- Ever fed a giraffe?
Volunteered in a soup kitchen?
Toured a nuclear power plant?
Looked behind the scenes at the Alley Theater?
Ridden a boat down Buffalo Bayou?
Been up close and personal with a friendly alpaca?
Taken a “duck” tour of Galveston?
Or gone on a dolphin watch?
Visited our local Air Coast Guard facility?
LEOH offers field trips with transportation provided by a Harris County Precinct One bus and driver to its members on a quarterly basis. Bus trips are usually excursions to a site in the greater Houston area plus a stop for lunch.
During the months in between bus trips, excursions by Metro Rail or by car/carpooling to include lunch, will be offered to interested members. Parking is $3 at the Metro Rail Fannin South lot. Rail pass cards are free to riders age 70+.
This free Metro card can be obtained at the Fannin South office.
Costs vary depending upon admission fees to events, etc. Watch this page, since trips are usually announced one month in advance.
Add your name to LEOH’s email list to receive trip information as it becomes available.
Contact trip leader Ann Fairchild at fairann@sbcglobal.net or 281-686-1325 for more information.
Future 2024 trips
Tuesday, October 8 – BeeWeaver Honey Farm. Members will travel by Precinct 1 bus to Navasota, to see bees up close and personal while the bees are hard at work. We will hear the history of this farm, and learn more about how we can help ensure that bees continue to save our planet! No trip is complete without a stop by their gift shop, to peruse honey and bee-themed items for sale. Lunch will follow, before heading home.
View photos from 2024 trips below.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
Tuesday, September 17 – Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve. Located just off the North Sam Houston Tollway near Hwy 59/69, members arrived by Precinct 1 bus, and for a fee of $11, enjoyed seeing a large variety of reptiles, marine life, exotic birds, mammals, and more. There were opportunities to feed and interact with some of the animals. Before heading home, everyone enjoyed lunch at Maxis Seafood and Oyster Bar. NOTE: This trip was originally scheduled for July; however, Hurricane Beryl had other plans for the area.
Houston Interactive Aquarium and Animal Preserve – 9-17-24 – LEOH
Thursday, June 12 – LEOH members visited the Museum of Fine Arts Rienze (off Kirby in the River Oaks area). Everyone enjoyed seeing beautiful items in the extensive decorative arts collection of former residents Carroll Sterling Masterson and Harris Masterson III. Knowledgeable docents discussed the history of the items on display, and a self-guided tour of the gardens completed the tour. The outing ended with lunch at MIA’s Table. NOTE: Photos permitted to be taken during the tour will not be made available on this or other websites.
Thursday, May 16 – LEOH members traveled by Precinct One bus to the HPD Mounted Patrol Facility. An officer and sergeant explained the workings of the department, emphasizing the important role mounted patrol play in keeping Houstonians safe. Everyone then enjoyed the opportunity to tour the barn and feed carrots to the horses. Next on the agenda was a brief stop at Graffiti Park near downtown to view the artwork, followed by lunch at Connie’s Seafood.
Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol – 5-16-24 – LEOH
Friday, April 12 – Mini Murals and Eclectic Menagerie Park. Members enjoyed a tour by Precinct One bus in and around Bellaire to view mini murals painted on traffic signal control boxes. Houston’s UP Art Studio launched the project; starting with 31 boxes, it has grown to over 400 all over Houston, painted by local and national artists. Travelers also enjoyed a brief stop at the large pond along Meyer Forest Drive, to walk about the area and enjoy nature. Next, the bus took travelers to the Eclectic Menagerie Park on Bellfort off 288 to learn more about the huge outdoor art pieces on display, sponsored by Texas Pipe & Supply. Everyone enjoyed walking around the park to see them up close! Our last tour stop was lunch at Hu’s Garden.
Mini Murals and Eclectic Menagerie Park – 4-12-24 – LEOH
Tuesday, March 19 – West University Police and Fire Department. This drive-yourself trip was truly educational, as we learned about the workings of both departments. The dispatch area of the Police Dept. monitors the 40 cameras installed throughout West U at all points of entrance/exit, to capture images of stolen cars and other criminal activity. The interrogation room, jail cell, and evidence processing room were all very impressive. The fire station tour included a great deal of information about the contents and workings of the fire trucks, ambulance, and high water response vehicle. Lunch at Molina’s Cantina followed.
