Welcome to my Why I Love Houston Series, where I share my favorite Houston experiences and excursions. My goal is to make my hometown of Houston more accessible to the ever-changing mix of folks adopting our amazing city as their home base and reminding natives of the hidden gems throughout H-town. 

Why I Love Houston…because of  its proximity to a beach getaway in less than an hour. 

On my recent visit to Galveston, I was able to combine work and fun while preparing for an upcoming listing on Tiki Island. Downtown Galveston is home to the Strand Historic District. I like to admire the grand architecture of the surrounding neighborhood and the vintage charm of the boutiques and shops. I recommend cooling off with an old-fashioned sundae or banana split at the Star Drug Store. On Pier 22 you can tour the Tall Ship ELISSA and board the Seagull II at the Texas Seaport Museum for a one-hour harbor cruise. Families love to visit Moody Gardens and the Pleasure Pier for hours of summer entertainment from roller coasters to water slides.

Galveston is a great art destination too. I like exploring the artwork at the Design Works Gallery and Affaire d’Art. Be sure to mark your calendar for the next Galveston ArtWalk, organized by the Galveston Art Center on Saturday August 22 from 6-9 pm where cafes, shops and galleries open their doors with exhibits featuring original works of art.

My family indulged in a summer seafood feast at Miller’s Seawall Grill, which you can read all about in my review.  Don’t overlook the simple pleasure of strolling the seawall. I love to watch the sunset with my husband Nick and son Jean-Luc after dining at one of my favorite restaurants like Gaido’s, which has been serving beach-goers since 1911.  

I hope you’re inspired to get in the car and make your own quick getaway to Galveston!

Happy Summer Adventures,

Kathlyn