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Camping in the great outdoors is an adventure worth experiencing. There is something extraordinary about sleeping under the stars and cooking over an open flame. The best camping trips are the ones that you have thoroughly planned. If you don't have a ton of camping experience, the planning process may seem a little daunting, but you will be glad you did once you are out in the wild. Here are some tips for planning a better camping trip this summer. Location There are lots of great camping locations in Houston, Texas. Though the Houston area brings up images of tall buildings and crowded freeways, it has dense woods, lazy bayous, and Gulf shores. All of these untouched areas beckon for you to come and enjoy the wild. There are multiple camping destinations you can explore, including Camp Wanderland, 5D Ranch, The Wilderness Campground, and Privet Spring Fed Creek, to name a few. These locations vary in price per night, so a little research will help you find the perfect destination for your next camping trip. more Supplies and Gear You will always want to pack the essentials when you plan on camping out in nature. You can simplify this process by writing up a camping checklist and budgeting for your trip in advance. Gear you will want to include is a tent, tarp, sleeping bag, utility knife, flashlight, rope, hatchet, folding saw, shovel, etc. You may not use all of these, but you will surely be glad you have them if you happen to need them. Your supplies should consist of a pot, dishes, a pan, utensils, waterproof matches, a lighter, or other means of starting a fire. You will also want to bring an excess of water, including gallon-sized jugs, to use for cooking and cleaning. Easily prepared foods and snacks that are energy-rich are highly recommended for camping. These can include ground beef, pasta, peanut butter, beans, trail mix, oatmeal, and chicken. A tight-closing cooler and ice to preserve your food is also a must. Your clothing should include enough of a selection that you would be able to have two to three layers for each day you are out in the wild. This is especially important for more temperate areas. You can't afford to be caught out in nature without being prepared to protect your body from the elements. You will also want to pack plenty of soap and hand sanitizer for personal hygiene and cleaning your supplies after making and consuming meals. Optional gear you could bring is lanterns, hiking or climbing equipment, fishing poles, and firearms (for protection from wild animals). Camping Tips A few camping quick tips include using dry clothes to keep your feet warm in your sleeping bag, lining your pack with a heavy-duty garbage bag, keeping an extra pair of socks safe from moisture, packing a trailhead snack, using hand sanitizer as a fire starter, etc. Camping hacks and tips are from people just like you, so get creative when solving common issues related to camping. Remember to be responsible by cleaning up behind yourself, putting fires out, and staying aware of your surroundings. Camping in Houston, Texas, this summer will make for an excellent experience for you and your family. Image by chulmin park from Pixabay

Houston, Texas, is known across the nation for being a city of fantastic food. No matter what you're hungry for, you'll find it in this vast and exciting city. If you have a craving for seafood, Houston is the place to go. Check out our list of most delicious Houston seafood destinations. You're sure to find a restaurant you'll never forget. Truluck's To indulge in some of the best seafood in Houston, head over to 5350 Westheimer Road. There you'll find artistically arranged gourmet seafood options sure to make your mouth water. Their patrons adore their fresh Florida stone crab claws, jumbo lump crab cakes, clam chowder, and escargot. Reserve a table today and pair your meal with one of their wonderful wines, including options from France, Italy, Russia, California, Austria, New Zealand, Chile, Germany, Oregon, Argentina, and Washington State. If you want fresh, high-end seafood options in an elegant atmosphere, Truluck's is the place for you. more Caracol Houston is known nationwide for its storied combination of Mexican and American cuisines. This cultural trend meets the sea in Caracol, at 2200 Post Oak Boulevard in Houston. Their customers love their Sopa De Mariscos, a seafood stew with sautéed calamari, shrimp, octopus, bay scallops, mussels, epazote, and masa cups. If a meal including tentacles isn't your thing, go with Ceviche De Chile Canario, which is lime-cured raw red snapper with chile Canario, cherry tomato, pearl onion, cucumber, radish, and cilantro. Caracol also offers oysters in the half-shell, and they have a special menu just for happy hour, so bring friends and have a great time. Kata RoBata At 3600 Kirby Drive, you'll discover a place where the east meets the sea in Houston. For everything from sushi and sashimi to karaage pork belly and hirame, Kata RoBata is the place to go. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails with your meal, like The Old Fashioned Way, the Articulate Ginger, or 99 Problems. Finish off the experience with Kata RoBata's Japanese pumpkin cheesecake or warm blueberry cake. For a sampling of the best sushi they have to offer, try out their sushi platter, including the customer's choice of ten pieces of nigiri sushi. Their menu is well worth working through on multiple visits. Peli Peli For flavorful seafood in a colorful and relaxing atmosphere, drive down to 110 Vintage Park Boulevard Suite P in Houston. Their vegetarian platter, Peli Peli salad, and sea bass are the talk of the town, and customers love their lamb chops and shrimp Peli Peli. Peli Peli 's staff pride themselves on their southern hospitality. The restaurant's name means pepper in Bantu, so come ready for a grand combination of spices and flavors. They have brunch, lunch, and dinner menus, so come whenever you're hungry. Peli Peli's menus provide vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options, so if you have personal diet requirements, this restaurant is the place to go. For fresh seafood that you'll come back for again and again, Houston, Texas, is a prime destination. Taste the delicious offerings of each of these restaurants. They provide memorable experiences, so bring someone special along. Image by 昕 沈 from Pixabay

The landscape in and around Houston, Texas, is ideal for hiking. Whether you want a short hike or a longer trek, the city and surrounding countryside have something to offer you. Please take a look at our list of the most impressive hikes near Houston. Galveston Island State Park For an easy to moderately challenging hiking experience, journey to Galveston Island State Park. There you'll find several trails that are perfect for a relaxing hike. Visitors are most fond of the Galveston Island State Park Trail, the Clapper Rail Trail to the Carcara Trail Loop, Prairie Trail to Freshwater Loop, and the Clapper Rail Trail to Heron's Walk. The park also offers bird-watching, beach swimming, nature study, camping, fishing, and mountain biking opportunities, so it has something for you no matter what your outdoor leanings are. For a gorgeous landscape full of everything from wetlands to sand dunes, visit Galveston Island State Park. more Sam Houston National Forest Named for the founder of the city, the Sam Houston National Forest is a picturesque landscape full of woodland creatures of all types. This national forest is 163,000 acres in size, so you could explore for years and not see it all. The Sam Houston National Forest is home to one of the most challenging hiking trails in the country, the Lone Star Hiking Trail, which stretches into the woods for a breathtaking 128 miles. Don't worry, there is no need to take the whole trail in one visit. The rangers at this national forest welcome hikers of all skill levels and are glad to give useful tips to anyone new to the activity. Stephen F. Austin Park Fifty miles outside of Houston, you'll find a 12-acre park that was home to the first colony in Texas history. Explore the site where Texas began and view the landscape first settled by Stephen "Big Daddy" Austin, the father of Texas. Stephen F. Austin Park includes a 6-mile hiking trail through the land that was initially released under contract with the Mexican government for three years. If you get hungry during your hike, wander over to Taco Cabana and have a bite to eat. The restaurant hosts hikers year-round. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center At 4501 Woodway Drive in Houston, you'll find a hike so full of life that the creatures there will follow you into your dreams. This 155-acre arboretum and natural sanctuary are just four miles west of downtown Houston. Five miles of hiking trails cut through the parks, wetlands, and forests in the Houston Arboretum and the nature center plays host to a nature shop, aquariums, interactive exhibits, and microscopes. Pick up a list of common wildlife around Houston and see how many varieties of frog, turtle, bird, and other species you can spot on your hike. The grounds are open until nightfall, so night hiking is not permitted. Whether you like to wander for short distances or take on the challenge of epic hikes, the area in and around Houston has a trail for you. Take on these trails and form memories that will last a lifetime. Image by Michelle Orelup from Pixabay

If you're planning a trip to Houston, Texas, and you're looking for a little indulgence, you don't have to stay at a large hotel. Instead, consider staying at a bed and breakfast that offers a convenient location and all of your favorite amenities from home. The next time you're coming to Houston, spend the night at one of these top bed and breakfasts in the area. Sara's Inn on the Boulevard For over 30 years, Sara's Inn on the Boulevard has welcomed everyone from couples on a romantic trip to business travelers looking for a convenient place to stay. The inn is located in a home that's over 100 years old, so it offers all the charm of a historic house with the modern luxuries you need for a relaxing trip. All of the rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, plush robes and linens, a flat-screen television, miniature refrigerator, and full homemade breakfasts. more Texas Ranch Life For an experience that's truly Texan, plan a stay at Texas Ranch Life. This unique bed and breakfast is situated just an hour west of Houston in the rolling hills of Austin County. Here, you'll find the 1,800-acre Lonesome Pine Ranch, which is a working ranch established in the 1820s that's home to bison, quarter horses, and one of the largest registered Texas longhorn herds in the country. In addition to all the great activities you can enjoy in Houston, the ranch also offers opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and ranch work demonstrations. Houston Towers