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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.

Mazda cars are among the most exciting cars today. In 2019, they are jet-setting, with spectacular new and improved future vehicles coming out of their production lines. Want to learn what all the excitement is about and which new features are in store? Here are some of Mazda's exciting new choices. Mazda 6 Signature Skyactiv-D The Mazda 6 Signature Skyactiv-D is a powerful sedan that will take you where you need to go, luxuriously and quickly. This up-and-coming car has a responsive turbo diesel engine, giving optimum performance and an amazingly smooth drive. You'll find the drive to be powerful and energized, with an acceleration that revs up smoothly. The unique Jinba Ittai driving system is designed to create a relaxed feeling of fusion between the car and its driver. You'll admire the gorgeous interior with spectacular leather seating and Sen Wood coloring throughout the vehicle. Ultrasuede trim provides a premium accent, wrapping up the package with a refined look. more 2020 Mazda CX-30 The 2020 Mazda CX-30 is more than a van: It's a vehicle that demonstrates tailored craftsmanship and exquisite performance. The exterior is elegant, with a spectacular shine and curves that boast a sleek look for an altogether luxurious appearance. Once inside, you'll notice premium textures, an exquisite dashboard, and the main cabin that is warm and comfortable. 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Skyactiv-D A powerful van that is generously topped up with exceptional diesel performance, the Mazda CX-5 Signature Skyactive-D is the ultimate touring vehicle given its exceptionally powerful and smooth ride. Much like the Skyactive Sedan, this vehicle has a superb diesel engine in a twin-turbo edition. It also comes with a no-cost maintenance program that covers you for two years of driving or 30,000 miles (whichever comes first). 2019 Mazda 3 Hatchback Looking for a fresh look, and luxury with extra convenience? Get excited about the 2019 Mazda 3 Hatchback, a new vehicle that offers the efficiency of a Mazda with a distinctly stylish look in a hatchback vehicle. With 186 horsepower, 18-inch alloy wheels, Apple CarPlay technology, and smart technology to help you park and drive, this souped-up vehicle has everything you need to impress and enjoy. The Bose 12-speaker audio system is a treat. With i-Activesense safety technology and blind-spot monitoring, you'll discover a gorgeously crafted interior that welcomes passengers and drivers to a very comfortable experience. 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF If the sporty look is your thing, then you will adore the 2019 Mazda Miata. Pick your look from Club Miata options. This includes 17-inch Metallic Black Alloy Wheels and Bilstein Shock Absorbers, or the Grand Touring edition with Smart City Brake Support and leather-trimmed heated seats. It's a powerful ride, with an EPA-estimated 35 MPG on the highway, 181 horsepower, a 2.0L engine, and 151 pound-feet of torque. Are you excited about the latest developments at Mazda? These luxurious, powerful cars are worth checking out. Keep yourself updated with pics, and check out release information online. Better yet, pay a visit to your local Mazda dealership to see the latest cars live. Image from Pixabay.com Pixabay License

While you're on the road to the Mazda dealership in Houston, why not check out a few family-oriented outings? There are plenty of exciting day trip opportunities in the area. Here are just a few to get you started. Spend a Day in Dallas Dallas, Texas, is about a three and a half hour drive out of the Houston city area. Dallas is a great metropolis to visit if your party is adults-only, or if your kids are a bit older and can easily join you in a shopping spree. Check out fabulous downtown shops and restaurants, enjoy the lovely skyline that exposes the sprawling city buildings, and pay a visit to a local museum, like the Nasher Sculpture Center. Alternatively, try a visit to the John F. Kennedy Memorial in Dallas, which was erected in 1970. This artistic landmark offers a meaningful pause for reflection in his honor. more See Art in Austin Austin, Texas, a major city just slightly closer than Dallas (it takes about two hours and forty-five minutes to drive there from the Houston area), is known for its hip artistic coffee-shop culture and galleries. Opt to plan your visit during two major festivals: the Austin City Limits music festival that takes place in early October or the South by Southwest music and art festival scheduled for March. You might also check out the Mexic-Arte Museum, open throughout the year, to witness classic and contemporary Mexican and Latino art. Set Sail at Galveston Island Need a break to chill out, enjoy