It’s that time again, friends, for the annual Softbase Users Conference. As you know, each year we hold this conference for our users to have two days of fellowship and training. It’s an opportunity to enhance your team’s skills and savviness with our dealer management system, making sure your operations run smoother than ever.
This year, it’s happening on August 20 and 21 in the bustling city of Houston, Texas. We know many of you are traveling from all over the country to attend, and we truly appreciate that. In this blog, we wanted to share some of our favorite spots in Houston for you to try while you’re here to make your visit even more memorable.
Restaurants
Starting off with the best eats!
Truth BBQ
If you’re a big red meat lover who enjoys a melt-in-your-mouth experience, Truth BBQ is the place for you. Ranked among the top three spots for Texas-style barbecue, patrons describe its dishes as literally mouthwatering. Their menu features classics such as savory brisket, fall-off-the-bone smoked pork ribs, tender turkey breast, smoked sausage, and slow-cooked pulled pork. (My taste buds are tingling just thinking about it!)
Let’s not forget the sides. You can enjoy creamy mac and cheese, corn pudding, and tater tot casseroles—among other things, but those are crowd favorites.
You know how people say they can tell a place is good when there’s a line outside? Yup, this is one of those places. Depending on when you go, you’ll probably encounter a pretty long line. We just hope it’s worth the wait for you because it sure was for us.
Graffiti Raw
For those seeking an elevated and fine dining experience, Graffiti Raw is the perfect choice. This seafood and sushi restaurant combines artistry with fresh, innovative sushi dishes. Think octopus, shrimp, caviar, and salmon. Despite the name “raw,” only a handful of items are actually raw, so don’t be spooked.
If seafood isn’t your thing but you still want to enjoy a coastal dining experience in the heart of the city, Graffiti Raw offers a variety of options like steak, chicken, and cheeseburgers.
The drinks are 10/10, and the food presentation is outstanding.
The Breakfast Klub
This is one of the best brunch spots in Houston! The Breakfast Klub is famous for its Southern comfort food, including hearty breakfast dishes like chicken and waffles, and catfish and grits. Their signature fried chicken wings are crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, while their pancakes are thick yet melt in your mouth like butter.
The atmosphere feels very homey, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. There’s always going to be a line, but it moves quickly. You can check this one out before the conference, as they open at 7:00 AM.
Coppa Osteria
You better brush up on your Italian before you go to this one! Coppa Osteria is the place to enjoy modern Italian cuisine while sipping some of the best wine you’ve ever tasted. As a sister restaurant to Graffiti Raw, you can expect the ambience and food to be equally excellent.
The menu offers a wide variety of pizzas and pastas, but if you want to truly immerse yourself in Italian culture, explore their cured meats, or “Salumi e Formaggi,” like soppressata (pork) and prosciutto (ham).
Common Bond Café & Bakery
Perfect for a quick breakfast or to grab a sweet treat, Common Bond offers a wide selection of artisan pastries, gourmet coffee, and a cozy ambiance. With four “on the go” bakeries and five bistro and bakery locations in Houston, you’re guaranteed to find one nearby. You can’t go wrong with one of their croissants.
Though known as a great breakfast spot, the bistro also serves lunch and dinner. They offer a tasty and unique variety of salads, sandwiches, and soups that you might not expect at a bakery, so it’s worth a visit!
Attractions
Now moving into what to do!
Houston Space Center
If you’re in town a couple of days before or after the conference, you might want to take a trip down to NASA’s Johnson Space Center. This is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by space exploration.
With over 400 space-related artifacts and interactive exhibitions, you can easily spend a whole day here. Be sure to hop on the tram tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Johnson Space Center, including the historic Mission Control room and astronaut training facilities. For an even deeper dive, join a VIP tour led by NASA experts.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
For those who appreciate art, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is a treasure trove of over 70,000 works spanning 6,000 years. From ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, the museum’s diverse collections include American, European, African, and Latin American art. Visitors can also enjoy rotating exhibitions, film screenings, and various educational programs that provide deeper insights into the world of art. It’s a wonderful place to get lost in beauty and creativity.
During the time of the conference, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will feature Meiji Modern: Fifty Years of New Japan, an exhibition showcasing masterpieces from Japan’s Meiji era (1868–1912). This exhibit reveals the profound cross-cultural impact of Japan’s developing relationships with the wider world. Attendees can explore these historical pieces that highlight Japan’s journey of modernization and global integration through art.
Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
Become an explorer for the day at Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, an underground marvel initially built in 1926 as a drinking water reservoir. Its transformation into a public space offers a unique experience that combines history and modern art. The Cistern’s interior is a vast expanse equivalent to 1.5 football fields, supported by towering 25-foot concrete columns.
This historical site is now a haven for art installations and guided tours that highlight its architectural and historical significance. The eerie yet captivating ambiance, coupled with the 17-second reverberation of sounds, creates an immersive experience for visitors.
Many reviewers rave about how knowledgeable the guides are and about the mesmerizing art exhibitions that often take place. If you’re lucky, you might catch one.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Another must-visit for science enthusiasts is the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which offers both educational and entertaining experiences. The museum features a vast array of exhibits, including the jaw-dropping (pun intended) Morian Hall of Paleontology, the stunning Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, and the fascinating Burke Baker Planetarium. Hands-on experiences and interactive displays make this museum a hit with visitors of all ages. Science geeks and casual visitors alike will find plenty to marvel at here.
Explore Houston!
We hope you enjoy exploring these incredible restaurants and attractions during your visit to Houston for the Softbase Users Conference. With such a diverse range of activities and dining experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Be sure to check out the hotels and accommodations located near the conference venue and the featured spots, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay.
Enjoy your time in Houston, and we look forward to seeing you at the conference!
