The Buffalo Bayou Kayak Tour allows you to explore Houston’s downtown waterways without having to actually get in the water (not always a wise choice). Paddlers are guided from Shepherd to Allen’s Landing to the trip’s end in downtown near the Theater District. Admission gets you a two-seater kayak, paddles, safety gear and a shuttle back to the starting line. (And we’re guessing plenty of reassurance that if you do happen to tip over, you won’t get dysentery.) 9 a.m. to noon. St. Thomas High School, 4500 Memorial. Kayak tours will also run on October 16, November 23 and December 14. For information, call 713-752-0314 or visit www.buffalobayou.org. Pre-registration required. $50.

Sun., Sept. 21, 9 a.m.-noon; Sun., Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-noon; Sun., Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-noon; Sun., Dec. 14, 9 a.m.-noon, 2008

This article appears in Sep 18-24, 2008.