How To Have A 'Ferris Buellers Day Off' In Houston

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.”

We all know the film where the infamous Ferris cleverly cons his parents before gallivanting around Chicago for a day. The movie captures the true essence of the city through the outrageous escapades of Ferris and friends. In honor of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’s 30th anniversary, the time has come to be the star of your own day of “playing hooky” in Houston. It would be rude not to. Avoid commandeering your friend’s Dad’s Ferrari though. Other than that, enjoy!

Agora

Calling in sick to work and school can be emotionally exhausting. Coffee makes everything better. In ancient Greek times, an agora was a public open space used for assemblies and markets. It may not be Greece, but Agora in Montrose is the perfect spot to grab a great cup of Joe. Start your escapades by smelling the sweet aroma of artisanal coffee beans and be sure to go wild with the stunning selection of European delicacies.

The Cullen Sculpture Garden

Cullen Sculpture Garden | Courtesy Of Tori Chalmers

Once fully caffeinated, take a short drive to the Cullen Sculpture Garden. This contemporary take on a classic garden was created by the sculptor Isamu Noguchi, and is the epitome of tranquility and serenity. There are a number of artists who have left their mark here, from Henri Matisse to David Smith and Louise Bourgeois. The concrete walls are balanced out with the selection of native plants and trees and the sculptures could not be more perfectly picked. Relax and enjoy a wander around the grounds before the real shenanigans begin!

The Museum Of Fine Arts, Houston

Museum, Art Gallery

Take a stroll across the street to Museum Of Fine Arts, Houston. From contemporary to classical, surrealist, sculptural, and decorative artworks, the MFAH has it all. And you thought you wouldn’t have any fun! In other words, this place is a no-brainer when it comes to having your very own Ferris Beuller’s Day Off. Hold hands if you want, just like the movie. This prestigious place has an infinite list of events and festivities for all. And that’s just scratching the surface. Admission is entirely free on a Thursday.

JPMorgan Chase Tower And Observation Deck

Building

Imitate Ferris and squash your face up against the glass. However, the JPMorgan Chase Tower And Observation Deck is not for those with a fear of heights. At 75 stories high, this building is the tallest in Houston — anything is peaceful from that far up. In order to avoid the workout of a lifetime, get the elevator to floor 60. Try not to imitate Will Ferrell in the film Elf by pressing all the buttons. Expect breathtaking views of the city and an incredibly cool Kodak moment.

Houston Tunnels

After exploring the Houston skyline, take the escalators and submerge yourself 20 feet below in the subterranean tunnel system. Don’t get lost — there are 6 miles worth of winding passageways. Inspired by the tunnels at the Rockefeller Center in NYC, Ross Sterling created the first part of this mysterious maze to tie the two buildings together in the 1930s. Today, this underground wonder connects 95 city blocks. Let’s be honest, this is the perfect opportunity to fulfill any secret agent dreams.

Frank’s Pizza

What better way to fuel a Ferris Bueller’s Day Off than a gargantuan slice of pie? Located in the Historic District downtown, Frank’s Pizza is perfectly positioned near the tunnels and Chase Tower. A casual hangout that would be right at home in Little Italy, NYC, the hand-tossed pizza found at Frank’s is a day-maker. Thirsty? Frank’s has you covered —beer and wine are served too.

Miller Outdoor Theatre

Miller Outdoor Theater | © Deepak Bawa/Flickr

Next, make sure to avoid the boss and head on over to the Miller Outdoor Theatre. Since 1923, Hermann Park has been home to many outdoor performances. This beauty happens to be the only proscenium theatre in the country that offers an eight-month season of performances totally free of charge to the public. Thank you Miller. Moreover, this cool hangout is one of the top people watching spots in Houston.

Nan’s Games And Comics Too

It’s not game over yet. Now, cruise across town and feel the 80s nostalgia at Nan’s Games And Comics Too. This cavern is a welcomed blast from the past. From a vast array of retro and contemporary comic books to novelty gifts, graphic novels, RPGs, and board games, Nan’s has heads spinning. Looking for that superhero figurine? What about that board game for a rainy day? They have it all. Warning for Marvel fans — Nan’s is too exciting for words.

Houston’s

Restaurant

Running around makes anyone hungry. Ferris and friends almost got busted when dining in the same fancy restaurant as Ferris’s father. Don’t worry — there is no need to pose as the Sausage King to get into Houston’s. Instead, enjoy the ambience with the hip low lighting and anticipate a darn good meal. Whether it is a classic steak, seafood, or a burger, Houston’s will never disappoint. Why not add a fancy cocktail to the mix? There are a couple of locations around town to pick from.

The James Turrell Skyspace

Swimming Pool, University

There couldn’t possibly be a more perfect way to end the day than James Turrell’s ‘Twilight Epiphany’ Skyspace. It may not be a swimming pool but it is a prime place to relax. Forget about calling in sick and enter into the twilight zone. Located at Rice University, this pyramidal structure is comprised of stone, grass, concrete, and composite steel. At sunrise and sunset, LED lights dance amidst the natural light on the roof. Gazing at these incandescent rays result in many an epiphany. You knew what you were doing when you woke up this morning, didn’t you?