Here’s to a new year! It seems like there’s a lot to look forward to in Houston this coming year: from beloved-Austin hamburger franchises, to an alien exhibition from another dimension, plus bars, theatres, and restaurants opening in Houston in 2024: here’s what the new year has in store for the city!
1. River Oaks Theatre
Established in 1939, the River Oaks Theatre stood as a popular destination for movie enthusiasts. Its classic art-deco architecture and thoughtfully curated film lineup endeared it to the local community and cinephiles alike.
Nevertheless, in the midst of the economic challenges triggered by the pandemic, which led to its mandated closure four years ago. In 2022, however, the theatre was pulled back from the clutches of closure after its purchase by Star Cinema Grill, which plan to uphold the theatre’s legacy.
Originally planned to open this past year, organizers expect to re-open River Oaks Theatre to the public in 2024.
2. Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is an avant-garde, expansive art space dedicated to crafting unbelievably imaginative immersive encounters. By the end of 2024, the wonderfully weird experience makers plan to open a permanent exhibition in Houston’s 5th Ward community. This past year, Meow Wolf opened their first Texas “portal” in Grapevine.
3. P. Terry’s
For those unfamiliar, P. Terry’s is a fast-food burger franchise that harks back to the nostalgic charm of classic burger joints from the 1950s. Emphasizing the use of fresh ingredients, P. Terry’s offers a menu replete with burgers, milkshakes, lemonades, and freshly-cut fries.
While officials have yet to release an official opening date, two locations are expected to open in Houston in 2024.
4. Autry Park
Autry Park is part of Houston’s ambitious green development initiatives, situated amidst an interconnected system of hike and bike trails spanning from River Oaks to Downtown. This project aspires to serve as a focal point, combining architectural innovation with urban planning to create a central village and park within the city.
5. PostScript XOXO
The team from Gap Concepts, creators of the delightfully pink XOXO Dining Room in Dallas – a venue known for its cupcake ferris wheels, champagne buttons, and effervescent beverages – is set to introduce their newest concept in Houston. This January, they will unveil PostScript HTX at Arrive River Oaks.
6. Buttermilk Baby
Hailing from the minds behind B & B Butchers, Turner’s, Emilia’s Havana, The Annie, and others, Buttermilk Baby is set to bring a nostalgic soda fountain experience with a contemporary twist, featuring sundaes, shakes, and ice creams. Scheduled for an opening this year, the retro-inspired concept also aims to present a menu of Southern-inspired comfort food.
7. Gabriela’s
Recognized for its authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, the restaurant excels in offerings such as micheladas, choriqueso, and birria, along with a selection of vibrant beverages.
Beyond their delicious food and drinks, both locations are celebrated for their lively Latin-inspired ambiance, featuring mural art, colorful furniture, occasional live music performances, and expansive outdoor patios.
Gabriela’s Group recently opened a Latin-music-themed nightclub in Houston, Mala Vida, this past fall.
8. Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library
Houston is gearing up for the launch of a state-of-the-art, next-generation library. After a special preview in December, the highly advanced Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library is poised for its imminent opening.
Situated at 5505 Belrose Drive in Westbury, this cutting-edge library spans 23,260 square feet and boasts futuristic design elements, including built-in nooks and crannies.
9. Katy Beer Garden at The Dryer
The organizers are transforming the historic concrete silos in Katy into a vast beer garden, food hall, banquet hall, and family-friendly spaces, all set against a picturesque backdrop.
In 2021, Hadi “Andrew” Nurcahya, a local developer, acquired the property with plans to transform it into a diverse, community-oriented venue. The upcoming features at the newly named The Dryer encompass The Dryer Museum, Katy Beer Garden, a banquet facility, and a multi-vendor food hall that will host Fusion Grill, Taqueria Tex-Taco, El Canton Pizzeria, Jos’Brisket, and Noodle & Satay.
10. The Great Wolf Lodge
Scheduled to debut in November 2024 at the Flyway development center south of NASA Bypass, The Great Wolf Lodge in the Webster area is set to offer a wide array of attractions. The expansive park will encompass 120 acres, housing premium retailers, sports-centric venues, entertainment options, and a boardwalk.