nature, or escape from big city life? Only an hour and a half from Houston, you will find the simple yet beautiful atmosphere of Galveston Island, located on the Gulf of Mexico. Here, on the small, sandy public beaches, you can rent a sailboat, luxuriate by the water, or go fishing. This convenient getaway is enjoyable for the whole family and won't put a big dent in your pocketbook. If you do want to splurge, however, you will find plenty of restaurants and hotels along the boardwalk. You will also see the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, an amusement park with fun rides and games which is located atop the pier. Experience the Natural Bridge Caverns If you love to have fun with water, then you can visit the largest caverns in Texas, the Natural Bridge Caverns. Journeying 180 feet below, you will find water formations, canopies, and specially developed fun mazes. Take the Hidden Passages Tour to explore the cave's internal paths, or try one of the other enjoyable tours, such as the Discovery Tour. Kids can visit the Mining Company area, where they explore what it is like to mine for gems. There are souvenir shops and restaurants for snacks, as well. When you're in the Houston area, take advantage of the many great day trips. Whether you prefer to stay in a big city and explore or prefer a natural experience, the area has loads of exciting events. Some rights reserved by Life Lenses

If you live in the Houston area, you know that June-November is hurricane season. Hurricanes can cause extensive damage, and it’s important to be prepared. You might want to start by taking some necessary steps to make sure your home is protected in the event of a storm. Create a Hurricane Kit A basic Hurricane kit is designed to get a family through 48 hours without electricity and basic services. Your kit should include a whistle, blankets, garbage bags, flashlights or a battery-powered lantern, batteries, a three-day water supply and two days’ worth of food. You may also want to include a first aid kit, items for pets, medicine, and comfort items. Grab Some Gas Long before the lines at the gas stations get out of control, make sure your vehicles and generators have plenty of gas. You may want to fill up an extra tank to have available if needed. Plan Ahead Move furniture to higher ground, or elevate it, if you have the time. If you lose electricity, you don’t want food to spoil. Turn your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting. Your food will keep for longer. Make sure you know what shut-offs for water, gas, and electricity are located. Prepare Your Exterior Before it gets stormy bring in outdoor objects like lawn furniture, toys, garden implements, and anchor down pieces that you can’t bring inside or put away in a garage. Prepare your windows, doors, and garage doors. You may want to brace of shutter these places. Have Important Documents in One Place Home insurance documents and other important papers should be part of your Hurricane kit and available in the event of a storm because you will need that proof for claims and assistance. You may also want copies of important identification and medical documents. Stay Informed Russell & Smith Mazda put together a great list here for you, but there are more tips out there. Watch the Houston news to find out specific instructions to your area. Check out what ready.gov has to say about disaster preparedness and accuweather’s 5 expert tips. Be safe this hurricane season! image from Pixabay.com Pixabay License

Since 1989, the Mazda Miata has been the premier two-seater sports car across the globe. Nimble, quick, and visually stunning, it has all the hallmarks of a modern-day classic. In 2019, Mazda commemorates its design achievements with the release of the MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition. For collectors and brand enthusiasts, this coupe is the holy grail of the Miata line. Here's everything you should know about its upcoming release. Racing Orange Paint Job If you can't decide what color to paint the kitchen, choosing the right hue for your vehicle can often pose a difficult problem. Fortunately, Mazda takes the decision out of your hands with a sole hue: Racing Orange. This vibrant shade will adorn each 30th Anniversary Edition Miata, symbolizing  "sunrise and anticipation" and "evoking the breaking dawn of an exciting new day." With any luck, you'll like what you see. more Engine Specs Mazda brought the regular 2019 MX-5 Miata to showrooms with a souped-up new engine with high-rev technology. Because of its sprightly performance, the Japanese automaker decided a special engine for the 30th Anniversary Edition was unnecessary. Once you're behind the wheel, you'll agree. Under the hood, the Miata 30th Anniversary Edition sports a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's