West U Police and Fire Stations – 3-19-24 – LEOH
February 21, 2024 – The Precinct One bus transported LEOH members to the new Trees for Houston Kinder campus, 1911 W. 34th St. We learned that this non-profit business has provided over 700,00 trees to Houston, beginning in 1983. We also had a refresher course on the benefits of trees, and enjoyed a tour of the grounds, which includes a pavilion, an Urban Harvest demonstration garden, and maturing tree seedlings. Everyone was offered a tree seedling or two to take with them, with instructions for care. Before heading home, we enjoyed lunch at BB’s Tex-Orleans.
Trees for Houston – 2-21-24 – LEOH
January 11, 2024 – Travelers arrived by Precinct One bus at St. Dominic Village, 2401 Holcombe, for a morning aerobic workout with an instructor at their Great Age Senior Fitness Park. Everyone tried out a variety of exercise equipment, then traveled to The Health Museum for more aerobic exercises and a museum tour. There were numerous exhibits to view, puzzle stations to try to solve, a gift shop, and lunch!
St. Dominic Village and Health Museum – 1-11-24 – LEOH
View photos from 2023 trips below.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
December 14, 2023 – Members enjoyed Christmas Lunch at Prima Pasta, 6811 Kirby Dr. Members were asked to bring an unwrapped children’s gift that will be donated to Houston Children’s Charity for their Christmas giveaway. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, many gifts were donated, and great food and fellowship were enjoyed by everyone.
LEOH Christmas Lunch 2023
October 3, 2023 – University of Houston
LEOH travelers enjoyed a Precinct One bus trip to UH, for an outdoor walking tour to view art and architecture. Jim Parsons of Preservation Houston provided UH history and entertaining anecdotes along the way. UH began as a small night school, before becoming an important research institution and the third largest university in Texas. The outing ended with lunch at Cosmo Eatery.
UH, Houston – 10-3-23 – LEOH
September 13, 2023 – The POST – Houston
LEOH members traveled by car to the former Barbara Jordan Post Office downtown. Everyone enjoyed a tour, led by guide Aaron, of the building and the rooftop Skylawn. We learned of the history of the building as it began as a depot, then a post office in the FBI-remodeled building with security features such as bomb shelters. It closed in 2015 and reopened after renovation as a multi-use facility with a rooftop skylawn and organic garden. Lunch at the POST food court concluded the trip.
The POST, Houston – 9-13-23 – LEOH
August 24, 2023 – Federal Reserve of Dallas – Houston Branch
The Precinct One bus and driver delivered LEOH members to this beautiful building, for a tour and a look at a lot of money! Everyone learned about the creation and purpose of the Federal Reserve, and the role of the Houston Branch. After the enlightening tour, lunch was enjoyed at the Acme Oyster House.
Federal Reserve Bldg, Houston – 8-24-23 – LEOH
July 12, 2023 – San Jacinto Monument
LEOH travelers arrived at the Monument via a Precinct One (hybrid) bus. Everyone enjoyed a brief movie on Texas history, a tour of the museum, a visit to the gift shop, and an interesting docent-led tour by bus of the battleground. The highlight of the visit for many was the panoramic view from the 5th-floor observation area. The ship channel, ferry, grounds around the monument that included the Mexican and Texan camps at the battle, and other sights were amazing from our viewpoint! Before returning home, everyone enjoyed lunch at the Monument Inn.
San Jacinto Monument – 7-12-23 – LEOH
June 6, 2023 – Sea Center Texas, Lake Jackson
Everyone traveled by the Precinct One bus to Lake Jackson, where lunch was first enjoyed at Jimmy Joe’s Seafood Restaurant. Then everyone was off to visit Sea Center Texas, to tour the Visitor Center, Aquarium, and Hatchery. Knowledgeable guides took everyone on a tour through its aquariums, hatchery, incubation area, plus a walk on the boardwalk overlooking salt and freshwater marshes, and a large pond. Members learned of the importance of the Sea Center’s work in replenishing our bays and the Gulf with fish.
