Pre-Trip Fun for Houston, Texas

"Apollo 13" -- Not only was some of the movie filmed here, it spawned that most memorable of city-inclusive lines, "Houston, we have a problem." (School-age and up)

"Friday Night Lights" -- The Texas fascination with all things football is brought to dramatic light. (Preteens and up)

Burritos -- Stuffed (and we mean stuffed!) with beans, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and lettuce, this "Mex" dish (the traditional Mexican burrito has only a single filling, such as beef) gets its decidedly "Tex" flair.

Barbequed brisket -- Barbecue isn't a food here, it's a religion. Serve this with corn on the cob, baked beans, and some cornbread for a fun Texas meal (it's great in sandwiches, too).

"Houston, Texas -- A Photographic Portrait": A pictorial ode to the city of oil is a great primer before the big visit. (All ages)

"Make Way for Sam Houston": The story behind Houston's historic namesake. (Grades 4 to 6)

"The Debs": Somewhat along the lines of "Gossip Girls," this teen book is about four debutantes in Houston. (Teens)

Soda can sculpture -- Mirror the Houston style of creativity and ingenuity (most notably John Milkovisch's Beer Can House) by creating art from something unexpected.

Decorate a Matchbox car -- Houston's Art Cars are more than just vehicles -- they're complex works of folk art. See what you can do to spiff up a miniature car.