Ex pthloe re
Gulf Coast
THE BOUNTY OF TEXAS IS ON FULL DISPLAY
across the sprawling shoreline of the Gulf Coast. Here,
beach towns like Corpus Christi, Galveston, and Port
Aransas supply sandy frolic for the thousands that throng
the 624 miles of shoreline to swim, fish, boat, and surf,
while Houston offers a cultural mecca as the fourth-largest city in the nation.
HARVEST
MOONINTERNATIONAL
REGATTA, GALVESTON
| TEXAS
12
TOUR
GUIDE 2015-2017
6
Le
290
w
isv
Beaumont
Spring
ill
90
e
RI
59
VE
An
gle
ton
LO
CO
A
rg
be ARE d
sen E an
Ro LAK earl
R
P
EA
CL
R
it
yC
Ba
Victoria
Port
Arthur
Katy
10
35
y
a
ori
ute
Cl T
Orange
ue
ag
Le City
Fe
GALVESTON
R
PO
rt
OS
az
Surfside Beach
Br RAZ epo
B
Quintana Beach
Fre
Texas Energy Museum
600 Main St., Beaumont, 77701
409-833-5100, texasenergymuseum.org
77
37
Mathis
Fulton
Rockport
Port Aransas
181
CORPUS CHRISTI
Gulf Coast
AV ER AGE T EMPER AT UR E S C °
Kingsville
Gulf of
G
Mexico
77
Harlingen
South Padre Island
Port Isabel
Brownsville
Mexico
Bay Area Houston
Explore outer space, savor fresh seafood, cruise
warm waters, and take in the perfect Gulf Coast sunset. Soak up the sun and gulf breezes in Bay Area
Houston—the boating capital of Texas. Set between
Houston and Galveston, the region attracts visitors
for seafood, water recreation, stunning nature preserves, and two of Texas’s top attractions, the Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston. Located
only 15 miles from Hobby Airport, the charming bayside region consists of five distinct cities along 35
miles of coastline: Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay,
Seabrook, and Houston.
Kemah Boardwalk
215 Kipp Ave., Kemah, 77565
281-535-8100, kemahboardwalk.com
Enjoy the amusement park rides, browse the shops, dine
at a waterfront restaurant, and take in the live entertainment and festivals. Indulge in an overnight stay at the
Boardwalk Inn waterfront hotel. 12345
Space Center Houston
1601 NASA Pkwy., Houston, 77058
281-244-2100, 281-283-4755 (tours),
spacecenter.org
See Houston.
Bay City
PHOTO: GALVESTON ISLAND CVB
Specializing in ecotourism, Bay City will appeal to
everyone in the family. For starters, there’s fishing,
kayaking, and canoeing in Matagorda Bay and on
the Colorado River. Matagorda County leads in the
North American Audubon Society Great Backyard
Bird Count, so be sure to bring your binoculars. Also,
learn about area history at the excavation of La Salle’s
ship La Belle.
Matagorda County Birding Nature Center
1.7 miles west of Bay City on TX Hwy. 35 S.
979-245-3336, mcbnc.org
5550 Jimmy Simmons Blvd., 77705
409-880-1750, spindletop.org
Beaumont’s early claim to fame—the Spindletop
gusher—is authentically reproduced in this period museum of the early oil-rush town. See a working replica
oil gusher, a general store, a dry goods store, a log
cabin saloon, and a barbershop, among other buildings.
