Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Houston Intercontinental Airport East, TX

THE HEIGHTS. This two-story concert venue has a 25-year history of presenting live music from local and national groups...

THE HEIGHTS. This two-story concert venue has a 25-year history of presenting live music from local and national groups in an intimate setting, up-close and personal. Whether upstairs or in the downstairs lounge, you're guaranteed to hear loud, live rock and see an eclectic mix of locals, students, punks, and perhaps a few who defy categorization. Two full bars and two pool tables help make downtime fun.

Hours: Contact for Specific Dates and Times

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. Escape big-box clubs and mind-numbing music at so, so appealing La Carafe. Occupying a historic building (yes,...

DOWNTOWN. Escape big-box clubs and mind-numbing music at so, so appealing La Carafe. Occupying a historic building (yes, that slant is character), the wine bar places a premium on conversation and human interaction. Lit primarily by candles, the intimate establishment is perfect for a romantic liaison or an easygoing night out with friends. Indulge in a well-chosen wine list, and delight in a superb jukebox that boasts a wealth of classic, mood-making tunes. Day or night, a terrific hangout with local appeal.

Hours: Daily 1pm-2am

Payment Methods: Cash Only

DOWNTOWN. A mainstay that's getting new life thanks to local revitalization, Warren's still carries on as it always has...

DOWNTOWN. A mainstay that's getting new life thanks to local revitalization, Warren's still carries on as it always has ­ simply, and without fanfare. Its regular clientele are the same. They're just looking for a place to have a drink and decompress after the day, not to pose and preen. A dark wood interior, a jukebox of classics and oldies, and capable bartenders are among its charms, along with a pink neon sign that indicates the bar's outdoor presence. Affordable prices are a nice perk, and the place's sole turret-like booth affords the best vantage point for checking out the goings-on.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat Noon-2am; Sun 2pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

HOUSTON. One thing this sport bar doesn't lack is televisions ­ big screens, small screens, and a few in-between...

HOUSTON. One thing this sport bar doesn't lack is televisions ­ big screens, small screens, and a few in-between screens ­ all 200-plus of them strategically positioned for prime viewing, no matter where you happen to find yourself. Typical sports bar-themed decor abounds ­ of course, here, the Texans, Rockets, 'Stros, and area colleges get ample wall space. On Friday nights, the place gets jumping with live Texas tunes. It also boasts the popular COD Oyster Bar, where fresh-boiled crawfish are an art form.

Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-2am, Sun 11am-midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express

THE HEIGHTS. Comfy and unassuming, Walter's is an ideal destination when you aren't quite ready to head home after work....

THE HEIGHTS. Comfy and unassuming, Walter's is an ideal destination when you aren't quite ready to head home after work. It's even better as the evening progresses and live bands become the focus. They include both local performers and regional institutions, so you can always be assured of a great variety. Plus, the place is intimate enough that you get a good feel for each band. People are known to dance during shows, and cold domestic brews are the drink of choice. Other attractions: a big-screen TV, a kickin' jukebox, and pool tables.

Hours: Daily 8pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

MIDTOWN. With its loft-like appearance, graphic furniture, and expansive patio, this upscale sports bar gets lots of...

MIDTOWN. With its loft-like appearance, graphic furniture, and expansive patio, this upscale sports bar gets lots of support from local business people. They make it a weekday hangout when the work whistle blows, and a well-attended happy hour shows them the love in return. Affordable drinks, pub fare, and plenty of TVs offer ample reason to kick back and relax. If no good game is on, shoot a round of pool, or take in the energetic tunes of live bands from Wednesday to Friday.

Hours: Daily 11am-2am Hours May Vary Seasonally

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

MONTROSE. Popular with Houston's Levis- and leather-wearing crowd, this gay bar doesn't stand on formalities and is...

MONTROSE. Popular with Houston's Levis- and leather-wearing crowd, this gay bar doesn't stand on formalities and is ideal when you need a measure of low-key clubbing. While the place can get crowded, it's a terrific destination for chatting, maybe getting up a game of pool, or kicking back on the outdoor patio. When you've tired of checking out the patrons, set your sights on the stable of dancers. If nothing else, console yourself with cheap drinks and free peanuts ­ it's certain to be a good night!

Hours: Daily 4pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

MONTROSE. Numbers has gained a reputation as being the place in Houston to catch new bands before they've had a chance...

MONTROSE. Numbers has gained a reputation as being the place in Houston to catch new bands before they've had a chance to make it big. Featured performers range in genre from Goth to New Wave to rock-rap, but you can always count on great crowds and one of the area's hippest (and hottest) dance scenes. Past acts have included Hole, Type-O Negative, Ben Folds Five, Coolio, Gravity Kills, and Sevendust.

Hours: Fri-Sat 9pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express

RIVER OAKS. Pay attention as you make your way down Peden Street or you stand a good chance of missing this nondescript...

RIVER OAKS. Pay attention as you make your way down Peden Street or you stand a good chance of missing this nondescript little joint, whose unmarked blue door in no way anticipates the lounge inside. Marfreless fosters a surprisingly romantic setting that makes it a favorite with lovey-dovey couples looking for a quiet table where they can make small talk, nurse a few glasses of wine, and listen to soft classical music. Subdued lighting and several scattered, cozy couches add to the place's intimate appeal.

Hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-2am; Sat-Sun 6pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

MONTROSE. Houston's jazz connoisseurs frequent this intimate, 40-seat venue. An impressive roster of local and...

MONTROSE. Houston's jazz connoisseurs frequent this intimate, 40-seat venue. An impressive roster of local and nationally-recognized acts packs the house on weekends, and a cozy setting means that every seat is a good one. A full bar is available, along with the same appetizers and desserts you'll find at sister-pub The Black Labrador, located downstairs. A perfect choice for a first date!

Hours: Fri-Sat 9pm-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express