Sea Center Texas at Lake Jackson – 6-6-23 – LEOH
May 18, 2023 – Congregation Beth Yeshurun, Mollie & Louis Kaplan Museum of Judaica
Members met in the synagogue lobby and enjoyed a docent tour of this museum, which houses hundreds of items. Following the tour, interested members gathered for lunch nearby at Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill.
Congregation Beth Yeshurun – The Mollie & Louis Kaplan Museum of Judaica – 5-18-23 – LEOH
April 19, 2023 – Smith Oaks Rookery on High Island
A Precinct One bus took members and guests to this Houston Audubon bird sanctuary, where a stroll on the Kathrine McGovern Canopy Walkway allowed everyone to view wildlife above and below. Nesting as well as migratory season meant there were hundreds of birds of all types and sizes to be seen and heard. Before heading back to Houston, lunch was enjoyed at Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp in Winnie.
Smith Oaks Bird Sanctuary – Rookery – High Island – 4-19-23 – LEOH
March 3, 2023 – MFAH, Audrey Jones Beck Building
Members enjoyed a docent-led tour to view works from around the world, including European art dating from the 1400’s, and American art through the mid-20th century. Lunch at fia’s pizzeria followed. NOTE: Photos permitted to be taken during the museum tour will not be posted on this or any other website.
January 25, 2023 – San Jacinto Monument & Museum, Battlegrounds
As (bad) luck would have it, a tornado the previous day devastated areas near the site, resulting in widespread power outages. For this reason our journey to the monument ended when we were unable to enter the monument grounds, due to closures. We viewed the monument from afar as our bus driver reversed course and proceeded on a new course to Galveston, where we enjoyed a brief tour by bus of some of the outdoor works of art throughout the city. We then enjoyed lunch at Miller’s Seawall Grill, before returning to Houston. Thanks to trip coordinator Ann and our bus driver, everyone still enjoyed the outing! Members can look forward to Ann’s plan to reschedule the original trip at a later time.
View photos from 2022 trips below.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
December 7, 2022 – Rice University Shepherd School of Music – Fall Chamber Music Recital
Interested members and their guests met for lunch at El Meson restaurant in Rice Village (2425 University Blvd). Everyone enjoyed a Spanish/Latin American style lunch in the Havana room, a private dining room reserved for our group. Following lunch and a short drive to the Rice University Shepherd School of Music, everyone appreciated listening to the student Fall Chamber Music Festival in the Duncan Recital Hall. Several free performances began at 1 p.m.
Rice University Shepherd School of Music – Recital – 12-7-22 – LEOH
November 15, 2022 – Willow Waterhole Greenway
LEOH members met at the Willow Waterhole, to meet and tour the Waterhole with Trudy Holmes, a board member of the WW Greenway. Trudy had spoken to LEOH in September, and members were enthusiastic about following up her talk with a tour. The WW is comprised of 6 lakes, and numerous hiking trails, which we explored on our tour. Many trees and native plants have been added to the area, and the lakes are periodically stocked with game fish; fishing, birding, and hiking are encouraged! We hiked to the WW bayou, a tributary of Brays Bayou; Trudy discussed the bayou flooding issues, and steps taken to allow the bayou to empty into the WW lakes via weirs and culverts during high water events. Following the tour, members enjoyed lunch at Cafe Express in Meyerland.
Willow Waterhole 11-15-22 – LEOH
October 21, 2022 – BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Stafford
The Precinct One county bus took us on a visit to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu temple, in celebration of Diwali, the festival of lights. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and promotes good will to all. The mandir was beautiful, and we learned a great deal about their worship practices and the mandir itself. Following the tour, members enjoyed lunch at Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar. The final stop of the day was back in the Bellaire UMC Parlor, where everyone heard more about Diwali from a guest speaker, and learned how to create some colorful artwork using the practice of Rangoli.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir 10-21-22 LEOH
August 19, 2022 – Celebrating Houston Restaurant Weeks at Calavera Mexican Kitchen
Beginning at the Fannin South station, members took the Metro Rail downtown for lunch at Calavera Mexican Kitchen.