1235
HOUSTON
a
nt son
Sa ack City
J s
ke exa
La T
Spindletop–Gladys City
Boomtown Museum
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Sunshine Days
Brownsville Houston
16
11
17
13
21
18
24
21
27
24
29
27
30
29
30
29
28
27
24
21
20
17
17
12
225
205
This 34-acre park on the Colorado River includes trails,
bridges, wetlands, woods, prairies, an outdoor pavilion,
gardens, and waterfalls along with an observation deck
and a pier on the river. 1235
Matagorda County Museum
2100 Ave. F, Bay City, 77414
979-245-7502, matagordamuseum.org
The museum tells the story of the incredible excavation of La Belle with exhibits of many artifacts from the
excavation, including one of the three bronze cannons
recovered. There is also an award-winning children’s
museum in the basement of the building, made to look
like an earlier 1900s version of the town. 1235
Beaumont
The Texas Energy Museum tells the story of oil through
colorful, state-of-the-art exhibits. These exhibits depict
petroleum geology, formation of oil and gas, history and
technology of oil production, and refining and petrochemicals. Talking robotic characters relate their stories
of early Texas oil drilling amid historical surroundings and
working artifacts. 123
Brazosport
Just over 60 miles south of Houston, Brazosport is
a coastal area made up of the communities of Clute,
Freeport, Lake Jackson, and Surfside Beach. This is
the very spot where Stephen F. Austin first settled his
colony of 300 and thus, the great state of Texas was
born. With more than 40 miles of natural beaches,
deep-sea fishing, an aquarium and hatchery, birding, museums, historical sites, a planetarium, wildlife
refuges, and more, Brazosport is an affordable destination whether it’s for a large tour group or a family.
Sea Center Texas
300 Medical Dr., Lake Jackson, 77566
979-292-0100
tpwd.texas.gov/spdest/visitorcenters/seacenter/
Get up close and personal with all sorts of sea life in
the 50,000-gallon saltwater aquarium at this aquatic
education center and state-of-the-art hatchery. 123
Brownsville
With its South Texas heritage, tropical palm trees,
and exotic birds, Brownsville exudes its own special culture and charm. At the southernmost tip of
the state, just across the international bridge from
each other, downtown Brownsville and Matamoros,
Mexico, are separated by only a short walk. Shopping
and sightseeing are fabulous on both sides of the
border, and nearby beach fun is also a big part of life
in Brownsville. In addition to world-class birding, dolphin watching, and golfing, you’ll find a lush, bustling
city full of fine arts and year-round fiestas in a pleasant tropical climate.
The Cajuns call it “lagniappe,” but you’ll call it fun.
Beaumont got on the map with Spindletop and is
certainly known for its oil history and heritage. But
here you can also experience what it’s like to canoe
through the Big Thicket or take a walk on the wild
side by holding a live alligator. Trade in your business
suit for boots, jeans, and a cowboy hat and head out
on the town for live music and Cajun cuisine.
Gladys Porter Zoo
Gator Country
Rio Grande Valley Wing
of the Commemorative
Air Force Museum
21159 F.M. 365, Beaumont, 77705
409-794-9453, gatorrescue.com
Gator Country provides a chance for visitors to feed and
have hands-on interaction with live alligators. The adventure park is home to alligators, crocodiles, caiman, and
many other reptiles. 12345
McFaddin-Ward House
1906 Calder Ave., Beaumont, 77701
409-832-2134, mcfaddin-ward.org
The detailed preservation and original furnishings of this
1906 Beaux Arts colonial-style home and its carriage
house are nationally noted. Guided tours, cultural events,
and family-friendly activities are held throughout the year.
12
500 Ringgold St., Brownsville, 78520
956-546-7187, gpz.org
One of the state’s top zoos, the Gladys Porter provides
habitats for more than 1,600 birds, mammals, and reptiles from all over the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the tropics. Don’t miss the newborn nursery.
12345
955 S. Minnesota, Brownsville, 78521
956-541-8585, rgvcaf.org
This hangar museum, which houses working World War II
aircraft from all over the world as well as vintage autos,
presents an annual air show on the second weekend in
March. The themed Barnstormers Lounge is open to the
public. 12345
Clute
The history of the city goes back to the 1800s, when
land was parceled out to the “Old 300,” the original
group of Anglo settlers in Texas. Just 45 minutes
T RAVELTEX . C OM |
13
Galveston Island
JAMES TURRELL “TWILIGHT EPIPHANY”
SKYSPACE AT RICE UNIVERSITY, HOUSTON
Galveston sits on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico
and offers 32 miles of beaches. The Strand National
Historic Landmark District is full of restaurants,
stores, antique shops, and live entertainment. Galveston is home to one of the largest and best-preserved
concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country. After an activity-filled day, stroll along Seawall
Boulevard and enjoy the tranquility of the sunset.
