Houston Explored with Tammy Patten

Author: Tammy Patten

  • Summer Pool Tips

    Summer Pool Tips

    🌞 Summer is heating up, making it the perfect time to make a splash in the pool! But before you dive in, ensure your 🏊 pool stays sparkling clean and safe all season long. Here are some simple tips to keep your pool fun and functional! Maintain your pool’s balance with ease. Check out the link below for the Taylor pool kit featured in this video on Amazon. Thanks for watching!

    Ready to dive into your dream home with a pool? Let me help you find the perfect oasis that fits your lifestyle and budget. Contact me today to begin your journey toward a home where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy endless summer days. Your ideal backyard paradise is just a call away! Call or text me at 346-280-6133.

  • Great Coffee Shops

    Great Coffee Shops

    Houston’s Coffee Gems:
    A Local’s Guide to Unique Brews and Hidden Cafes

    Houston, a sprawling metropolis known for its energy and diversity, also boasts a thriving coffee scene. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur or simply seeking a relaxing spot to catch up on work or with friends, the Greater Houston Area has a cup waiting for you. 

    This blog delves into some of the hidden gems scattered around Houston, offering unique ambiences and brewing experiences:

    Around the City Center

    For the Caffeinated Adventurer:

    • Siphon Coffee (Midtown): Witness the spectacle of siphon brewing, a fascinating method that produces a clean, flavorful cup. Don’t forget to check out their video game table for a post-caffeine adrenaline rush!|

    The Vibe Seeker:

    • Black Hole Coffee House (Montrose): Escape the ordinary at this Montrose coffee shop. It offers a loungey atmosphere with eclectic furniture, perfect for unwinding with a book or getting lost in thought.

    The Latin Twist:

    • Campesino Coffee House (Waugh Drive): Savor a taste of Latin America at this modern, stylish cafe. They feature not only classic espresso drinks but also Latin American specialties like cafe de olla and refreshing horchata. Pair your drink with an empanada for a complete experience.

    Venturing Beyond the City Center:

    • Houston’s suburbs boast hidden coffee gems as well! Here are a few worth exploring:
     

    Community Spirit:

    • Hebrew Coffee Woodlands (The Woodlands): For a taste of community spirit, visit Hebrew Coffee Woodlands. They host local market events, making it a great spot to mingle with neighbors while enjoying a cup.
     

    Quality Beans & Brewing Techniques:

    • Common Bond (Spring, TX): Craving a taste of high-quality coffee? Head to Common Bond in Spring. They offer a carefully curated selection of single-origin coffees, perfect for those who appreciate the subtle nuances of different beans. Their spacious bistro allows you to relax and savor your coffee alongside delicious food options.
     

    Quirky Charm & Ethical Beans:

    • Barbossa Coffee (Spring, TX): Embrace the quirky charm of Barbossa Coffee in Spring. This independent shop boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on ethically sourced beans. They are a great spot to unwind, catch up with friends, or get some work done.
     

    Quick & Delicious Coffee Fix:

    • Crema Expresso Stand in Cypress, TX: Craving a quick and delicious coffee fix? Swing by Crema in Cypress, TX. This convenient espresso stand offers a variety of coffee beverages, teas, and smoothies, perfect for grabbing on-the-go.
     

    Warm & Welcoming Atmosphere:

    • Cafe Marrese (Cypress, TX): Located in Cypress, Cafe Marrese offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or grabbing a coffee to-go. They also have a delicious selection of pastries and snacks.
     

    Italian Flair & Quality Coffee:

    • Cafe Minuti: Walk into a Minuti store and you’ll notice it’s a little different to other coffee shops. Firstly, there’s the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Then there’s the carefully chosen food and authentic coffee drinks. With several locations around Houston, there’s bound to be a Minuti near you!

     

    Houston’s coffee scene is brewing! Spill the beans on your favorite spots in the comments.

  • Texas Gems: Unforgettable Weekend Trips from Houston

    Texas Gems: Unforgettable Weekend Trips from Houston

    Weekend Getaways!

    Texas Gems: Unforgettable Weekend Trips from Houston

    Escape the urban grind of Houston with a weekend retreat to the serene landscapes and charming towns that surround the city. Whether you’re craving sandy beaches, tranquil forests, or quaint historic districts, there’s a getaway destination just a short drive away waiting to be explored. Embark on scenic hikes, indulge in local cuisine, or simply unwind amidst nature’s beauty. From coastal escapes to hill country hideaways, the options are endless for those seeking a brief respite from the daily hustle and bustle. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems that lie just beyond the city, ready to offer relaxation and rejuvenation.

