As part of their two game road swing, the boys in purple now head back to warmer weather when they take on the Houston Dynamo this Saturday. They say everything is bigger in Texas, so peep the guide to see where you should be going this weekend to celebrate Cinco de Mayo or just visit in general.}
The Venue
The Houston Dynamo having been calling BBVA Compass Stadium home since 2012. The very orange soccer specific stadium seats up to 22,000 and is located right in Downtown Houston. The stadium features a facade of expanded metal mesh with orange polycarbonate enclosed entrances that reflects the industrial heritage of the East Downtown location.
BBVA Compass Stadium has also been utilized for many other soccer events that include hosting US Men’s and Women’s National Team games and FIFA Qualifiers.
The Dynamo have three recognized supporter groups: El Batallon, Brickwall Firm and the Texian Army.
Depending on where you’re staying in town and your access to transportation there are many routes you can take to get to BBVA Compass Stadium. Check out the link to see what is the best route for you: http://www.bbvacompassstadium.com/plan-your-visit/directions
Things To Do
Toyota Center
If you’re willing to pay a pretty penny I would highly recommend making a trip to Toyota Center as the Houston Rockets host the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 of the NBA Conference Semi-finals. It’s been a good series thus far with it tied 1-1.
Top Golf
There are two locations in the Houston area and it’s always a good time. I just wouldn’t recommend going if your performance is as poor as Richie Laryea’s (as seen on LionNation).
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
For those of you who really want to go full blown tourist I would recommend paying a visit to the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, an impressive multi-story sculptural fountain that sees sheets of water cascading over large concrete walls and sculptures. The structure's semi-circular shape towers 64 feet above you and is fronted by a large arch and 46,500 square feet of water. It's an attraction that needs to be seen to truly be appreciated. This 2.77-acre park, covered with dozens of live oaks, is located in Uptown Houston.
Bars and Restaurants
Let’s just get to the point: Considering it’s everyone favorite tequila-centric holiday this Friday, my recommendation for approaching Cinco De Mayo in HTX is to head to the Historic Market Square Park, find legal parking and grab a cerveza from Niko Niko’s while Blackbird, Chido Machine and Chamba turn into a fiesta.
El Big Bad
I recommend going here whether it’s on Friday or any other day of the week to get your margarita on. The best part about it is making up your own flavor concoction from their list of house infused tequila. And if you need a final selling point: Tex Mex.
Lee’s Fried Chicken & Donuts
The only thing better than fried bird in the morning is fried bird in the morning stacked inside not one, but two freshly fried and glazed donut buns that taste like absolute heaven. Get the sandwich all day long, especially if you’re planning a nice long nap shortly thereafter.
Conservatory
While it's not a restaurant per se, this underground food hall and beer garden is hands-down one of the best places to eat in the city. Start by spending some time at the 60-tap craft beer and wine wall (the friendly barkeeps will help you with your picks and allow you to sample), then create your own global smörgåsbord from the food court. There are mezze plates and tzatziki-smothered gyros at Myth Kafe; smoked brisket and pulled pork tacos at El Burro & The Bull; build-your-own poke bowls at Moku Bar; and Melange Creperie's Parisienne street-style crepes, filled with stuff like fig, goat cheese, and honey, and saucy Moroccan chicken thighs.
