Touring Texas

to Come the Texas Gulf Coast All Year Round

Everyone enjoys a day of fun and food and an evening of music at the annual Alvin Sunrise Rotary Music Festival and Cookoff

Alvin - In the middle of it all

Tucked between the hustle and bustle of Houston, and the sandy beaches of the Texas Gulf Coast, lies Alvin; a charming southern town with humble beginnings dating back to 1845. Here, visitors will find historical sites, antique style shopping and family-friendly adventures. Step back in time and learn about the city’s history by visiting the museums and historical sites.

The rustic charm of Alvin comes from its humble roots as a farming and ranching town. When the Santa Fe Railroad expanded into the area, Alvin began developing as settlers moved in to open

stores and build homes. Originally named Morgan by the town’s residents in honor of the settlement’s founding father, Alvin Morgan. The town changed its name to Alvin after discovering a Morgan, Texas already existed. Alvin was officially incorporated in 1893, making it the oldest incorporated settlement in Brazoria County. The historic Alvin Train Depot was built in 1907 and has remained a staple in the community’s long history involving the railroad.

Alvin is still experiencing new growth and development within the city limits, but the small-town charm remains at its

core. Treasured buildings from the past are now being renovated to house new businesses. Visitors can still find many unique pieces of the past from the antique shops in the area (see page 11).

Located on land originally granted to the Houston Tap and Brazoria Railway, Alvin boasts many great recreational opportunities including 13 parks and the country’s only dedicated night lit disc golf course.

When visitors get hungry there are many options to choose from and it can be hard to use one word when describing the restaurants in Alvin.

Visitors have lots of choices to grab some good food like the Tex-Mex style, from Las Flores Mexican Restaurant (see ad page 8). Other cuisines in the area include Asian, Italian, barbecue, pizza and various fast food styles. With so many options it really boils down to what visitors are craving.

Alvin offers visitors big city attractions with small-town hospitality and is the perfect place to stay for those looking to experience the Texas Gulf Coast. Conveniently located within 25 miles from Galveston and Houston, Alvin is right in the middle of it all. Visitors can experience the calming shores of the coast and the fun nights of downtown within the same day when they stay in Alvin. It is the place to relax in-between adventures while also enjoying one of the many parks with playgrounds, grills, picnic tables, bike riding, hiking and fishing.

The exhibit of Baseball Hall of Famer

Nolan Ryan is at the Alvin Historical Museum. Alvin is also less than an hour’s drive from the Kemah Boardwalk, and Space Center Houston which makes Alvin the perfect place for your next stay. Enjoy your adventures and remember to Eat, Stay & Play in Alvin.

Plenty to see and do in Alvin

Alvin Historical Museum

300 West Sealy St.

a place of remembrance for old, as well as a place of discovery for the young.

Tours are by appointment only. To schedule a tour or for more information call the Alvin Historical Museum at 281331-4469.

Step back in time at the old post office, which is now the Alvin Historical Museum and Gift Shop.

You can view exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Alvin, as well as visit exhibits from NASA and others. You can also take a tour of the hometown hero and hall of famer, Nolan Ryan’s Exhibit.

Alvin Historical Train Depot

200 Depot Centre Blvd.

Explore the 100 plus year old Alvin Historical Train Depot Centre, which once was the hub for business and agriculture, and served the Santa Fe Rail Line.

Karpeles Museum

800 West Sidnor St.

10:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday - Saturday

The Karpeles Library is the world’s largest private holding of important

Slover – Rogers Cottage

113 East Dumble St.

A restored Victorian cottage featuring original furniture pieces, the SloverRogers Cottage is revered as a “must see”.

The cottage was crafted over an eightyear period by a Civil War veteran to show his skills in Victorian construction, with gingerbread, two turrets, massive pocket doors, and a bow knot fence.

Guides conduct tours and give history on the antique furnishings in the house. It’s

original manuscript documents.

The archives include Literature, Science, Religion, Political History, and Art such as original draft of the Bill of Rights of the U.S., the original manuscript of the sheet music for “The Wedding March,”

Einstein’s famous formula E = mc2

Stanton’s Shopping Center

219 North Taylor St.

Stanton’s Shopping Center, opened in 1922, has been a cornerstone of the community for over 100 years. Do some grocery shopping then stop for a bite to eat at the in-store Restaurant. After eating, browse through the Gift Shop.

The Alvin Opry House

206 S. Durant American Legion Bldg.

Fb: alvinlivemusic

Opry style live music in a hometown atmosphere with entertainers of all ages. Doors open 6:00 p.m., show starts 7:00 p.m. Presales available for reserved seating. Tickets at the Door, Cash Only.

Las Flores Mexican Restaurant

Froberg’s Farm

Year-Round / 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

3601 West Hwy 6 frobergsfarm.com

A 65+ year family tradition. Vegetables and fruits available plus homemade baked and canned goods. See the website for weekend festival and tour dates throughout the year and dates to pick your own strawberries or blackberries.

Disc Golf Course (Day/Night Play)

3625 Briscoe Dr. (Behind the YMCA)

Alvin offers the country’s only course designed for day-time and night-time play. The disc golf course features course signage, lights for night time play, and a one mile nature trail.

Alvin Skate Park

7:00 am - 10:30 pm

118 S. Magnolia St. National Oak Park

The ‘X’ design conects the skate plaza to the park’s sidewalk system, inviting spectators to safely walk around or through the skate plaza, while serving as world-class skateable streetscape terrain for skaters.

6,000 square feet of skate park plaza and transitional terrain which has a long, multiuse mini ramp with jersey barrier, hips and banks making up approximately a quarter of the skate terrain. Cantilevered quarter pipes and banks, along with plaza terrain including stairs, manual pads, ledges and rails comprise the majority of the park.