Bishop’s Palace
1402 Broadway, Galveston, 77550
409-762-2475, galvestonhistory.org
Built from 1887 to 1892, this mansion—with original furnishings—is on the National Register of Historic
Places. 25
The Grand 1894 Opera House
2020 Postoffice St., Galveston, 77550
409-765-1894, 800-821-1894, thegrand.com
The eclectic roster of entertainers who have performed
here over the years includes Al Jolson, the Marx Brothers,
Bill Cosby, and Ray Charles. In 1993, the Texas Legislature designated the Grand as the Official Opera House of
the State of Texas. 235
Galveston Island
Historic Pleasure Pier
2501 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, 77550
855-789-7437, pleasure-pier.com
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this multimillion dollar
family destination brings the glory of Galveston’s famous
history into the present with thrill rides for adults and
kids, midway games, shopping, live music, entertainment, and a full-service restaurant. 12345
Lone Star Flight Museum
The Brazosport Center
for the Arts and Sciences
400 College Blvd., Clute, 77531
979-265-7661, 877-265-7661, bcfas.org
The booty of a 1554 Spanish shipwreck that sank offshore is showcased at this museum. Tour a full-scale replica of Christopher Columbus’s ship the Pinta. A replica
of the Niña is docked nearby. 12345
South Texas Botanical Gardens
and Nature Center
8545 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, 78413
361-852-2100, stxbot.org
This cultural complex serves as the home to five groups:
the Brazosport Art League, the Brazosport Museum of
Natural Science, the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra,
Center Stages Theater, and the Brazosport Planetarium.
1235
S h o w c a s e d o n 18 2 a c r e s a r e t h e B u t t e r f l y
House, Plumeria Garden, Bromeliad C onser vatory, Orchid House, and many other stunning gardens. Don’t miss Gator Lake, the Wetland Boardwalk, and the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail.
1235
Mammoth Lake Scuba and Water Park
Texas State Aquarium
330 N. Dixie Dr., Bldg. A, Lake Jackson, 77566
979-529-9174, mammothlakewaterpark.com
2710 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, 78402
361-881-1200, 800-477-4853
texasstateaquarium.org
This is the largest scuba-diving specific lake in the U.S.
With 22 hectares of underwater attractions, all levels of
divers are welcome. 12345
Corpus Christi
This slice of paradise is the largest coastal city in
the state, with more than 100 miles of beaches. Frequently ranked as the “Birdiest City in America,” this
seaside escape is ideal not only for birding but also
for fishing, surfing, and kiteboarding. Beachside relaxation meets big-city energy with a downtown entertainment district, an arts community, and a marina
located near restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Art Museum of South Texas
1902 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, 78401
361-825-3500, artmuseumofsouthtexas.org
Designed by Philip Johnson and Ricardo Legorreta, the
buildings themselves are works of art, with dramatic windows that reveal a panoramic bay view. 12345
Corpus Christi Museum
of Science and History
1900 N. Chaparral St., Corpus Christi, 78401
361-826-4667, ccmuseum.com
14 |
Take an aquatic journey from the shore to the depths of
the Gulf of Mexico. Experience dive shows, feedings, and
hands-on programs with sharks and stingrays. Newly
added are the H-E-B Splash Park and Owen’s Paleo Park.
12345
Texas Surf Museum and South Texas
Music Walk of Fame
2002 Terminal Dr., Galveston, 77554
409-740-7722, LSFM.org
Honoring outstanding aviation achievements and Texans
who have contributed to the advancement of aviation,
this museum has more than 20 restored aircraft, including World War II fighters, bombers, liaison trainers,
and executive planes. Flight experiences are available.
1235
Moody Gardens
1 Hope Blvd., Galveston, 77554
409-744-4673, 800-582-4673
moodygardens.com
The 10-story glass Rainforest Pyramid includes three
geographical regions with exotic plants, tropical fish, colorful macaws, reptiles, and waterfalls. Moody Gardens
is also home to the Aquarium Pyramid and Discovery
Museum, as well as an IMAX and a 4-D special FX
theater. 12345
Moody Mansion
2618 Broadway, Galveston, 77550
409-762-7668, moodymansion.org
This 31-room mansion is filled with original furnishings
and memorabilia from W. L. Moody Jr. and his family.
