Houston: Day Trips

Galveston Island Galveston, with its popular cruise port, is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s worth the drive from Houston for its sun, sand, and surf. An aquarium, shops, and nightlife provide plenty of off-beach entertainment. 50 miles southeast of Houston; www.galveston.com
beach | family | historic | departure port

Huntsville Yes, its home to “Old Sparky,” the state’s retired electric chair (see it at the Texas Prison Museum), but Huntsville is best known for its stunning natural setting and hike-worthy state park. 68 miles north of Houston; www.huntsvilletexas.com
family | history | state park

Kemah/Kemah Boardwalk The Kemah Boardwalk is like a mini version of New York’s Coney Island theme park, with rides, restaurants, nightclubs, and free live music (rock, oldies, reggae) on the Plaza every weekend. Families love Friday fireworks. 32 miles southeast of Houston; www.kemahboardwalk.com
beach | family | live entertainment | theme park

Lake Conroe Water sports (swimming, boating, jet-skiing), golf, and nature draw travelers to this 21,000-acre lake an hour north of Houston. Should you wish to extend your day-trip, there are camping facilities, hotels, and B&Bs. 30 miles north of Houston; www.lakeconroe.com
family | lake

Pasadena Experience part of the Texas Coastal Birding Trail in Pasadena at the Armand Bayou Nature Center, a 2,500-acre preserve with hardwood forests, native prairies, wetlands, and wildlife. 20 miles east of Houston; www.pasadenatexas.com
family | wildlife | history | nature

Texas City Immerse yourself in history in this sleepy coastal town of gazebos, lighthouses, seafood, and antique and boutique shopping in the revitalized Sixth Street Historical District. 37 miles southeast of Houston; www.texas-city-tx.org
family | history