If you're planning a trip to Houston, you can find plenty of fun things to do and great places to eat without venturing far from your hotel. But here's a tip: Set aside time during your vacation for a day trip to Galveston, where you'll find charming historic districts, beautiful beaches and, of course, great Gulf seafood, all just an hour's drive from downtown Houston. Here are just a few things to see during a visit to this picturesque seaside destination.
The Elissa
Pier 21, Number 8
Make your way downtown to the wharf where you’ll find the Tall Ship Elissa at the Texas Seaport Museum. This three-masted sailing ship was built in Scotland in 1877 and is said to be one of the oldest ships still sailing. After carrying a variety of cargos around the world during her merchant vessel days, she was rescued from a scrapyard and restored by preservationists. Now you can walk the decks of this National Historic Landmark, view a theater presentation of her story and learn more at the adjacent museum.