The 2016 Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, casually known as the Final Four, is in my city this weekend and I had no idea until a few days ago that it’s a competition for college teams and not the NBA. That’s the extent of what I know about this tournament and it reflects exactly how much I care. As you can probably imagine, for the next few days, I plan to stay far away from the areas of town where the games and related activities are taking place.
If you’re at all like me and don’t give a whit about basketball, you might be asking yourself what else there is to do in or around Houston for the next four days. Here are my Final Four Picks for other ways to spend your time this weekend.
1. Make yourself right at home
No-brainer! Catch up on that book you’ve been reading or start a new one. Watch movies. Binge television shows. Fire up the grill or sun bathe in your backyard with a margarita and a stack of magazines. But by all means, don’t get on the roadways. Houston traffic is enough of a beast when we’re not hosting a national basketball championship.
2. Instead of doing the wave, go watch some.
What about a quick jaunt to Galveston? It’s going to be a gorgeous weekend, just perfect for a long walk on the seawall or watching the sunset from the beach. The sound of surf and gulls trumps screaming sports fans any day.
3. Artfully dodge the basketballs.
The museums may see some increased foot traffic from out-of-towners this weekend, but don't let that stop you. Some exhibitions worth viewing are Statements: African American Art from the Museum’s Collection and Sculpted in Steel: Art Deco Automobiles and Motorcycles, 1929–1940, both at the MFAH. Also, The Menil Collection has Life Is Once, Forever: Henri Cartier-Bresson Photographs and FotoFest 2016 is happening now at various art spaces around town. Click here for a full list of art-related events.
4. Indulge in some deep patio sitting.
This time of year, there are few things I like more than a sun-drenched patio and a gin gimlet. May I suggest you find a restaurant or bar with a good plein air vibe, pick your poison, and settle in. Just make sure there's no television out there! Ibiza Food and Wine Bar is delightful for early evening chill and the martinis are solid. Backstreet Cafe is another oldie but goodie. Their quaint, verdant patio has rosé written all over it. You could also try a patio at one of H-Town's buzzy new joints. Find ideas here and here.
However you decide to avoid the Final Four, just remember it’ll all be over in a few days! So may the best man win. Or woman. Or team. Or whatever.