Members enjoyed a delicious lunch of their choosing from their Houston Restaurant Weeks menu (with part of the proceeds going to charity). Following lunch, members continued riding the rail “to the end of the line” downtown and then back to the Fannin South Station. Along the way, viewing the downtown skyscrapers and other sights from the vantage of a rail car added to the day’s adventure.
Calavera Mexican Kitchen, Celebrating Houston Restaurant Weeks – 8-19-22 – LEOH
July 28, 2022 – MFAH Nancy and Rich Kinder Building
The adventure began with a scenic and smooth ride by Metro Rail from the Fannin South station to the museum stop. There, members exited, and after a short walk, enjoyed lunch at the Bodegas Taco Shop, where they met up with other members. Another short walk then took everyone to the tunnel leading to the museum, where the group met with the senior docent for a guided tour. Everyone enjoyed viewing the many works of art, while enjoying commentary by the museum docent. The building itself is quite beautiful, and one of the newest MFAH museums, dedicated to modern and contemporary art. NOTE: Photos permitted to be taken during this tour will not be posted on this or any other website.
June 8, 2022 – Houston Forensic Science Lab (HFSC)
The HFSC is primarily located on the 13th floor at 500 Jefferson in downtown Houston, while their Crime Scene Unit (CSU) and Firearms divisions are located in the basement of the same building. We began our visit with an overview presentation by their Quality Director, followed by a tour of their facility. We learned that the HFSC was created in 2012 as an independent, local government corporation whose mission is to provide forensic services to the Houston police department. The tour included a visit to the Firearms section, where we saw numerous rifles, assault rifles, and handguns. Other divisions consisted of laboratories, such as Toxicology, Latent Prints, and Multimedia, where a variety of testing is performed on items from crime scenes. We ended our trip with lunch at downtown Finn Hall, a food hall where we had a variety of selections to choose from.
Houston Forensic Science Center 6-8-22 – LEOH
May 19, 2022 – Houston Fire Department Val Jahnke Training Academy
We first enjoyed a classroom refresher course on fire safety, including the use of home smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Then we toured the outdoor training sites, including simulated crash scenes, such as a school bus crash, and a train car derailment with hazardous waste material. We observed trainees practicing with fire axes to chop through building rooftops; and we viewed the “burn” building, along with others, including a building used to (safely) simulate real events that, unfortunately, had resulted in firefighters dying in the line of duty elsewhere. Some of us had a little fun, along with gaining experience, in using fire extinguishers to put out small fires. This training facility is very impressive, and was a good reminder of the skills and dedication needed to become and remain a firefighter. We ended our trip with lunch at Kelly’s Country Cookin’.
Val Jahnke Fire Department Training Academy 5-19-22 – LEOH
April 20, 2022 – Edith Moore Nature Sanctuary, Houston
We arrived by Precinct One bus at this 17.5 acre nature preserve for a walking tour and visit to the log cabin, built in the early 1930’s, which was the home of Edith Moore and her husband. They eventually gave the land and cabin to the Houston Audubon Society, which is now headquartered there. We enjoyed a quiet walk led by our nature guide, to view the flora and fauna, as well as a short slide presentation in the cabin, that detailed the Moore’s life there, including Ms. Moore’s great admiration and emulation of avian paintings done by John James Audubon. Following our tour, we enjoyed lunch at Niko Niko’s restaurant, before heading home.
Edith Moore Sanctuary 4-20-22 – LEOH
March 9, 2022 – Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens
A short bus trip took members to the Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens, the former home of Miss Ima Hogg, Houston civic leader and philanthropist. Bayou Bend is a MFAH house museum, containing over 2,500 pieces of American decorative art, silver, ceramics, furnishings, and paintings, displayed in 28 period room settings. It sits on 14 acres of organically maintained gardens. Upon arrival, we viewed a few short introductory videos; docents then provided a 1-hour tour of the house. This was followed by a self-guided walk through the gardens. Navigating a suspension bridge added to the adventure. The trip concluded with lunch at the Black Walnut Cafe. NOTE: Photos permitted to be taken during this tour will not be posted on this website or any other website.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
February 14, 2022 – Houston Asiatown Tour
Members traveled by bus to Asiatown to enjoy a Dim Sum lunch at Ocean Palace. After lunch, everyone enjoyed a stroll through Hong Kong mall for some shopping, followed by a quick stop at Dairy Queen for a tasty dessert, before returning home.
