When playing tennis, getting the right equipment is crucial for the beginner and the pro. One of the most important parts of a tennis player’s arsenal is not shoes or sweatbands. It’s his or her tennis racquet. Having the right racquet can mean the different between okay to better play; however, many players are confused as picking the best racquet for their game. While the reply is never simple, here is a guide for finding and buying tennis racquets for 2010.

The Basics

A tennis racquet is more than just a frame and strings. There are hundreds of types of tennis racquets and they vary in head size, grip, balance, and even frame material make-up. When buying a fresh racquet each of these items should be considered.

The Racquet Head

Many tennis novices don’t realize that there are several tennis head sizes. The size of the hrad can impact your play. Larger head racquets offer larger surface area to make contact with the ball. With the smaller head, once you become proficient, you will gawk more controlled play. Racquet heads can range from 88″ to 111″ squared. For beginners, the larger heads are recommended.

The Grip

Simply put, the grip is that part of the frame which covers the handle. There are different sizes of grips. The standards are 4 1/8″ (L1), 4 1/4″ (L2), 4 3/8″ (L3), 4 1/2″ (L4), and 4 5/8″ (L5). To determine the perfect grip for a player, simply consume a ruler and measure your dominant hand. Take the measurement from the middle palm crease to the tip of the ring finger. If you need to adjust a grip you have options for colors, absorbency and thickness.

Balance and Weight

Just as there are a variety of grips, there are also a variety of weights for unstrung racquets. Racquets can arrive as light as 8 ounces to as heavy as 12 ounces. Finding the best racquet weight will help in bettering your game. Heavier racquets can offer more power, but can also be harder to swing. Long play times will take there toll if a person uses a heavy racquet. The lighter weight racquets offer faster swing options. Beginners generally should start with the lighter weight racquets and as their play (control and strength) improve, graduating to heavier racquets will work.

Other racquet basics include the length of the racquet which impacts reach and balance of the racquet which helps with stability and control. Also consider the materials, wood racquets were popular in the past, but now racquets are made of light weight metals with add to power and control.

The Rankings

Just as the tennis players of the world are ranked so are racquets. Some groups like Do It Tennis offer such a ranking. Ranking methodology includes consideration of design, comparisons, industry experience (including professional player use), and analysis of play quality.

The Brands

The names Wilson, Head, Prince, Dunlop, and Babolat are staple brands and are known to make some of the world’s best tennis racquets. Each year new models hit the market. Here are a few of the great options for the 2010 tennis season.

Babolet Aero Pro 2010

The magic of Babolet’s generally rested in strings, but since 1994, when the company entered the racquet making business, all around construction. The Babolet rackets offer estimable control and low stiffness and are a favorite of Rafael Nadals Parera and Andy Roddick. The Babolet Aero Pro is a great racket for intermediate or advanced players. This racquet is engineered for players with a top spin helpful game and a fine sweet spot.

Wilson (K) Factor Series

Wilson has been revolutionizing the tennis racquet industry for more than six decades. Players such as Federer, the Williams sisters, and Djokovic prefer this brand. The (K)Six-One 90 and 95 are great for hard hitters. This series is generally more powerful than most other racquets is designed for better slicing, and its construction makes it more stable as well.

Prince O3 Speedport Black MP or Red

Prince knows racquets and has designed a solid instrument with the Speedport. A favorite of Maria Sharapovas, the Prince O3 Speedport is ample for intermediates and advanced players. It’s good for all court play. The racquet has good maneuverability and is enormous for net play.

Head LiquidMetal Series

Head has several series, including the Flexpoint, but the LiquidMetal series offers something for beginners and pros. Its’ Liquidmetal 8 is light weight and has power adding large head. The LiquidMetal Radical MP is for the more advanced player, who likes powerful, aggressive strokes and high swing speeds.

Dunlop Aerogel Series

If a player is looking for comfort and power, the Dunlop Aerogel series offers many options. While Dunlop generally makes racquets for the more intermediate to advance players (Aerogel 200 and 300), its Aerogel series also gives the beginner some choices in the Aerogel 700. The Aerogels constructions have vibration dampeners and also offer great speed to swings because they are lightweight.

Whether you want to start to play or improve your play, it is important for tennis players to find the right racket. Whether a person has a powerful swing or a advantageous ground game, finding a racket that fits their needs does not have to be complicated. Considering grip, weight, head size and handling will help you construct the best match.

The New Year’s season can be a spacious time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of apprehension for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as spacious as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Fresh Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an fabulous station for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain spot, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will get something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the sparkling hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will swagger records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and Unique Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a limited train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Dwelling Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Position Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. big and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can lift hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Chase. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a large place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission Novel Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of panic for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Original Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing space for a kid; I unruffled have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be originate on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The Original Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Unusual Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a pudgy restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on Fresh Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may descend anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a itsy-bitsy train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on Recent Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located reach N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Recent Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to procure their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Region Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a mountainous time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as mountainous as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Novel Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Novel Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will procure something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be start on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball fall at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to manufacture parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good status for families with young children who live come downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball plunge hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and Current Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may tumble anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can achieve your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Dwelling Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Ride. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Children’s Museum Current Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on Fresh Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a mountainous time here, and there are clear to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum inaugurate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a excellent place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small snarl and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer location, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be originate on Original Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our new, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can buy hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to earn in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great plot to net in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission Original Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as big as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on Novel Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be prove. Most children will have a sizable time here, and there are determined to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum commence from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good set for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Peevish Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball plunge hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a pudgy day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both Novel Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Dwelling Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Unusual Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on Novel Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Station Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. huge and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can assume hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Current Year’s season can be a broad time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or aesthetic affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Novel Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an astounding place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to develop parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a immense time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Unusual Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a fat restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live reach downtown or don’t wish to obtain the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will roam records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both Current Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to savor the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may topple anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small reveal and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Spot Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling spot. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to score in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or delicate affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Fresh Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an extraordinary station for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the smart hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are positive to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Recent Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is current among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a first-rate place for families with young children who live come downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on Modern Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both Fresh Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to trip in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer region, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our unique, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can recall hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to win in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The Fresh Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an fantastic dwelling for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain station, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be commence on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the knowing hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a burly restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a valid plot for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Novel Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on Novel Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Region City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Region Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer spot, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a sizable park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great area for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Unusual Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an fantastic place for a kid; I peaceful have immense memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be begin on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the gleaming hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to compose parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a immense time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a qualified region for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Modern Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be originate both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located reach N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a enormous time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an incredible place for a kid; I still have tall memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will catch something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the shining hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are obvious to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum initiate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good region for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball topple hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will trot records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be originate both Original Year’s Eve and Current Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small squawk and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located come N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer region, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on Recent Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to derive in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Puny street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a huge time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as stout as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Fresh Year, family style!