Inn Houston Towers Inn is a stunning bed and breakfast that offers privacy and comfort. The inn has four rooms and three suites that all have a private bathroom. Other amenities at this adults-only inn include a complimentary buffet breakfast, a fenced-in backyard with a swimming pool, and a wooden deck with umbrellas. La Maison in Midtown La Maison in Midtown is an urban bed and breakfast that lets you enjoy a relaxing retreat while still being close to everything you want to see and do in the city. During your stay, you can savor a hearty continental or Southern breakfast served each morning. When you're ready to explore the area, you'll find yourself within walking distance of a variety of Houston's top attractions. Or, if you simply want to unwind,  put up your feet at the inn's spacious parlor or living room. Modern Bed and Breakfast Located in the Montrose neighborhood, a stay at Modern Bed and Breakfast puts you close to several popular attractions in the area, including downtown Houston, The Galleria, Rice University, and NRG Stadium. The bed and breakfast features five adjacent luxury townhomes designed to give you the service of a boutique hotel while still delivering all the comforts of home. Every morning, you can start your day by joining fellow guests at the communal table for a fresh breakfast made by the inn's chef. If you're planning a trip to Houston and you want to indulge in a special getaway, plan a stay at one of these amazing, local bed and breakfast retreats. Image via Pixabay by ErikaWittlieb

Learning a martial art comes with a huge variety of benefits, including increased self-confidence, improved physical health, and life-saving stress relief. From Taekwondo to Muay Thai to Tai chi, the various disciplines allow you to connect with the best choice for your needs. Residents of Houston looking to learn a martial art themselves or find classes for their kids are in luck because there are some amazing schools around the city. To get you started, these four martial arts schools in Houston have a lot to offer. Elite Mixed Martial Arts Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is an extremely popular martial art that gained traction in the United States alongside the rise of Dana White's Ultimate Fighting Championship, in which MMA fighters face off in an octagon-shaped ring. If you want to learn the basics of MMA, Elite Mixed Martial Arts on Westheimer Road is an ideal place to start. The programs include options for men, women, and children targeted at levels ranging from beginner to advanced. You can also try your hand at Brazilian jiu-jitsu or kickboxing if you don't want to start with MMA lessons. Elite MMA was first launched in 1993 with a core underlying philosophy of teamwork. more Iron Dragon Martial Arts Offering Taekwondo, Muay Thai, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Iron Dragon Martial Arts is a well-regarded school located on Maxey Road. Jason White, a three-time state and national Taekwondo champion, is the owner and chief instructor at Iron Dragon. His talented team of instructors provide a welcoming and beginner-friendly atmosphere that is ideal for learning a martial art. Bam Bam Martial Arts Houston Whether you want to learn a martial art for fun, to meet people, to get fit, or to defend yourself, Bam Bam Martial Arts takes care of your needs with some amazing programs for adults and kids. The instructors at Bam Bam specialize in kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu for adults. Kids can learn karate or jiu-jitsu, and the instructors at Bam Bam focus on equipping them with valuable life skills, including self-confidence, character development, and discipline. You can find this martial arts school on Bellaire Boulevard. Houston Samurai Karate Dojo Karate is a martial art that emerged in the Ryukyu Kingdom in what is now present-day Japan. It will make its debut as an Olympic sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, so it's likely to experience a renewed surge in popularity. Dojo is a Japanese term for a formal gathering place where people practice judo or karate. Houston Samurai Karate Dojo has taught the fundamentals of karate to children and adults since 2001. You can also try your hand at judo or grappling at Houston Samurai. The chief instructor, Shihan Ehab Ahmed, is a sixth-degree black belt in karate, which guarantees you or your children will learn from someone who is highly skilled. Learning a martial art is one of the most valuable commitments to personal growth you'll ever make. Regardless of how old you are, you can find a range of top-notch martial art schools in Houston offering the program you need. Image via Pixabay by stevepb