306 E. House St.

Alvin, TX • 281-331-4993

The Flores family has owned and operated their family style restaurant for over 20 years along with their long time staff members serving up delicious Mexican food to this community.

Bob S. Owen Pool

12:30 pm - 6:00 pm $5.00 - 3 and up

919 South Bayou Dr.

3 Tube slides 3 Shade Pavilions

Restroom Facility Drinking Fountains

Zero-depth Spray-park

Decking to enjoy the sun

basketball court, volleyball and baseball/ softball fields, horseshoe pits, extended trail systems, paved parking areas, and restrooms.

Natural attractions at Camp Mohawk include the only stand of native pine trees in Brazoria County, a guide for identifying tree species along the trails, bird watching and nature viewing, and fishing.

Camp Mohawk County Park

110 CR 193 - 8 miles South of Alvin

Day-Use Hours: 8:00 am - Dusk

Ofc Hrs: 8:00a - 4:00p Closed Monday

281-756-2319 or 877-226-7664

mohawkpark@brazoria-county.com

Camp Mohawk is a 55-acre day-use park with overnight facilities in a wooded setting along Chocolate Bayou between Angleton and Alvin. The camp features self-contained cabins, climate-controlled dormitories with kitchens, covered pavilions, and two primitive tent camping areas. Park amenities includes a chapel, picnic areas with grills, a three-acre lake with a canoe launching area, playground,

Resoft Park

349 CR 281 8:00 am - Dusk

Resoft is an 80-acre day-use park near Alvin. Resoft features covered pavilions (3-large and 2-small), barbeque pits, a large multi-stage playground, a series of regulation soccer fields with tournament lighting, horseshoes, basketball courts, volleyball, a renovated lake with piers, extended walking and jogging trails (.46 of a mile around the lake, .87 of a mile around the park), ample paved parking, and restroom facilities. The park is also home to a nine basket disc golf course.

State Freshwater Fishing Regulations apply to fishing in the catch and keep lake.

Brazos Bend State Park

21901 FM 762 • 20 minutes from Alvin

Nature has top billing at this park. Be sure to bring your walking shoes, binoculars and camera.

Besides marveling at nature, you can also hike and bike, fish, picnic, ride your horse, and stay overnight. Reserve one of our picnic pavilions or our group hall for your next group gathering.

Pay due respect to alligators, which are common in some areas of the park. Read our alligator safety tips before you come. Explore on foot, bike, or horseback. We have 37 miles of trails, some of which are wheelchair-friendly. Take virtual tour on our Interactive Trails Map.

The park is about a one-hour drive from downtown Houston. Take Highway 59

South to the Crabb River Road exit. You may also take State Highway 288 south to FM 1462 West. Follow FM 1462 to FM 762 North. If traveling from south of the park, follow State Highway 288 North to the FM 1462 exit or take State Highway 36 to FM 1462 East.

All routes are marked with brown signs to guide you.

Calendar of Events

Alvin Music Festival & Cookoff

March 24 - 25, 2023

Check website for 2024 dates

alvinmusicfestival.com/

Live music fills up the big stage during this two-day event along with a BBQ cook-off. Bring the family. A variety of delicious food is available from the many trucks parked on site. The kids area is filled with inflatables, mini golf, and much more

Come and enjoy the Brazos River Pickers as they play live country and bluegrass music.

This concert is perfect for the whole family. However, our canine companions may want to sit this one out.

Things to Bring: Water, weather appropriate clothes, and your dancing shoes!

The Alvin Opry House

2nd Fri. Apr, June, Aug, Sept, Oct, Dec.

Exceptions May 19, July 7, Nov. 17

206 S. Durant, American Legion Bldg. Fb: alvinlivemusic

Well-known talent in a family friendly atmosphere. Full concession.

Doors open 6:00 p.m. Show 7:00 p.m. Venmo: @shalane-colston. Cash at Door.

Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos River Pickers Concert

April 1 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

21901 FM 762 Needville, TX 77461

Amphitheater at Nature Center

13 Years and Older: $7 Per Person

12 Years and Under: Free

Brazos Bend State Park

Birding Hike

April 2, 7, 8, 19 8:00 am

Brazos Bend State Park is home to over 300 species of birds making it the perfect place to bird-watch all year round!

Frontier Day Festivities

Carnival Apr. 27-29 / 5:00p - 10:00 pm

Barn Dance Apr. 28 / 6:00p - 10:00 pm

Parade April 29 / 9:00 am

Festivities April 29 / 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Car / Bike Show, Carnival, Gunfighters, Kid Train Rides, Mini Golf, Kid’s Bouncers, Craft & Collectibles Expo

NERF Nights (Free)

April 28 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Newman Park - 1200 Newman St.

Bring your own Nerf guns. 281-388-4299

Nature Camp at Camp Mohawk

June 5 - June 8 9 am - 12:00 pm

110 CR 193

This half-day camp takes full advantage of cooler summer mornings - before temperatures make outdoor activities uncomfortable.

At a cost of only $30 per child, Nature Camp is an affordable option for almost every family.

Space is limited to only 30 participantspre-registration is required.

Brazos Bend State Park

Birding Hikes

21901 FM 762

Sept. 1 & 3 Oct. 1 & 6 8:00 am

Nov. 3 & 5 Dec. 1 8:00 am

Home to over 300 species of birds making it the perfect place to bird-watch all year round!