You will be amazed at the changing exhibits of art, jewelry, vintage clothing, and other items. 1235
309 N. Water St., Corpus Christi, 78401
361-882-2364
texassurfmuseum.org
facebook.com/SouthTexasMusicWalkofFame
Schlitterbahn Galveston
Island Waterpark
This museum, dedicated to all things surfing, celebrates
the history of the sport in Texas with a collection of rare
and unusual surfboards. 135
During the summer, enjoy outdoor attractions, including
water coasters, body slides, and family raft rides. When
the weather turns cold, there are a dozen warm-water
and heated adventures indoors. 12345
USS Lexington Museum
2026 Lockheed, Galveston, 77554
409-770-9283, schlitterbahn.com/galveston
2914 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, 78403
361-888-4873, ext. 305, 800-523-9539, ext. 305
usslexington.com
Texas Seaport Museum and the Elissa
Besides a deck the size of three football fields, this World
War II aircraft carrier has all sorts of tunnels and compartments to explore. Try your hand at the new Virtual Battle
Stations, take a ride in the interactive flight simulator, and
experience a movie in the MEGA Theater. 1245
The Elissa, Texas’s only 19th-century tall ship, docked
in Galveston twice during the 1880s to deliver cargo.
Multimedia exhibits recount the Elissa’s fascinating history. 25
TEXAS INTERNATIONAL TOUR GUIDE 2015-2017
Pier 21 #8, on Harborside Dr., Galveston, 77550
409-763-1877, galvestonhistory.org
PHOTO: GREATER HOUSTON CVB
south of Houston, the community of Clute is a hidden
treasure, with 56 acres of wooded parks and pristine
beaches. The Gulf breezes and mild climate accommodate all kinds of outdoor activities, like golfing,
diving, and beachcombing.
VIEW FROM PORT ISABEL LIGHTHOUSE STATE HISTORIC SITE
Harlingen
Harlingen’s picture-perfect subtropical climate welcomes visitors to a fun-filled getaway. Enjoy yearround golf and amazing birdwatching. Visit the Iwo
Jima Monument and Memorial—this stunning outdoor
sculpture is on the grounds of Harlingen’s Marine
Military Academy and is the original from which the
monument in Arlington, Virginia was cast. Explore the
World Birding Center brimming with colorful green
jays, wild parakeets, and chattering chachalacas. The
best part? It’s only minutes from the beaches of South
Padre Island and the legendary Laguna Madre Bay.
Bass Pro Shop & Outdoor World
101 Bass Pro Dr., Harlingen, 78552
956-291-5200, basspro.com
This 145,000-square-foot store is the signature anchor
for the Cameron Crossing retail development at the intersection of U.S. highways 83 and 77. In addition to a
huge selection of outdoor gear, this particular store features Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill, complete with 12
lanes of underwater-themed bowling fun and a billiards
table. 12345
Iwo Jima War Memorial and Museum at
the Marine Military Academy
PHOTO: CHASE FOUNTAIN, TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
320 Iwo Jima Blvd., Harlingen, 78550
956-421-9234, 800-365-6006, mma-tx.org
This private boarding school emulates the U.S. Marines
by issuing similar uniforms and honoring the same traditions. The Iwo Jima War Memorial was the mold from
which the bronze statue in Arlington, Virginia, was cast.
12345
Houston
Houston is a cultural mecca with an internationally
famous theater district and outstanding museums. It’s
also known as a sports city, with professional teams
in football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey.
Families enjoy Space Center Houston and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. World-class shopping
is the order of the day at The Galleria, the nation’s
fourth-largest shopping mall, as well as at Highland
Village, Uptown Park, and Rice Village.
