3 Ways to Stay Cool in Houston This Summer
Don’t let the heat spoil your fun! Here are three ways to stay cool in Houston this summer.
- Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown
This is the biggest water park in Houston, making it the perfect place to spend a hot Summer’s day. Go tubing on the relaxing paradise river, swim in the wave pool, or take a chance and try one of their thrill-seeker water slides.
- Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens has so much to offer both the kids and adults in your family. Located on Galveston Island, this is a great day trip that lets you get out of the city and escape the heat. Start by wandering through the rainforest and aquarium for indoor fun, then spend the afternoon at Moody Garden’s Palm Beach. This water park comes equipped with water slides, a wave pool, and a watery playground for the kids with a timed dump bucket. Relax on the lazy river before heading home.
- Galveston Island State Park
If you want to escape the heat of the city, head to Galveston Island State Park. It offers miles of picturesque beaches and walking trails to observe the wildlife. If the heat gets to be too much, the ocean is always close by for you to dip your feet in or go for a swim. If you have a small canoe or kayak, you can bring it along to enjoy the calming waters of Galveston Island’s paddling trails.
Next time the temperatures soar, plan a trip to one of these watery hotspots.
3 Reasons to Love the 2021 Volkswagen Tarek
Volkswagen is coming out with a new subcompact SUV. Here are a few features we know you’ll love about the 2021 Tarek.
Trim Levels
The 2021 Tarek is expected to come in four trim levels. These include the S (standard), SE, SEL, and the R-Line.
Fuel Economy and Power
There is still a lot of mystery surrounding the 2021 Volkswagen Tarek’s engine capabilities. Based on the fuel economy and engine features on past Volkswagen models such as the Volkswagen Jetta or the Volkswagen Tiguan, we can estimate that the 2021 Tarek will likely have some of their traits and more.
It will most likely have a 1.4-2.0 liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine, which makes between 140-180 horsepower. In addition, it will likely have an 8-speed automatic transmission and even all-wheel driving capabilities.
Interior Features and Technology
Based on the features in the 2020 Tiguan, a compact SUV model offered by Volkswagen, we can make several assumptions about the interior features of the 2021 Tarek. The 2020 Tiguan seats up to seven passengers depending on the trim, so we can assume that the subcompact Tarek seats between four to five passengers, although we won’t know the exact seating capacity until Volkswagen reveals more intriguing details.
The 2021 Tarek will most likely also come equipped with the latest technology such as light assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear traffic alerts, a touchscreen sound system, WiFi hotspots, and wireless charging capabilities for your smartphone.
Check out the latest Volkswagen models at Archer Volkswagen. We are happy to be of service and answer any questions you may have about our inventory.
The city of Houston, Texas is filled with unique attractions for you to explore. Here are three highlights that you cannot experience anywhere else:
- Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
The Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern is an underground water reservoir that has sat beneath Buffalo Bayou Park for almost a century. You can tour this fascinating underground structure for just $2 a person, and it’s well worth it. You’ll be transported back in time to the early 1900s as you wander through the dark, damp, and utterly spectacular piece of 20th-century infrastructure.
- National Museum of Funeral History
The National Museum of Funeral History is a fascinating collection of coffins, hearses, and programs from famous people’s funerals to marvel at. It also offers an intriguing look into funeral practices of the past and present with exhibits such as The History of Cremation to help you gain a new perspective on the funeral service industry.
- The Big Bubble
Help keep the Bayou clean by pressing the red button. If you go to Preston Street Bridge in Houston you can take part in this exciting yet also ecologically-helpful activity! It was designed by artist Dean Ruck in 1998 and it has been mystifying locals and tourists alike ever since. Once you press the button, it activates the underwater system that causes the water to bubble up to the surface, making it appear much like someone just cannon-balled into the Bayou.
The next time you are feeling a bit adventurous, check out these one-of-a-kind Houston attractions.
2 Reasons Parents Love the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize-SUV that was meant for families. Here are two reasons why parents love the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas.
Interior Space
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas comes equipped with three rows of seats and seven seats total, making it perfect for adventures with the whole family, or taking your kids and their friends to the movies. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about taking out your child’s booster seat in order to move the second row forward for entry or exit from the third row. This is because the seat is designed to tilt slightly instead of folding completely.