NovemberFest & Car/Bike Show

November 11

National Oak Park

Car/Bike Show 7:00 a - 11:00 a

Tribute To Veterans 12:00 noon

Crafts/Collectibles 8:00 a - 4:30 p

Live Bands 9a - 11a Noon - 5:00 p

The Antique, Classic & Collectible Car and Bike Show runs concurrent with other Novemberfest activities such as food court, arts and crafts booths and kids fun zone. Also on display will be antique tractor and farm equipment.

The Christmas Train

1407 Victory Lane

Each Fri. & Sat. in December before Christmas 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Tickets available Online or at Door www.thechristmastrain.com/ Each Christmas season LS Church hosts the Christmas Train. The train is open to the public and all ages are welcome.

Home for the Holidays

December 1 & 2 FREE alvin-tx.gov • National Oak Park Light Parade 6:00 pm Saturday Vendors, snow slide, entertainment, activities, lighted parade, and more.

Angleton - in the heart of the fun

Angleton, the county seat of Brazoria County, is located on SH 288, only 44 miles from Houston, and 18 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Angleton truly is in “the heart of the fun”.

The city offers visitors the opportunity of many historical sites and outdoor facilities.

The Department of Communications and Marketing can assist with itineraries, accommodations, restaurants and more to help make sure your visit is a pleasure.

Email: communications@angleton.tx.us

Lakeside Park

1234 Enchanted Drive

Lakeside Park has one-of-a-kind park features such as a multipurpose outdoor pavilion, kayak launch, fishing pier, walking trail, inclusive playground, and aquatic

and coastal grassland habitats. The Angleton Parks and Recreation Department welcomes everyone to come out and enjoy this amazing new park in Angleton.

Brazoria County Historical Museum

100 E. Cedar St, Angleton

Mon - Fri 9 a - 5 pm Sat 9 a - 3 pm

The Brazoria County Historical Museum is located in Brazoria County’s historic 1897 courthouse. Collections of preserved artifacts that relate to the history of the county’s cultural and diversity.

Stephen F. Austin Historical Park

Off Hwy 35 on Hwy 288, Angleton

Open Wednesday - Sunday

Stephen F. Austin-Munson Historical County Park represents Brazoria County’s famous resident, “the Father of Texas”. The 76-foot tall statue of Stephen F. Austin is the centerpiece of the 10 acre park. The complex includes a visitor and information center with gift shop, picnic areas, and a pond where catch-and-release fishing is permitted.

The Brazoria County Ring of Honor

111 E. Locust St. at Courthouse

The memorial features names of more than 180 Brazoria County service members who were killed in action dating back to World War I and showcases military pictorials and bronze statues of a Medal of Honor and Gold Star Mothers award recipient, Clarence Sasser.

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

24907 FM 2004, Angleton

The wildlife refuge offers salt and freshwater marshes, sloughs, ponds, woody thickets and coastal prairies which provide a place for wildlife to rest, nest and feed. It offers folks a respite from the concrete jungle. Features automobile tour route.

Calendar of Events

Market Days

March 18 - 19 November T B A

Fb: angletonmarketdays

Sat 9:00a - 5:00p Sun 11:00a - 4:00p

901 S. Downing Rd., Fairgrounds

With over 200 vendors, the City of Angleton is proud to host one of the great events in Brazoria County. Parking and admission is free for everyone.

Concert In The Park

Every Fri. in May & September

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

115 E. Magnolia - Veterans Park

Join us for two great months of live music and local food trucks. Held at Veterans

Park in Downtown Angleton on Chenango Street, all you need is your lawn chair or a blanket for a great night out.

Freedom Fireworks

July 1 Starts 9:20 pm

901 S. Downing Rd. - Fairgrounds

FREE Admit / Parking

Held the Saturday before July 4th, this pyrotechnic display set to music is a spectacle to not miss. Viewing is optimum from anywhere in the Brazoria County Fairgrounds parking lot.

Heart Of Christmas

December 2 (1st Sat. in Dec.)

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Downtown FREE Admit / Parking

This annual event is a gift back to the community that includes activities for all ages, community booths with giveaways, musical performances and best of all pictures with Santa.

Touring TEXAS Gulf Coast Style

Fishing, Birding, Sun & Stars

More than just a single city, the Brazosport area encompasses the cities of Clute, Freeport, Lake Jackson, Quintana and Surfside Beach. Located 50 miles south of Downtown Houston, visitors will find a region known for its natural beauty and rich history.

~ Clute ~ Where Fun Comes To Play!

Within minutes of Clute, you can enjoy many outdoor activities such as fishing, birding and kayaking. The Center for Arts & Sciences can entertain you for hours, scuba dive in Mammoth Lake, golfing and historical tours are just a few of the opportunities waiting for you in Clute, Texas! For more information visit goclute.com or call 1-888-462-5883.

Brazosport BASF Planetarium

brazosportcenter.com/

The BASF Planetarium offers a star show every Tuesday and on the fourth Friday of each month. Visitors can also view images from the Hubble telescope in the lobby through View-Space.

Center for the Arts & Sciences

brazosportcenter.org

Free Admission

The Center for the Arts & Sciences is a cultural and educational complex in Clute comprised of an art gallery, science museum, planetarium and two performance theaters. Featuring work by local, regional, and international artists. The Center for the Arts & Sciences is located in front of Brazosport College.

The Center’s Museum of Natural Science contains one of the South’s largest seashell collections as well as fossils of dinosaur and mammoth bone and Texas coastal wildlife and a unique jade and ivory collection.

~ Freeport ~

As a coastal city, Freeport has some of the best fishing in Texas. A number of offshore charter boat services are available for large and small groups, taking both day and overnight trips.

There are two marinas, numerous boat ramps, and bait and tackle shops making fishing a breeze in Freeport.

