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City Cast Houston

, and one of them is the Historic Strand District. Designated a National Historic Landmark in the 1970s for its Victorian architecture, this five-block district is chock-full of things to see and do, as well as some fabulous dining options.

While you’re surrounded by buildings from another era, why not get a 

 for an even more immersive experience? Mosey along Strand Street and take in the architecture, catch a show at the 

Galveston Historic Seaport and the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa

Looking to take your shopping experience to the next level? You can find all things nautical at 

, and more classic island souvenirs at the 

With its proximity to the wharf, it’s no surprise that the seafood restaurants in the Strand are top notch. Check out 

, which specializes in boat-to-table service for the very freshest dishes. The 

. But it’s not just the seafood that’s good: 

 offers an array of American eats and craft cocktails with an atmosphere they call “chic antique,” and 

 is a local favorite, with an outdoor patio and weekend live entertainment.

More things to do in Galveston

There are lots of reasons to love Galveston, and one of them is the Historic Strand District. Designated a National Historic Landmark in the 1970s for its Victorian architecture, this five-block district is chock full of things to see and do, as well as some fabulous dining options.

Your Guide to the Strand District in Galveston

Everything to know about Houston neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Houston Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

 yet? If not — from one procrastinator to another — this is a PSA that your non-REAL ID driver’s license isn’t gonna cut it at airport security starting May 7, 2025 that's less than a month from now!

For most purposes, REAL IDs and other state-issued ID cards aren’t that different. The main distinction is that, starting early May, state-issued IDs that aren’t considered REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted by the TSA.

 for the types of documents you have to show to get an ID card that’s considered acceptable for domestic air travel (i.e., a REAL ID), and it also lays out the types of anti-counterfeiting measures states should take when issuing the cards.

Implementation has been delayed … a lot. Enforcement of the law was supposed to start in 2008, but not all states offered REAL ID-compliant cards, and 

 against the requirements because of privacy or cost issues. The most recent delay was to provide states with more time to 

How Can I Tell If My ID is Already a REAL ID?

Whether your ID was issued by Texas or another state, it 

should have a gold star in the upper corner

 if it’s considered REAL ID-compliant. 

Here's how that would look with Texas IDs

It depends. You’ll need one if you’re 18 or older and want to take a domestic flight, get into a federal government facility that requires ID, or enter a military base — unless you have a different form of federally-accepted ID that you can show instead, like a passport or military ID.

If your current license hasn’t expired, 

. This is usually the fastest way to get a REAL ID.

steps through the Texas Department of Public Safety

Not able to renew online, or prefer to do it in person? Find a 

. Be mindful of appointment wait times — 

find up-to-date estimated availability here

 to ensure you’re prepared for your visit.

REAL IDs will be required for boarding all domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Have you gotten your REAL ID yet? Here's how to get one in Texas.

How to Get a REAL ID in Texas

Tips and tricks for living your best Houston life, by locals, for locals.

Houston Life Hacks

 articles in the past, there seems to be no end to the diamonds in the rough in Texas. We're beginning to think that we could visit a new place every single day for the rest of our lives and STILL not manage to see all that our state has to offer. But we have to try, right? That's why we make these lists - to showcase the lesser-known beauty of the Lone Star State and encourage y'all to go to places you've never been before. So, without further ado, we present to you a list of 10 of the best hidden gems in Texas that you absolutely have to see at least once in your lifetime.

Although "hiding" in very plain sight, this beautiful canyon doesn't get nearly enough recognition. It always gets overshadowed by Palo Duro, which is obviously gorgeous, but both are breathtaking in their own right and need to be treated as such. 

 is much smaller, so you'll be able to see more of it, especially if your time is limited. There's also much more lush greenery to admire as you hike through the park.

One of the best Texas hidden gems is Caprock Canyons with its amazing views and bison herds. 

Learn more in this video from Mr. S Travel Quest

 is right down the road from Hamilton Pool, which, although no longer a hidden gem, is one of the most beautiful places in Texas. This preserve, however, is definitely out of the public eye. That's a crying shame because it's simply stunning. A short, guided tour through the woods gives way to this pristine grotto bursting with plant life on all sides. It's a pretty magical place, no doubt.