View photos from 2021 trips below.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
December 16, 2021 – The Woodlands Holiday Tour
Members took a late afternoon bus trip to The Woodlands, where everyone enjoyed a tour of local attractions, including many of the beautiful holiday displays. Dinner was then enjoyed at the Goose’s Acre Bistro & Irish Pub, situated along the Woodlands Waterway. The evening ended with additional touring in and around the neighborhoods and Town Center, to see more beautiful lighting displays.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
The Woodlands – Holiday Tour 12-16-21 – LEOH
November 10, 2021 – Van Gogh Immersive Experience, Edwards MarqE, Houston
The Van Gogh exhibition is housed in a 20,000 square foot light and sound venue that features projections of many of Van Gogh’s paintings, many with movement and dazzling colors, from ceiling to floor. One huge room places visitors in a simulated courtyard, surrounded by two-story projections of his works, quotations, and more, with movement, and all accompanied by beautiful orchestral music. Some of us enjoyed a Virtual Reality “walk” with Van Gogh, viewing many of the sites that inspired some of his greatest paintings.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Van Gogh Immersive Experience 11-10-21 – LEOH
October 12, 2021 – Shangri La Botanical Gardens, Orange
We enjoyed a self-guided tour of these beautiful gardens, the product of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. The gardens are modeled on Mr. Stark’s devotion to the environment and commitment to make it the “greenest project in Texas”, and provides for the study and enjoyment of art, history, nature and culture. We were fortunate to visit during their annual Scarecrow Festival. Environmentally friendly scarecrow displays with a variety of themes were on display, made by community members, churches, and businesses.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Shangri La Botanical Gardens in Orange 10-12-21 – LEOH
September 22, 2021 – The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment (formerly Aquarena Springs), San Marcos
The Center is part of Texas State University, and is situated on Spring Lake, a beautiful lake of over 200 springs. We enjoyed a nature walk on the Wetlands Boardwalk, followed by a glass-bottom boat tour of the lake, and a visit to the Center’s Discovery Hall and Aquarium.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment 9-22-21 – LEOH
August 18, 2021 – Houston Murals (and More) – a Driving Tour, Houston
Our driving tour by county bus began in Memorial Park, where we passed by the impressive Land Bridge under construction. We then continued on to view numerous murals, architecture, and other artwork throughout Houston. We stopped by Sawyer Yards to enjoy the impressive art there, then traveled to King’s Bierhaus for lunch. Our driving tour then continued as we viewed more murals and other types of art.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Houston Murals ((and More) – a Driving Tour 8-18-21 – LEOH
July 15, 2021 – Farmers Market; National Museum of Funeral History, Houston
We began the day with a 90-minute visit to the newly renovated, largest (18 acres) and oldest Farmers Market in Houston. We enjoyed seeing (and buying) a multitude of vendor products. There were many choices throughout of fresh produce, snacks, herbs, household items, etc. Next, we headed to the National Museum of Funeral History, where a very knowledgeable docent guided us through a large display of funeral service items housed in 16 permanent exhibits. We learned about hearses, caskets, and coffins, and heard details on the funerals of Presidents, Popes, and celebrities. The Museum is very accessible, with benches throughout for resting, and a gift shop with unique selections. Our day concluded with lunch at Lasagna House III.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Farmers Market, National Museum of Funeral History 7-15-21 – LEOH
June 2, 2021 – Franklin Drive Thru Safari, Franklin
We enjoyed a 90-minute driving safari on a yellow school bus with one of the caretakers, to see and feed some of the over 1,000 animals spread over 100 acres. We also walked around other areas to view a variety of animals, including monkeys, birds, giraffes, otters, etc. Other animals were on exhibit in the gift shop. Our day concluded with a nice lunch at the Cotton Patch Cafe in Bryan.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Franklin Drive-Thru Safari 6-2-21 – LEOH
May 13, 2021 – Bryan Museum, Galveston
The day began with a late morning bus trip to Galveston. Once there, we enjoyed a bus tour of the sea turtle art throughout the city. Along the route, we also saw some building murals, and wildflowers everywhere! We then had a nice lunch at Galveston’s award-winning restaurant Shrimp ‘N Stuff. Then we enjoyed a guided tour of the museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of artifacts, documents, and artwork relating to Texas and the American West. Following the tour, and directly outside the museum, we enjoyed a wine bar, listened to live music, and perused a variety of offerings from local vendors, such as produce, bread, crafts, etc.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Bryan Museum in Galveston 5-13-21 – LEOH
May 6, 2021 – Hana and Arthur Ginzbarg Nature Discovery Center, Bellaire
Technically not a trip; however, members enjoyed an outdoor picnic at the NDC to celebrate a successful Spring Speaker Session. Fully-vaccinated members enjoyed lunch while visiting with each other, and learning more about the NDC.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our picnic!