One of the best ways to enjoy a night out with friends is by heading to a local karaoke bar and enjoying a little bit of spotlight. Whether you are there to sing your heart out to some of your favorite tunes or simply to sit back and enjoy the show, karaoke bars are fun for everyone. Here are some of the best places to sing karaoke near Houston, Texas. Spotlight Karaoke Spotlight Karaoke is a popular karaoke spot in the Midtown and Galleria areas of Houston. Here you can book a private room for your party if you only feel comfortable performing for your friends or you can all enjoy singing with the locals in the main stage area. If you plan to sing, it's free of charge, but you'll need to meet the two-drink minimum. You'll have thousands of songs to choose from, so you're sure to find a few favorites. more Book your next celebration at Spotlight and add some karaoke to the festivities. Parties can be booked during the day for any day of the week, and you'll get the option for a private bartender and karaoke jockey. A photo booth is also available so you and your guests can be sure to remember the fun. Rudyard's Pub For anyone with the dream of performing with a live band, Rudyard's Pub can make it come true. Every second and fourth Tuesday of each month, the upstairs living room of this Irish pub features a live punk rock band playing only the best list of songs. You'll need to be able to perform songs by bands like Bad Religion, Minor Threat, and The Clash, but if you're feeling like a rock star, you'll be welcomed to the stage. Mohawks are not required but are certainly encouraged. Non-performers shouldn't feel pressured to sing, Punkaraoke is also just an awesome show to enjoy. Dino's Den At Dino's Den, you can have burgers with your karaoke. This classic dive bar is a great local spot for a more intimate karaoke experience. Every Tuesday and Saturday night, head to Dino's for drinks, food, and a chance to jam out to your favorite songs. You'll get to enjoy the performances of local regulars and take your own talent up to the stage for a show. Glitter Karaoke Glitter Karaoke is another fun place offering public and private karaoke experiences. Book the private party room to keep the performances between you and your crew, or hang out in the main lounge area. Glitter welcomes singers new and experienced, and typically everyone will join in the fun. If you've never performed on a karaoke stage before, this is a great place to start. Head out for happy hour five nights a week and enjoy discounted drinks while you sing. Don't be shy, get up on that stage and belt it out! Head to one of these great karaoke spots around Houston, and enjoy an experience you won't soon forget. Image from pixabay.com Pixabay License

Houston's pizza scene is quite diverse. You've got shops dishing out Chicago, Detroit, and New York-style pies by the dozen. You've also got some that stick to traditional Italian recipes, while others throw in a fusion of ingredients from countries here and there. If there's one thing we know, it's that Houston knows how to cater to the pizza-loving crowd. Sample one yourself at these top area pizzerias. You'll definitely want more than just a slice! Frank's Pizza Head downtown to Frank's Pizza for some of the best Italian cuisine. The pies are delicious and made fresh daily, and you can order yours from a fixed menu or give it a bit of a custom finish. Traditional flavors include supreme, margherita, and garden veggie. Or try a house specialty like the spicy fajita Chicken Fiesta. more You can also build your own using meats like pepperoni and marinated grilled chicken and veggies such as black olives and fresh spinach. Then finish off with a dipping sauce to complement your meal. Choices include barbecue, marinara, and ranch. Barry's Pizza and Italian Diner There are so many choices when it comes to building your perfect pie at Barry's Pizza and Italian Diner. Choose from more than 35 toppings on the menu, including asiago cheese, applewood smoked bacon, and house-made meatballs. Keep the meat feast going with a classic like the Meatza, a specialty pie topped with five different types of meat. Aside from the scrumptious pizzas, you'll also find different events hosted throughout the week for all ages. You've got Kids Night on Tuesdays, Pint Night on Wednesdays, and lunch specials on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., all held inside this rustic log cabin that brings out a casual and fun ambiance for everyone. Star Pizza Star Pizza has earned consistent praise for its pies for more than 40 years. Create your own masterpiece from ingredients such as ground beef, salami, anchovies, and poblano peppers. Or go for a signature dish like The Cowbell, a tasty combo of smoked beef brisket, barbecue sauce, and cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Then, top off your meal with an apple cinnamon pizza. This sweet delight comes with seasoned cinnamon apples, toasted walnuts, a sprinkling of caramel and chocolate sauce, and a coating of powdered sugar. Want to sample a little bit of everything on the menu? Take advantage of the weekday lunch special from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's an all-you-can-eat buffet. Need we say more? Bombay Pizza Company When you dine at Bombay Pizza Company, you'll feel like you've taken your taste buds on a trip to both Europe and South Asia. This pizzeria dishes out classic Italian pies topped with a blend of Indian herbs and spices. A look at the specialty gourmet items is enough to get your mouth watering. The Gateway of India features tandoori chicken and crab meat with artichoke hearts, cheese, and cilantro-mint chutney. Meanwhile, Mitul's Masala comes with Spanish chorizo, grilled chicken, mozzarella over cumin-spiced gravy, and house pizza sauce. Can't decide? Neither can we. If you're in the mood for Italian cuisine, there are more than enough options around Houston to satisfy your craving. A visit to these top-rated pizzerias should do the trick. Some rights reserved by russellstreet

