We asked our friends and co-workers for some suggestions as to Houston's most romantic spots. We got a few helpful answers (the James Turrell Skyspace, Rainbow Lodge) and then we got some not so helpful answers. One co-worker suggested Treasures Houston. He didn't specify as to a VIP booth or a dark corner table, just Treasures. Further exploration established that even the Treasures parking lot was acceptable, so long as titties were flying everywhere. Ah, no. Next we got the center of the ice rink at the Galleria at midnight on New Year's Eve. Okay, from too general to too specific. We're not even sure the Galleria or the ice rink are open at midnight on New Year's Eve. Visions of elegantly dressed couples elbowing each other for space, not to mention, the spectacular falls New Year's Eve champagne was sure to promote, flashed before our eyes as we thought about it. Ah, another no. Our favorite rejected suggestion was the exit ramp at the Harris County Jail. True, anyone exiting the jail is going to see his or her waiting significant other with loving tenderness and appreciation ... until the bails bondsman gets the paperwork filed.Then it's back to business as usual. Ah, sadly, yet another no.
Here's the real deal:
10. The Reflection Pond at the Houston Zoo 6200 Hermann Park Dr.
You'll have to be a little careful with any PDAs as highly impressionable kids are sure to running around, but the Reflection Pond at the Houston Zoo (seen above) makes our list of top romantic spots for its "secret garden" feel. We suggest you try the pond at dusk on a cool fall evening; it's magical.
9. Williams Tower Waterwall 2800 Post Oak Boulevard.
Suffering from a slight case of over-exposoure, the Williams Tower Waterwall nonetheless makes a wonderful setting for a first kiss. Again, we suggest dusk as the optimum time to visit. Chances are another couple or two will also be visiting at the same time as you, so don't expect total privacy.
8. Hotel Sorrela's Monalisa Lounge 800 Sorella Court
We admit the Monalisa appeals to the failed socialite in us - but the vision of sitting in our own draped cabana having drinks by the pool and overlooking the hotel's plaza screams romance. (Those drapes come in handy when you want to turn a PDA into something more private.) Great drinks and good food add to the allure - as does knowing a hotel room is just a few steps away for complete privacy.
7. Kemah Boardwalk 215 Kipp Avenue
Yes, the Kemah Boardwalk tends to bustle with families and tourists during its frequent festivals, but even that can't mar the boardwalk's appeal. The quite water, wide walkways, beautiful sunsets - and a whole bunch of places to get a drink and dinner nearby push the boardwalk into our No. 7 spot.
