We asked our friends, acquaintances, co-workers and even a few strangers about their favorite people-watching spots. We got some silly suggestions: Harris Co. Jail during visiting hours, the bathroom at any bar at 1 a.m. on a Saturday, and, our favorite, the Houston Press lobby. We also got some great suggestions. We sorted them out according to availability, comfort and number of people available to watch. Here are our top 10; did your favorite make the list?
10. George Bush Intercontinental Airport
We enjoy people watching at the airport. Of the ten spots on our list, it's the best place to see folks from other countries and every social background. If you're lucky, you might even see a celebrity (the closest we ever came was when we saw Mathew Knowles, Beyoncé's dad), or a bunch of service men and women on their way home. The only reason the airport isn't higher on our list is because, to really enjoy it, you have to have a plane ticket which can be costly.
9. Any Metro Train Stop
Any Metro Train Stop offers plenty of opportunity to people watch. Our favorite is the Medical Center stop, the mix of students, healthcare professionals, patients, visitors and business execs is interesting. Also, you're likely to hear at least a half dozen different languages while waiting on the platform.
8. Kemah Boardwalk
There are plenty of festivals at Kemah Boardwalk which bring throngs of people to watch, but the promenades are sure to be full of folks any weekend in nice weather. We like that there are lots of food choices at the Boardwalk, but few offer budget friendly prices and there's a decided lack of comfortable seating (unless you go into one of the restaurants).
7. The Downtown Tunnels
The downtown underground tunnels offer a nice mix of business execs and office workers in search of lunch, a little shopping or an air conditioned place to exercise. There are lots of food choices, most reasonably priced but few other seating choices. Expect the pace to be quick (translation: get out of the way of the power walkers).
