Things to Do in Texas City, TX: A Local Guide

Texas City doesn't always make the tourist brochures, but if you're staying in the area — whether for work or a Gulf Coast getaway — it has more to offer than you might expect. From one of the longest fishing piers in Texas to quiet nature preserves and easy access to Galveston Island, here's how to make the most of your time here.

The Texas City Dike is the crown jewel of local recreation. Stretching nearly 5 miles into Galveston Bay, it's one of the longest man-made fishing piers in the United States and a beloved spot for locals year-round.

What to do there:

• Fish from the pier — redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead are common catches. No boat required.
• Watch the ships — massive tankers and cargo vessels pass through the Houston Ship Channel, and the Dike offers some of the best views of the traffic.
• Catch a sunset — the western sky over the bay at golden hour is genuinely spectacular.
• Bring a kayak or paddleboard — the protected waters near the Dike are calm and great for paddling.

There's a bait shop at the entrance, and the pier is open 24 hours. Bring sunscreen — there's no shade.

The Texas City Nature Trail is a hidden gem that most visitors drive right past. This 2-mile loop winds through coastal prairie and wetlands, offering a surprisingly peaceful escape from the industrial landscape nearby.

• Birdwatching — the trail is excellent for shorebirds, herons, egrets, and migratory species during spring and fall
• Wildlife — keep an eye out for alligators (yes, really), turtles, and rabbits
• Easy walking — the trail is flat and well-maintained, suitable for all fitness levels
• Free admission — no fees, no crowds

Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the most wildlife activity.

Nessler Park sits along the Texas City waterfront and is a great spot for a casual afternoon. The park features:

• A splash pad for families with kids
• Picnic areas with bay views
• A walking path along the water
• Seasonal events and festivals

The park is well-maintained and a popular spot for locals on weekends.

Texas City has a solid lineup of local restaurants worth seeking out:

• Seafood — fresh Gulf seafood is the obvious choice. Look for local spots serving fried shrimp, fish tacos, and boiled crawfish in season.
• BBQ — Texas BBQ culture runs deep in Galveston County. Several local pitmasters serve brisket, ribs, and sausage worth the drive.
• Mexican food — the area has excellent Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican restaurants, many family-owned for decades.

Ask locals for their favorites — the best spots are rarely the ones with the biggest signs.

One of the best things about staying in Texas City or La Marque is the access to nearby destinations:

Galveston is the obvious day trip — beaches, the historic Strand District, Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn water park, and dozens of restaurants and bars. It's close enough to visit on a day off without making it a production.

The Kemah Boardwalk offers waterfront dining, carnival rides, an aquarium, and live music. It's a fun evening out, especially for families.

For a bigger city fix — professional sports, world-class museums, the Houston Zoo, or just a change of scenery — Houston is less than an hour away.

One of the best birding destinations on the entire Gulf Coast. Hundreds of species pass through during migration, and the refuge is open year-round for wildlife viewing, hiking, and photography.

Texas City and La Marque are car-dependent — you'll want a vehicle for most of these activities. That said, the distances are short, traffic is manageable outside of rush hour, and parking is generally easy and free.

If you're staying at Little Thicket RV Resort in La Marque, you're ideally positioned for all of these. We're just off I-45, minutes from the Texas City Dike and a short drive from everything else on this list. If you have questions about the area or want local recommendations, our staff are happy to point you in the right direction.