April 20, 2021 – St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary, Navasota
The sanctuary is a charity organization dedicated to the care of wolves and wolfdogs who cannot be released to the wild. We enjoyed a guided tour to see and “meet” the resident wolves, wolfdogs, and dog (there’s a story there, click on the link to find out about the dog, and of course to find out so much more).
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary in Navasota 4-20-21 – LEOH
March 23, 2021 – Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
We were given an interesting and informative guided tour of a portion of the Arboretum. We also enjoyed visiting the beautiful Nature Center. The mission of the Arboretum is to preserve the native plants of our area, and to educate the public on these endeavors.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center – LEOH
View photos from 2020 trips below.
When the pandemic reached Houston in March, future 2020 trips were cancelled.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
March 4, 2020
Houston Livestock Show at NRG Park
We enjoyed a guided tour through exhibits and the AGVenture, seeing many beautiful animals, including cattle, goats, and sheep. The Petting Zoo was fun not only for children, but adults. Baby goats, alpacas, even a miniature horse were all available for petting and feeding. At the animal birthing center, we saw chicks, piglets, kids, lambs, and calves, most just a few hours old. Many other exhibits included a parakeet encounter, bees in action in their hives, and an exhibit of a variety of rabbits. And of course there was food and drink available, along with lots of shopping, including western wear and bling. We were also reminded of one of the major aim of the rodeo and livestock show, supporting youth education.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Trip to Houston Livestock Show – LEOH
February 20, 2020
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park
This is “Where Texas Became Texas”. The town began as a ferry crossing. Enterprising citizens of the town determined that their city should be the site for the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, and become the first capital of Texas. Fifty-nine delegates arrived and met, and on March 2, 1836, the Declaration was signed. Delegates knew that the Alamo was under siege, but a message from Lieutenant Colonel William Barret Travis at the Alamo urged the delegates to complete their work, rather than attempt to assist them at the Alamo. The Alamo fell, but by the time the delegates adjourned days later, they not only had completed the Declaration, but also had a working state Constitution. The delegates met in an unfinished building (including a dirt floor) owned by a gunsmith. Temperatures were in the 30’s. On the day of our group’s visit, in the restored building (now with a wooden floor), we got a real sense of the conditions the delegates worked in, thanks to temperature in the 40’s on a drizzly, damp day! The museum, operated by Blinn College, contains many interesting and historical artifacts and displays. The town was also the site of the famous “runaway scrape” on March 20, 1836. It was rumored that Santa Anna’s forces were coming their way, and townspeople left in a panic.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Trip to Washington-on-the-Brazos – LEOH
January 23, 2020
Texas Mattress Makers;
Houston Holocaust Museum
Texas Mattress Makers company owner Youval Meicler opened his wholesale bedding company in 1989, and in 2011 began selling his custom-made mattresses directly to the public. All of their mattresses are made on-site by hand, and we enjoyed touring their business to observe each aspect of assembly. Many in our tour group also enjoyed trying out different mattresses in their showroom.
Our Houston Holocaust Museum tour was led by two very knowledgeable docents. The newly renovated museum’s many exhibits included a 1942 rail car like those that carried victims to the concentration camps, the Danish Rescue Boat, recorded interviews with Houston holocaust survivors, and many photos and writings. This is a museum that is a “must” to visit.
Please click on the link below to find out more, and see photos from our trip!