capable of 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. While this engine may seem undersized in the sports car world, the Miata also sheds some weight, providing even more acceleration and top speed. The addition of high-rev technology also provides a more spirited performance on the open road. A zero-to-60-mph clip of 5.7 seconds and a quarter-mile of 14.5 seconds to go along with a top speed of 140 mph are a testament to this upgraded technology and ingenious engineering. Interior Amenities Although the Miata offers close quarters and room for only two passengers, it's surprisingly comfortable thanks to sport bucket seats. The 30th Anniversary Edition goes one step further with customized Recaro seats, designed to cradle your body at break-neck speeds. The roadster also comes with a slew of interior amenities to provide a full-on driving experience. A Bose premium sound system with nine speakers blares your favorite tunes in crystal-clear quality. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come standard on the 30th Anniversary Edition, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your mobile device for access to apps, navigation, and your music library. The finishing touch on this Miata is Alcantara leather. This soft-touch leather not only adorns the seats, but also the dashboard and door trim. Not only does this provide excellent comfort, but it also adds a visual aesthetic that will impress your passengers and delight the senses. Quantities Mazda plans to release the 2019 MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition in limited quantities. With only 3,000 rolling off assembly lines, collectors will have to make a mad dash to the ordering department to get their hands on one. Emphatic styling, superb acceleration, and a vibrant Racing Orange tone give the 2019 MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition an intrigue unlike any other. But you'll have to act quick. They're sure to sell out quickly. Some rights reserved by zombieite

Somehow riding a motorcycle is a more intimate way to connect with nature and your surroundings. Perhaps its the air gliding past your body or the relationship you form with the people and places you pass through. Near Houston, you have plenty of choices for a smooth, exciting ride. Hit the throttle and twist and turn your way through these amazing motorcycle journeys in southeast Texas. Galveston Island and Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge Hop on your hog and head south on I-45 until you reach Galveston Island. While the commute out of the city isn't for the faint of heart, once you reach the island, you're met with a sea breeze and coastal waters that provide calm and a time for reflection. Head southwest down the Termini-San Luis Pass Road, which takes you along Galveston Island's most famous beaches. This road eventually turns into the Bluewater Highway where you can continue your journey until you reach Seaside Beach. From there, head north into the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge. While cruising through the park, you'll have plenty of opportunities to see birds, waterfowl, and over 100,000 Canadian geese, which migrate here every winter. At the end of this leg of the journey, stop by some of the small towns such as Liverpool, Iowa Colony, or Rosharon on your way back to the Space City. Approximate Time: 3 hours, 20 minutes Distance Traveled: 160 miles Sam Houston National Forest Located about an hour north of Houston is scenic Sam Houston National Forest. Hardwood trees line the forest as you weave your way through the park. The forest has several entrances and exits, allowing you to explore the area as you wish, but if you exit on the west end of the park, you're greeted with rolling hills and seasonal wildflowers. The forest offers plenty of opportunities to see white-tailed deer, quail, doves, and the rare and endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. With plenty of stops and places to stretch along the drive, it's an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate riders. Approximate Time: 4 hours Distance Traveled: 150 miles Texas Hill Country If you're willing to make the trek west into Texas Hill Country, you're rewarded with some of the best riding in Texas. Just northwest of Fredericksburg is the Willow City Loop, often regarded as Texas' finest motorcycle-riding areas. This 20-mile loop takes you through the hilly countryside, where you have numerous opportunities to see wildflowers and other flora and fauna. You'll also get the chance to visit the quaint Texas town of Willow City, where you can stop in for a bite to eat and enjoy the charm of small-town Texas. Hills and curves are a bit more demanding, but at a proper speed, you shouldn't have any problems. Approximate Time: 8 hours Distance Traveled: 475 miles From the beachside roads along the Gulf of Mexico to the river road running alongside the Rio Grande, these motorcycle rides are just a thrilling way to spend your time. They're a memorable moment you won't soon forget. Image from pixabay

