Texas City Travel Guide

Explore the vibrant city of Texas with our in-depth travel guide, which covers everything you should know about the city's attractions, food, culture, transportation, and much more.


Introduction to Texas City

Texas City is a charming city nestled in the Gulf Coast region of Texas, United States. Located about 45 miles southeast of Houston, Texas City is a popular tourist destination with a rich cultural and historical heritage, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant food and music scene. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or food lover, Texas City has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Texas City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Texas City boasts a rich cultural history with numerous attractions that showcase its unique heritage. These attractions are perfect for visitors who want to learn more about the city’s past. Here are some must-visit museums and historical places in Texas City:

  • Texas City Museum: Located in the heart of the city, the Texas City Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past with its collection of artifacts, images, and stories from the early days of the city till the present.

  • Depot Museum: This museum is located in the old railroad depot of Texas City and is dedicated to preserving the history of the Texas City Railroad.

  • Texas City Historical Society Museum: This museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Texas City since its inception.

Natural Attractions of Texas City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Texas City is home to some stunning natural scenery and numerous outdoor activities that are perfect for nature lovers. Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, or birdwatching, Texas City has something for you. Here are some must-visit natural attractions in Texas City:

  • Bay Street Park: This park is located on the waterfront and offers a lovely view of the Galveston Bay. It is perfect for picnicking, kite-flying, and relaxing.

  • Moses Lake: This serene lake is home to several species of fish and is popular for fishing and birdwatching.

  • Texas City Dike: Located at the entrance of the Galveston Bay, the Texas City Dike offers stunning views of the bay and is a popular spot for fishing and crabbing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Texas City

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Texas City is by biking or hiking. The city has several well-maintained trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding areas. Here are some popular trails in Texas City:

  • Bay Street Park Trail: This 0.5-mile trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride and offers stunning views of the Galveston Bay.

  • Wright Memorial Park Trail: This 1.6-mile trail is located in the Wright Memorial Park and is ideal for hiking and mountain biking.

  • Dike Hike Trail: This 3-mile trail runs along the Texas City Dike and offers panoramic views of the Galveston Bay.

Best Things to Do in Texas City: Activities and Tours

Texas City offers a myriad of activities and tours that cater to all types of visitors. Whether you want to explore the city’s history, indulge in local cuisine or enjoy the outdoors, Texas City has something for everyone. Here are some top activities and tours to consider in Texas City:

  • Birding Tour: Texas City is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and there are several guided tours available that take you to the best spots for birdwatching.

  • Ghost Tour: If you’re a fan of haunted places, then the Ghost Tour of Texas City is a must-do. The tour takes you to the most haunted spots in the city, and you’ll hear spine-chilling stories from the city’s past.

  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding Tour: For water sports enthusiasts, the kayaking and paddleboarding tour is a great way to explore the Galveston Bay and its surrounding areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Texas City

If you’re planning to spend a week in Texas City, here’s a sample itinerary that covers the best attractions and activities in the city:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Texas City Museum and learn about the city’s history
2 Take a birding tour in the Bay Street Park
3 Explore the Moses Lake and Wright Memorial Park
4 Take a ghost tour of the city
5 Enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the Galveston Bay
6 Visit the Depot Museum and learn about the Texas City Railroad
7 Relax at the Texas City Dike and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Texas City

Must-Try Dishes

Texas City is known for its mouth-watering seafood and spicy Texan cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Texas City are:

  • Fried Shrimp: Texas City is famous for its Gulf Coast seafood, and fried shrimp is a local delicacy that is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

  • Tex-Mex: Texas City is located near the Mexican border, and as a result, Tex-Mex cuisine is prevalent throughout the city. Some of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in Texas City are Mi Tierra and El Tropical.

  • BBQ: Texas is known for its BBQ, and Texas City is no exception. Some of the best BBQ joints in the city are Gus’s Restaurant and BBQ and Texas Pit Stop.

Local Beverages

Texas City has several local breweries and wineries that are worth a visit. Some of the popular breweries and wineries in Texas City are:

  • Galveston Bay Beer Co.: This brewery specializes in crafting small-batch beers that are made from local ingredients.

  • Haak Vineyards & Winery: This winery is located in nearby Santa Fe and offers a fantastic selection of wines made from locally-grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Texas City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Texas City has plenty of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a cozy guesthouse, Texas City has something for everyone. Here are some top accommodation options in Texas City:

  • Comfort Inn & Suites: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, and outdoor pool.

  • Motel 6 Texas City: This budget-friendly hotel is ideal for travelers who are looking for affordable accommodation without compromising on comfort.

  • Crystal Suites: This hotel is perfect for families or large groups and offers spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens.

What to Buy in Texas City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs to take home, Texas City has several options. Some of the popular souvenirs in Texas City are:

  • Seafood: Gulf Coast seafood is some of the best in the world, and you can take home some locally caught shrimp or fish as a memento.

  • Texan Spices: Texas is known for its spicy cuisine, and you can take home some locally-made spices like chili powder or BBQ rub.

Local Culture and Customs of Texas City

Texas City has a unique culture that is deeply rooted in its history and geography. The locals are known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality. Some of the customs and festivals that are unique to Texas City are:

  • Juneteenth: This festival celebrates the end of slavery in Texas and is one of the most important celebrations in the city. The festival is held in June and features music, food, and dance.

  • Mardi Gras: Texas City has its own version of the famous Mardi Gras festival, which is held in February. The festival features parades, costumes, and street performances.

Best Time to Visit Texas City

The best time to visit Texas City is from March to May when the weather is mild, and the crowds are relatively low. The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, but it is a great time to enjoy the beaches and water sports activities. The winter months (December-February) can be chilly, but the city looks beautiful during the holiday season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Texas City

Do:

  • Do try the local seafood and Texan cuisine.

  • Do take part in local festivals and celebrations.

  • Do respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural attractions.

  • Don’t be rude or disrespectful to the locals.

  • Don’t forget to carry sunscreen and water during outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Texas City

Texas City is a relatively safe city, but as with any destination, tourists need to be cautious and take necessary precautions to avoid any untoward incident. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Always carry a map and important contact numbers with you.

  • Avoid isolated areas and dark alleyways at night.

  • Be conscious of your surroundings and avoid flashing expensive equipment or accessories in public places.

Health in Texas City

Texas City has several hospitals and medical facilities that provide quality healthcare to visitors. Here are some hospitals in Texas City:

  • Mainland Medical Center

  • UTMB Health Clear Lake Campus

  • CHI St. Luke’s Health Patients Medical Center

Getting to Texas City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Texas City

  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

Bus Stations Near Texas City

  • Houston Greyhound Terminal

  • Galveston Island Transit

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Several rental car services operate from the airports.

  • Taxi Services: Taxis are available at the airports and bus stations.

How to Get Around in Texas City

The best way to get around Texas City is by car or bike. However, there are also other transportation options available like buses, taxis, and shuttles. Here are some popular transportation options in Texas City:

  • Bay Area Park and Ride: This shuttle service offers convenient transportation to and from Houston and Galveston.

  • Galveston Island Trolley: This trolley service takes you to all the major attractions in Galveston Island.

Where to Go Next from Texas City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore nearby destinations from Texas City, here are some popular choices:

  • Galveston Island: Located just 12 miles southeast of Texas City, Galveston Island is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches, historic attractions, and delicious seafood.

  • Houston: Located about 45 miles northwest of Texas City, Houston is the largest city in Texas and is known for its diverse cultural attractions, food scene, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Texas City is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and vibrant food and music scene. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Texas City has something to offer for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re all set to explore this beautiful city with ease.