Trip to TX Mattress Makers, Holocaust Museum – LEOH
View photos from 2019 trips below,
beginning with the most recent.
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
December 19, 2019
Hemi Hideout in Pattison; Planetarium show “Mystery of the Christmas Star” at the Houston Museum of Natural Science Planetarium.
Hemi Hideout is a beautiful and large building containing an impressive collection of vintage “muscle” cars from the 1960’s-1970’s, the culmination of the dream of John Hovas. It also contains many vintage neon signs, and numerous other interesting and unusual historical items. The planetarium show was very entertaining, providing various celestial explanations for what we know as the Christmas Star. Afterward, we enjoyed visiting the gift shop and the museum exhibits. The holiday season was a perfect time to visit both venues.
Hemi Hideout and HMNS Planetarium 12-19-19
November 26, 2019
Galveston: Harbor Boat Tour/Dolphin Watch;
Guided bus tour of historic buildings,
tree sculptures from trees killed by Hurricane Ike
Many dolphins were sighted on the boat tour, along with curious pelicans and seagulls. Following our pleasant time on the water, then lunch, we enjoyed a guided tour by bus of the numerous historical landmarks around town, including tree sculptures and beautifully restored homes.
October 18, 2019
Froberg’s Farm in Alvin
Haak Vineyards & Winery in Santa Fe
Froberg’s Farm provides fresh produce, particularly strawberries when in season, and many other products. Greik’s Smokehouse is right next door. We then enjoyed a tour of Haak winery, followed by a delicious wine-tasting while viewing their beautiful grounds and vineyard. The weather was perfect for both adventures!
Froberg’s Farm, Haak Winery 10-18-19
September 17, 2019
Danish Heritage Museum in Danevang, TX,
and the Houston Southwest Police Station
After a brief stop at the Danevang Lutheran Church to learn about the history of the community and church, we visited the museum and also enjoyed a traditional Danish meal. Danevang is a small farming community founded in the 1890’s by Danish immigrants. Our last stop of the day was at the new police station in SW Houston; a beautiful facility.
Danish Heritage Museum, SW Police Station
August 21, 2019
Waste Management Recycling Center,
Christ Church Cathedral,
and the Buffalo Bayou Cistern
Learn about the do’s and don’ts of recycling, at the Waste Management Recycling Center on Gasmer. Examples of creative and artful recycling (below) are a wall mural of corks, and a chair made from a cabinet. The beautiful Christ Church Cathedral on Texas Ave.was the first church in Houston, founded in 1839. Enjoy lunch at Treebeards at the Cloister. The underground Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, supported by 221 25-ft tall concrete columns, was built in 1926 as a water reservoir for drinking and fire suppression. Nowadays, enjoy a tour, including periodic art installations.
WM Recycling, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Cistern 8-21-19
July 18, 2019
Houston Maritime Museum,
St. Arnold’s Brewing Company,
and Czech Center Museum
At the Maritime Museum, we saw many ship models and navigation instruments, dating from the earliest eras of seafaring. We then enjoyed lunch and a brewery tour at St. Arnold’s. The Czech Center Museum contains many beautiful items, including crystal, paintings, and pottery.
Museums and St. Arnolds 7-18-19
June 28, 2019
Miller Outdoor Theater A Night at the Symphony
Following dinner, it was a perfect night to enjoy an outdoor concert.
May 22, 2019
George H.W. Bush Library and Museum
The Library and Museum contain many historical and family memorabilia, giving us a fascinating look at his life and legacy. The grave site is in a beautiful, secluded garden-like area behind the main building.
Bush Library at A&M, College Station 5-22-19
April 16, 2019
Port of Houston Boat Tour
and Smither Park
We saw many huge ships as we made our way down the ship channel, as we learned about the variety of cargo the port handles. Smither Park has many beautiful mosaic art pieces crafted by a variety of artists.
Port of Houston and Smither Park 4-16-19
March 13, 2019
Lone Star Flight Museum
and Butler Longhorn Museum
We saw and heard about many beautiful and innovative aircraft, from previous eras, including wartime, to the present. Next, we learned about the history of the Texas Longhorn, and saw many examples of horns at the museum.