The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as ample as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Current Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Modern Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I level-headed have stout memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the sparkling hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are positive to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum commence from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a proper place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball plunge hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may descend anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Position Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Current Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great station for families to collect in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a mammoth time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or fair affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an extraordinary status for a kid; I still have huge memories of the outdoor fountain residence, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to compose parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be exhibit. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a pleasant place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to effect the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a chubby day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be begin both New Year’s Eve and Recent Year’s Day, with free admission on Novel Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to luxuriate in the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a little train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Set Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling dwelling. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our original, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. stout and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and astronomical “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great residence for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have tall memories of the outdoor fountain location, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the intelligent hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to make parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a mammoth time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a chubby day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on Modern Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on Unique Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a stout park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our new, rare snowfall, now is a ample time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great region for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Current Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have astronomical memories of the outdoor fountain spot, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The Fresh Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the vivid hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to gain parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a tremendous time here, and there are clear to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Modern Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is modern among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a qualified position for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both Unique Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to appreciate the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Situation City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Set Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer plot, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our original, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The Unusual Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or gorgeous affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain space, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the shiny hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a big time here, and there are clear to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum launch from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good status for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will poke records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may topple anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small convey and paddleboats available to hump in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Dwelling City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Site Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to peer, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Current Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of fright for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as sizable as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I level-headed have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be commence on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball plunge at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to gain parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a gigantic time here, and there are definite to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum start from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Unusual Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good set for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will flow records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on Unique Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small roar and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Current Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be originate on Novel Year’s Eve for parents looking to acquire their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our modern, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can pick hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a gigantic place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as expansive as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Novel Year, family style!Children’s Museum Original Year’s Noon BashThe Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain space, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on Current Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the smart hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to manufacture parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a mammoth time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.Time: 12/31; Museum start from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.Location: Children’s MuseumCost: $5 admissionParking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Novel Year’s Eve Ball DropThe Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live reach downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on Current Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a plump day). Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or 8)Houston ZooIf the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Unusual Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on Unusual Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a dinky train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s DayInfo: 713.533.6500Parking: Lot on Golf Course DriveAdditional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional costSpace Center HoustonHouston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can do your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Location Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)Info: .281.244.2100Parking: $5.00The Ice at Discovery GreenDowntown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a astronomical time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can catch hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)Info: 713.434.RINK (7465). Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)Convention District Garage (located under park)Little street parking availableThe Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great state to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The Modern Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or pleasing affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Novel Year, family style!The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or splendid affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the sparkling hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to make parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are determined to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum originate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unusual among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a fat restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a fine place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on Fresh Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to devour the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may descend anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to perambulate in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can establish your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Situation Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer place, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be begin on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Spot Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our new, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. tremendous and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to peruse, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Fling. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a enormous place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or heavenly affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Unusual Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an incredible place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will rep something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be originate on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a huge time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is original among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on Current Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will drag records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Novel Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a microscopic train and paddleboats available to journey in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on Recent Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can save your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located reach N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Position Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer location, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on Original Year’s Eve for parents looking to rep their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. titanic and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a broad place for families to glean in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Petite street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to salvage in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I unexcited have great memories of the outdoor fountain set, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball fall at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a huge time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum begin from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a first-rate place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both Current Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may plunge anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Region Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Current Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a immense park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our unusual, rare snowfall, now is a grand time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a mountainous place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Unusual Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of scare for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as sizable as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Unique Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing set for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The Original Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the gleaming hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a stout restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a grand place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Sullen Gardens on Unique Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a tubby day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to delight in the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may descend anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to stagger in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on Fresh Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Set City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Residence Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Position Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a enormous park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our current, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to stare, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and gargantuan “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Prance. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a ample place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Fresh Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing state for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will bag something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The Novel Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball tumble at the luminous hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Unusual Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Fretful Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will hurry records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to bask in the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small scream and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on Unique Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Region City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located arrive N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be launch on Current Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a sizable park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling status. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and immense “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to collect in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a titanic time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Current Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will gather something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on Unique Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the lustrous hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum commence from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is modern among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a pudgy restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will slip records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on Original Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located come N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Modern Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our new, rare snowfall, now is a stout time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to gaze, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great residence for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as grand as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Novel Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an astounding place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will salvage something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on Original Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The Original Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are distinct to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum start from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a corpulent restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live advance downtown or don’t wish to gain the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball descend hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to relish the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a cramped train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a titanic time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can retract hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to survey, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and tall “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Original Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of dread for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or pleasing affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Modern Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I serene have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be begin on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the intelligent hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum inaugurate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Modern Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a reliable site for families with young children who live advance downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Morose Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a chubby day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Unique Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both Fresh Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located approach N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Novel Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can capture hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and tall “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great dwelling for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to get in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission New Year’s Day.The Unique Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

The Recent Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of alarm for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the Recent Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will pick up something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be start on Recent Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to make parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is modern among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a plump restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good position for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Glum Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson State Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be commence on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Station Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can catch hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a great place to come by in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission Novel Year’s Day.The Unique Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or magnificent affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as tremendous as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Modern Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be commence on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to effect parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a expansive time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Novel Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good state for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Peevish Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Unusual Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on Unusual Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to indulge in the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer station, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special Recent Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our fresh, rare snowfall, now is a spacious time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Ride. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a mammoth place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The Unusual Year’s season can be a big time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Current Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an incredible place for a kid; I still have huge memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be launch on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Irritable Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Recent Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and Recent Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a small train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Site City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can do your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located come N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Site Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer residence, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to find their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to perceive, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and huge “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great state for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum begin from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a genuine place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and Fresh Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a tiny train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Position City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can set your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer position, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be open on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a large park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling station. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a tall time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. expansive and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can steal hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to examine, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and tall “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Limited street parking available

The Children’s Museum will countdown to ‘Noon.Discovery Green is a astronomical place to glean in the spirit.The Houston Zoo has free admission Recent Year’s Day.The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum Fresh Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an amazing place for a kid; I still have great memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be launch on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The New Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the bright hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to form parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be present. Most children will have a great time here, and there are sure to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum begin from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s Recent Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is recent among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a good place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will promenade records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific Unique Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may tumble anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a itsy-bitsy sigh and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Space Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Site Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be inaugurate on New Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Space Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a tall park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our modern, rare snowfall, now is a great time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. vast and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to explore, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and stout “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Amble. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)The New Year’s season can be a great time to celebrate the past and anticipate the future, but the night itself can be a source of anxiety for couples with children. Many parties are either boozy fests or elegant affairs, neither of which is appropriate for children. Never fear; there are alternatives to paying the baby-sitter a premium for working on the holiday. In a city as large as Houston, there are plenty of places to ring in the New Year, family style!

