So, you need a vacation, but you can’t afford a plane ticket. That’s not a problem—at least not if you live in the Greater Houston area. Or, perhaps you’re planning a trip to Houston, and you’re wondering how you’ll spend your time. There are actually many fun and exciting places to see, all driving distance from Houston. If you have a car and some gas in the tank, here are some places you can visit:
[h]Galveston[/h]
From Houston, just head down I-45 South to Galveston, and you’ll find a variety of things to do. You can tour the Moody Mansion and the other homes in the historic district. Galveston also features Moody Gardens, which offers a host of entertaining options for the whole family. And of course, there is the beach itself. From Stewart Beach to San Luis Pass, and everything in between, there is a beach for every taste.
[h]San Antonio[/h]
Take I-10 West to San Antonio for an exciting step back in time. You can tour the Alamo and learn all about the battles for Texas independence. Take a tour boat down the river for an informative and entertaining lesson in Texas history. And, of course, the River Walk offers food, music, and fun. If you choose to stay overnight, San Antonio offers hotels in all price ranges, some of them right on the river.
[h]Katy[/h]
If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, just take I-10 a few miles West of Houston to Katy. Katy is home to the remarkable Katy Mills Mall, which offers food, shopping, and entertainment. Forbidden Gardens is also a must-see in Katy. This outdoor museum of Imperial China offers a fascinating journey back in time and to a far-off land—all just miles from Houston.
[h]Conroe[/h]
Just a few miles North of Houston on I-45, Conroe offers great fun in the summertime. Visit Lake Conroe for boating, swimming, and fishing. The many parks in Conroe provide all-day fun for the whole family—at a cheap price.
[h]San Jacinto Battleground[/h]
Located in La Porte, this historic site is a living museum to the battle for Texas independence. The Battleship Texas is docked here and is open daily for tours. The San Jacinto Monument, the Museum of History, the Theatre for Texas Studies, and the Battleground itself are all popular tourist attractions. The best part? Many of these educational exhibits are free of charge.
Living in Houston, adventure is always just a short drive away. Whether you are looking for fun, food, or education, it’s always close by.
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