There’s something special about driving down I-45 for an hour to be greeted by the sounds of seagulls and waves crashing on the shores of Galveston’s beaches. Unfortunately, not everybody feels that way about our beach neighbors to the south. . . like a certain former basketball star we know. However, City Cast Houston host Raheel Ramzanali is #TeamGalveston! Check out his reasons to love Galveston below.
👑 The Queen City of The Gulf
Galveston was a major immigration port for over a quarter million Europeans in the middle of the 19th Century. The Strand area was even known as the “Wall Street of the Southwest,” with booms in industries like railroads, cotton, and publishing and printing. It is also where the holiday Juneteenth originated before it was declared a national holiday.
🌊 Everything’s Beauty
Some folks might be hesitant to swim in Galveston, but you can still enjoy the beach! “You don't have to get in the water. You can hear the waves crashing, you can hear the seagulls, you can have that breeze. We have that less than an hour away,
”
Raheel says.
The joys of Galveston are just an hour away. (Google Maps)
⛴️ Take a Ferry
Why stop at the beach? Take a ferry to Bolivar or just walk on for a free round trip and enjoy the scenery. Raheel has a tip if you want to avoid the summer traffic: “I highly recommend going on the ferry in non-summer months because in the summer the line [to get on the ferry] can take two hours.”
🍽️ Something To Eat or Drink
Seawall Boulevard is a go-to spot for provisions. Stop by The Spot for a burger with a side of ocean view and meander to one of the adjacent bars for a night cap. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, check out Hey Mikey’s Ice Cream
🌴 Brooke’s Galveston Picks
Similar to Raheel and Beyoncé’s mom, I’m #TeamGalveston. The Strand is one of my favorite areas for shopping, good food, and a look at Galveston’s history. Make sure to check out the Juneteenth mural, which depicts the rich history of emancipated Black Texans. If you want stunning views of the water, take a stroll at Pier 21. Grab a bite at Willie G’s, check out the Texas Seaport Museum, and if you want to make a weekend out of it, book a stay at the cozy Harbor House hotel.