Children’s Museum New Year’s Noon Bash

The Houston Children’s Museum is an wonderful place for a kid; I still have big memories of the outdoor fountain area, the mock-grocery and the kid-t.v. studio. There are so many hands-on exhibits for a range of ages that even the most finicky of children will find something to smile about here. Not only will the museum be open on New Year’s Eve, but also there will be a special party for the kids. The Modern Year’s Noon Bash will feature a parade, count-down and ball drop at the brilliant hour of noon, meaning you can celebrate with the kids in the morning and again with the adults in the evening, if you’re so-inclined. This year, the party will have a Where the Wild Things Are theme in anticipation of the release of the movie version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. Children will be able to create parade floats, noisemakers and “sparklers;” a local brass band will lead the parade of youngsters, and a Wild Thing will be reveal. Most children will have a great time here, and there are determined to be plenty of opportunities for cute pictures.

Time: 12/31; Museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Countdown to noon begins 11:45 a.m.
Location: Children’s Museum
Cost: $5 admission
Parking: Dedicated lot across street, $5 to $7

Downtown Aquarium Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

The Downtown Aquarium is unique among Houston’s downtown attractions in that it caters to families rather than professionals and hipsters. The complex features a full restaurant, an aquarium with over 200 species, several exhibits (including a rainforest environment) and several rides (including a ferris wheel and carousel). In fact, the Aquarium even one-ups the Houston Zoo in that it houses two white tigers, among the rarest animals in the world. The Aquarium is a great place for families with young children who live near downtown or don’t wish to make the drive to Moody Gardens on New Year’s Eve. This holiday, the restaurant will feature a ball drop hosted by Sharkey, the enterprise’s mascot. Tickets include access to a buffet, and a D.J. will spin records catered to children.

Time: 12/31, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby St. 77002)
Cost: Adults – $15.99, Children (4-12) – $9.99
Info: 713.224.FISH (3474)
Parking: Valet and on-site paid parking ($6 for a full day).

Additional parking in Theater District garage (underground, entrances 1,5,6,7 or

Houston Zoo

If the Downtown Aquarium doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Houston Zoo in the scenic Museum District for animal-themed family fun. The Zoo features thousands of animals from lions to elephants to snakes to monkeys. Though there are no specific New Year’s Eve 2009 events planned at the zoo, the zoo will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with free admission on New Year’s Day. This is the perfect time of year to go, as most of the zoo is outdoors; it is simply too hot and humid to enjoy the zoo for very long during the summer months, and January temperatures may fall anywhere from the 40s to the 70s. There are dining facilities within zoo grounds, but there are also a number of eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods; you could also pack a picnic and eat in the adjacent Hermann Park. In addition to the usual animal exhibits, there are a miniature train and paddleboats available to ride in the park. The zoo will potentially be crowded, however; I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday crush.

Time: 12/31- 1/1, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: Houston Zoo (6200 Golf Course Drive 77030)
Cost: $6 to $10, free on New Year’s Day
Info: 713.533.6500
Parking: Lot on Golf Course Drive

Additional parking in Park Plaza Hospital Garage for additional cost

Space Center Houston

Houston is known as the Space City, and a 20-minute drive down 1-45 can put your children in touch with the wonders of the sky. The complex is located near N.A.S.A., and is the visitor center for Johnson Region Center. J.S.C. does host an open-house every year, which I highly recommend attending, though it is probably more appropriate for older children; other J.S.C. events include Wings Over Houston and the Ballunar Liftoff Festival. Space Center Houston offers a variety of fun permanent exhibits, including a theater that simulates shuttle lift-off and a number of other activities that let you experience life in outer space, such as a weightlessness simulator. The attractions here will suit a wide range of ages, including a few for adults, such as a J.S.C. tram tour; there is also a cafe on-site. Like the Zoo, there are no special New Year’s Eve events planned, but the complex will be begin on Novel Year’s Eve for parents looking to get their kids out of the house that day.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Plot Center Houston (1601 N.A.S.A. Parkway 77058)
Cost: $13.95 to $19.95 (cheaper if purchased online)
Info: .281.244.2100
Parking: $5.00

The Ice at Discovery Green

Downtown’s newest addition is Discovery Green, a ample park with a variety of activity areas, including a dog-run, restaurants and a recycling area. This holiday season, the Model Boat Basin of Kinder Lake has been transformed into the city’s only outdoor skating rink. With our recent, rare snowfall, now is a grand time to venture downtown and try on those skates. The rink is 7,200 sq. ft. large and, in keeping with the eco-friendly theme of the park, is powered exclusively by renewable energy. There is a separate rink, the Snow Box, specifically for toddlers and featuring Santa Clause. There are also shops surrounding the rink where visitors can purchase hot cocoa, souvenirs and gifts. And of course, there is also the rest of Discovery Green to study, which will be decorated for the holiday season. Holiday installations include your typical lights and ornaments, as well as a Recycled Gazebo and big “ornaments” illustrated by photographs taken by children and hung along the Brown Promenade. Given the absence of Hermann Park’s lights this year, Discovery Green will be a great place for families to get in the spirit this season.

Time: 12/31, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

1/1, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Discovery Green Kinder Lake (Avenida de Las Americas)
Cost: Park is free, $10.00 for rink entrance (includes skate rental)
Info: 713.434.RINK (7465).
Parking: Metered parking in vicinity (free on weekends)

Convention District Garage (located under park)

Golfing is a wonderful sport but the game can be quite bright for the novice. One must learn about golf etiquette, rules, scoring, chipping, putting and developing one’s golf swing. Consequently, it is very difficult to learn the game of golf without some assistance. Many have had the help of learning to golf from their parents. Still others took courses in high school and/or college.

The most favorable way to learn to golf is through lessons from a pro. Nevertheless, these lessons can be quite expensive. One private lesson from a pro can cost as much as $50 for just an half hour, and a semi-private/group lesson $20 per half hour. If you can’t afford these lessons, go to the next best thing – a training DVD/video taught by a pro. Building a library collection can really help you continuously improve your golf game. Below is a list of some of the best golf DVD’s/videos to help you learn the fundamentals of the game.