Bryan Beach

Offering over three miles of sandy beach ideal for saltwater surf fishing. Beach goers drive and park on Bryan Beach, which is still in its natural state. It’s perfect for sunbathing, camping, birding, fishing and relaxing.

San Luis Pass Boat Ramp

Launch your boat at the concrete ramp boat slip which is lighted. located at San Luis Pass County Park, County Road 257. Go jet skiing on the Old Brazos River or kayak the Christmas Bay Paddling Trail. Wetlands Trail & Bird Observatory

visitbrazosport.com/attractions

The perfect place for bird watching year-round.

During the winter months visitors can see hundreds of ducks and geese at this

fresh water marsh. Flower Gardens National Marine Sanctuary

flowergarden.noaa.gov

A premier diving destination about 100 miles off the coast of Freeport where the northernmost coral reefs in the continental United States are located. See Star and Brain coral, Manta Rays, Hammerhead sharks, and Loggerhead sea turtles then book a trip with the local dive charter. Spot a whale shark if you visit this national treasure in July, August or September. Best suited for intermediate or advanced divers.

son, TX, from the Indigenous Karankawa people to World War II industry and beyond.

Jackson Plantation Historic Site

1030 FM 2004

First Sat./month 10:00am - 5:00pm

Admission by Donation

Established in the early 1840s by Abner Jackson, the Lake Jackson Plantation was a bustling sugar and cotton plantation where over 90 enslaved people lived and worked.

Alden B. Dow Office Museum

101 South Parking Place

Second Sat./month, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Admission by Donation

Renowned for his iconic mid-century architectural style, Alden B. Dow designed the city of Lake Jackson from this 1943 office building.

Sea Center Texas

302 Medical Dr.

Freeport Historical Museum & Visitor Center

311 E. Park Ave.

Mon-Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

The Freeport Historical Museum & Visitor Center showcases over 300 years of local Freeport history. A fantastic collection of original artifacts and models detail what life was like in the Freeport area from the occupation of Spanish Texas, to the establishment of the town in 1912, to the oncebooming Shrimping capitol of the world.

~ Lake Jackson~

Downtown Lake Jackson has a variety of shops, restaurants and pubs within walking distance of each other. Places to launch your boat and enjoy a great day of fishing.

Lake Jackson Historical Museum

lakejacksonmuseum.org

Free Admission - Closed Mondays

The Lake Jackson Historical Museum chronicles the rich history of Lake Jack-

tpwd.texas.gov/seacenter

Free Admission - Closed Mondays

A marine development, aquarium, and education center that can produce 20 million fingerlings annually, primarily red drum and spotted sea trout, for release into Texas coastal waters.

Visit the 20-foot touch pool and handle marine animals such as blue crabs, hermit crabs, urchins and anemones or come face to face with the large fish in the Gulf of Mexico aquarium. Tour one of the largest red drum hatcheries in the world and marvel at the replicas of Texas state record saltwater fish

Manta Ray

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory

gcbo.org

A birding research and education facility on 34 acres of Columbia Bottomland forest in Lake Jackson and has a great bird-banding program the third Saturday of each month. Native birds and migrants can be found on the many trails and around the Avian Conservation Science Center.

Wilderness Golf Course

thewildernessgc.com/

The Wilderness Golf Course in Lake Jackson could very well be Texas’ best kept secret. Exceptional bunkering and putting surfaces will challenge players of every skill level. Surrounded by natural landscapes that native wildlife and birds thrive on, it’s fitting that the Wilderness is a certified Audubon Sanctuary golf course.

~ Surfside Beach ~

If the Beach is your Happy Place, Surfside is Your Spot!

VisitSurfsideTx.org

Four miles of golden sand teeming with seashells and marine life makes Surfside Beach the perfect retreat for recreational athletes, sun worshipers and nature lovers alike. With beach house rentals, motels, offshore fishing charters, restaurants and souvenir shops close at hand, Surfside Beach is a great spot for every type of beach goer.

Surfside Beach has you covered with surfboard, jet ski, and kayak rentals, as well as horseback riding.

Stahlman Park

An event facility with full amenities and glorious views of the Gulf with beach access. It hosts numerous events throughout the year, including beach cleanups, the Surfside Marathon, The Food & Art Festival, and more.

Bird & Butterfly Trail

Next to the Jetty

You will witness up to 400 species of birds and butterflies during March and September’s migration seasons. The mile long trail also offers exercise stations and benches to sit and watch the boats go by.

Surfside Jetty County Park

Here, anglers will find trophy redfish, speckled trout and a variety of other game fish. The park also offers a picnic area and restrooms. Launch your boat at the public boat ramp with easy entry into the Intracoastal and the closest access in the area to the Gulf, or kick back and watch ships sail through the harbor.

~ Quintana ~

Quintana is recognized among bird en-

thusiasts from across the country as an ideal place to bird watch. This island is the perfect stopover for migrating birds.

Quintana Neotropical Bird Sanctuary

Full of salt cedars, dunes, gulf frontage and brackish marshes. A large observation tower, trails and benches are perfect for spotting wildlife.

During the month of April volunteers provide local birding information, checklists, lead tours and help identify birds for visitors to the sanctuary.

The Quintana Beach County Park

A beachfront park with day-use and overnight facilities. Full service paved RV sites or self-contained cabins are available. A pedestrian beach, lighted fishing pier, access to the west jetty, restrooms and showers, a meeting/party house complete with kitchen, education center, covered pavilions, picnic tables, grills, playground, volleyball court, horseshoe pits and paved trail.

The site of Fort Bates (1862), the remains of the Freeport Harbor Defense during WWII (1942), and two historically significant houses are located inside the park.

