Rice University

"On the grounds of Houston’s Rice University lies the otherworldly Twilight Epiphany, one of Turrell’s largest skyspaces in the world—it can seat up to 120 people on two levels. Just before sunrise and sunset an LED-light sequence is projected onto the pyramid pavilion’s 72-foot square roof and aperture in the ceiling, creating a light show that plays with the changing colors of the sky during dawn and twilight."

"You may not think of a university as a go-to spot for a scenic afternoon, but Rice University is a 300-acre green oasis in the center of the country's fourth largest city. The entire campus, a designated teaching and research arboretum, regularly earns the Tree Campus USA designation from the Arbor Day Foundation. What can you expect once you’re here? More than 216 species of birds (making Rice one of the premier bird-watching locations in the nation), a 2.9-mile decomposed-granite sidewalk for walkers and joggers, distinctive architecture, and an extensive collection of public art." - Marcy de Luna