Golf for Dummies DVD – Teaches the basics of golf like selecting equipment, tantalizing the club, proper stance and swing techniques, as well as instructions concerning the short game (chipping and putting). The 75 minute DVD taught by PGA Tour Champion and Golf Commentator Gary McCord runs around $20.

Golf Magazine Top 100 Teachers in America – the More Series – The top 100 teachers to the pros give over 5 hours of instruction in this 3 DVD series. Topics include your warm up routine, choosing a driver, ball flight, tee shot strategies, overswinging and much more. Some of the instructors include David Phillips, Scott Sackett, John Elliott, Fred Griffin and Laird Microscopic. The series costs around $40. Each DVD is divided into individual lessons making it very user friendly.

For Women Only – Venus on the FUNdamentals of Golf- Covers everything needed for ladies to learn the game of golf. Volume I covers the basic fundamentals of golf like etiquette, scoring, rules and even golf attire. Volumes II & III teaches techniques for the long game (developing and golf swing) and one’s short game (chipping and putting). Taught by Debbie Steinbach (a.k.a. Venus), a veteran of the LPGA tour and renowned golf instructor, this 3 volume will really help to improve your golf game. The cost for the place runs around $50.

David Leadbetter’s From Beginner to Winner – This is an outstanding video for the novice or someone like me seeking to lower their score. David, a teacher to the pros, instructs on how to correct some common errors, grip your club, swing and strategize your shots. The video runs a shrimp over an hour and a half and costs a little under $30.

Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn’t. – Designate Twain

Although it might be expected during the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, 2009 once again presented broad proof that real life is actually as least as peculiar as a Hunter Thompson drug trip. Some of the highlights:

The suspect is not a lanky, gray-skinned man without a nose: As per an annanova.com piece in February, “U.S. pranksters” in the Midwest had figured out how to “hack” into the systems venerable to change digital road signs…and then did what anybody with such impressive skills would do. They began posting zombie warnings. Thus, in Collinsville, IL, motorists were made aware of “DAILY LANE CLOSURES DUE TO ZOMBIES,” and Austin TX, residents encountered the more philosophize “NAZI ZOMBIES! RUN!!!” An illustration for the article showed a designate in an undisclosed location reading, “CAUTION! ZOMBIES AHEAD!!!”

What a guy! In April Maximilian Schell began appearing in Dos Equis beer ads that were probably the funniest of the year, 15-second bits of brilliance featuring a totally irresistible fellow known as “the most intelligent man in the world.” And he really was because, let’s face it, about how people can it truly be said, “He speaks French…in Russian”?

April is the cruelest month – for golfers: During the most recent one, a 62-year-old Norwegian woman now living in St. Petersburg, FL, had a hole-in-one on her first-ever golf swing in competition, according to that good city’s Times and as reported on many internet sites. “I didn’t know it was that huge of a deal,”’ Unni Haskell said of her ace on a 100-yard par-three hole. “I thought all golfers do this.”’ Golfers all over the world suppressed urges to send Ms. Haskell advice related to her nine-iron.

Look what I found: As reported in New York magazine in May, Columbia University researchers have now completed the first comprehensive map of the “stuff” beneath and living in Fresh York City’s harbors. Supplementing GPS and sonar findings with historical data, the cartographers listed all of the following things as found: a 350-foot steamship (sunk in 1920), a freight train (derailed in 1865), a fleet of Valid Humor ice cream trucks that now beget a reef for aquatic life, dozens and dozens of junked cars now used by divers as navigation points near the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and 1,600 bars of silver (traced to 1903). It was the fauna, though, that really caught their attention: 4-foot-long worms that feed on wooden docks and tiny “gribbles” that munch on concrete pilings.

Psst! You need to say, “I do”: Citing London’s Daily Telegraph in mid-June, newsoftheweird.com reported some weeks later that in Xianyang, in China’s Shaanxi province, a family hired a service for nearly US$4,500 to dig up a female corpse for their recently deceased son to “marry.” It was the latest incidence of attempting to overcome a centuries-old curse that posits a disappointing post-mortem “experience” for men who die unmarried.

Cogent political analysis: In July, buzzflash.com ran the following headline: China Rises to Dominate This Century, as Right-Wing Conservatives Lead America into a Crumbling Economic Sinkhole. It’s always good to distinguish right-wing conservatives from left-wing conservatives. Otherwise, there could be confusion.

Woof-YELP: In August the Philadelphia Eagles signed convicted dog-killer Michael Vick to a seven-figure salary, then basically used him as a device to originate defensive coordinators on the other sideline over-think things.

“Serpentine Shelly! Serpentine!!” According to IMDb.comdata, September 12^th marked the 30^th anniversary of the release of the original version of The In-Laws, starring Peter Falk and Alan Arkin. This went largely unnoticed…absurdly. One of the funniest films ever made, it included not only a fictional national flag featuring a topless prostitute, but also Falk’s timeless pitch for working as a CIA operative: “Are you interested in joining? The benefits are terrific. The trick is not to accept killed. That’s really the key to the benefit program.”

This feels all wrong – the guy’s name is Roy, not Cy: In mid-December, the ‘08-’09 National League Champion/’08 World Champion Phillies traded their best starting pitcher, Cliff Lee, to Seattle, part of a three-way shuffle of major and minor leaguers among that city, Philly and Toronto, in order to sign Roy Halladay. Bottom line – counting the minor leaguers sent to Cleveland during the past summer for Lee and the prospects given for the rights to Halladay, the Phillies figured out a way to give up the sizable majority of an excellent minor league team and Lee for the Toronto ace.

Look – it’s simple – extremists should be shot: In their December 7^th reveal, Sports Illustrated’s weekly “Sign of the Apocalypse” read, “PETA has asked the University of Georgia to expend a robotic dog instead of a live bulldog as a mascot.”

And finally, Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus: On Christmas Day, A & E ran a day-long Criminal Minds marathon, providing a rather startling parade of the sickest evil-doers available on television. The episode running between 11 p.m. and midnight featured a serial killer diagnosed by the FBI profilers featured on this present as having a “penetration” fixation on “post-pubescent girls.” He had stabbed one of them 67 times.

Not to worry, though – it is expected that America’s ‘tween girls will finally drop their fixation on buff young vampires who don’t drink blood by next Christmas.

Source unnoted above:

“Quotable Quote [Mark Twain].” goodreads.com. 26 December 2009.

