tierwestah Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 I drove down there last night to see the crowd for the Jay-Z concert. The police had that block blocked off so no cars could pass. However, all the hoopla about how the skyrings were supposed to light up and glow. I was disappointed. If that's the spectactular way they're supposed to glow and be stunning, then I have to say I was expecting more. I guess all the lighting hasn't been installed yet because this thing isnt quite finished.Anyone know if the lighting is complete on this thing? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HtownWxBoy Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 That seems kind of screwy to open a mall with only 4 tenants, then wait several months before opening the rest. What's the logic behind that?I thought it would be nice if everything opened together, but if some stores are ready to open and they can open and begin making money why not just let them open. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
memebag Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 This is increasingly common practice within the retail sector... in bigger developments, they'll open up the anchors first, which helps build anticipation for the rest of the development.That seems screwy. They've got excitement when the mall opens, but they dilute it when folks visit and there are only 4 stores open. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wernicke Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 Just drove by... they are planting very tall bamboo plants in the beds in the center of the pedestrian walkways... seems like an odd choice. Near HOB, the bamboo plants almost overwhelm the walkway.I may go back and snap some pictures later today. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
midtownuser Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 Just drove by... they are planting very tall bamboo plants in the beds in the center of the pedestrian walkways... seems like an odd choice. Near HOB, the bamboo plants almost overwhelm the walkway.I may go back and snap some pictures later today.i read it as: "I may go back and snap some (bamboo trees)." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
totheskies Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 Where are the jumbotrons?? I've been looking for them!!I walked around it earlier this week, but am going back tonight to visit Book-a-Million. It's so nice to have a BAM within biking distance of my house! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rsb320 Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 Just drove by... they are planting very tall bamboo plants in the beds in the center of the pedestrian walkways... seems like an odd choice. Near HOB, the bamboo plants almost overwhelm the walkway.I may go back and snap some pictures later today.You could make yourself a real nice fishing pole. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BigSky Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 Just finished eating at HOB...It is fantastic and was packed and full of excitement, many tourist eating at the restaurant. I also took a stroll to BAM and I must say that it had a nice crowd shopping and buying stuff. I think this thing is going to be a success. It was long over due for Houston. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
N Judah Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 I wandered around yesterday afternoon and liked it also. Only a couple of shops were open and HOB was deserted (no, I didn't eat there)...some radio station had vehicles parked in front of HOB which made me think there was a concert promotion going on. I will re-visit when more things are open. It will be appealing to conventioneers but at some point you're going to want them to get on the LRT and go somewhere where they can spend money on stuff that is unique to Houston. Overall a good start. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
diggity Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 at some point you're going to want them to get on the LRT and go somewhere where they can spend money on stuff that is unique to Houstonwhat would that be exactly? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jax Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 What are the hours at this place? Is it open later than 5 pm or on weekends? If so I might ride the rail down to check it out tomorrow evening after I finish my take home exam in solid state physics! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gene Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 I am sure it will have hours similar to all malls...and House Of Blues is open 7 days a week 11am to 11pm although it is open later if they have a late running show they said. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tierwestah Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 Where are the jumbotrons?? I've been looking for them!!I walked around it earlier this week, but am going back tonight to visit Book-a-Million. It's so nice to have a BAM within biking distance of my house!That's what I'm wondering. I asked about the glowing skyrings and lights earlier. Since no one on haif seems to be able to answer the question, I'll send an email to the adress listed on the website. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
roadrunner Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 I walked around it this afternoon and it was pretty dead. The stores open had pretty good crowds, though. It should be a solid project once everything gets going. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GovernorAggie Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 What are the hours at this place? Is it open later than 5 pm or on weekends? If so I might ride the rail down to check it out tomorrow evening after I finish my take home exam in solid state physics!Books-A-Million is open to 11 pm everyday except Sunday, which is when it closes at 9. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
