And every December, the street is the site of a Old English festival called Dickens on the Strand also a popular source of holiday gifts. The small-town atmosphere of Katy, just 15 miles west of Houston, is a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of its neighbor. On the way to Katy, history buffs will want to stop by the magnificent Forbidden Gardens. The massive monument features more than 3,000 sculptures of soldiers, nearly to scale, as well as the court of China s first emperor, which are to scale. On to more lively pursuits, visitors don t want to miss Katy Mills, a monumental mall that has introduced the concept of shoppertainment.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also find a good game here.
Hunting is a primary sport, and the local chamber offers a list of several well-trained guides, ready to lead you to the best spot for pheasant, quail, duck, geese, deer, dove and fishing. A wooded oasis, accented by lakes and golf courses, is the terrain of North Houston. Much of the recreational activity in this area centers around Lake Conroe, a freshwater lake bordered on the north by Sam Houston National Forest. The 17-acre park is popular for swimming, family picnics and fishing. Those looking for timeless treasure should visit Old Town Spring, a quaint shopping complex featuring antiques, crafts, galleries and collectibles.