Hundreds of thousands of people flock to Houston to the yearly Pride celebration each year. Many come mainly for the parade but out-of-town visitors sometimes miss out on the rest – and best – Houston has to offer in food, hotels and other events around town. We compiled a guide so you can experience the Bayou City in all its glory.

Taste the Rainbow

Jenni’s Noodle House
It’s all good in the Noodlehood at Jenni’s Noodle Houston. This LGBTQ+-friendly noodle house boasts some of the best dumplings in the city, fresh spring rolls, and an array of decadent curries and soups. And with shockingly low prices, this hotspot will keep your belly and wallet full.  

Ninfa’s on Navigation
If you ask any Houstonian where to find the Tex-Mex in town, they will direct you here. Sizzling fajitas, mouth-watering guac and tart margaritas – we dare you to have just one – represent the best the city has to offer. 

Barnabys
The sheepdog mascot standing framed by a rainbow lets you know this Montrose diner welcomes everybody. The cozy cafe’s menu is full of casual, downhome cuisine. There is even a menu for your four-legged friend to scarf up on the restaurant’s patio. 

Post Market
If you are traveling with a group and no one can agree on what to eat, the Post Market downtown will solve that problem. This food hall has more than 20 food options ranging from dim sum to hot chicken, and everything in between.  

Vinny’s Pizza
Head to this pizzeria for great slices and to help a good cause. Vinny’s Pizza has introduced their PRIDE pizza with a portion of the proceeds going to The Montrose Center. The PRIDE pie recreates a delicious version of the pride flag with rainbow ingredients, including tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, shaved prosciutto, pepperoni, mushrooms, basil, pineapple, red onions and orange bell peppers.

Cookies, Cakes and Pies.. Oh my!

Three Brother’s Bakery
This renowned bakery has four Houston locations and has been featured on Food Network, CBS and Good Morning America. They are getting into the pride spirit with a rainbow cake, pride cookies and unicorn cake pops. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Allies in Hope.  

Common Bond
Indulge your sweet tooth at this Montrose bakery and cafe. While they do have a full menu, when you enter, you will be greeted by a glass display of flaky croissants, oversized cookies and cakes, and colorful macaroons. But their pride cakes, confetti sprinkle mini loaves and Fruity Pebbles macarons are the highlight this month with a portion of the proceeds benefiting The Montrose Center. 

Michaels Cookie Jar
This locally owned, LGBTQ bakery, is baking up soft-baked pride cookies with three unique designs. Visit either the Weslayan or Downtown location for a dozen – or more – and enjoy cookies just like your Grandma used to make. A portion of the sales will be donated to the Montrose Center Hatch Youth Program. 

 

Where to Recharge

The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
Located in the bustling Galleria area this is the only five-star hotel and spa in Texas. Live the good life as you enjoy a meal at one of their seven restaurants, relax at thor spa or salon, or just lounge by the pool and soak up the sun. The Post Oak Hotel truly is the epitome of elegance. 

Hotel ZaZa 
This ultra-chic hotel is located in one of Houston’s finest locations. Located in the museum district, not only does Hotel Zaza offer world-class amenities, but it is within walking distance to multiple museums, parks and the Houston zoo. 

Marriott Marquis Houston
Enjoy all of Texas at this sleek and modern hotel… literally. This Downtown hotel has a Texas-shaped lazy river where you can cool off on those warm summer says, and an infinity pool with lounge chairs, daybeds and cabanas. Discovery Green is right across the street so you won’t have to travel far for Rainbow on the Green. 

Non-Parade Activities That Shouldn’t be Missed 

Astros Pride Night
The Houston Astros are celebrating the LGBTQ community with a Pride Night game on June 20 against the New York Mets. There will be pregame ceremonies as well as a $25 limited edition Pride Night jersey.

Rainbow on the Green
Grab a blanket, some food and friends, and enjoy the annual Rainbow on the Green party at Discovery Green. On June 23, local drag performers and LA-based pop singer/songwriter JORDY will entertain the crowd. This is a free event … unless you plan on having a cocktail. 

Pride Parade After Party

The parade may be over but that doesn’t mean the party is. Keep the good times going at the annual after party, this year hosted at Rich’s at Rise Rooftop. You can dance the night away with tunes from Australian DJ Kitty Glitter and Houston's own DJ Drew G.

So there you have it. Our recommendations for having the best Houston has to offer to make your Pride celebration a fabulous experience. Check out more details about the parade.