Mt. Pleasant golf course was established in 1933, and was designed by Gus Hook. The course was established to provide recreation for Baltimore’s established golfers and touring professionals. From 1950 to 1963, the course hosted the Eastern Begin Invitational, a professional tour event at the time. Legendary golfer Arnold Palmer earned his second career victory at the venue in 1956.

One of the best stories is when on the first tee, Mr. Palmer hooked his first two drives out of bounds on the adjacent Hillen Rd., and almost conclude the very tournament that he eventually won. If it was not for his playing partner Billy Casper giving him advice to stay in the tournament, then the aura and legacy surrounding Palmer may never came to fruition.

Although it has been several decades since the last professional tour event, Mt. Pleasant have hosted several local and state tournaments including the Publinx and state amateur championship. in 2008, the course was rated by GolfWeek Magazine as the 12th best municipal course in the United States. The golf course is kept in pristine conditions, and simulates the experience of playing at a PGA Tour event. The course measures approximately 6,728 yards, and is a par 71. The course has a slope rating of 119 and the course rating is 71.8.

The green fees during the week are $39, and $45 for the weekends before noon. The course also offers very affordable rates during twilight hours.There is also a resident PGA professional on site, and a pro shop to service all golfing needs. The layout of the course is very straightforward, but provides a strong challenge for all recreational and professional golfers alike in the Baltimore area.

Mt. Satisfactory Golf Club: 6001 Hillen Road Baltimore MD, 21239 (410) 254-5100.

Source: BMGCgolf.com

In 2006 Nintendo released the Nintendo Wii – a motion-controlled system that has impacted the entire gaming industry by stealing the hearts of over fifty million gamers (and non-gamers). During a time when it seemed the industry was destined down a path to HD gaming, the Wii taught a valuable lesson. The world wanted inexpensive, innovative colorful games. Gritty shooters, abusive online play, and ultra-realistic graphics have all taken the backseat to Nintendo’s A-list of Wii games. Honest as the Wii and its pack-in game, Wii Sports, lit the world on fire with their popularity, precision and party gaming – now Wii Sports Resort seems prepped to do the same.

Wii Sports Resort comes packaged with Nintendo’s latest peripheral, Wii MotionPlus. This ($20-$25) device turns the Wiimote into a 1:1 perfect motion sensing device and effectively makes Wii Sports Resort itself a $25-$30 game. It plugs into the bottom of the remote and includes a longer version of the Wiimote jacket. It isn’t compatible with previous Wii games, but several new games are in development that take advantage of it (Red Steel 2, Zelda Wii *unconfirmed*, etc.), as well as a few sports games already released that use it (Virtua Tennis, Grand Slam Tennis, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2010, etc). Wii Sports Resort, much like Wii Play, Wii Sports, and Link’s Crossbow Training, serves as a demo of the included plan – with total Mii Compatibility no less! But what a deep preview it is! It’s comprised of 12 ’sports’, but all of them branch of into varied other modes. I’ll be reviewing them all for you- from the generally ‘best’ to the ‘worst.

1. Swordplay:

Believe it or not, this one game mode was what many gamers intend to buy Wii Sports Resort for. Almost every gamer that has ever picked up a Wiimote has wanted to use it as a sword. Obvious some games tried to provide the experience:

No More Heroes, Red Steel, Samurai Warriors Katana, and several more.

The problem? None of them could offer a 1:1 experience. Katana came somewhat close with its Pointer based swordplay, but the game itself was mediocre. What was a gamer to do?

I can say, without fear of contradiction, that Wii Sports Resort offers the closest thing to real swordplay currently available on any home console. The slightest twitch, the swiftest sever – Wii MotionPlus detects it all. Brandish your sword with accuracy and panache.

Swordplay offers a duel mode for 2 players to face each other (the main reason I purchased a second WMP), a Speed Slice mode where you cut random objects in a certain direction before your opponent can, and ‘Showdown’ – here you can make your plot across several various ‘battlefields’ on Wuhu Island (the location of the resort as well as the Wii Fit location) dueling a few dozen enemy Miis with only 3 hit-points.

All three are as fun as they sound – Duel never gets old as you strike, reduce, and block your device through a duel above the ocean as your Mii. Speed Slice, while the weakest of the three, is a nice departure from pure combat. Showdown is an awesome experience that will have you coming befriend over and over to strike down all in your path.

2. Basketball:

When I first saw this one at E3, I wasn’t impressed. Nintendo only showed a ‘3-Point Contest’ mode that reminded me of those old basketball arcade machines where you leaned over the alley and put the ball right in the hop. Not that I expected the game to be easy and dreary, but… well, yes, boring actually. Your Mii goes to a series of waiting basketball rows and tries to sink as many as he or she can in a minute time. The controls are very accurate, but the game itself is honest too weak.

While I’m unruffled not too impressed with the ‘3-Point Contest’, I did fall in love with its Pick-Up Game mode. Its good, simple fun in the same vein as Baseball and Tennis in the original Wii Sports. The 3-On-3 game as you stealing, blocking, shooting, passing, and dunking while the CPU controls your movement. It’s surprisingly deep and, unlike most basketball sims, it requires much more strategy and subtlety to win. In real life you’re trying to fake out your human opponent with Wiimote feints in an effort to make him fall over in an attempt to consume the ball- leaving the hoop open for a dunk.

The controls don’t do anything amazing as they do in Swordplay, though the shooting mechanic is spot-on and realistic in execution, it’s unruffled one of the most attractive sports of the package. It would have been nice to really be able to play with more than 2 human players though- or to control your players with the Nunchuk.

3. Archery:

This was an odd one originally for me. On the one hand I was overjoyed at the prospect of using the Wiimote & Nunchuk as a bow and arrow set. On the other, two things bothered and disappointed me about it.

1. Doesn’t the Wiimote have a pointer? Why use tilt controls when the IR is right there?

Answer: To show-off Wii MotionPlus and how accurate it can be. I, personally, was very impressed..

2. Only a single target, archery mode? Nothing innovative like Swordplay’s ‘Showdown’ mode?

Answer: Sadly, no.

Archery is extremely innovative in the control area- not so much in the mode depth area. You hold the Wiimote in your non-writing hand, possess the A button and Z button, then pull the Nunchuk back like a bow string. You line up your shot by tilting the Wiimote and release the Z button when you’re ready to fire. Four people can play with one Wiimote & Nunchuk as you alternate taking shots at the target.