Excitement abounds at Mazda with the unveiling of the fourth-generation Mazda3. Refined, retooled, and reinvented, the 2019 Mazda3 is one of the most intriguing new models to come from the Japanese automaker over the past few years. Blending affordability with quality is no easy task, but the Mazda3 seems to do it effortlessly. Beautiful, alluring, and somehow eye-catching without gaudiness, the 2019 Mazda3 is a surefire head-turner this year. SKYACTIV Technology One of the most exciting features of the 2019 Mazda3 is that all of its trims receive an engine with SKYACTIV technology. This innovative design provides more power without sacrificing fuel economy. Beneath the hood of the Mazda3 lies a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV four-cylinder engine that dishes out 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Pairing with its six-speed electronically controlled sport transmission, the Mazda3 accelerates smoothly whether you're on a straightaway or at the track. more Superb Fuel Economy* Although the Mazda3 can get up and go when you need it most, its acceleration doesn't come at the expense of efficiency. With standard front-wheel drive, the Mazda3 earns 36 mpg on the highway, 27 mpg in the city for 30 mpg combined. If you want the added grip and traction of all-wheel drive (which is available for the first time), you won't break the bank to do so. With this engine, the Mazda3 still gets up to 33 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city for a combined 28 mpg. *Based on EPA estimates for Mazda3 Sedan with FWD and without Premium Package, 26 city/35 highway. Actual results will vary. Wider and Longer Compact sedans can suffer from the short-and-stubby syndrome, where their proportions can seem like an afterthought. However, the wheelbase extends by 1 inch while the car stretches 3.2 inches. Although these dimensions may not seem like a lot, they give the Mazda3 just enough room to have sleek curves and striking lines that make sense. In fact, the 2019 edition of the Mazda3 might just be the best-looking version yet. The Addition of SKYACTIV-X While SKYACTIV-G technology is currently bestowed upon all Mazda3 trims, the Japanese auto giant has stated that the next generation of engine design — SKYACTIV-X — isn't too far behind. Using a compression-ignition capability and a spark-based combustion cycle, SKYACTIV-X engines power the Mazda3 in much the same way as a diesel engine, only by using gasoline. The result is a power that's similar to the current 2.5-liter engine but with more fuel efficiency, eclipsing even the remarkable 36 mpg currently boasted by the 2019 Mazda3. Knob Over Touch An 8.8-inch display screen is one of the most striking additions to the interior of the Mazda3, but unlike many of its competitors, it isn't a touch screen. Instead, Mazda opts for a dial-based control mounted on the center console. This slick piece of technology is typically only found in high-end luxury cars, giving the Mazda3 yet another welcomed surprise. Meticulously designed with great attention to detail, the 2019 Mazda3 proves that Mazda can succeed in the sedan market where other companies have failed or withdrawn altogether. Schedule a test drive today to see what makes this vehicle a unique and fun drive. Learn even more about the 2019 Mazda3. Some rights reserved by matthewbravo

With summer right around the corner, Houston's ready to heat up. Sweltering triple-digit temperatures and oppressive humidity swallow the city whole, which means it's time to find some relief. Thankfully, Houston is within close proximity to some of Texas' top swimming holes. From natural spring-fed pools to rivers to lakes, one dip is all you need to ward off the blistering summer heat. Huntsville State Park Located 65 miles north of Houston, Huntsville State Park is one of the closest rural watering holes, requiring you only to get out of the city and urban sprawl before you take a dip. The 210-acre Lake Raven is where you can pop on your bathing suit and splash away between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. in the park's designated swimming area. Make a weekend out of it by renting one of 160 powered or unpowered campsites. Other activities include fishing, boating, and hiking. more Matagorda Bay Nature Park Matagorda Bay is one of the more interesting places to go for a swim in Texas. Located just under two hours south of Houston, this bay is where the Colorado River ends its 1,450-mile journey and empties into the Gulf of Mexico. At the Matagorda Bay Nature Park, you're spoiled