Houston Zoo
Buffalo Bayou Partnership
This educational and conservation resource is home to
more than 6,000 animals. African Forest features chimpanzees, rhinos, and giraffes. 12345
1113 Vine St., Ste. 215, 77002
713-752-0314, buffalobayou.org
Whether your destination is Houston’s Sesquicentennial
Park, Allen’s Landing, or the lush area west of downtown,
this historic waterway offers pontoon boat rides along
with canoe and kayak adventures for everyone. 1345
Hermann Park
6001 Fannin, Houston, 77030
832-395-7000,
houstontx.gov/parks/ourparks/hermannpark.html
This is one of Houston’s premier parks. Highlights include the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre, the Museum of Natural Science, the Japanese Garden, Bayou
Parkland, and McGovern Lake. 12345
6200 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 (front gate)
713-533-6500, houstonzoo.org
Minute Maid Park
501 Crawford, Houston, 77002
713-259-8000, astros.com
This majestic ballpark is the high-tech home field of the
Houston Astros. 2345
NRG Park
8400 Kirby Dr., Houston, 77054
832-667-1400, 832-667-1842 (tours), nrgpark.com
This park serves as Houston’s premier trade-show,
spor ts, enter tainment, and convention complex.
12345
Holocaust Museum Houston
Space Center Houston
5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004
713-942-8000, hmh.org
1601 NASA Pkwy., Houston, 77058
281-244-2100, 281-283-4755 (group tours)
spacecenter.org
The museum’s preeminent exhibit, “Bearing Witness:
A Community Remembers,” focuses on Holocaust
survivors living in the Houston metropolitan area.
123
Houston Museum of Natural Science
5800 Caroline St., Houston, 77030
713-639-4629, hmns.org
Visitors here enjoy a world-class facility with an IMAX
theater, a planetarium, and the Cockrell Butterfly Center.
There are four floors of dinosaurs, gems, minerals, and
traveling exhibits. 12345
GreenStreet
1201 Fannin St., Houston, 77002
832-320-1201, greenstreetdowntown.com
This complex brings together the best of city life with fine
restaurants, nightclubs, retail, and entertainment. It has
an open-air center that allows for alfresco dining and
window-shopping on lovely streetscapes. 12345
Out-of-this-world fun at NASA’s Official Visitor Center
includes exhibits, a giant-screen theater, and behindthe-scenes tours. See the real Mercury, Gemini, and
Apollo space capsules, watch astronauts in training, and
try a space walk simulator. 12345
Kingsville
Mrs. Henrietta King, matriarch of the legendary King
Ranch, donated the land that became the historic city
of Kingsville, the cultural center for the hundreds of
thousands of acres that make up the famous working
cattle ranch. Located just west of the Gulf of Mexico,
Kingsville is the birthplace of the American ranching
industry. Visit the shops in the downtown area, especially the King Ranch Saddle Shop.
1904 Train Depot
104 E. Kleberg Ave., Kingsville, 78363
T RAVELTEX . C OM |
15
The University of Texas at Austin
Marine Science Institute
630 Cotter Ave. near the beach, Port Aransas, 78373
361-749-6711, utmsi.utexas.edu
Visit this impressive institute’s seven aquaria, all teeming
with local marine life, and enjoy a variety of educational
films. 123
Port Arthur
Beach or lake? Fishing, birding, or sailing? Don’t pick,
just pack for Port Arthur’s upper Gulf Coast. Discover Sea Rim State Park, roseate spoonbills, gators,
and Sabine Lake catches. Soaring bridges connect
families to outdoor adventures. Dine on Cajun-spiced
seafood and experience Janis Joplin at the Museum of
the Gulf Coast.
Museum of the Gulf Coast
700 Procter St., Port Arthur, 77640
409-982-7000, museumofthegulfcoast.org
The Jurassic period to Janis Joplin—this unique regional
museum has something for everyone, including natural
history, fine and decorative art, popular culture, and the
largest indoor mural in the Southwest. 123
Pompeiian Villa
1953 Lakeshore Dr., Port Arthur, 77640
409-983-5977, museumofthegulfcoast.org
Ellwood, “the barbed wire King”, built this modest 10room “cottage” that was an authentic copy of a Pompeiian home of 74 AD with the rooms built around a
traditional Roman peristyle, a three-sided courtyard to
which each room has access. 1235
Rockport-Fulton
361-592-8516, 800-333-5032
kingsvilletexas.com
The authentically restored 1904 Train Depot of Kingsville is a fascinating time capsule that reminds us of the
importance of the railroad to Kingsville and South Texas.