It’s not particularly deep, but it’s a lot of fun- as well as genuinely competitive. My only proper disappointment is that they didn’t implement some sort of adventure mode like ‘Showdown’. Although the ‘golden arrow’ belief and team-play soften the blow a bit.

4. Power Cruising:

You hold the Wiimote & Nunchuk like the handles of a vehicle and zoom around over water by tilting the two in coordination and revving the Wiimote for a speed boost. ‘Slalom Course’ and a ‘Vs’ mode can be found here.

The controls work comely well, though if you pull the two apart too far without noticing, it gets terrible. Despite this, the ‘Vs’ mode is a lot of fun. The leading player has to pass through floating rings to proceed, while the losing player doesn’t have to worry about it. It does a great job of balancing the water racing genre.

5. Cycling:

I am convinced this game was made for Wii Fit but was cut for one reason or another. It looks like a Wii Fit game, it plays like one, the Yoga Trainer explains how to play, and it goes down paths similar to the Wii Fit jogging game. I’m sure of it.

Cycling has gotten a bad reputation with most reviewers. Many get easily tired of swinging their arms like they’re pedaling and don’t like the tilt steering. I, personally, enjoyed it quite a bit. I went into it expecting to hate it, but I was surprised to indulge in both ‘Road Race’ and ‘Vs’.

The strategy of this game appears when it comes to conserving energy. Pedal too fast and your Mii gets tired (see: Wii Fit Jogging). Your Mii, if it loses all 3 hearts, will end and gulp down some refreshing H2O from a water bottle before rejoining the race. It’s a fun racing game that doesn’t deserve the poor publicity it gets. But I still believe it was meant for Wii Fit.

6. Air Sports:

I was looking quite forward to the aerial dog-fighting that was praised so much in Wii Sports Resort by reviewers. Seeing as it’s in the middle of my list, you may guess that I was disappointed. The 3 gameplay modes vary nicely: Skydiving, Dogfight, and Island Flyover.

Skydiving, the map you originally obtain onto the island, is an interesting experiment if nothing else. The Wiimote itself becomes your Mii as you float through the area doing aerial acrobatics with other Miis. It’s nice, albeit shallow. Island Flyover gives you a few minutes to freely waft over Wuhu Island to explore and seek out interesting objects at your leisure. It’s a very enjoyable experience that’ll probably get several play-throughs by flight sim fans.

Dogfight has you trying to shoot down your enemy’s balloons while collecting more. The fatal flaw of this mode is that there’s no mini-map. Most of the time you just fly around getting balloons while shooting at the air. I suspect this was the original premise of the game- get to the location announced to get the balloons before your opponent! Then, realizing gamers might like a bit more combat, they place little guns on the Mii-planes.

7. Table Tennis:

At first I said- ‘Ping Pong? Why not just give us real Tennis? ‘ I’m surprised to say the game was a smart choice. Partly to let Wii Sports keep some of its value and partly because Table Tennis better justifies the CPU doing the moving. The controls work great in both the normal ‘Match’ & ‘Return Challenge’, both of which were mediocre in Wii Play. My only complaint is the lack of ‘Doubles’.

8. Wakeboarding:

By now you’ve probably figured out that the E3 Wii Sports Resort showing was a serious mixed bag for me. Here comes Wakeboarding. At first I had petite interest in this one. You hold the Wiimote sideways like a handlebar and thrust it upwards to do tricks as you’re towed along by a speeding boat. And… that’s it. You can compete for points with another person or just to try to rupture your high gain. The controls are accurate, but don’t do worthy to push the game or WMP. Overall it’s a middle-ground game. Not terrible, not great.

9. Bowling:

I was one of the few people that skipped past Bowling in the original Wii Sports for Boxing. I don’t dislike the game, it just isn’t ‘my thing’. But Wii Sports Resort is trying to convert me. Two substantial additions to Bowling aren’t in the controls area. Team-play and a 100-Pin game. These two additions immediately caught my interest as I remembered enjoying the 100-Pin challenge mode in Wii Sports – but that was for one player.

As a gamer, team-play is always attractive. With four people competing for the best score, it gets tense. I only wonder why Nintendo didn’t let more than 4 players play- considering the game is based solely on alternating gameplay. Imagine a 16-player mode that has 8 players on each team. Uncomfortable to cram these people into your living room? Yes. Extremely fun? Yes.

The new controls do add a few layers for the truly talented to shine here. Gone are the forgiving mechanics of the original Wii Sports. In my first game with my family, I bowled a 72 something while my 80-plus grandmother broke a 100 with several strikes. I bowled once when I was 8, she played for several years when she was young. Skill is the factor for this one.

The ‘Spin Control’ mode is a nice addition too, but it’ll only attract hardcore bowling fans. Or people that want to shake up the experience a bit.

10. Golf:

Although it appears right below Bowling, this one is very much inferior. While team-play was a nice addition, the controls are simply too sensitive. I, as well as my family, missed the forgiving mechanics of the original Wii Sports Golf for this one. The limited accidental curve to your swing will send the ball spiraling off in the wrong direction. Maybe I just didn’t give it a sparkling chance, but after a few holes I was too frustrated to give it much more of my patience. I’m not saying the mode is bad, but it’s got to be built for actual golfers instead of gamers this time around.

11. Canoeing:

On the one hand I suspected this one would be pretty dull. On the other hand, reviewers seemed to enjoy this one. Of course these were the same ones that said ‘Cycling’ was terrible. Hmmm…

Canoeing has you alternating the Wiimote in swings like a race and trying to get to through mini-goals first. And, well… That sums it up for both Speed-Challenge and Vs. Definite there’s something hilarious about trying to work as a team with 3 other players in one canoe, but that’s about it.

12. Frisbee:

I won’t exhaust long on this one…. The dullest game of the package and the most disappointing E3 Resort showing. (Face it Cammy Dunaway, it sucked.) Definite it has the same dogs from Wii Fit and the controls are quite accurate, but that’s about it. You throw the Frisbee as stop as you can to the goal so your dog can procure it. Points are gained depending on how close you are. Frisbee Golf has the same hook- if I can call it that. Very, very dull. I’ve never met a hardcore Frisbee fan, but maybe they’d like this.

My father put it best: “Is this it or can you actually play with other people instead of the dog? “

This brings up an interesting point. A Frisbee mode where one Mii throws and the other runs to catch it would have been pretty fun. Simple and intuitive.

