There’s something special about traveling with love as your destination. Our recent trip to Houston, Texas wasn’t about sightseeing for the sake of it—it was about visiting someone who holds a huge piece of our hearts: our granddaughter.
From joyful train rides to poolside giggles, flavorful dinners to dartboard victories, this trip gave us a little of everything—family connection, great food, and a renewed appreciation for what makes Houston such a vibrant city.
All Aboard! Hermann Park Railroad
One of the trip’s highlights was taking our granddaughter to Hermann Park Railroad. If you’ve never seen the joy on a child’s face as they wave to strangers from a tiny open-air train, you’re missing out on one of life’s purest pleasures.
The ride loops through the park’s lush grounds with views of the zoo, lake, and gardens. The wind in our hair, the rhythm of the track, and our granddaughter’s non-stop chatter made it feel like time had slowed just for us. It was a perfect little adventure—for her, and honestly, for us too.
Pool Day: Sun, Splash, & Snacks
No Texas visit is complete without a day at the local pool, especially in that classic Houston heat. Watching her play and splash around reminded us how joy doesn’t need to be complicated. We spent hours in the sun—floating, laughing, and pretending we weren’t trying to keep up with a kid who has way more energy than we do.
Afterward, we wrapped up in towels, shared popsicles, and listened to the sweet sound of summer: kids laughing, water splashing, and absolutely zero urgency.
Anniversary Dinner with a Puerto Rican Twist
We also celebrated a special milestone of our own during this trip—our anniversary—with dinner at El Caribeno, a cozy Puerto Rican restaurant that served up flavor, warmth, and a little island soul right in the heart of Houston.
From the mofongo to the perfectly seasoned pernil, every dish felt like a celebration. The staff treated us like family, and the ambiance was just right—festive but relaxed. Sharing a quiet moment over Caribbean cocktails, surrounded by love and good food, was the perfect way to toast another year together.
Darts & Drafts: Flying Saucer Night Out
Later that night, we ventured downtown for some grown-up fun at the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. With more beers on tap than we could count, we sampled a few local brews and shared a round (or two) of darts. The vibe was lively without being rowdy, and the walls lined with vintage beer paraphernalia made it feel like a pub-meets-museum mash-up.
Even if we didn’t hit every bullseye, the laughter and lighthearted competition were exactly what we needed after a long day of grandparenting.
A Walk Through the Heart of Houston
On our final day, we took a downtown walk—just the two of us. Houston’s downtown is a mix of modern architecture, leafy plazas, and a dash of Southern charm. We wandered past murals, sculptures, and quiet coffee shops, reflecting on how lucky we are—not just for the trip, but for the people and moments that made it meaningful.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t a trip to check things off a list. It was a trip to feel—the warmth of Texas sun, the squeeze of a granddaughter’s hand, the comfort of a familiar face across the dinner table. Houston gave us so much more than a vacation. It gave us connection, celebration, and memories we’ll hold close for a long time.
Until next time, sweet girl—we’ll be back soon. And we’ll always bring the hugs.