Calendar of Events

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

VisitSurfsideTx.org

See website for 2024 Dates

Market Day at Varner-Hogg Plantation

April - October

3rd Saturday/Month 10:00 a - 2:00 p

1702 N. 13th, West Columbia

Load up the kids, grab your canvas bags and head to Varner-Hogg State Historic Site for a day of shopping and supporting local small business owners.

FREE admission to site during Market Days.

Abner Jackson

Plantation Site Tour

1st Saturday/Month 10:00 a - 5:00 p

FM 2004 near Hwy. 332, Lake Jackson

Visit the historic archeological site of

Major Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston.

Discover the sugar making process of the 1840s, how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s, and how destructive the hurricane of 1900 truly was to the Texas Coast.

Farmers Market

April - December

2nd Saturday/Month 9:00 a - 2:00 p

110 S. Parking Place, Lake Jackson

Locally roasted coffee, homemade food, handmade products, locally grown fruits and vegetables and more. Shop your favorite vendors at the Farmers Market.

Bird Banding Days

(Free) April - December

3rd Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory

299 W. Hwy. 332, Lake Jackson

The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn about birds that live or migrate through the Brazosport Area. Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary.

Spring Fling at Quintana Neotropic Bird Sanctuary

April 8 - May 7 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

814 N. Lamar, Quintana

During the spring season, thousands of migratory songbirds arrive at stopover habitat along the coast in Quintana.

At Spring Fling, Gulf Coast Bird Observatory volunteers and staff provide local birding information, bird checklists, sell snacks, post the daily bird list on the white board, and help identify birds for novice

birders.

Planetarium Show at Center for the Arts & Sciences

April 4 - December 19

Each Tuesday & 4th Friday 7:00 pm

400 College Blvd., Clute

Features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector to produce the night sky as it appears to the naked eye, together with a large variety of high tech equipment to give a close-up feel for things like comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

Migration Celebration

April 29 - 30 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge

6801 County Road 306, Brazoria

This year’s event includes several free activities for children, including: archery, fishing for catfish, BB gun range, bug sweeping, microscopes, touch tanks and reptiles. Adults and children can both enjoy the very popular “Birds of Prey” show

by EarthQuest as well as the butterfly encounter tents. Refuge tours given by qualified naturalists can be enjoyed by marsh buggy or wagon.

Guided walking tours to Bobcat Woods and to the largest Texas Live Oak are also available. All the photo contest entries can be seen in the exhibition building as well as many other nature related exhibits.

Riverfest

April 28 - 29 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Freeport Municipal Park

421 N Brazosport Blvd., Freeport

Barbecue cook-off, crawfish cook-off, vendor market and nightly live entertainment.

Old Guy Surf Reunion

April 29 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Stahlman Park / Surfside Beach

2211 Bluewater Hwy.

Join Texas surfers as they remember and honor those who have gone before them. There will be vendors, food trucks, a paddle out and a nighttime bonfire.

Uncovering the Past: Untold Stories of Lake Jackson History

May 23 - August 19 Admit / Donation

Tues. - Sat. 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Lake Jackson Historical Museum

249 Circle Way, Lake Jackson

A special exhibit highlighting an often neglected period of Lake Jackson’s early history. Local historical episodes from the end of the plantation era in the late 19th century through the arrival of Dow Chemical Company in the early 1940s will be displayed.

Youth Fishing Day

June 3 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Sea Center Texas

302 Medical Drive, Lake Jackson

Pack your sunscreen, hat, lawn chair and fishing gear for a couple of hours of catch and release fishing at our marine fish hatchery and visitor education center. This event is available to guests 16 years old and younger accompanied by an adult.

Anglers must bring their own gear and bait with barb-less hooks.

No artificial bait or treble hooks. Volunteers and staff will be on hand to assist first-time anglers.

3rd Annual Fort Velasco Day

June 24 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Freeport Historical Museum

311 E. Park, Freeport

Fort Velasco Day commemorates the 191st anniversary of the Battle of Fort Velasco. This living history event will bring reenactors from across the state to give visitors a glimpse of what life and conflict was like at the mouth of the Brazos River in 1830s Texas.

76th Annual Fishin’ Fiesta & BBQ Cook-Off

June 29 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

June 30 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm

July 1 10:00 am - 11:00 pm

July 2 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Freeport Municipal Park

421 N Brazosport Blvd., Freeport

This tournament draws fishermen who hope to catch the biggest redfish, barracuda, or any other offshore or inshore fish. Fun also includes cook-offs, craft and food vendors and fireworks display Saturday night.

Great Texas Mosquito Festival

July 27 - 28 5:00 pm - Midnight

July 29 3:00 pm - 1:00 am

Clute Municipal Park

100 Parkview Drive, Clute

The 42nd Annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival is a three day fun-filled, family event. There are many booths with a variety of foods, a 5K, a cook-off, along with arts and crafts and more. The carnival

provides three days of fun for children and adults. Live entertainment caps off each evening.

Kayak & Canoe

Rubber Duck Regatta

July 1 9:00 am - 12:30 pm

Dunbar Park

803 FM 2004, Lake Jackson

Get out on Oyster Creek for some kayak and canoe fun! Teams compete to be one of the first 25 boats to retrieve 8 rubber ducks and guide them back to the starting point.

Christmas in the Park & Tree Lighting

December 8 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

December 9 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Clute Municipal Park 100 Parkview Dr.

Come out and celebrate the holiday season with two days of Christmas activities and fun. Don’t miss out on the lighted Christmas trail and seasonal photo opportunities.

