The fall edition of our My Top 5 series rolls into October, shining the spotlight on Houston’s entrepreneurial spirits, natural teachers, and artistic talents—and getting them to share how they best connect with Houston when they’re not deep in the flow of their work.
This week, we’re pleased to highlight Michelle Smith, who founded Houston Metropolitan Dance—or, Met Dance, if you’re in the know—in 1995. Still serving as executive director of the dance school and Met Dance’s adult performance ensembles today, she continues to create a welcoming space for students and artists to train, perform, and collaborate.
This month, Michelle and Met Dance are celebrating three decades serving Houston with a 30th Anniversary Gala with live performances, food, drinks, a dance party, and more on Saturday, October 18, 2025 in the Museum District.
My Top 5 Things to Do in Houston
by Michelle Smith
1. Hermann Park – I raised three children in Houston and we would go to Hermann Park to have picnics, ride the train, or just take a walk. The space is beautiful and is a treasure in our city. Being able to take a “family” moment and let children run in the outdoors proved so valuable in our busy lives. It also created three adults who also now value this outdoor space and its beauty.
2. Goode Company Restaurants – We’ve been fans of Goode Company since the ’80s, when we would bike to the taqueria for breakfast and the kids would throw pennies into the fountain. Oh yes—and the food…whether it be barbecue, seafood or fajitas…some of the best in town. This is a must whenever anyone visits us, especially our northern friends. The food is always excellent, no matter if you visit the Kirby, Northwest 290, Woodlands, or other locations. And their outdoor spaces are pet friendly and a perfect setting to enjoy a wonderful meal with your favorite pooch.
3. Bike Trail along Braes Bayou – I have many memories of riding bikes along the bayou with my husband Greg. It was always a peaceful Sunday journey. You have to pace yourself at first, because this is a very long trail. It goes through many wonderful neighborhoods from the Bellaire area all the way to the Medical Center. With the improvements over the years, it remains a beautiful route to ride.
4. Henderson & Kane General Store – Another barbecue favorite—and can I talk to you about the cheesecake?—is Henderson & Kane in the Historic Old Sixth Ward near Downtown, Washington Avenue and Montrose. The Barbecue Mac N’ Cheese is smooth and creamy…and with the savory, sweet barbecue sauce on top, it makes for an incredible bite. Okay, and yes! The cheesecake…creamy with a slight tang. And the crust seems to have a hint of gingersnap crumb (I think). And I think about this cheesecake whenever I need a dessert. The charming barbecue restaurant and local store is a hidden treasure and one not to be missed.
5. Goforth Park on Horsepen Creek – This Northwest Houston park is one of the best for all sizes of dogs. Ours happens to be a 100-lb husky shepherd mix who is one lovable lug. He loves to wade in the park’s lake, and there’s ample space to run and play. There are two parks, one for small dogs and then the large park. There are great showers to rinse off your furry pet. Seeing the joy that Dutch gets from running free makes our day.
About Michelle Smith
Michelle Smith founded and serves as executive director of Houston Metropolitan Dance, best known locally as Met Dance, which is currently celebrating 30 years of inspiring dancers and building community. Met Dance welcomes more than 1,000 students each week to over 45 classes including ballet, jazz, tap and modern, while also providing rehearsal and performance space for Houston artists and arts organizations. Through its educational outreach program, Met Dance introduces more than 5,000 students, from Pre-K through 12th grade, to the joy of dance every year.
You can support Met Dance by buying tickets to the 30th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, October 18, 2025 or through donations of support at anytime.
Don’t Miss Out on Tomorrow’s Fun!
Subscribe to our free Weekend Guide newsletter and receive a round-up of great things to do every weekend in Houston, hitting your inbox on Thursday.
Don’t want to miss anything? Opt in for our Daily Updates to discover new things happening in Houston and receive special updates and offers, every weekday.
Don’t Miss Out on Tomorrow’s Fun!
Subscribe to our free Weekend Guide newsletter and receive a round-up of great things to do every weekend in Houston, hitting your inbox on Thursday.
Don’t want to miss anything? Opt in for our Daily Updates to discover new things happening in Houston and receive special updates and offers, every weekday.