Wrap-Up:

While there are a few bad team players in this one (Frisbee, Canoeing), the majority of the game is a lot of fun. Swordplay, Basketball, Archery, and Bowling are sure to be hits with families in every living room. Overall it serves as a great introduction to what WMP is capable of- much like Wii Sports did with the Wiimote. Online play would have been nice, but at its heart this one’s for families to get in front of the TV for.

Like Wii Sports, Wii Play, Wii Fit, and Wii Music – Wii Sports Resort has a clean, simple discover to it. You glimpse a lot of polish around every corner, but nothing awe-inpsiring. It does what it needs to with only a few bells and whistles. You’re also treated to the same voices you’ve been hearing in those other titles.

On a side effect, the game does offer DLC, of a sort. The game can automatically import popular Miis from the ‘Check Mii Out Channel’ to appear throughout the game. Not ground-breaking, but a nice feature. I recommend picking up an extra WMP, but I wouldn’t try to get 4 of them right away. The only game modes that take advantage of non-alternating 4-Player support aren’t worth it (-cough- Canoeing -cough-). Now we can all look forward to whatever quick-witted uses WMP will be put to in the future!

So you’ve found yourself in Reno, Nevada? This city is known by one of the greatest catch phrase ever, “The Biggest Little City in the World.” This sparkling city is second largest city in the state of Nevada, coming just shy of Las Vegas, and the similarities don’t discontinuance with the population. This little town has metropolitan attractions and entertainment. So, it is no wonder why you have found yourself in this little/big city, however, there is one thing that you are most likely going to be in need of – a great hotel. So, I have researched and reviewed the top three hotels in Reno, Nevada for your consideration. So read one to find your perfect hotel.

The first hotel in which I reviewed is the Harrah’s Hotel Reno. This three-and-a-half-star hotel rests directly downtown, and was Reno’s first casino. This hotel dates back to 1943 when it first opened as a Bingo Parlor, and has then expanded from a quaint parlor, to its current building which takes up both sides of North Center Street. Guests may visit both “towers” via a sky bridge, but the gambling does not stop while you are suspended above the street, as there are slot machines located in the sky bride. Some of the various amenities this hotel offers its guests includes a fifth-floor pool deck, which is opened during warm months. There is also a health spa, which provides saunas, steam rooms, spa tubs, tanning rooms, and massages. This hotel has over 928 guestrooms in its two towers (East and West Tower). Some of the various in-room amenities includes a 32-inch Televisions with cable and pay movies, dial-up Internet access, there are also compact refrigerators available for request.

The second hotel I reviewed is the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa – Reno. This three-and-a-half-star hotel is located in Reno’s premier shopping and entertainment district. This hotel is also located within five minutes from the airport and rests across the street from the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Guests are greeted by waterfalls, thatched-roof huts, palm trees, and tropical sounds fill the atmosphere of this hotel. Some of the various amenities this hotel offers its guests includes a full-service salon, which can handle anything from hair to pedicures. There is also an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, seven restaurants, and snake bars. This hotel has 1000 rooms, which are located in three towers, as well as in an adjacent two-story motor lodge. Some of the various amenities each room comes with includes cable television with on-demand pay movies, high-speed Internet access, as well as voicemail.

And the last hotel in which I reviewed is the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino. This three-and-a-half-star hotel is located near the airport in downtown Reno. This hotel is absolutely perfect for those individuals needing a lot of meeting space, whether it be a wedding or a convention, this hotel can handle it. This hotel has over 200,000-square-feet of meeting space. Some of the various amenities this hotels offers its guests includes a casino that is over two football fields long. There is also a fifty-lane championship bowling facility, a 40,000-square-foot children’s adventure center, an indoor golf simulator, and even a wedding chapel. This hotel has 2,000 guestrooms, which are amazingly big. All guestrooms comes with either mountain, city, or river views, as well as high-speed Internet access, which is available for a surcharge.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Grand Sierra Resort & Casino
2500 East 2nd Street
Reno, NV 89595

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa – Reno
3800 South Virginia Street
Reno, NV 89502

Harrah’s Hotel Reno
219 North Center Street
Reno, NV 89501

I was looking for a trainer club to improve my golf game when I ordered the Medicus Duel 2000 5 Iron Trainer. The Medicus has a steel shaft and two pivot points that break away. The pivot positions are approximately two thirds of the way down from the handle. The golf club breaks at these points if a person’s swing is out of alignment or if the golfer is not swinging in tempo.

The trainer club will break at takeaway, which is the start of your swing. It will also rupture at the top of a person’s back swing, at the start of your down swing and at follow through. If at any of these points a person’s golf swing is out of alignment or off plane the club breaks to help you realize the mistake. The Medicus will also break or pivot if the swing is off tempo at any of the mentioned points in the swing.

The purpose of the Medicus Duel 2000 5 Iron Trainer is to allow someone to notice their swing flaws. By view where your problem is in your golf swing an individual can hopefully adjust the swing and fix the pickle. If you do correct the swing flaw the club does not crash, so you will know immediately the swing is right.

I really love this club. I never took golf lessons. I was just reinforcing my bad habits, which many golfers do. Using the Medicus repeatedly allowed me to learn at what point my swing was off. In my case I was always slicing the ball. I knew I was swinging wrong, but did not know at what point in the swing. With using the Medicus trainer I learned I was out of alignment at the top of my swing. After a great deal of practice I was able to good this pickle to some extent.

Compared with other golf trainers the brand is reasonable. It comes with a dvd by the clubs inventor, Bob Koch. The dvd explains how to use the club and get the most benefit from it. You can order it for either a right or left handed individual.

One thing I liked about the Medicus is you can actually hit golf balls with it. Many golf training aids and clubs you can’t do this with. I tried a few and I got bored very fast. I was able to take the Medicus to the driving range and work on my swing without losing interest fast.

I think for the price the Medicus Duel 2000 5 Iron Trainer is a worthwhile tool to improve your golf swing and hopefully a person’s overall golf game. I can’t say you will become the next Tiger Woods, or be ready for the Professional Golf Association tour anytime soon, but then again you never know.

Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn’t. – Mark Twain

Although it might be expected during the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, 2009 once again presented ample proof that real life is actually as least as weird as a Hunter Thompson drug trip. Some of the highlights:

The suspect is not a lanky, gray-skinned man without a nose: As per an annanova.com fragment in February, “U.S. pranksters” in the Midwest had figured out how to “hack” into the systems used to change digital road signs…and then did what anybody with such impressive skills would do. They began posting zombie warnings. Thus, in Collinsville, IL, motorists were made aware of “DAILY LANE CLOSURES DUE TO ZOMBIES,” and Austin TX, residents encountered the more direct “NAZI ZOMBIES! RUN!!!” An illustration for the article showed a sign in an undisclosed situation reading, “CAUTION! ZOMBIES AHEAD!!!”