123
King Ranch Museum
405 N. Sixth St., Kingsville, 78363
361-595-1881, king-ranch.com
The King Ranch covers 825,000 acres—an area larger
than Rhode Island. Saddles from all over the world, Texas
flag replicas, and antique carriages and cars as well as
videos on ranch history delight visitors. 1235
League City
On the shores of Clear Lake, the city is located near
both urban amenities and natural forests. Stroll
through the historic downtown, dine beside the water, or splash your way through a marine excursion.
Quaint fishing communities surround the city, providing relaxing, peaceful getaways.
Butler Longhorn Museum and
Heritage Park
1220 Coryell, League City, 77573
281-332-1393, butlerlonghornmuseum.com
This Western heritage museum focuses on the history of
the Longhorn breed of cattle. 1235
Orange
When cowboys and Cajuns meet, something fun is
bound to happen. Evidence of this abounds in Orange,
which lies on Interstate 10 along the Texas-Louisiana
border. The recorded history of Orange dates back to
1600, when French traders arrived in the area and
brought the exotic culture of Acadia with them. Historic homes and museums feature the heritage of the
16 |
city’s elegance. Join in the fun with the Mardi Gras
Festival, the Art in the Park Spring Festival, and the
SPORT Tunnel Boat Races event in the fall.
First Presbyterian Church
902 W. Green Ave., Orange, 77631
409-883-2097, firstpresorange.com
This impressive structure, on the National Register of
Historic Places, is an outstanding example of classic
Greek Revival architecture. Its dome is the only opalescent glass dome in the United States. 123
Frances Ann Lutcher Theater
for the Performing Arts
707 W. Main, Orange, 77630
409-886-5535, lutcher.org
Lutcher Theater is a 1,460-seat performing arts facility
and is the largest Performing Arts Series from Houston,
TX to New Orleans, LA. Since its opening in 1980, the
theater has hosted only the best in big name entertainment. 123
Port Aransas
Port Aransas is the perfect place to bird-watch, fish
the Gulf waters, or play golf at the Arnold Palmer
Signature links course. With local waters full of fresh
catches, the seafood fare is exquisite, but you’ll also
find steaks, pasta, and burgers prepared the “island
way.”
Port Aransas Nature Preserve
End of Port St., adjacent to the
Corpus Christi Ship Channel, Port Aransas, 78373
361-749-4158
cityofportaransas.org/Nature_Preserve.cfm
This area is an important habitat for shorebirds and
endangered and threatened species such as the piping
plover. 123
TEXAS INTERNATIONAL TOUR GUIDE 2015-2017
Aquarium at Rockport Harbor
706 Navigation Cir., Rockport, 78382
361-727-0016, rockportaquarium.com
Featuring a great variety of local marine life, this aquarium has numerous exhibits, fun activities for kids, and a
huge fish mobile. 1235
The Bay Education Center
121 Sea Breeze Drive, Rockport, 78382
361-749-3161, utmsi.utexas.edu
Science on a Sphere (SOS) is ready to amaze visitors.
Created by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, SOS uses computers and video
projectors to display astronomical, geological, oceanic,
and atmospheric information on a 68-inch-diameter
sphere. 123
Fulton Mansion State Historic Site
317 Fulton Beach Rd., Rockport, 78382
361-729-0386, visitfultonmansion.com
This historical site is operated by the Texas Historical
Commisson. Restored in early 1989, the architectural
landmark is open for visitors. 13
Rosenberg
Back in 1883, the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe
Railway purchased two hundred acres in Fort Bend
County and laid out a town site. Named after Henry
Rosenberg, the railroad’s president, the historic town
of Rosenberg holds onto that original grid with heritage and charm. Lovingly restored buildings in the
business district are alive with shops, museums, and
restaurants. Events, concerts, and live theater, along
with the nearby Brazos Bend State Park, make Rosenberg a family destination.
Rosenberg Railroad Museum
1921 Ave. F, Rosenberg, 77471
281-633-2846, rosenbergrrmuseum.org
PHOTO: CITY OF SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
Rockport-Fulton is a diverse mix of coastal charm along
with plentiful fishing, birding, and shopping. Whether
you want a family weekend, a relaxing weeklong getaway, or a place to hold a business meeting, this picturesque beach community is a great destination.