Tabletop nerds, rejoice! Houston is one of the best cities in the country for finding great stores for your wares. No matter what game you're into, you have plenty of spots to choose from to find a place to play. Or, if you're looking for a new favorite tabletop game, these stores have you covered. Fat Ogre Games & Comics If you're looking for the ultimate tabletop gaming shop, head to Fat Ogre Games & Comics. This huge store has everything you need to plan your game night right. Comics, games, collectibles, gaming gear — Fat Ogre has it all. Whether you're looking for a new game to bring home or paints and figures to supplement your favorite adventures, you can find it here. more They also hold events for a great swath of games. Sign up or show up to play Warhammer, Magic the Gathering, Star Wars, Warmachine, and more. 8th Dimension Comics & Games 8th Dimension is your pop culture and tabletop Mecca. If you're a seasoned pro or a newbie, this is a great place to get what you need to start rolling dice. This store has been a crowd favorite since 2011. Their friendly staff is ready to help you find the perfect gear for your tabletop gaming quest. If you're into Dungeons & Dragons, show up for their D&D Adventurers League every Wednesday at 7 p.m. Test out your new Magic the Gathering deck every Friday at 6 p.m. They have organized play sessions throughout the week, so check their calendar regularly to find a time and game that works for you. Geek Life Geek Life has been rolling natural 20s since they opened their doors. If you're looking for the best place to find organized play, Geek Life is tops. Their calendar of events is full of events — D&D, Pokemon, Gundam, and more. You'll also find a full inventory of great games that you can play in-house and take home. Grab your favorite comic's latest issue, pick up some collectible gifts and toys, and join the strong, inclusively friendly community at Geek Life. Asgard Games Do you know what pairs well with a holographic Machamp card? A nice cabernet sauvignon. Asgard Games is one of the best places to play your favorite games, in part due to their beer and wine bar. If you don't have time to show off your rogue, grab one of the great games they have for sale and take the adventure home with you. You'll find hobby supplies, miniatures, Pokemon cards, Magic the Gathering cards, and the latest and greatest tabletop games at Asgard Games. They hold in-house events nearly every day, for games from King of War to Netrunner. If you can't find any organized game you like on their calendar, show up to one of their open play times to choose your own adventure. These, along with the many other great stores in town we couldn't fit here, are top-notch tabletop gaming oases. Whether you're shopping for your game night or joining the strong communities here, these shops are your new best friends. Some rights reserved by Hatchibombotar

If you are in the mood for an extra adventure this summer, check out the great hiking areas located in the Houston area. Here are five opportunities to explore nature and get some exercise in the outdoors. Galveston Island State Park Welcome to beautiful Galveston Island, a sprawling 2,000-acre state park located only 60 miles from Houston. This stunning area features numerous geographical wonders. From the different species of birds that inhabit the vicinity to armadillos and coyotes, this is an inhabited land that is very much alive. Kids can learn about different geographical landscapes such as wetlands, sand dunes, and prairies. more Colorado State Bend Park Further out of Houston by about 250 miles is the impressive Colorado State Bend Park. It is 5,328 acres large and is located in the Hill Country area. The huge range of land includes a 60-foot tall waterfall. If you want a real challenge, try doing the rugged hike all the way up. It is a challenging 1.5-mile journey along with caves, sinkholes, and springs. You can also venture along simpler trails that take you along the water's edge. Enchanted Rock The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a stunning 425-feet pink granite dome located in a vicinity that offers camping and trails. If you are looking for a special experience, this is the country's second largest dome composed of granite. It's a half-mile hike to reach the very top. It is popular to experiment with going at different times of day to catch different yet beautiful views. Palmetto State Park About 142 miles from Houston is Palmetto State Park, famous for 500 species of plants located throughout its landscape. The park has multiple water sources, such as the San Marcos River. You can rent pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks, and tube rides are offered along the San Marcos River as well. The park is located on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and is known as a birding hotspot. You can also see plenty of wildlife, such as deer and armadillos. Armand Bayou Nature Center The Armand Bayou Nature Center reserve in southeast Houston has a variety of different ecosystems including forest and wetlands. It is 2,500 acres of natural habitat and the biggest urban wilderness reserve in the country, with over 5 miles of hiking trails. This is a photographer-friendly trail, so you can see plenty of wildlife and take pictures. Tours are offered along the trails for nature and photography fans. Take the family along the Discovery Loop boardwalk to spot birds and small animals. The next time you are in the Houston area, plan a day trip to visit one of the beautiful hiking areas in the vicinity. You'll find that water excursions, fascinating wildlife, and beautiful geography is all very close to home.