What a guy! In April Maximilian Schell began appearing in Dos Equis beer ads that were probably the funniest of the year, 15-second bits of brilliance featuring a totally irresistible fellow known as “the most interesting man in the world.” And he really was because, let’s face it, about how people can it truly be said, “He speaks French…in Russian”?

April is the cruelest month – for golfers: During the most recent one, a 62-year-old Norwegian woman now living in St. Petersburg, FL, had a hole-in-one on her first-ever golf swing in competition, according to that good city’s Times and as reported on many internet sites. “I didn’t know it was that big of a deal,”’ Unni Haskell said of her ace on a 100-yard par-three hole. “I notion all golfers do this.”’ Golfers all over the world suppressed urges to send Ms. Haskell advice related to her nine-iron.

Look what I found: As reported in New York magazine in May, Columbia University researchers have now completed the first comprehensive arrangement of the “stuff” beneath and living in Original York City’s harbors. Supplementing GPS and sonar findings with historical data, the cartographers listed all of the following things as found: a 350-foot steamship (sunk in 1920), a freight train (derailed in 1865), a fleet of Good Humor ice cream trucks that now form a reef for aquatic life, dozens and dozens of junked cars now extinct by divers as navigation points near the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and 1,600 bars of silver (traced to 1903). It was the fauna, though, that really caught their attention: 4-foot-long worms that feed on wooden docks and small “gribbles” that munch on concrete pilings.

Psst! You need to say, “I do”: Citing London’s Daily Telegraph in mid-June, newsoftheweird.com reported some weeks later that in Xianyang, in China’s Shaanxi province, a family hired a service for nearly US$4,500 to dig up a female corpse for their recently deceased son to “marry.” It was the latest incidence of attempting to overcome a centuries-old curse that posits a disappointing post-mortem “experience” for men who die unmarried.

Cogent political analysis: In July, buzzflash.com ran the following headline: China Rises to Dominate This Century, as Right-Wing Conservatives Lead America into a Crumbling Economic Sinkhole. It’s always good to distinguish right-wing conservatives from left-wing conservatives. Otherwise, there could be confusion.

Woof-YELP: In August the Philadelphia Eagles signed convicted dog-killer Michael Vick to a seven-figure salary, then basically used him as a plot to make defensive coordinators on the other sideline over-think things.

“Serpentine Shelly! Serpentine!!” According to IMDb.comdata, September 12^th marked the 30^th anniversary of the release of the original version of The In-Laws, starring Peter Falk and Alan Arkin. This went largely unnoticed…absurdly. One of the funniest films ever made, it included not only a fictional national flag featuring a topless prostitute, but also Falk’s timeless pitch for working as a CIA operative: “Are you involved in joining? The benefits are terrific. The trick is not to accumulate killed. That’s really the key to the help program.”

This feels all wrong – the guy’s name is Roy, not Cy: In mid-December, the ‘08-’09 National League Champion/’08 World Champion Phillies traded their best starting pitcher, Cliff Lee, to Seattle, part of a three-way shuffle of major and minor leaguers among that city, Philly and Toronto, in order to heed Roy Halladay. Bottom line – counting the minor leaguers sent to Cleveland during the past summer for Lee and the prospects given for the rights to Halladay, the Phillies figured out a way to give up the vast majority of an excellent minor league team and Lee for the Toronto ace.

Look – it’s simple – extremists should be shot: In their December 7^th issue, Sports Illustrated’s weekly “Sign of the Apocalypse” read, “PETA has asked the University of Georgia to use a robotic dog instead of a live bulldog as a mascot.”

And finally, Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus: On Christmas Day, A & E ran a day-long Criminal Minds marathon, providing a rather startling parade of the sickest evil-doers available on television. The episode running between 11 p.m. and midnight featured a serial killer diagnosed by the FBI profilers featured on this exhibit as having a “penetration” fixation on “post-pubescent girls.” He had stabbed one of them 67 times.

Not to worry, though – it is expected that America’s ‘tween girls will finally drop their fixation on buff young vampires who don’t drink blood by next Christmas.

Source unnoted above:

“Quotable Quote [Mark Twain].” goodreads.com. 26 December 2009.

The first golf swing help is the weighted club. This instrument is two to five pounds heavier than what you normally use when you play golf. Why this is so useful is the fact that it helps you practice your swing in slow-mo so you get the accurate form and do this properly during the tournament.

If you are like some golfers who have a hard time keeping their arms together during the course of the swing, you will catch the stretchable arm band very useful. This should be placed in between your triceps so that you are forming the letter “V” from the moment you start your swing until the follow through.

How you hold the golf club is also indispensable in the game. You should not hold it too tight and something that can help you do that is the golf grip. The nice thing about this way is that it fits all kinds of clubs. It is made of plastic so you can easily take it off and rob. If your hands are slippery, try putting on some golfing clubs.

Sometimes, your upper body is not the problem when you are trying to do your best in the game. Perhaps, your footing is what needs to be improved on and for that, the foot wedge was invented so for you honest handed players out there, your weight is on your fight foot.

Apart from golf swing aids which you use on the green, there are other materials which you can exhaust at home. You can buy a golf DVD and then try to practice what you learn by following what the person is saying.

There is also the mirror so you can seek yourself swing. If it is hard to swing at a ball and observe yourself in the mirror, get a video recorder and then play it back when you are done. Now you have a golf training video.

If you can afford to hire someone as a coach, that will be great because you get feedback from that person instead of second guessing if what you did in the mirror or golf training video is correct.

Golf training program may be done regularly but how often does it happen where you live? The golf swing aids mentioned can easily be purchased from the sporting goods store. Most of these are sold for under $20 so it will not hurt your pocket so much just to improve your game.

Should the golf swing aids mentioned be not available in the store, check for these items online. It is possible that they are much cheaper here even if you add shipping costs so check what is available.

There are many brands to choose from that sell these various golf swing aids. Before you buy one, check if this is saleable compared to other brands.

If the feedback given by other golf enthusiasts are valid, try it out yourself and see if this can improve your game or not. Don’t forget to practice because the golf swing aids can only do so much when what really matters is how well do without them during a game. A good golf training program is great place to start if you need quick improvement.