Modeled after the town’s original 1883 depot, the museum houses artifacts from past railways that served the
region and is situated beside still-working tracks. A refurbished 1879 business rail car, a 1903 switching tower,
and an elaborate HO model train layout are permanent
exhibits. 125
South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a favorite on the list of Texas
beach destinations. Located off the southern tip of
Texas, the area is a mecca for visitors. Beautiful beaches
await, along with plenty of accommodations, meeting
facilities, restaurants, fun nightspots, and countless recreational activities. All that and a relaxing sunset make
this a must-do vacation spot in the Lone Star State.
Island Equestrian Center
8805 Padre Blvd.,South Padre Island, 78597
956-761-4677, horsesonthebeach.com
For a completely different view of the beach, take a jaunt
along the shore—on a horse with a guide. 123
Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark
100 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, 78597
956-761-1160,
schlitterbahn.com/south-padre-island
With the Gulf waters in clear view across the dunes, this
Brazilian-themed park thrills with uphill water coasters,
tube chutes, and a wave pool, along with sandy beaches
and a five-story water fun house. 12345
South Padre Island Birding
and Nature Center
6801 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, 78597
956-761-6801, spibirding.com
Climb to the top of a five-story observation tower (or
take the elevator) for spectacular views of the Gulf of
Mexico and the Laguna Madre; visit the exhibition hall;
and saunter along the boardwalks for up-close views
of birds, fish, crabs, and alligators—a photographer’s
dream. 1235
Spring
This restored railroad village, originally settled by German immigrants, offers a full schedule of festivals and
scores of shopping spots in Old Town Spring. Not far
from downtown Houston, Spring encompasses the
activity of the big city and the leisurely pace of a small
town. Make a trip to SplashTown, which was voted one
of America’s top 10 water parks, and don’t miss the
annual Texas Crawfish Festival, where you can sample
this tasty local specialty.
Old Town Spring
123-F Midway, Spring, 77373
281-353-9310, oldtownspring.com
Enjoy the charm of this shopping village and browse
through 150 antiques, arts and crafts, clothing, and
specialty shops. The site of the Texas Crawfish Festival,
Old Town Spring also offers restaurants and wine-tasting
rooms. 124
SplashTown
21300 I-45 N., Spring, 77373
281-355-3300, wetnwildsplashtown.com
Chosen as one of America’s top 10 water parks, SplashTown is 40 acres of fun. With more than 30 rides, slides,
and water attractions, it entertains the whole family.
12345
Sugar Land
Orange, South
Padre Island, Brownsville
Cajun meets cowboy in Orange, the
state’s easternmost city, bordering
Louisiana. The Stark Museum of
Art specializes in depictions of the
American West; its 19th- and 20thcentury collections brim with stark
Texas landscapes, pioneer portraits,
and naturalistic sculptures. Admire
hundreds of plant species at the
Shangri La Botanical Gardens and
Nature Center, or enjoy a show at the
Lutcher Theatre for Performing Arts.
Best known as a college spring
break getaway, South Padre Island
offers oceanic pursuits for all.
Breakaway cruises include dolphin
watching, eco-tours, parasailing,
jet skiing, snorkeling, and deep sea
and bay fishing. White beaches rim
the entire island, which is only a
half-mile at its widest point; Isla
Blanca Park features two beachfront
pavilions, a fishing jetty, restaurants,
a boat ramp, and RV sites.
Thirty miles southwest, Brownsville
has its own outdoor assets. Boca Chica
Beach is an undeveloped stretch of
coastline good for swimming, fishing,
surfing, and camping. Birders can
Victoria
Located on the Coastal Bend two hours from Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi, Victoria
is the perfect destination for tour groups and meetings. With roots reaching back to the 16th and 17th
centuries, Victoria offers the beauty and rich history
of one of the oldest Texas cities, along with excellent
dining and attractions. A new conference center and
nearly a dozen new hotels make Victoria a perfect
base camp for meetings and Coastal Bend adventure.
The Museum of the Coastal Bend
2200 E. Red River, Victoria, 77901
361-582-2511, museumofthecoastalbend.org
Located on the Victoria College campus, this museum
showcases the region’s rich multicultural heritage. The
museum’s newest permanent exhibit, “Where Texas
History Began,” opened spring 2014 and tells the story
of 13,000 years of heritage in the Texas Coastal Bend.
