Houston Day Trips

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.