    Garner State Park – 230 miles; about 4-hour drive

    The parks offers a myriad of activities year around. Hike or bike the 16 miles of trails that offer wildlife viewing and beautiful color-changing foliage in the fall. The park features a 30-foot-deep cave, picturesque rock overlooks, and beautiful landscapes. The park offers both rustic camping and glamping options for those wishing to stay a few days.

    Caddo Lake State Park – 285 miles; about 4.5-hour drive

    Visit the East Texas Piney Woods and enjoy a bayou experience. Spanish moss, cypress tress, lush bayous, and serene wetlands await you. The twisting labyrinth waterway is a fun challenge for paddlers. Consider booking a spooky swamp tour! Don’t forget to grab some catfish and chicken friend steak from the Shady Glade Cafe.

    Tyler, Texas – 200 miles; about 3.5-hour drive

    Check out Tyler State Park to a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, camping, and s’more-ing. You will find trees that soar 100 feet into the air, hiking trails, and 64-acre spring fed lake. In addition to wonderful parks and nature, you can check out the Piney Woods Wine Trail with a cluster of serene and tasty vineyard who are ready to crack open a bottle or offer you a tasting. After a full day of enjoying nature and wine check out the town of Tyler for delicious food and local entertainment. Don’t miss the annual Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival coming up on May 4.

    Fredericksburg, Texas – 235 miles; about 4-hour drive

    Explore the heart of Texas Hill Country, where German culture, rich history, and delectable cuisine converge to create an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the past at world-class museums like the National Museum of the Pacific War and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park, or delve into local heritage at the Pioneer Museum.

    Indulge your taste buds with a variety of dining options, including the mouthwatering pizzas at The Sozial Haus and homemade cocktails paired with delicious sharables at Chase’s Place Cocktails and Kitchen. And for wine enthusiasts, Fredericksburg and its neighboring towns boast over 200 wineries to satisfy every palate.

    Last year, I celebrated my birthday with an incredible trip to Fredericksburg, staying at the charming Stonewall Cottage featured on Cash Pad. Just a short drive from the town, we enjoyed wine tastings and a bourbon tour at Garrison Brothers in Hye, Texas. Among our favorites were the unique offerings of Slate Theory Winery, the delightful Bingham Family Vineyards, the welcoming atmosphere of Baron’s Creek Vineyards, and the effervescent selections of Heath Sparkling Wines. Visit the website linked above to plan your own wine adventure, and be sure to make reservations for tastings and tours to ensure a seamless experience.

    Discover even more enchantment in Texas Hill Country with natural wonders like Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and Old Tunnel State Park. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of bats emerging at dusk from the Old Tunnel State Park. And for outdoor adventurers, a hike up Enchanted Rock offers breathtaking views.

     

    Fort Worth Stock Yards – 260 Miles; 4-hour drive

    Discover the allure of the Fort Worth Stockyards, affectionately dubbed Cowtown, a delightful slice of history nestled near Dallas. Wander through streets once bustling with cattle drives, now lined with quaint shops and enticing dining spots. Embark on a journey through time with a historical walking tour or challenge yourself with the intriguing maze from China’s Amazing Race. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the West with a thrilling rodeo spectacle every Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm. Dive into nostalgia with a movie night at the local drive-in, or kick up your heels with some country dancing at one of the charming bars or lounges. Experience the vibrant legacy of the Wild West in this captivating Texan gem.

     

    For an urban getaway near Houston, consider exploring the vibrant sister cities of Austin, San Antonio, or Dallas. If you’re seeking a more quaint experience, charming destinations like San Marcos, Galveston, or Lockhart offer delightful small-town vibes just a short drive away.

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    Picture of Tammy Patten

    Tammy Patten

    As a Houston Area real estate agent it has been my pride and pleasure to work with my clients on their real estate transactions. I believe your real estate experience should be enriching and low stress, tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle. I am a community-focused agent so even if you are not ready to buy or sell, reach out to me to ask questions or for information on the communities you are considering. I am happy to help. My husband and I have enjoyed living and exploring Houston these last few years and look forward to what we will discover next. Come and explore with us!
  • Tomball

    Tomball

    More to come on this charming town!

  • The Woodlands

    The Woodlands

    The home city of my broker. A beautiful and exciting city with much to offer. More to come…..

  • Spring

    Spring