for choice as far as swimming. Two miles of beachfront sand on the Gulf of Mexico provides excellent swimming and oftentimes, you'll find waves to splash around in. If you're searching for more calm, cool waters, take a dip in the Colorado River. Often a bit chillier than its vast ocean neighbor, the river is smooth and relaxing, allowing you to float down or stand, enjoy the coolness, and sip a beverage. Camping is available for one day or long weekends. Quintana Beach County Park Zip on down State Highway 288 south for 60 miles, and you'll find yourself within the comfortable confines of Quintana Beach County Park. Named the Houston Press "Top Swimming Spot" in 2013, this county park provides long stretches of unspoiled beach, uncombed and untouched by workers (other than to pick up trash), giving beachcombers the chance to find driftwood and shells with ease. What makes Quintana Beach County Park the top swimming hole is its privateness. Away from the crowds that overrun Galveston, you can enjoy the beach by yourself or with only a handful of others. Plus, the water is a bit bluer her, offering plenty of photo-ops. Sea Rim State Park Located 100 miles east of downtown Houston, Sea Rim State Park is another lightly visited swimming area on the Gulf Coast. Over 4,000 acres of marshlands cover the park (as well as alligators), but it's the 5.2-mile stretch of golden sands that attract most visitors. The pristine beach offers stunning panoramic views, a great place to take a dip, and no crowds. You can also rent a kayak or canoe and take in the scenery from an ocean perspective. With so many different swimming options near Houston, the most difficult part isn't getting there; it's deciding where to go first. Once you've decided that, you're on your way to a relaxing cool-down you'll want to experience all summer long. Some rights reserved by barsen

Are you shopping for a compact SUV with style and sporty performance? Then you owe it to yourself to discover the new CX-5 by Mazda, now with two new trims: Grand Touring Reserve and Signature. It tops automotive expert's rankings thanks to its athletic handling and precise steering, premium interior, and impressive safety scores. Let's review four amazing features of the 2019 Mazda CX-5. Powerful Engine Option The base CX-5 features a stock 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood. It produces 187 horsepower and offers plenty of pep for any commute. For 2019, Mazda offers an available turbocharged engine, upping the CX-5's ante in terms of performance with brisk acceleration. This new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is one of the most powerful in the compact SUV class, putting out 227 horsepower when paired up with the six-speed automatic transmission. more Upscale Cabin The new CX-5's sophisticated styling and the upscale interior is a highlight on this vehicle's tour. With ample space for five passengers, this mini-SUV delivers comfortable and supportive seats, plus two sets of car seat connectors for the kids. You'll appreciate luxurious amenities such as a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and optional heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and available Nappa leather upholstery. The CX-5 also delivers an impressive 59.6 cubic feet of cargo space for its compact size. Get your new crossover with a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system, voice command, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. There's also an HD radio and four speakers or upgrade to the 10-speaker Bose premium audio system, satellite radio, optional Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and navigation. Agile Handling Unlike most rivals in the compact SUV class, Mazda engineered the CX-5 for performance over practicality. Its dynamic handling and responsive steering stand out from the crowd. It's firm suspension is more engaging than most other compact SUVs while offering a smooth, supple ride. Get your CX-5 with standard front-wheel drive or opt for available all-wheel drive for improved performance, regardless of the road and weather conditions. Advanced Safety Features Safety behind the wheel is a top priority at Mazda. Engineers equipped your new SUV with low-speed automatic braking, a rearview camera, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Take your pick of available gadgets including forward collision warning and parking sensors. Also available on the new model is a 360-degree parking camera, lane departure alert, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, fog lights, traffic sign recognition, and a head-up display. When fully equipped with Mazda's advanced safety features, the 2019 CX-5 received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's coveted award of Top Safety Pick. It also tested exceptionally well at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, earning the organization's highest rating of Good in all crash tests and an overall score of five out of five stars. One of the best SUVs for the money, you deserve a test drive of the 2019 Mazda CX-5. Visit your local showroom today and discover its amazing features for yourself. Image from mazdausa.com