Houston is full of historical sites and landmarks. It is home to the Apollo Mission Control Center and several more interesting places that would be a joy for you and your family to visit. Here are just a few of our favorites. Houston, We Have a Problem Space Center Houston is a leading space and science technology learning center. Tickets are reasonably priced at $24.95 for children and $29.95 for adults. Children 3 and under are free. They also offer a senior citizen discount. There are simulation experiences that will guide you on a spacewalk or a motion simulator. The center is owned and operated by a non-profit organization. Weekends and Summer days are busier, so please plan your trip accordingly in order to avoid crowds. more Haunted Houston If you enjoy being spooked and experiencing the supernatural, then Houston is the perfect place for you to seek your adventure! Downtown Houston has multiple buildings that house some of their local haunts. The Spaghetti Warehouse is named one of the most haunted places in America by CitySearch. Houston is also home to The Rice Hotel where president John F. Kennedy spent his last night before being assassinated. Battleship Texas is a historic monument to those who fought and died in the world wars. It is actually said that a red-headed sailor will appear on the second deck! Bring It Back to the South, Ya'll Bayou Bend is a quiet oasis in the midst of a busy Metropolis. A sprawling estate located in Houston's Memorial Park, it is home to a collection of decorative arts and has been for more than two centuries. Architect John F. Staub designed Bayou Bend in the 18th century. The home is made in Spanish stucco with wrought iron accents that is really a site to see. Also on location is the Lora Jean Kilroy Visitor and Education Center. This two-story house offers a library, retail store, and offices. Miss Ima Hogg, an avid art collector, once said that it was her dream for Bayou Bend “to serve as a bridge to bring us closer to the heart of American heritage which unites us.” Fan of the Fine Arts Come visit the Rienzi Museum in Houston. About three miles from Houston's downtown, The Rienzi is situated on over four acres of wooded gardens. It was designed in 1952 and opened to the public in 1999. Reservations need to be made in order to tour and they fill up quickly so you should book in advance. Admission is extremely affordable and under $10. Discount pricing applies for groups of 10 or more. It houses European decorative arts and paintings and features art from the neoclassical period. Whatever it is that you are looking to do while visiting Houston, there is surely something that would fit into your day. Don't forget to stop in and visit Russell & Smith Mazda, shop our showroom, talk with our sales staff, and schedule a test drive. Image via Flickr by Limping Frog Productions | CC BY 2.0.

