In our Must Do Things Around Greater Houston series, we take a look at Houston’s vast array of communities, neighborhoods and destinations to bring you five fun, tasty, surprising and enticing reasons you should give each one a visit.
Named for the pear trees abundant in the area in the 1890s, the third largest city in the Greater Houston area is growing more enticing by the day.
From some of the city’s best barbecue to an extraordinary temple, check out our five Pearland must-dos.
5 Must Do Things in Pearland
Conquer a scavenger hunt of the Pear-Scape Trail
A nod to the city’s namesake fruit and its original pear groves, the Pear-Scape Trail is a public art sculpture trail featuring 20 four-foot-tall fiberglass cast pears hand-painted by local artists.
The colorful, whimsical pieces of art are scattered throughout Pearland, and folks can follow the clues (with adult and kid-friendly hints) to find them all.
Get the gold standard of ‘q at Killen’s Barbecue
Chef Ronnie Killen’s namesake smokery is widely regarded as Houston’s best barbecue, but you’ll have to try it and judge for yourself (fans of beef will want to check out Killen’s Steakhouse and Killen’s Burgers, too).
Don’t be scared by the potential line, because one bite of the monster-sized beef ribs, flawlessly executed fat-melting brisket, and killer fried chicken will convince you it’s worth your time.
Plus, there are free kegs tapped to “assist” with the longer waits over the weekends.
Feast your eyes on the Sri Meenakshi Temple
Inspired by the grand Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, India, this majestic temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Meenakshi stands out from its surroundings.
Take in the ornate marble carvings, soaring ceilings, and beautiful sacredness of the temple complex.
The visuals will feed the mind and soul, but if you’re hungry, they also sell a mean vegetable samosa.
Try the Peña’s Donut Burger at Peña’s Donut Heaven
You’ll want to see what all the buzz is about and get yourself a donut burger from this local donut shop & diner.
That’s a griddled, greasy-in-a-good-way cheeseburger patty smashed between two glazed donuts, and the result is pure, glorious gluttony.
You can also try creations like the Southern chicken and Texas brisket donuts, or go for good old-fashioned donuts—iced, glazed, and cream-filled.
You’ll find all kinds of goodies at the family-owned spot and its other nearby location.
Stroll, shop & dine at Pearland Town Center
Outdoor mall and lifestyle hub Pearland Town Center houses a mix of retail shops and boutiques, hospitality and dining options, and office and residential space.
Pop into a maze of stores from big name shops (Macy’s, Dillard’s) to local and specialized boutiques like the BLCK Market shop and Buff City Soap; grab eats from Gringo’s Tex-Mex, Mongo, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, Ugly Donuts & Corn Dogs, and more; and look out for fun community events and festivals throughout the year, including holiday happenings like Santa’s Workshop and a Tree Lighting Ceremony.
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