1235
The Texas Zoo
What was once a sugar plantation in the mid–19th
century is now a thriving suburb of Houston. Incorporated in 1959, Sugar Land is located in Fort Bend
County, 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston.
Residents of and visitors to Sugar Land enjoy the
wealth of shopping options located within the city
limits, fine dining, and cultural touchstones, like the
Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land.
110 Memorial Dr., Victoria, 77901
361-573-7681, texaszoo.com
Designated the National Zoo of Texas by the state legislature, the Texas Zoo is home to wildlife from Texas and
the rest of the world. Traveling exhibits like the Aussie
Kingdom and daily events like gator feeding and the Primate Encounter are unique experiences. 12345
Constellation Field
1 Stadium Dr., Sugar Land, 77498
281-240-4487, sugarlandskeeters.com
B
TOUR 1
Home of the Sugar Land Skeeters of the Atlantic League
of Professional Baseball, the park opened in April 2012
and also hosts football and soccer games, plus concerts
and other events. Constellation Field boasts one of the
largest scoreboards in the minor leagues, towering 100
feet above the field and shaped like Texas’ borders.
12345
Road Trips B
seek any of the area’s more than 500
bird species at Resaca De La Palma
State Park, a subtropical habitat four
miles west of town. See more than
360 species of animal, including 43
endangered, at the Gladys Porter Zoo.
TOUR 2
Kingsville, Corpus Christi,
Port Aransas
Noted for its wildlife and railroad
connections, Kingsville is perhaps
best known as the birthplace of
American ranching. At King Ranch,
a still-operational outfit founded
by Captain Richard King in 1865,
daily tours explore 825,000 acres
of history and nature. Afterward,
nab a pair of one-of-a-kind boots
at the King Ranch Saddle Shop, a
100-year-old store peddling leather
cowboy refinements.
More than 250 marine species
are represented at Corpus Christi’s
Texas State Aquarium, where you
can interact with dolphins, sharks,
and stingrays or romp in the
H-E-B Splash Park. Walk the USS
Lexington, a decommissioned World
War II-era aircraft carrier repurposed
as a museum of naval history. Or
tour the Texas Surf Museum, which
explores the Gulf Coast surfing scene
with exhibits, films, and Hollywood
memorabilia.
Known as a hub of marine science
research, Port Aransas gives up
its riches to the unscientific as
well. Fishing is king on this sole
establishment of Mustang Island,
where charters navigate the waters
and lighted piers guide the way.
Bird watchers will have a field day
at Mustang Island State Park or the
Port Aransas Nature Preserve, where
tidal flats provide feeding areas for
shorebirds and endangered species.
TOUR 3
Houston, Clute,
Brazosport Area
A metropolis of 2.1 million residents,
Houston overspills with shopping,
dining, and so much more. Enjoy a
movie or eat out in the Bayou Place,
an entertainment complex in the
17-block Theater District. Attend
games of professional baseball,
basketball, football, or soccer at four
world-class sports venues. Fill up on
culture in Chinatown or the Mahatma
Gandhi District, or enjoy any of 337
parks, including Hermann Park, home
to the Houston Zoo and the Houston
Museum of Natural Science.
Spanning 55 acres, Mammoth Lake
Scuba Park in Clute is no ordinary
watering hole. The dive-specific lake
is littered with exotic objects: wrecked
boats, a submarine, antique fire trucks,
an F-5 jet, a cave system, and a replica
of a Colombian mammoth. Fishing and
crabbing are popular at nearby beaches
such as Bryan, Quintana, and Surfside,
while the wildlife refuges at Brazoria
and San Bernard provide 88,000 acres
of birding.
The site where Stephen F.
Austin and the “Old 300” settlers
landed, and thus the birthplace of
modern Texas, the Brazosport Area
encompasses Clute, Freeport, Lake
Jackson, and Surfside Beach. Forty
miles of natural beaches provide
fishing, frolic, and primitive camping.
Spy alligators, deer, and other critters
at Wilderness Park, a 482-acre area
with four miles of hiking trails, or
fondle the fish at the touch tanks of
Sea Center Texas marine hatchery.
T RAVELTEX . C OM |
17