Photo Credit: Carolyn Pepper
Since 2020 has redefined distance, so holiday cards might be the best way to update your friends and family on life. There’s still plenty of time for that special snapshot. While you’re at it, consider featuring some of Houston’s best façades as your backdrop. We’ve got a great list of outdoor venues that are sure to perfectly showcase your family.
Montrose Color Wall
Okay, we know, this is a staple, but it can’t be missed! Head to 1435 Westheimer Rd. for a fabulously fun and colorful backdrop to your holiday hello. With dripping paint in an array of rainbow colors, this card is perfect for coordinating outfits and family fun.
Gerald D. Hines Water Wall Park
The Water Wall is an iconic Houston landmark, but whether viewing in-person or pictured via post, it’s truly a wonder to see. The semi-circular fountain is 64 ft. tall, symbolizing the 64 stories of the Williams Tower which sits opposite the Water Wall. Further, 46,500 sq. ft. of water cover the interior of the installation, while 35,000 sq. ft. cover the exterior. The installation also sits among 118 Texas live oak trees, which certainly makes for an additional spot to shoot.
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Maybe this year you want your card to reflect the beauty of the outdoors, as we’ve certainly enjoyed plenty of outside time this year. If that’s the vibe, head to the Houston Arboretum for greenery and natural splendor. There are file miles of trails throughout the 155-acre nature sanctuary, making it the perfect spot for families with little ones who can’t stay still. #Protip, for best results, make sure you take photos before the foliage falls!
The Menil Collection
For the art enthusiast, The Menil Collection is a great place to take a few photos. While the inside isn’t the prime spot to photograph Christmas cards, the exterior lends itself to a nice, breezy and architecturally interesting background. The outdoor sculptures at the Menil, like the “Menil Curve” could add interesting elements to any photo.
Eleanor Tinsley Park
Want to put Downtown Houston on display? Eleanor Tinsley Park is the perfect spot for greenery juxtaposed with the urban jungle of Houston’s skyscrapers. The park also boasts some sloping hills and lush greenery as it runs along Buffalo Bayou. Grab your family and take a photo that reminds all of your Christmas card recipients how well Houston photographs.
Greetings From Houston Mural
Speaking of highlighting Houston, there’s a mural that will make your holiday card the perfect postcard. Check out the “Greetings From Houston” mural at 3602 White Oak Dr. in the Heights. The mural was created by artist Daniel Anguilu and looks like 1970s style postcard featuring some truly Houston incorporations like an oil derrick, rocket ship, Texas flag-waving cactus, a cattle skull and an old school cassette tape. The mural is the perfect way to add some fun to your holiday greeting.
M-K-T
One of the newest mixed-use destinations in Houston is M-K-T in the Heights neighborhood. M-K-T is perfect mix of modern natural façades with imposing industrial elements throughout the campus. Everywhere you turn there is a potential background depending on your taste. Thoughtfully designed, this vibrant and interesting location offers some of the best in Houston architecture.
Hermann Park
Looking for the ethereal and sometimes romantic feel? Head to Hermann Park for a plethora of photo ops. We definitely recommend the follow points of interest within the park, Friendship Pavilion, Japanese Garden, Marvin Taylor Trail, McGovern Centennial Gardens (especially the Rose Garden), Mecom Rockwell Colonnade and the Urban Forrest. Truly, you cannot go wrong with any of these locations for your strolling and photography needs.
Hampton Inn & Homewood Suites
On Avenida Houston, located in Downtown, there is an amazing mural by local graffiti artist GONZO247 that’s the perfect photograph backdrop. Situated between the Hampton Inn Downtown and the Homewood Suites, this mural is 15 ft. wide by 40 ft. tall and says “H-Town” with bright, fun colors and a shooting star. According to GONZO247, the goal of the mural is to have people from all walks of life identify and connect with the mural, which makes the mural a perfect choice for holiday cards!