynamos' of the MLS are hoping to make a run to a championship this season. In the next couple of months, the team has home games against exciting competitors like the New York Red Bulls, Los Angeles Football Club, Club America, Seattle Sounders, and Chicago Fire. Their beautiful home field, BBVA Compass Stadium is less than 10 minutes from the Whitehall Houston. With stars like DaMarcus Beasley, Alberth Elis, Mauro Manotas, and Memo Rodriguez, the Dynamo are always guaranteed to put on a great show that delights and amazes the crowd.

Strawberry Fields Forever

The Pasadena Strawberry Festival is an annual celebration of everyone’s favorite fruit, strawberries. All of the fun takes place from May 17-19, and the festival is just 30 minutes from The Whitehall Houston.

This event has fun and entertainment designed for the entire family. There will be fun competitions like Mud Volleyball, Pig Races, and even a Beauty Pageant. Plus, there will be a BBQ cook-off, where contestants will whip up some of that famous Texas BBQ. Additionally, attendees will be delighted by live entertainment including magic acts, stunt shows, an Alligator Show, and live music from performers like Justin Taylor, Dalton Domino, Randall King, and The Sammy Jo Band. Even the children will have the time of their lives at the dedicated children’s area while their parents enjoy visits to the wine tent. The Pasadena Strawberry Festival is the perfect occasion to get together with your friends and family and enjoy some strawberry-inspired fun.

The Boys of Summer are Back

The Houston Astros are once again early season favorites to win the World Series in 2019 which would be their second title in 3 years.

With superstar players like Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, and Alex Bregman, not to mention Cy Young Caliber pitchers like Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, and Lance McCullers Jr., it is no surprise that the team hopes to be contenders this season. Their beautiful home ballpark, Minute Maid Park, was completed in 2000, and it is located only about 5 minutes from The Whitehall. In the next few weeks, the team has exciting home games against the New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians, and Minnesota Twins. No matter which game you attend, and no matter who happens to be pitching that day, manager A.J. Hinch will have his team prepared and in-position to win. If you get hungry at the game, grab a snack at Little Bigs, Texas Legend Grill, or El Real for some of the most delicious food in all of Major League Baseball.

Park Conservancy’s Annual Kite Festival

It may seem hard to believe, but Spring will be here before you know it. Spring brings warmer temperatures which means more time spent outside walking, riding bicycles, and even flying kites.

If you consider yourself a kite enthusiast, or you are just looking for a fun afternoon enjoying the Spring weather, then you will want to attend the Hermann Park Conservancy’s 6th Annual Kite Festival on March 24. All of the fun takes place on Miller Hill inside Hermann Park which is only about 10 minutes from The Whitehall Houston. This free event is fun for the whole family and includes kites in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. In addition to kite flying, there will be live performances, activities, crafts, food trucks, and even face painting. So bring your own kite down to Miller Hill and participate in one of the fastest-growing festivals on Houston’s calendar.

Basketball Wizardry

The wonderful Harlem Globetrotters have been delighting audiences for almost 100 years now. Throughout all of that time, they have combined basketball skills with theatrics and even some comedy.

You have the opportunity to see the team take on their rival Washington Generals at the Fertitta Center on February 15-17. The beautiful arena that will house this dazzling display of basketball is less than 15 minutes from The Whitehall Houston. With talented players like Prime Time, Firefly, Champ, Crash, Thunder, Scorpion, Dragon, Mighty, Too Tall, and Lights Out, the Harlem Globetrotters always put on an incredible show. You and your family will be amazed by their wide array of dribbling moves, alley-oop dunks, and even a few other surprises. The Globetrotters are an American treasure and a worldwide phenomenon, so you will not want to miss your opportunity to see these legends in action. You will be guaranteed to be whistling their famous theme song as you walk out the arena doors with a smile on your face.

Celebrate an American Hero

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most admired and respected people in all of American history. His courage, eloquence, and commitment to justice continue to inspire millions of people year after year.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s influence and legacy are so important that President Ronald Reagan named January 20 a national holiday remembering the Rev. King in 1983. This year, you can celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at the MLK Grande Parade in Houston. 2019 marks the 25th anniversary of the parade, which will take place on Saturday, January 21. The theme of this year’s parade is “It Takes a Village,” signifying the great roles that we play in the lives of all the people around us. Every year, the MLK Grande Parade draws thousands of people from all around the world to celebrate the life of one of the finest Americans who has ever lived.

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