Start out your north-of-Houston adventure at Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, a 312-acre nature preserve that's less than 30 miles from downtown Houston, Texas. The park is packed full of short, scenic trails that highlight native Texas trees, including white oaks, cypresses, and palmettos. Check the trail map to pick your preference of the shorter loops of approximately 1 mile treks.
Not ready for trails just yet? Check out the Redbud Hill Homestead & Akokisa Indian Village. The homestead recreation completely recaptures Texas life in the 1820s and 1830s, while the Indian village pays homage to the area's earliest settlers. For easy access to the homestead and village, park at the first parking lot upon entering the premises.

Double Lake Recreation Area is the perfect starting point for a morning hike in the Sam Houston National Forest, one of four national forests in Texas. Part of the Lone Star Hiking Trail, a 129-mile trek through the entire forest, Double Lake Recreation Area also offers several shorter hiking trails of varying difficulty, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
The area features a 23-acre lake surrounded by pine forests, making it a popular spot for fishing, with the lake stocked with bass, bream, and catfish. In the summer, the lake warms up nicely, allowing for swimming or just dipping your toes in the water.

Hop on the highway curving around Lake Livingston and head to The Blue Duck, a beloved local restaurant. Known for its blend of Southern and American cuisine, this eatery is a great choice for experiencing East Texas flavours. The Blue Duck also offers a kids' menu for younger diners.
Please note that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays. If you're travelling these days, Livingston, Texas, has several other dining options for a quick bite.

A pit stop at the Sam Houston State Monument is a must for travelers. The 67-foot-tall statue of General Sam Houston sits on a 10-foot granite base, making it the world's largest statue of an American hero. There is also a Visitor Center and Gift Shop available on-site.
Sam Houston, namesake of the nation's fourth-largest city, famously led the battle that led to Texas' independence and was elected as president of the Republic of Texas twice. When Texas eventually became part of the United States, Houston was appointed to the U.S. Senate. Fun fact: Houston was one of Texas' most foremost pro-Union leaders.
Bear in mind, it is better to leave a car by the Visitor Center because no parking is allowed by the statue.

Try Cajun-style seafood, tasty pastas, and comforting dishes at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen. Located between Shenandoah and Conroe, Texas, this spacious eatery offers a cozy atmosphere with its dark wood interiors. Don't miss out on their shrimp and grits, and be sure to try their soft and crunchy French bread.