Candlelight Christmas at Varner-Hogg Plantation

December 16 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

1702 N. 13th, West Columbia

Images of Valor:

U.S. Latinos & Latinas / World War II

September 1 - October 14

10:00 am - 4:00 pm Admit / Donation

Alden B. Dow Office Museum

101 S. Parking Place, Lake Jackson

A traveling exhibition created by the U.S. Latino & Latina WWII Oral History Project in partnership with the School of Journalism and Center for Mexican American Studies at The University of Texas at Austin. The exhibition includes images from the Oral History Project archives, contemporary photographs by photojournalist Valentino Mauricio, and quotes from those who served with a focus on individual stories that reveal larger themes such as citizenship and civil rights.

Murder Mystery Dinner

September 30

Location TBA Admission TBA

Fb: LakeJacksonHistoricalMuseum/

Join us for our annual murder mystery fundraiser dinner party. Follow the Lake Jackson Historical Association on Facebook for location and ticket announcements.

Tour the plantation house to discover the many contributions of different cultures to Christmas in Texas. Relax outside and enjoy the beverage of the season, wassail, and Christmas cookies. There will also be food, entertainment, children’s activities, and a special visit from Santa. Santa’s Market will be open for all the shoppers who attend.

Rich in History and Fun

La Porte, Texas is a small Texas town located just south of where the Houston Ship Channel meets Galveston Bay which is rich in history, and built on community.

Established in 1892, many of the families who settled here still call La Porte home and there’s a reason for that. A roaring tourist stop in the 40’s, La Porte is now a sleepy escape from the reality of the big City. Just 35 minutes from downtown Houston, La Porte offers a quiet escape from reality, friendly faces that will know your name before you leave, and a unique visitor experience that leaves you feeling like a local.

From bay views to boutique shopping to history lessons that helped shape our nation, the city has much to offer and at a

slower pace than this fast paced world can offer. The surrounding industry is a huge part of that. The people that live in our community and the work that they do is invaluable to our nation. La Porte is proud to be an industry town but proud to be so much more.

La Porte Heritage Society

La Porte was once a regular stop on the Moonlight Express train that ran from Houston to the Train Depot, which is now the Old Sylvan Beach Depot Museum.

The Heritage Society manages the Museum, and they are a fantastic resource for all things historical in the City of La Porte. Sylvan Beach Depot Museum & Library

604 Park Drive Weekends 11am - 4pm

Open during the week via appointments

only. Admission FREE. A vast array of La Porte’s other historical stories can be uncovered at the La Porte Bay Area Heritage Society’s Sylvan Beach Depot Museum and Library. Inquiries, call 281-471-0493 or 832-494-8094.

and once again took center stage in the community as it was dedicated on Saturday, July 21, 2018 as a museum and historical site.

Sylvan Beach

7:00 am - 10:00 pm

East of S. Hwy. 146

FREE Admission and parking. Along with conventional park amenities you will find a skate park, boat ramp and bait shop. Bait Shop 281-471-5705.

La Porte Historical Colored Schoolhouse

Saturdays / Sundays 10:00 a - 4:00 pm

401 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

At the start of the twentieth century, African-American children in La Porte had no school to call their own. Education space was borrowed from a neighborhood Baptist Church, but that all changed in 1909, when the La Porte school trustees established a new school on the north-side of the city. A short time after the school was officially created, the first ten students along with their teacher, Viola DeWalt, found a new home in a small one-room building purchased by the school district. For the next thirty-four years, the building held daily classes until a two-room structure was moved onsite and became the primary facility.

For many years after it ceased to be used for daily education, the historic one-room school house was still a centerpiece in the community. The small building hosted school performances, and acted as the meeting place for all north-side community celebrations. Overtime, the structure fell into disrepair suffering the crippling effects of time and neglect. Through the combined efforts of the La Porte Community Civic Club and the City of La Porte, the building has been completely rebuilt

Sylvan Beach Park also has an 1,100 foot pay-to-fish fishing pier that is known for great catches. From speckled trout to drum you can always be sure you’ll have to put up a good fight.

Sylvan Beach Park has two sandy shores to call home for the day and both are off the beaten path.

Little Cedar Bayou Wave Pool

600 Little Cedar Bayou Dr.

May 28 - Aug 7 (Daily)

Aug 13 - Sept 5 (Sat & Sun Only)

Mon-Thur 11a - 7p Fri-Sun 11a - 6p

$5 for non-residents and a perfect fit for families. Concessions are available as well and the hours are convenient.

Bird Watching

The City of La Porte is part of the Greater 288 Birding Trail with two especially unique areas for discovering a variety of coastal birds. The Little Cedar Bayou Nature Trails are a hidden gem for quiet watching and photography with sweeping views of Galveston Bay. The short hike down the beautiful wooded nature trails beside Little Cedar Bayou’s path down to Galveston Bay leads to two birdwatching

platforms with views of wading birds and waterbirds of the area.

The San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site is another idyllic spot. While visiting the San Jacinto Monument and climbing aboard the Battleship USS Texas, local birders recommend hiking down to the south end of the park. Wood Storks are often present in late summer and fall, and Hooded Mergansers and Greater Scaup have been seen during winter.

fused with the legacy of Texian valor.

The San Jacinto Museum of History is housed in the base of the San Jacinto Monument. The Museum is operated by the San Jacinto Museum of History Association — a non-profit organization — in association with the Texas Historical Commission.

More than just a gateway to a great view, the Museum is your gateway to Texas culture! It was established not only to honor those who fought here in 1836, but also to re-visualize the history of Texas and the Spanish Southwest. It was created as a steward of history, and to promote friendship between Texas, Mexico, Spain, France and Latin America.