Lone Star Flight Museum and Butler Longhorn Museum 3-13-19
February 12, 2019
Prairie View A&M University
Senior Project Manager Blaine Kemendo acted as our tour guide. Part of our tour included the Fabrication Bldg, which included 3-D printers; a library tour from librarian Kimberly Gay; and a baby goat encounter!
Below are pictures from 2018 trips
beginning with the most recent
Please click on the link below each trip description to find out more, and see photos from our trips!
November 29, 2018
Goya Foods in Brookshire,
Altharetta Yeargin Art Museum
We enjoyed a fascinating and educational tour of the Goya plant. Suiting up in sterile coats, masks, and hard hats was worth a picture; however, picture-taking was not allowed! We left with free Goya products – yum! Following lunch at Carrabbas, we toured the Altharetta Yeargin Art Museum, where we saw many beautiful ethnographic art pieces. The outside wall mural by a local artist was beautiful as well.
Goya Foods, Art Museum 11-29-18
October 6, 2018
The Greek Festival in Houston
This annual event is always a lot of fun. We enjoyed touring the newly renovated and beautiful cathedral, having a delicious Greek-style lunch, and clapping for the performers who entertained everyone with authentic Greek dances.
September 7, 2018
Tomball, to visit Arbor Gate,
and Three Dimensional Visions
Arbor Gate is a beautifully landscaped treasure trove of plants and yard art to choose from. Next, we enjoyed lunch at Goodson’s Cafe, which touts the best chicken fried steak in Texas. Most would agree. Our last stop was Three Dimensional Visions, where we watched glassblowing artisans at their craft.
Arbor Gate, Three Dimensional Visions 9-7-18
August 14, 2018
The Houston Fire Museum;
The Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Fire Museum in downtown Houston was built in 1899, and was originally Fire Station #7. We enjoyed a tour as well as views of an original pumper truck and a 1937 Chevy fire engine. Following lunch at Bodegas Taco Shop, we enjoyed a planetarium film at the Museum of Natural Science. Afterward, we perused the museum and gift shop, as well as the beautiful landscaping near the museum entrance.
Fire Museum, Planetarium and Museum 8-14-18
June 15, 2018
Galveston: Duck Boat Tour; Pirates
Exhibit; and Haunted Mayfield Manor
The Duck Boat tour began on the seawall, and took us first on a dry land tour of interesting sites in town, then a water adventure in Offats Bayou. After lunch at BLVD Seafood, we visited an exhibit at Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast, where we learned that pirate Jean Lafitte enjoyed spending time in Galveston. Our guide in pirate garb also told us many interesting things about what life was like for a seafarer and pirate a few centuries ago. Our last stop was next door at the Haunted Mayfield Manor, so named because it served as a temporary morgue following the Great Storm of 1900.
Galveston Duck Boat Tour, Pirate Museum, Haunted Manor 6-15-18
April 1, 2018
Brenham area:
The Monastery of St. Clare Miniature Horse Farm;
Antique Rose Emporium; and Peeka Ranch
We enjoyed seeing several miniature horses at the monastery. Then we traveled to the Antique Rose Emporium, where there were many beautiful flowers to admire (and buy). Following lunch at Must be Heaven, we toured the Peeka Ranch, home to many gentle and friendly alpacas. They are raised for their wool, and had been shorn prior to our visit.
Miniature Horse Farm, Antique Rose Emporium, Peeka Ranch, Bluebell 4-7-18
March 13, 2018
Houston: The Turquoise Turkish Community Center
We enjoyed touring the beautiful building and admiring the artwork, participating in a discussion with the Imam, and seeing a demonstration of water marbling painting called Ebru.
Turquoise Turkish Community Center 3-13-18
February 15, 2018
Brookshire: The Brookwood Community
Houston: Karbach Brewery
Our guided tour included viewing one of their impressive greenhouses. We also observed Brookwood citizens at work on numerous art pieces, which would later be on view and for sale in the wonderful Brookwood gift shop, just as plants grown on site would be for sale in a lovely landscaped area. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Brookwood Cafe, then departed for a tour and taste at the Karbach Brewery.
Brookwood Community and Karbach Brewery 2-15-18