N Judah Posted October 17, 2008 Share Posted October 17, 2008 what would that be exactly?Oh geez, too many to list here. It all depends on your particular interests. I suggest getting a guidebook (or poking around this web site) or just plain old getting out there and exploring the city. There is a lot to do if you are willing to look for it. Good luck, and enjoy your stay! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KimberlySayWhat Posted October 18, 2008 Share Posted October 18, 2008 I walked for a little bit this morning and thought it was great. Nothing was open. It was too early. I agree it will be better once it's complete. Granted I have bad taste, I like all the bamboo. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lockmat Posted October 18, 2008 Share Posted October 18, 2008 Looks like they're called "Sky Rings"Concerning Lucky Strike:The Houston location also will be one of only three in the nation to have a Luxe Lounge, where customers can bowl while watching short films projected in 3-D. It's, "dog-friendly"http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/hous...}&dist=hppr Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ricco67 Posted October 18, 2008 Share Posted October 18, 2008 DOG FRIENDLY? On the THIRD floor?Good lord. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KimberlySayWhat Posted October 18, 2008 Share Posted October 18, 2008 It's gonna stank. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Houston19514 Posted October 20, 2008 Share Posted October 20, 2008 It's the open-air Houston Pavilions that is dog-friendly, not Lucky Strike Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fatesdisastr Posted October 20, 2008 Share Posted October 20, 2008 my friend was able to score me a Grand Opening poster for the House of Blues Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HtownWxBoy Posted October 20, 2008 Share Posted October 20, 2008 my friend was able to score me a Grand Opening poster for the House of Blues Took my boyfriend Downtown to eat lunch Saturday after I got off work... wanted to go to HOB but it was closed to the public b/c of the Grand Opening! So, we went to the Spaghetti House... one of our fav places! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KimberlySayWhat Posted October 20, 2008 Share Posted October 20, 2008 Does anyone know if Lucky Strike is going to be like this one in Italy? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Y4xWiUENBc Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fatesdisastr Posted October 20, 2008 Share Posted October 20, 2008 Does anyone know if Lucky Strike is going to be like this one in Italy? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Y4xWiUENBc haha Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LTAWACS Posted October 22, 2008 Share Posted October 22, 2008 DOG FRIENDLY? On the THIRD floor?Good lord.I can see all the thugz with their pitbulls roaming the place now. Not spending any money and driving away other patrons. Causing trouble. Great. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KimberlySayWhat Posted October 22, 2008 Share Posted October 22, 2008 Businesses are so discriminatory against cats. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jayshoota Posted October 22, 2008 Share Posted October 22, 2008 I saw 3 people who looked to be tourist walking away from HP yesterday. They were carrying bags from not only BAM and Forever 21 but Macy's bags too. Good sign. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wernicke Posted October 22, 2008 Share Posted October 22, 2008 Anyone know if there is free Wi-Fi in Books-a-Million? I got off early and was thinking about heading over there. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kylejack Posted October 22, 2008 Share Posted October 22, 2008 I wandered around yesterday afternoon and liked it also. Only a couple of shops were open and HOB was deserted (no, I didn't eat there)...some radio station had vehicles parked in front of HOB which made me think there was a concert promotion going on. I will re-visit when more things are open. It will be appealing to conventioneers but at some point you're going to want them to get on the LRT and go somewhere where they can spend money on stuff that is unique to Houston. Overall a good start. Bulldoze a bunch of houses and run the rail line directly to Downing Street at Westheimer and Kirby, worry about the fallout later. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
N Judah Posted October 22, 2008 Share Posted October 22, 2008 (edited) Bulldoze a bunch of houses and run the rail line directly to Downing Street at Westheimer and Kirby, worry about the fallout later. They can send it right down West Gray straight to the Galleria. One of the stops could be a hollowed-out mansion. Edited October 22, 2008 by N Judah Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wernicke Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 FYI: No free internet at Books-a-Million. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
worldlyman Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 My wife and I went milling about Houston Pavilions last Saturday. I thought that McCormick & Schmicks might be open. But the feel and look of the place EXCEEDS what I saw in the renderings. It is a fantastic design. It's certainly different. Just like Horton Plaza in San Diego is different...Houston Pavilions is different. The view of the skycrapers is astounding.I just can't wait for more shops to open there...getting more customers. There were some people at Books A Million that night.My complaint is that the guard rails around the cross rings could be higher. It is so easy just to jump down on San Jac or Fannin from that...or be pushed over.And parking could be at least 3 bucks instead of the 5 we paid that night. I personally don't mind paying 5...but I just want added incentive for more patronizing.Houston Pavilions is the kind of place that can really attract regularly...I just can't get over how cool that design is.Has anyone tried walking there from the Pavilions to about Main @ Capitol (or close to Sambuca)? What's the distance like? I know I could look that up on a map or something but would still want to know how someone else finds a stroll like that.I wanted to stroll that but my wife was heavily disappointed that McCormick & Schmicks was not open and she was hungry (wound up going to La Strada in Montrose). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
