Texas City Dike The Texas City Dike is the longest man-made fishing pier in the world, stretching 5.3 miles into Galveston Bay. The dike is one of the most popular boat launch and fishing areas on the entire Texas Gulf Coast due to its location, ease of access and great amenities, including close proximity to bait camps, fish cleaning stations, picnic shelters and more. On the adjacent levee system, there are kiteboarding, windsurfing and other extreme water and air sports.
6th Street District The City of Texas City has rezoned 6th Street as a Revitalization District in order to further the goal of developing this historic street into a regional entertainment destination. In just a few years, there has been a remarkable transformation through investments by the city, existing businesses and new businesses. New streets and sidewalks, vintage-style light posts, esplanades, trees, unique signage and decorative festoon lighting all highlight the investment the City of Texas City has made.
Over the coming months, 6th Street will be home to several new family-friendly entertainment and restaurant venues.
Lago Mar Lagoon Lago Mar in Texas City is not just home to quality single-family homes but something much larger. At the heart of the community is the most exciting world-class amenity in Texas. The 12-acre Lago Mar crystal clear lagoon is the largest in Texas and a unique staycation destination. Guests can lounge on white-sand beaches, swim in azure waters or dine lagoon-side. The lagoon holds multiple events year-round that include summer concerts, spring break festivals, Oktoberfest and a Christmas light display.
Regional History Texas City invites locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the history and past events that shaped the city. There are multiple opportunities to do so, including the Texas City Museum located in downtown 6th Street. The Texas City Museum is full of local history on the 1947 disaster, the birth of the U.S. Air Force, the petroleum industry and a huge display of miniature trains by the Galveston County Model Railroad Club.
Bay Street Park is home to a relatively unknown piece of national history, a monument dedicated to the United States 1st Aero Squadron. In 1913, President Taft deployed the squadron to Texas City in response to the aggressive measures taken by Mexican Revolutionaries along the Texas Border. This piece of military history placed Texas City as the birthplace of what has become known as the United States Air Force.
Artsy Community Enjoy the beauty of art throughout Texas City with more than 50 bronze statues and sculptures adorning many of the city parks, buildings and trails, nine fountains throughout the area and several stunning murals.
Texas City has welcomed local artists from both Galveston County and the Greater Houston Area with an annual Art Festival. Taking place in April of each year, the event is split between two venues — the Doyle Convention Center and downtown 6th Street. The Art Walk is held downtown, welcoming vendors to display their products for locals and visitors. Downtown merchants stay open during the evening, adding amenities for Art Walk attendees to explore 6th Street.
Shopping and Dining If you’re looking for a delicious meal during your visit or simply seeking new eateries, Texas City’s variety of restaurants are ready to serve you and your family. Fresh seafood, family-inspired barbecue and delicious brunch spots encompass just some of the options.
For shopping, Texas City provides one-of-a-kind options such as Tanger Outlets. Conveniently located along I-45, the outlet mall offers name brands like Tommy Bahama, Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren and Columbia. Looking for something more unique? Check out some of our locally-owned boutiques, such as Karat Creations Jewelry on 6th Street!
In our Must Do Things Around Greater Houston series, we take a look at Houston’s vast array of communities, neighborhoods and destinations to bring you five fun, tasty, surprising and enticing reasons you should give each one a visit.
Over on the southwest shoreline of Galveston Bay, the deepwater port of Texas City is the third-largest city in Galveston County, right behind League City and Galveston itself. It plays home to what locals call “the world’s longest man-made fishing pier,” a resort-style lagoon, and plenty of great ways to spend the day.
Here’s what to do in and around Texas City:
Take kiteboarding lessons with Houston Kiteboarding, charter a boat with Fishin’ Hookers or Triple D Charters, or go fishing over at the Texas City Dike, a man-made fishing destination stretching 5.3 miles into Galveston Bay and offering amenities from a beach and picnic areas to restrooms and fish cleaning stations.
Now open for its third season, this crystal clear lagoon nestled in Lago Mar is the ultimate summer destination, offering a resort-style experience, luxe amenities, and warm weather activities. Snag an Aqua Fun Pass ($50, not including admission) to hit the Aqua Course, Bumper Boats, and 42’ Titan Slide; take out a kayak, sailboat, aqua trike or stand-up paddle board; and unwind at beachside and floating cabanas, loungers, and a the swim-up bar. Hours are Thursday through Monday from 11am to 7pm.
On the southwest shoreline of the bay, the 2,303-acre Texas City Prairie Preserve is a restoration area for native plants and important habitat, including birds from white ibis and white-tailed hawks to brown pelicans, American oystercatchers, and other shore and wading birds.
History buffs and train enthusiasts will find plenty of fascinating stuff at this 30,000 square foot museum, including a Civil-war era Dahlgren cannon from the USS Westfield; exhibits on the founding of Texas City, the 1947 Disaster, and subjects such as blues musician Charles Brown; and the Galveston County Model Railroad Club Exhibit.
