June 14-16, 2023

The Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria | 2222 West Loop South, Houston, TX


What Can I Do While in Houston?

You are receiving this email because you are on our list to attend the TSR Early Childhood Summer Institute next month in Houston. If your plans have changed and you can longer attend, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected].


If you are traveling to join us for the conference, then this email is for you! When most people think of Houston, they don't think of it as someplace to vacation, but it has a lot to offer. One of the most multicultural cities in the United States, you can eat any cuisine under the sun, visit our expansive parks, shop in the Galleria, and get coffee from one of the many local spots.


Below our TSR Institute Committee has created a list of some of our favorite places to frequent. Take a look and see what you might add to your agenda when you aren't attending the conference.

Places for Food & Drinks

Christie's Seafood & Steaks

The oldest restaurant in Houston, Christie’s Seafood & Steaks is an institution. Not only known for its local record-breaking years in operation, Christie's really does have some of the best seafood in town. With their classic americana dishes like the “Famous” fish sandwich, made with Gulf snapper, or their fried shrimp with garlic remoulade sauce, you'll be transported back in time in this eclectic space. It's sure to be a crowd pleaser for everyone!

Truth BBQ

A must-try when visiting Houston is Truth BBQ! Awarded as one of the best BBQ joints in the state, you'll fall in love with this Brenham-based competition-level restaurant with a backyard flair. Their sides are to die for (we recommend the corn pudding or tater tot casserole), their desserts taste just like grandma used to make, and obviously any meat you order, you won't regret.

Nobie's Houston

Located in Rice Village in an adorable early 1900's converted home, you'll find Nobie's. With a curated and constantly evolving menu of 20-25 daily items they focus on approachable, innovative items incorporating seasonal ingredients from land and sea. This restaurant is dedicated to locally sourcing all ingredients with fresh produce from nearby farms and Gulf Coast seafood, which is delivered daily. They treat their restaurant like a house party. They play vinyl records at max and in their dark atmosphere you'll be transported back to a college party, but with much better food and drink choices.

Local Foods

Looking for some healthier options? Look no further than Local Foods! Another Rice Village favorite, this restaurant strives to find the best local ingredients across the state of Texas. Everything is made from scratch daily and each location has a bright mid-century modern flair. Their motto says it all: Bringing together great food with great people does more than just create great meals, it has the power to create lifelong partnerships and inspire greatness.

More Local Recommendations

Crave Cupcakes
Postino Wine Cafe
Kenny & Ziggy's
Giant Leap Coffee
Bitty & Beau's Coffee
Blacksmith Coffee

Places to Visit

Memorial Park Conservancy

Millions of Houstonians visit Memorial Park each year to enjoy the variety of activities available in the Park. Featured in Architectural Digest this immaculately designed park has a mission to preserve, restore, and enhance the enjoyment for all people who visit. Whether you are looking to get your steps in, have a picnic in the park, or observe the native flora and fauna, Memorial Park is a must-see!

Houston Galleria

More than 26 million visitors each year seek the The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center! Housing 400 stores and restaurants, two high-rise hotels, and three office towers, The Galleria is Houston’s most popular retail and tourist destination, meeting every style and taste.

Houston Mural Map

Lover of the arts? Then take your own tour of the Houston murals! Through Houston Mural Map you can find, visit, and enjoy the many wonderful murals and street art installations throughout Greater Houston. This map includes nearly 750 murals sourced by a network of artists, community partners, and volunteer mural hunters.

Uptown Park


Home to artisan and contemporary goods, plus some of Houston's most recommended eateries, Uptown Park is a shopping center nestled in the heart of Houston. This lush, open-air retail haven near the Royal Sonesta hotel welcomes everyone and is where big-city culture meets southern hospitality. Drive, walk, or ride the hotel shuttle to visit.

More Local Recommendations

Space Center Houston
Museum of Natural Science
Color Factory
Art Car Museum
Museum of Fine Arts
The Menil Collection

Conference Information

If you did not receive our previous email messages, click the buttons below to read information to know about the Institute and the venue. Visit the TSR Institute website for more information about the conference or email us with your questions. Then watch for our next message listing the conference schedule, sponsors, and exhibitors. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Information to Know #1: Institute Overview
Information to Know #2: Royal Sonesta Overview
Visit the TSR Institute Website
Contact the TSR Institute Committee