Houston, Texas is one of the largest cities in the United States. As such, it is a popular vacation destination and home to millions of people. Within the city of Houston there are a number of activities and attractions, but the surrounding area has even more for both the vacationer and permanent resident to enjoy.
Just outside Houston in the small town of Richmond is George Ranch Historical Park. Though the proximity is near, the park takes visitors far into history, giving them a feel for what Texas was like before skyscrapers and ballparks. Workers dress in period clothing and visitors are able to see over 100 years of Texas history in the form of relics, reenactments and museums. The park is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Admission is $9 for adults and $5 for children.
George Ranch Historical Park
10215 FM 762
Richmond, TX 77469
(281) 343-0218
georgeranch.org
If in the mood for rides, food, and entertainment, the Kemah Boardwalk will save you from having to wait until the Texas State Fair comes around. Rides include the wooden rollercoaster Boardwalk Bullet, a double decker carousel and a rocking boat called Pharaoh's Fury. But rides aren't all the boardwalk has to offer. New exhibits feature stingrays, piranhas and animatronics. The boardwalk is also home to dozens of shops and restaurants. Hours vary according to day and season.
Kemah Boardwalk
215 Kipp Ave.
Kemah, Texas 77565
(877) AT-KEMAH
kemahboardwalk.com
Galveston Island offers visitors a relaxing 30 miles of lovely beaches, dotted with restaurants, hotels, plenty of shopping and more. Located just about 40 miles away from Houston, Galveston Island is also proud of its genuine nineteenth century Victorian architecture, much of which is open to tours from the public. Moody Gardens, the Aquarium Pyramid and Schlitterbahn Waterpark are but a few of the attractions.
While the Big Thicket area of Texas is unheralded for its rather unremarkable geography, it makes up for it in its biological diversity. Having been called the crossroads of biological America, the Big Thicket is home to more than 100 species of plant life. There are also a number of bird and reptile species that live in the Thicket. The National Park Service provides over 40 miles of hiking trails. Boating, auto touring, camping, fishing, and even hunting (given the right season and the proper permit) are popular activities in the area. The visitor's center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor Center
6102 FM 420
Kountze, TX 77625
nps.gov/bith/index.htm
