Houston, Texas is a sprawling city, the fourth largest in the country. Set near the Galveston Bay, an inlet of the Gulf of Mexico, Houston has many activities to enjoy both in and around the water. The history of the city, the bonds with NASA that have earned it the name "Space City"--as well as its proximity to the coast--all give Houston a diversity not found elsewhere.
On April 22, 1836, the Mexican General Santa Anna was captured during the Battle of San Jacinto. Not only did this success mean a devastating blow to the Mexican government, it was also revenge for the Alamo and the beginning of the Republic of Texas. The battleground is now symbolized with the San Jacinto monument and its adjacent museum. As the world's tallest memorial, the monument is 570 feet high, topped with a 34-foot star. Built from 1936 to 1939, the structure is made from stone, concrete and steel. When inside, guests can ride the elevator up almost 500 feet to the observation area. While at the monument, visit the museum at its base to see historical items from the journey of Texas' indpendence. The museum store offers a range of Texas books and souvenirs.
San Jacinto Museum of History
One Monument Circle
La Porte (Houston), Texas 77571
281-479-2421
sanjacinto-museum.org
When visiting Houston, the Space City, visit the NASA complex. At the complex, visitors watch a film at the Space Center Theater, where they receive a behind-the-scenes journey with an astronaut. This film, shown on a 5-story screen, follows the astronaut through training and into space. At the Blast Off Theater, guests get a sense of actually taking off on a mission. The NASA Tram Tour features a look at the NASA facilities, including Mission Control and Rocket Park. Children will love the Kids Space Place.
Space Center Houston
1601 NASA Pkwy.
Houston, TX 77058
281-244-2100
spacecenter.org
The Kemah Boardwalk, minutes from the NASA complex, is a modern boardwalk set on the bay. Locals and tourists alike come to this entertainment area in droves, especially on weekends. When hunger strikes, the Kemah Boardwalk features options for all. The Cadillac Bar, Aquarium, Joe's Crab Shack, Red Sushi and Saltgrass are just some of the options. Children will delight in the Dancing Fountains in the center of the restaurant area. Surrounding the fountains, visitors find a shopping area that includes Christmas at Kemah, Toy Crossing and the Thomas Kinkade Gallery. Alongside the bay, visitors young and old enjoy rides such as a classic carousel, Ferris wheel and the Bullet, a wooden coaster. If you wish to stay close to the action, the Boardwalk Inn offers lodging overlooking the entire complex. Ride the Boardwalk Beast for a four-mile trip into the bay, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.
Kemah Boardwalk
215 Kip Ave.
Kemah, TX 77565
888-897-0529
kemahboardwalk.com