Bay Forest Golf Course

www.bayforestgolf.com

For great golf on the Texas Coast there’s really only one option - Bay Forest Golf Course.

Winding through a natural bayside setting of stately trees and bayou-fed waterways, La Porte Bay Forest Golf Course has earned the prestigious distinction of being named one of the top 20 municipal golf courses in Texas by the Dallas Morning News. Bay Forest offers amenities for both the casual and championship player, making it a true golf test at an affordable price.

San Jacinto Museum of History

Just twenty minutes from downtown Houston, locals and out-of-towners alike can turn an afternoon daytrip into a trip back in time — at the San Jacinto Museum of History.

Uncover the origins of the Lone Star State at the San Jacinto Museum of History. Discover how a decisive 18-minute battle for independence empowered a young nation and forever altered the course of world history. The story of America is in-

Special treasures can be found from Mexican Texas, the Texas revolution, and the Republic of Texas. But the museum also holds art and artifacts from the Spanish conquest, French Texas (a small collection), Spanish colonial life, the Mexican Revolution and the Anglo colonization of Mexican Texas. Texas’s early statehood and the Civil War are also featured.

San Jacinto Monument

Experience the live view from the top of the San Jacinto Monument overlooking the Houston Ship Channel and Battleship Texas. Access an archive of footage from the past 24 hours and a “Hall of Fame” collection of the most spectacular user-submitted views.

The total height of the Monument is 567.31 ft.12.31 ft. taller than the Washington Monument.

Calendar of Events

Main Street Trade Days

1st Saturday/Month 10:00 a - 2:00 p

200 Main St.

A day with friends while browsing antiques, collectibles, re-purposed furniture, and artisan vendors and many eclectic shops and eateries along Main Street!

Bird Watching at San Jacinto Battleground

1st Saturday/Month 7:00 am - 9:00 am

3523 Independence Pkwy FREE

The site opens two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy the early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.

Spring Fest

April 15 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Five Points Town Plaza

This FREE event features a tree giveaway, seed-ball making, geocaching, face painting, a rock wall, & a ‘tree-sure’ hunt!

Sylvan Beach Festival

April 29 9:00 am

sylvanbeachfestival.com

Gen Adm: $10 12 & Under FREE

Sylvan Beach Festival is back for its 67th year, featuring performances by Wade Bowen, Stoney LaRue, Larry Fleet, and Big Jordan Band!

Budget-friendly fun for the whole family. Come out to the beaches of Sylvan Beach Park for carnival rides, food vendors, live music, family fun zone with inflatables, artisan vendor market, vehicle display, gator shows, and so much more! As the sun goes down, enjoy the concerts well into the night!

Summer Party On Main

June 10

visitlaportetx.com/summerparty

The Main Stage at Summer Party features live music. Food Trucks offer every food and drink selection you could want

on a hot summer day in Texas. The Hottest Car Show of Summer happens throughout the festivites down at Broadway/Main. The event offers the best of local shopping with a variety of artisan vendors. Kids can enjoy summer crafts and slides.

Annual Christmas On Main

December 7 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Santa will be out at Five Points for pictures and to collect those Christmas wishlists. A photographer will be there to snap the perfect photo.

LPISD provides musical performances.

A FREE kid’s zone includes ice slide, pony rides, trackless train rides and Snowglobe for Pictures.

Over 100 vendors for Christmas shopping!

Food Trucks will have nothing but the best and yummiest food to choose from.

La Porte By The Bay Half Marathon

November 19 Start: 7:30 am

laportebythebayhalfmarathon.org/

The La Porte By the Bay Half Marathon starts from Sylvan Beach Park by the water, proceeding through La Porte streets and on to the Fred Hartman Bridge.

After looping back to take on the bridge for a second crossing, the race finishes at Five Points Plaza where the post-race party awaits with amazing food and drinks, awards and good times with family, fellow runners and friends. All finishers will receive a medal.

Something fun - All year round

~ Texas City ~

Texas City has much to offer anyone who enjoys outdoor activities with more than 890 acres of city parks plus five miles of recreational opportunities along the Texas City Dike.

Texas City has excellent outdoor facilities and activities for the extreme water sport individual to the passive walker or casual outdoor person to the avid fisherman to the bird watcher enthusiast, as well as many indoor activities.

A modern Family Aquatic Center has water slides, a lazy river, a zero-depth entry and play area, a children’s spray and splash zone, lots of shade structures and locker room.

Texas City Museum • 409 6th Street

Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 a - 4:00 p

The Texas City Museum is the center of history, culture, and heritage for the people of Texas City. A few of the exhibits are:

• 1947 Texas City Disaster films, photographs and artifacts

• Children’s Discovery Room

• Dahlgren Cannon from U.S.S. Westfield

• First Aero Squadron

GCModel Railroad Club Train Exhibit

Texas City Museum • 409 6th Street

Open Saturdays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

The Galveston County Model Railroad Club is a non-profit club bringing together modelers of all scales interested in expanding their knowledge and modeling abilities. The exhibit has three main lines

operating independently in a continuous non-stop loop.

Historical Homes

(Parks & Rec / Historical Homes)

texascitytx.gov

The 1867 Settlement Historic District is the only Reconstruction-era African American community in Galveston County.

The Bell Home • 117 S. Bell Dr. Open sporadically throughout the year, can be viewed as part of the Museum’s City tours. Call 409-229-1660.

Heritage Square Park • 109 3rd Ave. N.

Four homes are located at Heritage Square Park.

The Davison Home - Open 1st Sunday

Most Months 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

The other three are: The Engineer’s Cottage • The Lee Dick Home • The Moore Home.

