I love traipsing the neighborhoods around Rice University. The area, which sits near the city’s Museum District, is known for the tall live oaks that line many of its streets, and is quiet enough to make you forget you’re near the center of a big city. Besides a bustling college campus, you’ll find enough restaurants, bars, and shops to make your head spin. Here’s what to look for.
😋 Rice Village
You can’t make a trip to this area without journeying through Rice Village, a walkable shopping area. Grab a glass of wine and sit on the patio at Hungry’s, have crepes for brunch at Sweet Paris, snack on a delicious cheese board at Sixty Vines, or devour chocolate sorbet at Winfield’s Chocolate Bar. For cute jewelry and clothes, stop by Raspberry Rose or one of my favorites, Francesca’s.
👟 Take in The Scenery
On most days, you can see people biking, running or walking the shady trail that loops around Rice University. Try it out if you’re looking for some peace and quiet amid all the city noise. While you're there, take in the majestic Rice University campus. Stop by the must-see James Turrell Skyspace, which displays beautiful light sequences at sunrise and sunset.
🍸 Grab a Drink
Relax and unwind with an adult beverage at one of these neighborhood spots: Under the Volcano, Little Woodrow’s, or The Owl. Where should you head first? My favorite is, of course, Under the Volcano because of its moody lighting, eclectic decorations, and all the memories I made there during my 20s at celebrations or after-work happy hours.
Planning a sunrise or sunset visit to the James Turrell Skyspace? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the one-of-a-kind space