Image from mazdausa.com If you're in the market for an outstanding performance machine with a comfortable, premium cabin, the new Mazda Miata MX-5 is an all-around winner. Its lineup features three refreshing trims including the Sport, Club, and Grand Touring. Each one acquired a peppy new engine for the 2019 model year. Which Miata MX-5 is right for you? We've put together this handy guide to help you pick the perfect variant. Overview of the New Miata MX-5 The 2019 Mazda Miata MX-5 is a thrilling choice for hardcore driving enthusiasts. It's a quick and eager convertible that delivers brisk acceleration and nimble handling. Go ahead and punch it. The MX-5 is always ready to play and happily sails through curvy roads. In addition to a boost in power, this new two-seat Miata looks great inside too, touting a spacious cabin with comfortable bucket seats. Mazda loaded this roadster with user-friendly tech features, including a standard rearview camera and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. New and Improved Powerhouse Each rear-wheel-drive Miata MX-5 trim is equipped with a stock 181 horsepower four-cylinder engine for this model year. This new and improved powerhouse puts out an additional 26 ponies over the 2018 model, delivering plenty of power to tackle any situation you'll encounter on the road. Outfitted with a stock six-speed manual transmission, but why not opt for the six-speed automatic that's available at all trim levels? The Miata MX-5 Sport The Miata Sport is the MX-5's introductory trim and features a classic manual-folding soft top, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a metallic black finish, and keyless entry. Mazda loaded this variant with cutting-edge technology starting with the Connect infotainment system complete with 7-inch touch screen, two USB ports, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. Music lovers will appreciate the Miata's six-speaker audio system with HD radio. The MX-5 Club When you want your new MX-5 with even more high-performance features, pick the Club trim. With a lower sticker price than the Grand Touring, it's a great value because it touts a sport-tuned suspension that's not available on any other variant, plus Bilstein shock absorbers and a limited-slip differential. You'll also appreciate the Club trim's luxurious touches, such as heated seats and a power-retractable hardtop. Upgrade your audio experience with the Club's premium sound system, including a nine-speaker Bose audio system and satellite radio, as well as active safety features including blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. The Grand Touring The top of the Miata's MX-5 line up is the Grand Touring trim. It includes all the features of the Sport trim, with even more amenities such as leather upholstery, navigation, and automatic climate control. The Grand Touring also comes loaded with all the latest safety tech, including traffic sign recognition, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and automatic headlights. Whether you choose to park the Sport, Club, or Grand Touring in your driveway, start your experience with a test drive at your local Mazda showroom. Which Mazda MX-5 Miata is right for you? Image from mazdausa.com

Do your upcoming plans include a tour of Houston, Texas? Whether your trip to the Houston area consists of a visit at the world-famous NASA Space Center or a day on the Gulf Coast, you're in luck. Let's discover four amazing tours of Houston you should take this year. more The Total Package Consider booking a comprehensive exploration of Houston's prime attractions. Spend the day in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle while you embark on a highly-recommended sightseeing tour of the city. Start your trip with a 90-minute journey to famous local landmarks including River Oaks, Minute Maid Park, and The Toyota Center. Then climb aboard the tram for a tour of the NASA Space Center. Take your time browsing the Mission Control, Training Facility, and Rocket Park exhibits before you head to the city's popular Kemah Boardwalk for dinner at your choice of restaurant. The tour includes snacks and a dinner appetizer, all entrance fees, and pick up and drop-off from your hotel, starting at $115 per person. Explore Historic Galveston What better way to sight-see the area than from the top of a double-decker bus? Meet your guide at 1302 Dallas Street. at 10 a.m. for a wonderful six-hour coach tour adventure. Set