There are also 21 cubic feet of storage space behind the third row of seats. This is perfect to store your family’s luggage for long road trips, and large enough to store your kids’ and their friends’ sports gear on the way to and from practices or games.
Safety Features
Parents also love the 2020 Volkswagen Altas because of its outstanding safety features. It comes with rear traffic alerts, automatic emergency brakes, and blind-spot technology to help you navigate your trip safely and keep your kids safe in the process. What’s more, the 2019 model got top safety ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). If you want even more safety features in your Atlas, you can upgrade from the standard trim level.
Stop by Archer Volkswagen to check out our 2020 Volkswagen Atlas inventory and take one for a test drive.
Looking for the next place to satisfy your sweet tooth? Here are two places in Houston where you can do exactly that.
Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor
If you are one for handmade ice cream, Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor, located at 9291 South Main Street, has all you could want and more in terms of ice cream flavors. This family-owned shop has been serving ice cream for over 20 years, and their menu is to thank for that. They have 18 flavors that change each day. You can choose from a cup or waffle cone paired with delicious flavors like Dulce de Leche, Banana Pudding, and Cake Batter. If you want the full experience, go for their sundae or banana split or opt for one of their delicious milkshakes.
River Oaks Donuts
If you are not in the mood for ice cream, pop by River Oaks Donuts on 3601 Westheimer Road. This is not your typical donut shop. Their menu is full of delicious donut options. You can choose from their main donut selection which includes items like Mapel with Bacon, S’mores, or classics like Chocolate Glazed.
If that doesn’t pique your interest, there are more options including cake donuts with flavors like Devil’s Food, Blueberry, or Powdered Sugar, or you could choose filled donuts like Chocolate, Strawberry, or Cappuccino Cream. Did someone say coffee? You can get great coffee here, too. Enjoy a Latte, Americano, or a Cappuccino with your donut!
The next time you are craving a treat, stop into one of these sweet tooth spots.
Looking for the next place to satisfy your sweet tooth? Here are two places in Houston where you can do exactly that.
Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor
If you are one for handmade ice cream, Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor, located at 9291 South Main Street, has all you could want and more in terms of ice cream flavors. This family-owned shop has been serving ice cream for over 20 years, and their menu is to thank for that. They have 18 flavors that change each day. You can choose from a cup or waffle cone paired with delicious flavors like Dulce de Leche, Banana Pudding, and Cake Batter. If you want the full experience, go for their sundae or banana split or opt for one of their delicious milkshakes.
River Oaks Donuts
If you are not in the mood for ice cream, pop by River Oaks Donuts on 3601 Westheimer Road. This is not your typical donut shop. Their menu is full of delicious donut options. You can choose from their main donut selection which includes items like Mapel with Bacon, S’mores, or classics like Chocolate Glazed.
If that doesn’t pique your interest, there are more options including cake donuts with flavors like Devil’s Food, Blueberry, or Powdered Sugar, or you could choose filled donuts like Chocolate, Strawberry, or Cappuccino Cream. Did someone say coffee? You can get great coffee here, too. Enjoy a Latte, Americano, or a Cappuccino with your donut!
The next time you are craving a treat, stop into one of these sweet tooth spots.
The 3 Most Charming and Unique Houston Gift Shops
If you’re searching for the perfect gift for that special someone, you can count on finding something unique at one of Houston’s many fantastic gift shops. Whatever the occasion, an item from one of these shops makes it even more special. Here are the three most charming gift shops in Houston, Texas.
- Space Montrose
At Space Montrose, you’ll find a variety of handcrafted gifts from all over Texas and the United States. Unique items include everything from Texas-themed jewelry to feline-inspired home decor. You’ll also find an incredible selection of soy-based scented candles and all-natural beauty products. To accompany your gift, Space Montrose offers a variety of quirky greeting cards that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Kuhl-Linscomb
No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at Kuhl-Linscomb. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the finest bath, hair care, and grooming products available in Houston. If you’re shopping for younger family members, the shop has an incredible selection of children’s clothing and toys. Your mom or your sister will enjoy an exquisite handbag, scarf, or piece of jewelry. For the men in your life, Kuhl-Linscomb carries a variety of accessories, apparel, and travel gear. You’ll even find home goods and pet products.
- Coda
Coda is the perfect destination to find a gift for anyone hard to shop for. That special someone will love a wise owl figurine, kitty pillow, or lizard painting. These are just a few of the unique items that this eclectic shop offers.
