If you're like me, you're staying home for Spring Break this year. (I say that like I ever go anywhere for Spring Break.) BUT, that doesn't mean that you have to spend the days wishing it warmer (mid-70s just doesn't do it when the pool is still in the low 60s) and watching daytime TV.

**Note, all of the sites below are relatively local to Angleton/Houston. Except for the Bluebell Creamery, which is just seriously worth the trip for fresh Tin Roof Ice Cream.

George Ranch Historical Park http://www.georgeranch.org/
Where cattle and cotton are king!

Brazos Bend State Park http://www.brazosbend.org/
Alligators, trails, picnics…

George Observatory http://www.hmns.org/see_do/george_observatory.asp
Inspire the astronomer in you.

Kemah Boardwalk http://www.kemahboardwalk.com/flash_content/flash_content.html
Almost everything has reopened since Ike came through. More things opening and re-opening all month.

Bluebell Creameries http://www.bluebell.com/home.aspx
I shouldn’t have to explain why you should visit this one. You can also get the required pictures of children in bluebonnets as you travel 290.

Forbidden Gardens http://www.forbidden-gardens.com/
Outdoor replica of some of China’s famous historic scenes, located in Katy.

Houston Museum District http://www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org/default.asp?id=1
I’ve always loved visiting museums—from the Museum of Natural Science to the Museum of Fine Arts. If I had kids, we’d play at the Children’s Museum all the time.

Bayou Wildlife Park http://www.bayouwildlifepark.com/
Over in Alvin, see the giraffes (my favorites!), llamas, rhinos, goats..you name it. From 35, turn on 517, like you’re heading to Dickinson.