out on your historic tour of the area with a 90-minute overview of Houston's key sights. Next, you'll head to the small coastal town of Galveston, where you're invited to explore this scenic Gulf Coast town at your own pace. You'll discover the architectural heritage districts with glorious Victorian mansions, including the Gresham's Castle. Wander through the Strand historic district and gaze at the Galveston Seawall. Hit the beach, go dolphin-watching, browse the shops, or stop for lunch during this unique travel experience from $98.95 per person. Take Your Tour Underground See Houston from an all-new vantage point when you take an underground walking tour. Houston touts an impressive system of tunnels below the city. Head into the depths with a local guide and explore new and ancient sections of tunnels. Unearth the gritty history of Houston through its architecture and treasures by world-famous artists on this one-of-a-kind exploration and learn how Houston's seven miles of pedestrian-friendly tunnels were made. The underground tour departs from Cafe Express on Main Street and costs just $28 per person. Discover the Aquarium Tour Houston's Downtown Aquarium and enjoy a fantastic day with the fishes. This 90-minute city tour loop departs from Houston City Tours visitor's center at 1302 Dallas Street. and stops at the city's 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland. It showcases a variety of sea life and marine ecosystems including a sunken 17th-century Spanish galleon that's home to a gigantic octopus. The aquarium offers visitors a full-service restaurant with an upscale bar, aquatic and geographic exhibits, shopping, and a variety of rides and amusements. The Houston City Tour starts at 10 a.m. Next time you're in Houston, consider a tour of the city. There's no better way to experience everything that makes this Texas city so alluring. Some rights reserved by Texasbu bba

Texas is well known for its bigger is better philosophy, and this state doesn't skimp when it comes to nightlife. From world-class dance clubs to incredible live performances, Houston has it all. We've put together this list of four ways to explore Houston at night. Mingle With Spirits Combine a visit of haunted Houston with a pub crawl and get the best of both spirit worlds. Nightly Spirits is one of the best ghost tour companies in the city. Discover why Houston is the Texas hub for paranormal exploration and research with this authentic, year-round tour. more Guests 21 and over will learn the creepy history of Houston and hear some of its most famous haunted bar stories. Reserve your spot today and start your tour at Charbar at 305 Travis Street. Sip your favorite cocktail and get to know the spirits that may be sitting on the bar stool right next to you. This 2.5-hour journey stops at four haunted pubs and costs just $25 per person. Catch a Live Performance Houston's Alley Theatre is a hot spot for thrilling live performances. Located at 615 Texas Street., this state-of-the-art venue is home to the oldest professional theater company in Texas and offers a season of up to 16 shows. Catch the Pulitzer Prize award-winning production of Beth Henley's “Crimes of the Heart” on May 4 at 8 p.m. Follow Mississippi's Magrath sisters as they embark on a warm-hearted journey to face the present, forgive the past, and embrace the future. Tickets are $26 for this wonderful event. Experience Texas Honky-Tonk One of the best ways to celebrate a night on the town is with an evening of good old-fashioned boot-scootin' honky-tonk. You're going to want to find a rustic venue that touts a large dance floor where you can cut loose to top national and local country music acts. Whether your scene features two-stepping at the cowboy-themed Neon Boots Dance Hall at 11410 Hempstead Road or the Firehouse Saloon at 5930 Southwest Fwy strikes your fancy, Houston delivers a variety of venues to kick up your heels. Order up a long neck bottle of your favorite brew and grab your dance partner. Grab a Cocktail or Two Houston's downtown club scene is undergoing a resurgence. It now features a number of bars along Main Street that are packed with party-goers. These flashy, big-budget nightclubs are serving some of the city's finest craft cocktails while DJs spin the latest heart-pumping dance music that's sure to get your toes tapping. Make your first stop at Okras on 924 Congress Avenue. This unique establishment donates a portion of their proceeds to charity. Head to The Nightingale Room at 308 Main Street on Thursday nights for the area's best local musicians. If you're in the mood for a more romantic evening, try La Carafe on 813 Congress Avenue. Never spend another dull moment in Houston with these four fun things to do. Get out there and explore the city tonight. Some rights reserved by talversonpics70