Be sure to visit these three top gift shops in Houston. At any one of these shops, you’re sure to find the perfect gift.
The 3 Classiest Steakhouses in Houston
Nothing beats a steakhouse for a special night out. Read on to learn about the three classiest steakhouses in Houston.
- Steak 48
At Steak 48, open in Houston since 2016, every steak is wet-aged for 28 days and hand-cut by an in-house master butcher. Steak options include filet mignon, domestic Wagyu, and Kansas City strip. Other main dishes include sustainably sourced seafood, pork chops, chicken, and lamb.
Bar offerings at Steak 48 include over 50 varieties of bourbon and whiskey, 60 varieties of scotch, and over 100 wines. Steak 48 begins serving dinner daily at 5 p.m. Reservations are required.
- Mastro’s Steakhouse
Mastro’s Steakhouse is an elegant steakhouse consistently ranked as one of the finest in the States. Mastro’s prides itself on its unparalleled service and highest-quality ingredients. Many steak options are available at Mastro’s including a double-cut porterhouse. For the ultimate steak dinner, be sure to try Mastro’s true A5 Kobe beef or Japanese A5 Wagyu.
Mastro’s opens daily for dinner at 5 p.m. Reservations are required.
- Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
At Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, all of the beef is corn-fed, USDA Prime and sourced from a single Midwest packer to ensure the highest quality. Two on-site butchers cut every piece of beef and lamb served. All cuts of beef are dry-aged in-house for a minimum of 28 days to ensure the best flavor. Beef options include an Akaushi filet mignon, ribeye, and New York Strip.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse opens daily at 5 p.m. Reservations are required.
These three Houston steakhouses provide great service, delicious food, and a stellar ambiance. Check them out for your next celebration.
The Atlas Cross Sport is packed with amenities sure to please every family member. Here are three things you should know about the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport.
- Engine and Performance
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is available with two powerful engines. The base engine is a 235 horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4. Also available is a 276 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. An all-wheel-drive option is available for both engines.
The I-4 engine has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. When properly equipped, the V-6 engine has an impressive towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
- Interior Comforts
The 2020 Cross Sport provides roomy seating for five, making it a great option for families with older children. Without the third row behind it, the split-folding bench in the second row can slide back more, creating three inches of additional legroom.
The Atlas Cross Sport provides an impressive 40 cubic feet of cargo space. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat allows you to customize your cargo area.
Infotainment amenities in the Cross Sport include a touch screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher-end models also include wireless charging.
- Sleek Exterior Design
Modern and sleek, the Atlas Cross Sport will get you noticed. The Cross Sport features a raked roofline, bold wheels, and silver roof rails. An optional panoramic sunroof allows both rows of passengers to see the sky.
If you think the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport is the car for you, head over to Archer Volkswagen. Our friendly staff can help you find the perfect Volkswagen for you.
3 Lesser-Known Features on the 2020 Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is known for its fuel-efficiency, sporty looks, and modern safety features. But the Tiguan also includes several lesser-known features that make every drive better. Here are three lesser-known features on the 2020 Tiguan.
- Adaptive Front Lighting
The Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) includes several features that make night driving safer and easier. The AFS automatically switches between low and high beams to provide optimum illumination without blinding other drivers. The AFS system also moves your headlights as your vehicle turns to increase visibility. The AFS system is standard on the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL Premium R-Line model.
- App-Connect
App-Connect is standard on all Tiguans. App-Connect allows you to access a variety of smartphone apps on your touch screen display. Apps that can be accessed via App-Connect included navigation/maps, text messages, music, audiobooks, and podcasts. App-Connect works via Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink.
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
The SEL Premium R-Line includes the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. The Digital Cockpit is a highly-customizable driver-information display that replaces old-fashioned gauges on your dash. Accessible Cockpit features include the speedometer, fuel economy, navigation, phone, safety features, and driving range. You can easily access and switch between features using the steering-wheel-mounted controls. Also, the Digital Cockpit allows you to store several unique display settings, allowing different drivers to customize the cabin temperature, seat settings, mirror settings, and more to their liking.
Head over to Archer Volkswagen today to check out the Volkswagen Tiguan for yourself. Our experienced staff can help you find the perfect vehicle for you.
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