Overlooking Galveston Bay, Texas City is a deepwater port south-east of Houston. It was founded in 1893 after three Minnesota duck hunters realised the potential of the site as a major port. Texas City is famed for its dyke built to protect the channel from silting and is hailed by local anglers as the world’s longest man-made fishing pier.
Things to do in Texas City
Occupying a former JCPenney building is the Texas City Museum, which houses everything from a Civil War-era Dahlgren cannon to local high school memorabilia. See a reconstructed boiler from the “USS Westfield” and learn about the 1947 fertiliser explosion on the “SS Grandcamp” known as the Texas City Disaster. Kids can let loose in the Children’s Discovery Room, which is packed with puzzles, toys and interactive exhibits.
Train enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Dickinson Railroad Museum, which occupies a historic depot on the outskirts of Texas City. Alternatively, you can enjoy a guided tasting at the Haak Winery, the only commercial vineyard in Galveston County. Explore the beautiful estate on a guided tour while learning about its establishment in 1969.
Golfers can book a round on the 18-hole Bayou Golf Course, which enjoys refreshing breezes from Galveston Bay and water features on many of its holes. You can practise on the driving range, chipping and putting greens or pick up golfing apparel at the Pro Shop. If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the 9-hole Pitch-N-Putt course.
Getting around Texas City
Texas City is around 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Houston and one hour from George Bush Intercontinental Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Long-distance buses connect to Texas City La Marque Station while local buses travel throughout the city.