brian0123 Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 My wife and I went milling about Houston Pavilions last Saturday. I thought that McCormick & Schmicks might be open. But the feel and look of the place EXCEEDS what I saw in the renderings. It is a fantastic design. It's certainly different. Just like Horton Plaza in San Diego is different...Houston Pavilions is different. The view of the skycrapers is astounding.I just can't wait for more shops to open there...getting more customers. There were some people at Books A Million that night.My complaint is that the guard rails around the cross rings could be higher. It is so easy just to jump down on San Jac or Fannin from that...or be pushed over.And parking could be at least 3 bucks instead of the 5 we paid that night. I personally don't mind paying 5...but I just want added incentive for more patronizing.Houston Pavilions is the kind of place that can really attract regularly...I just can't get over how cool that design is.Has anyone tried walking there from the Pavilions to about Main @ Capitol (or close to Sambuca)? What's the distance like? I know I could look that up on a map or something but would still want to know how someone else finds a stroll like that.I wanted to stroll that but my wife was heavily disappointed that McCormick & Schmicks was not open and she was hungry (wound up going to La Strada in Montrose).That is exactly what my wife and I thought of the place as well. Insane sky rings (especially scary on the third level looking down), awesome views of downtown, easy layout... an incredible design all around. We live in Midtown, and are ecstatic at how this place has already surpassed our expectations. When the developers were saying this is going to be a downtown changer... I was a little skeptical. Not any more. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
houstonartstudent Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 My wife and I went milling about Houston Pavilions last Saturday. I thought that McCormick & Schmicks might be open. But the feel and look of the place EXCEEDS what I saw in the renderings. It is a fantastic design. It's certainly different. Just like Horton Plaza in San Diego is different...Houston Pavilions is different. The view of the skycrapers is astounding.I just can't wait for more shops to open there...getting more customers. There were some people at Books A Million that night.My complaint is that the guard rails around the cross rings could be higher. It is so easy just to jump down on San Jac or Fannin from that...or be pushed over.And parking could be at least 3 bucks instead of the 5 we paid that night. I personally don't mind paying 5...but I just want added incentive for more patronizing.Houston Pavilions is the kind of place that can really attract regularly...I just can't get over how cool that design is.Has anyone tried walking there from the Pavilions to about Main @ Capitol (or close to Sambuca)? What's the distance like? I know I could look that up on a map or something but would still want to know how someone else finds a stroll like that.I wanted to stroll that but my wife was heavily disappointed that McCormick & Schmicks was not open and she was hungry (wound up going to La Strada in Montrose).It's Doable - might not suggest it at night though - I work in first city tower and sometimes the coworkers want to go to Frank's Pizza which is pretty much the same distance...it's not too bad but you will feel like you just walked off your dinner, which is always good I suppose Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jax Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 There's no big deal in walking along main at night in my opinion. I do it all the time. It's about 5 blocks, 0.3 miles from the Pavilions to Main@Capitol. And the walk takes you past places like the Flying Saucer where there are always people around so I think it's a reasonable walk. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sevfiv Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 Maybe I just walk a lot, but I agree with the above.Also (and sorry if this has been asked/answered already) I haven't made it there yet and as wondering how late are the pavilion/stores generally open? And I understand you can pay to park, but what about street parking if you drive down there? There used to be plenty if I remember correctly... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
musicman Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 Maybe I just walk a lot, but I agree with the above.Also (and sorry if this has been asked/answered already) I haven't made it there yet and as wondering how late are the pavilion/stores generally open? And I understand you can pay to park, but what about street parking if you drive down there? There used to be plenty if I remember correctly...i depends what's going on in the area already. as more stores/restaurants start to open, there will be less. i was at toyota center a few weekends ago and ended up parking by HP for the concert, since HP hadn't opened yet. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kylejack Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 (edited) There's no big deal in walking along main at night in my opinion. I do it all the time. It's about 5 blocks, 0.3 miles from the Pavilions to Main@Capitol. And the walk takes you past places like the Flying Saucer where there are always people around so I think it's a reasonable walk.Correct, I've always felt very safe walking down Main Street at night, or really anywhere in downtown aside from the bus station (URGGGGGGHH I hate that area) and its a short walk to Sambuca from Pavilions. Edited October 23, 2008 by kylejack Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daniepwils Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 (edited) Downtown is pretty safe. Main street in particular is safe as well, I see police roaming around all the time too so that helps I'd imagine. If you look at the crime stats in downtown the biggest crime is vehicular burglary. Edited October 23, 2008 by Daniepwils Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kylejack Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 Downtown is pretty safe. Main street in particular is safe as well, I see police roaming around all the time too so that helps I'd imagine. If you look at the crime stats in downtown the biggest crime is vehicular burglary.Yeah, its been a long long long time since I saw a mention of violent crime in downtown, and even that has been limited to some rowdy bars. I have a feeling most crimes are break ins of cars parked in the lots, probably just as many during the work day as there are at night. There's some panhandling in certain places, but most of it has been pretty low-key, imo. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Great Hizzy! Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 Knock on wood: I've never experienced any vandalism to my car when I park downtown (and sometimes I drive to work during the day). I've never had a problem with being approached or threatened (although, I admit that I'm a larger size than average). However, I think there is a perception of danger in certain areas of downtown because a) some places at the street level aren't as well lit, b.) some places feel more isolated than others, and c.) there are still some homeless people floating about the streets and for some people coming across them is a little worrisome.Overall, though, I think downtown's pretty safe. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jax Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 I was at HP the other day. I bought a limited edition Vonnegut book at BAM (which was a very nice store). I liked what I saw, but it did feel a bit empty (more in terms of lack of stores more than lack of people). I am really looking forward to seeing it filled up some day. When I walked around, I only noticed that only two stores were open (Forever 21 and BAM). Some of the future restaurant spaces looked really nice too. I'm looking forward to it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lockmat Posted October 23, 2008 Share Posted October 23, 2008 Books-a-Million Grand Opening EventsFriday October 24, 200810:00 am Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rsb320 Posted October 24, 2008 Share Posted October 24, 2008 (edited) I heard some scoop on HOB.Apparently, they have some sort of contractual stipulation whereas a performer cannot do a show at another venue and then perform at HOB. Well, BB King performed at the Arena and then HOB denied him a show there. Then, Beeb's got on the phone and took care of that and then performed. He then went on to NOLA HOB and announced that the Houston HOB was the * venue he'd ever played. I've heard other performers have cancelled. Looks like the manager is a SOB.Keep in mind that this information is all hearsay. Edited November 3, 2008 by dbigtex56 language Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pumapayam Posted October 24, 2008 Share Posted October 24, 2008 I heard some scoop on HOB.Apparently, they have some sort of contractual stipulation whereas a performer cannot do a show at another venue and then perform at HOB. Well, BB King performed at the Arena and then HOB denied him a show there. Then, Beeb's got on the phone and took care of that and then performed. He then went on to NOLA HOB and announced that the Houston HOB was the * venue he'd ever played. I've heard other performers have cancelled. Looks like the manager is a SOB.Keep in mind that this information is all hearsay.Ouch!I thought people cancelled because of post Ike issues. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LTAWACS Posted October 24, 2008 Share Posted October 24, 2008 I heard some scoop on HOB.Apparently, they have some sort of contractual stipulation whereas a performer cannot do a show at another venue and then perform at HOB. Well, BB King performed at the Arena and then HOB denied him a show there. Then, Beeb's got on the phone and took care of that and then performed. He then went on to NOLA HOB and announced that the Houston HOB was the * venue he'd ever played. I've heard other performers have cancelled. Looks like the manager is a SOB.Keep in mind that this information is all hearsay.So... bands can only play at our HOB FIRST?? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rsb320 Posted October 24, 2008 Share Posted October 24, 2008 So... bands can only play at our HOB FIRST??The way I understood it is that a band can only play HOB and nothing else while in town. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Northwood Posted October 24, 2008 Share Posted October 24, 2008 A lot of entertainment contracts have this sort of stipulation. They prevent you from having a performance in the same town as their venue within a certain time window. Some even limit the performer from giving a free show in that town. I believe the intent is to maximize the promoters revenue by limiting supply and forcing the crowds to pay their high ticket price. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
brian0123 Posted October 24, 2008 Share Posted October 24, 2008 A lot of entertainment contracts have this sort of stipulation. They prevent you from having a performance in the same town as their venue within a certain time window. Some even limit the performer from giving a free show in that town. I believe the intent is to maximize the promoters revenue by limiting supply and forcing the crowds to pay their high ticket price.You are 100% correct. I am in a band and yes, it's done to ensure that your fans actually show up to the show... Otherwise, they would skip the HOB show and just check out the band in a cheaper venue. Maybe the HOB in NOLA let's BB bend the rules, but any other band should follow their rules... and rightfully so. The only time I think the exclusivity agreement should be waived is when the HOB sells out and they cannot get another show setup while that artist is in town. That way, the artist still brings in $ to HOB, along with allowing more people to see them. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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