What the dickens is an Illini?
A quick guide for out-of-town fans at the Texas Bowl
Sure, you could follow the official guide. But what fun is it to stick to anyone book?
Native American art at MFAH?Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
See the bears at the Houston Zoo.
Ice skating for Illinois fans at Discovery Green?
The Texas Bowl is back in Houston, if moved up a few days. Last year my alma mater, the University of Missouri, faced the Navy on Dec. 31 — it was quite the jump start to my New Year's Eve festivities.
This year old Mizzou is relegated to the Insight Bowl in Tempe, Ariz., and Illinois' Fighting Illini will face the Baylor Bears at Reliant Stadium Wednesday night at 5. More than 60,000 fans are expected (powered by a huge Baylor contingent eager to see the Bears' first bowl game in 16 years).
Here's a breakdown of what to do leading up to the 2 p.m. TexFest pregame party for non-natives:
Baylor Fans:
Assuming that you're not into drinking or many forms of dance, we recommend swing dancing at Té House of Tea.
Alternatively, you could visit your mascot at The Houston Zoo or get your boots shined at downtown's Char Bar over a whiskey drink, if you're into that sort of thing.
Waco's pretty far from the border, so we'd recommend sampling some authentic Mexican fare before you head back. Try Hugo's for interior Mexican cuisine.
If we're not quite Texan enough for you down here, visit Wheeler Boot Company and then take yours out two-stepping at one of these Honky Tonks.
Fighting Illini backers:
Really immerse yourselves in our temperate climate with a visit to the Houston Museum of Natural Science's Cockrell Butterfly Center.
While you're in the area, make a stop at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and take in the collection of Native American art. Perhaps there are some Illini pieces?
If it's nice, take a paddleboat out in Hermann Park or hit one of these great patios. If it pours, we don't quite know what to tell you. Take cover in the Galleria?
