Under $100: Houston, Texas

There are many activities and places you should be doing and visiting while living in the large metropolis that is Houston, Texas, but what are the chances you’re taking advantage of them? Slim to none. Houston is large and life is short — and also expensive. Spend your day exploring Houston’s hotspots, the budget-friendly version. Fortunately for several of the most memorable attractions, you won’t break the bank.

Chances are you’ll be starting your day off on an empty stomach and what a better way to fill it than by enjoying brunch at Hungry’s. Take in a refreshingly fruity flight of mimosas for $12, in the new upstairs space at Hungry’s while enjoying updated brunch menu items like southern crispy chicken and eggs topped with roasted Anaheim Chile cream sauce and two fried eggs, served with herb-roasted new potatoes for $14, or croissant French toast topped with strawberries, bananas and maple syrup for $12.

After a lovely meal, set sail on a free, 90-minute boat tour of the Port of Houston. While on board the 90-passenger boat, learn the history of the seaport and watch ocean freighters and barges navigate the 50-mile channel. The tour is free, but reservations are required.

After a morning at sea, head to Urban Harvest Farmers Market. Open only on Saturdays, stroll through the market gathering fresh produce — there’s also plenty of samples to go around. Pack a lunch and spend the afternoon at Miller Outdoor Theatre. Open March–November, the venue hosts a range of performances including music, ballet, dance, film, Shakespeare and more. The theater, set inside Herman Park, allows patrons to BYOB. Pack for a picnic and enjoy the afternoon while watching the show.

For happy hour, enjoy downtown’s 12-acre Discovery Green park. In the spring and fall, happy hour can be spent listening to local musicians perform live on stage while browsing and buying from local craftsmen at monthly markets and, in the winter, enjoy skating on Kinder Lake. Visitors also have a variety of dining experiences to choose from for dinner within the park: the informal elegance of The Grove restaurant or the fast-casual fare of The Lake House. Both menus are comprised of award-winning Chef Robert del Grande’s creations. The Grove’s all-glass exterior overlooks a gathering of live oaks, offering visitors a peaceful, upscale ambience. The Lake House reels in visitors with its self-serve lakeside concept and counter service. Prices at The Lake House range from $2.50–6.25, while prices at The Grove range from $15–28.