Texas City Dike

Open 24 hours • Fees Vary

Dike Road

The Texas City Dike is the longest manmade fishing pier in the world with boat launch and fishing areas, Dike Beach, restrooms, fish cleaning stations, picnic shelters and more. The base of the dike has a huge playground, hike and bike trails, bike rentals, 18-hole disc golf course and more; there is something for everyone.

and Wing Transition.

Bayou Golf Club

2800 Ted Dudley Dr., Texas City

Golfers enjoy the tropical like climate for year-round play. Winds from Galveston Bay, water on 12 holes and 22 sand traps present a challenging course.

~ La Marque ~

La Marque is the Gateway to the Gulf located 15 miles south of Houston and four miles north of Galveston.

Citizens enjoy breezy coastal living that is a sportsman’s paradise.

La Marque Bird Sanctuary

Open Dusk to Dawn

217 Bayou Rd.

The .27 acre area features park benches and meditation areas.

Carbide Park

4102 Main St. / FM 519

The park features a sheltered pavilion, a tot-lot, picnic areas, basketball & tennis courts, water fountain and restrooms. There is also a small hike and bike trail. Sit under the shade of large trees.

Motion Wellness System Playground

Located in Carbide Park

This exercise system is used for focused training on balance & coordination and has activities to support ordinary daily life. The system offers a safe approach for older adults to improve and maintain their mobility, flexibility and balance skills.

Mac McGaffey Highland Bayou Park

Open Dusk to Dawn

1991 Getty Road, Exit 10 off I-45 So.

Texas City Skate Park Girl Scout Lane

The skate park design consists of Four-stair with Out Rail and Hubba Ledge, Bank to Ledge, Curved Transition, Grass Gap with Mellow Rail and Bank to Up Ledge, Long Curved Manual Pad with Ledge and Flat Rail, Long Straight Ledge, Rudder Hip, Steep Bank Turnaround, Wedge to Wedge with Flat Gap, Rooftop Rail and Ledge,

The park is 230 acres and features baseball fields, playgrounds, canoeing, hiking, nature trail, bird watching, observation deck, tennis and basketball court, horseshoe pit, shade shelters, bar-bque facilities and large parking area.

Calendar of Events ~ La Marque ~

Bayou Fest (Free Admit & Parking)

October 21 9:00 am - 10:00 pm

Mac McGaffey Highland Bayou Park

1919 Getty Rd

From live music to kids activities to fireworks and good food, Bayou Fest offers fun for all ages.

Lighted Christmas Parade

December 5 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Enjoy watching festive lighted floats, marching bands, and children from the community all come together to celebrate the Christmas season. Hot chocolate and popcorn will be offered to parade watchers.

Calendar of Events

~ Texas City ~

Art Festival

April 2 - 5

Sun. 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Mon.-Wed. 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

Doyle Convention Center 2010 5th Ave. N.

The 2023 Texas City Art Festival opening night will be held on Saturday, April 1 in the Doyle Convention Center. The Art Show will be open for public viewing beginning on Sunday, April 2 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and then again Monday through Wednesday, April 3 - 5 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

onboard the French-owned Grandcamp ignited the ship’s load of ammonium nitrate fertilizer at the port of Texas City.

76th Anniversary of TC Disaster

Memorial Service

April 13 9:00 am

Memorial Park

25th Ave. N and 29th St.

The memorial remembers and pays tribute to the hundreds of victims of the Texas City Disaster.

The morning of April 16, 1947, a fire

Cinco De Mayo

Parade & Festival

April 29

Lone Star Deluxe Car Show & Music Festival

May 6 9:00 am

Showboat Pavillion 416 6th St. N

The 10th Annual Lone Star Deluxe Hotrod and Music Festival is free to the general public and only $25 for show entries.

The festival features live bands, DJs, food trucks and vendors from around the country and is very family friendly.

Juneteenth Celebration

texascitytx.gov/918/Juneteenth-Festivities

Texas City Hosts a slate of events to celebrate Juneteenth and the African American heritage of the community.

Annually, the City hosts a Gospel Fest, Golf Tournament, Poetry Slam, as well as the Charles Brown Juneteenth Celebration.

Juneteenth Gospel Fest

June 9 7:00 pm

Doyle Convention Center

2010 5th Ave. N.

Juneteenth Poetry Slam

June 16 7:00 pm

Doyle Convention Center

2010 5th Ave. N.

Juneteenth Parade

June 17 3:00 pm

Bay Street Park

800 Bay Street

July 4th Festivities

Parade 10:00 am

Concert 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Fireworks Dusk

Bay Street Park 800 Bay Street

Family, fireworks and fun! Texas City displays patriotism through its streets and parks during the Independence Day holiday.

Community Wide

Shrimp Boil & Dance

August 11 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Dance 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Nessler Park/Rotary Pavilion

2010 5th Ave N.

Zesty cajun boiled shrimp and jambalaya, cold drinks, and a live concert by The Line Up band will be featured.

A favorite tradition of the community that has been held for more than 40 years. Breast Cancer Awareness 5K

October 7 8:00 am

Nessler Park/Rotary Pavilion

2010 5th Ave N.

To help highlight the importance of breast cancer awareness, the City of Texas City’s Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department will host their annual Breast Cancer Heart & Sole Walk.

October 21 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Silent Hour 10 am - 11 am

For children with sensory sensibilities

Downtown - 6th Street

An outdoor family festival that allows children to climb on, explore, and discover their favorite big trucks and vehicles!

Monster Truck Rides • Moonwalks • Face Painting • Balloon Animals • Food Trucks

Christmas Parade

December 7 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Touch-A-Truck Festival