Getting into shape these days couldn't be easier, with new exercise classes and trends popping up nearly every day. Whether you're looking for intensive cardio or a more relaxing strengthening class, Houston is an ideal place to get your muscles moving. Empower Fitness Lab Exercise devotees flock to Houston's two Empower Fitness Lab locations for a variety of customized training activities. Combine cardio and strengthening moves in Empower's signature H.I.I.T. (High-Intensity Interval Training) classes, where you'll enjoy maximum fitness results from cardio and floor strengthening exercises. Set to a thumping music playlist, the hour-long class will fly by as you burn hundreds of calories. Empower also offers a selection of cycling classes like the Sync cycle class meshing together power moves with strengthening. A variety of yoga classes are also available, from quiet restorative practices to higher intensity flow classes. Empower Fitness Lab's classes are offered in a full daily schedule to fit into busy schedules. Drop-in prices range from $15 for a yoga class to $30 for H.I.I.T., with a range of packages and monthly memberships available. more BIG Power Yoga At BIG Power Yoga's two Houston locations, Baptiste hot yoga is the name of the game, with a range of sweaty and empowering classes on the schedule each day. BIG offers classes for adults as well as children as young as 3 years old to expose people of all ages to the benefits of a mindful practice. Expand your mind and your horizons to BIG's Stand Up Paddle-board yoga, where you will practice your poses balanced atop a paddle-board in a local lake. The added challenge of balancing on an uncertain surface blended with the sheer beauty of being on the water is an unmissable experience. New students to BIG Power Yoga can purchase their first month of membership for only $40 and $89 auto-renew thereafter. Regular $5 community classes are also available. Body Rock Pilates Body Rock Pilates offers a killer 50-minute full-body workout set to rocking tunes in a lively atmosphere. The studio's Pilate reformer machines are used to strengthen, lengthen, and tone your body with varied routines that get to each body part. Body Rock also offers ballet-inspired barre classes that help you burn calories and strengthen muscles with a series of quick moves that will have you burning calories for up to 72 hours. Body Rock offers a new client introductory price of $30 for three classes. Class packs of five, 10, 20, and 25 sessions are available at reduced per-class rates, and monthly class pack subscriptions reduce the costs even further. Private sessions are also available. Dance House Fitness Get ready for a party at Dance House Fitness. The "workouts" are based on dance routines and moves that are designed to tweak, tone, and firm every part of your body. With specialized classes that focus on everything from strengthening to advanced choreography, you'll be dance-club-ready in no time flat. Dance House Fitness classes are $20 for a single 60-minute class and $25 for a 90-minute class. Class packs are available, and an unlimited monthly membership for $179 gives you access to as many classes as you'd like. Image via Flickr by teammarche | CC BY-SA 2.0.

Whether we do it alone when no one is watching or are at the center of every wedding dance floor, there's something undeniably exhilarating about moving your body to the beat of the music. Here in Houston, we're fortunate to have access to a number of instructional dance studios for everyone from beginners to semi-professionals. Let's explore some of the places where you can cha-cha, waltz, and spin to your heart's content. Houston Dance Factory Voted one of Houston's top dance studios, Houston Dance Factory offers a variety of dance classes and events that are a perfect introduction for new students as well as more established dancers. Select the dance style that speaks to you, or try a few different classes until you find something you love. Hip-hop, salsa, merengue, ballet — they're all available at the Houston Dance Factory, which offers instructions for toddlers to adults. Creating a community spirit around dancing, Houston Dance Factory holds a monthly salsa dance social on the first Friday of the month. Pay the reasonable $10 cover charge, or gain free entry with a potluck dish to share with other dancers. This is a great way to work on your dance moves while meeting new friends. more MET Dance The Houston Metropolitan Dance Center, known as MET Dance, offers dance instructions by its professional teaching faculty to students of all ages and levels. A variety of dance forms are available, and guest choreographers visit regularly to expose students to an array of different dance styles and techniques. Adult introductory classes are offered for those who have little or no formal dance training and wish to become more comfortable with different dance styles. Six-week class sessions are offered teaching ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and modern dance to adults seeking to feel more confident while learning something new. Salrica Dance Studio Grab your partner or come on your own to Salrica Dance Studio. Learn from trained instructors who will guide beginning through experienced dancers through the finer points of salsa, bachata, and cha-cha steps. Every third Saturday, Salrica hosts Salsa Rica Social, where dancers can put their best feet forward with new dancing friends and partners. Soreal Dance Studio With over 20 years of experience offering classes in Houston, Soreal Dance Studio provides over 24 classes per week to students interested in beginner, intermediate, and advanced hip-hop dance. Soreal's talented instructors have worked with artists such as Missy Elliot, Janet Jackson, Beyonce, and more. Classes are offered every day except Sunday and have a familial vibe amid the thumping beats and tight choreography. Soreal is also home to a number of competitive dance teams that have received national recognition at a number of events. Team auditions are held on a regular basis for all age levels, and no formal dance experience is needed. If you love to dance, give it a try! The Soreal dance studio is over 8,000 square feet and is available for rent for a variety of activities and private events. Image via Flickr by zabaraorg | CC BY 2.0.