3. Cattail Falls (Big Bend National Park)

We'd be lying if we said we knew how to access 

, but we'll be darned if we don't try one day. Apparently, a group of hikers stumbled upon it a long time ago after wandering off the path, and since then it's been an elusive spot that everyone else longs to see in person. Pictured above is only the top portion of the falls - below this, it becomes much steeper and extends almost 100 feet down the side of the Chisos Mountains.

It's easy to overlook certain rivers in Texas since we have so many. Between the Guadalupe, Comal, San Marcos, Colorado, and several others, it's no secret why not everyone has heard of the 

. It truly is a diamond in the rough with trees lining either side and hanging over the water like a canopy. Plus, the crystal-clear water is an added bonus that many other rivers in Central Texas can't boast.

We've been to plenty of botanical gardens in Texas, and 

 always rises above them all. We don't know what it is exactly - maybe a combination of the friendly staff members who are so devoted to teaching Southeast Texas about nature and the diversity of the exhibits. Whatever it is that makes this place so special, we want everyone to experience it for themselves.

This water is supposedly some of the bluest in Texas, with over 300 miles of shoreline and plenty of scenic areas to stop and have a picnic or just bask in the tranquility of the gentle lakeside breeze. 

 is a popular fishing spot, and there are air-conditioned cabins as well as primitive campgrounds for overnight guests.

Did you know there's a place with even more bats than the Congress Ave. bridge? 

 holds the largest bat colony in the entire world. Each summer night at dusk, over 20 million of the creatures fill the sky with their presence. And with less of a cult-like following than its counterpart in Austin, you can get a closer view here without being blocked by annoying tourists.

 lets you get up close and personal with, in our opinion, one of Earth's most majestic creatures - the peacock. It's truly an incredible sight when the males extend their vibrant feathers like a fan and strut around in the hopes of attracting a female mate. There are hundreds of them scattered around the area. We've even seen a few way up high in the treetops!

Although it has a rather somber history, 

 serves as both an educational lesson about the Civil War and a way to pay homage to those who perished in its depths. It was a dumping ground used by Confederates to dispose of Union sympathizers. Many years later, sacks of bones were recovered from the hole and analyzed for DNA, but any trace of the humans they once belonged to was long gone.

10. Dinosaur Valley State Park (Glen Rose)

Ever wanted to see how your footprint compares to that of a dinosaur? If so, you're in luck. At 

, you'll find hundreds of dinosaur footprint fossils preserved in the rock. Kids will have a blast here - we bet some of the footprints are as big as them!

Here are ten hidden gems you have to see in Texas. 

 10 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Texas Before You Die

Find the best of everything that Houston has to offer.

Houston’s Best

Houston's Best

We could all use a bit of “vitamin sea.” So, whether you’re overdue for a splash or are looking for a new spot, these are some of our favorite beaches around Houston.

, this is a no-brainer. There are 32 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico and it’s just around an hour-drive away from Houston. Stewart Beach makes for a great family outing, with plenty of amenities nearby and a no-alcohol policy. Plus, you can bring your dog!

. Maybe it’s my ADHD, but my ideal beach day includes more than laying in the sand — there’s birding, biking, and paddle boarding.

 Stewart Beach $15, Galveston Island State Park $5.

Nestled near the historic Fort Velazco just over an hour away from Houston, this is beach bum paradise. The deep waters make Surfside Beach a great place for water sports and the village is full of restaurants and nightlife, so there’s plenty to do. Plus, the 

 is a beautiful spot for weddings and events.

Grab a coffee or natural energy drink from 

If a clean swimming beach is more your speed, this is the only one in Texas with a Blue Wave Beach certification, which means it follows a set of guidelines for protecting beach goers and the environment.

 Free to pedestrians and cyclists. Parking passes available for $10 per day or $40 for a year.

The perfect beach weekend is just five hours and some extra planning away. There’s a beautiful coastline, water sports, an adventure park, a dolphin watch, and so much more. Did I mention you can 

 Start a dance party with Rigo Tovar’s “

,” named after the nearby Mexican town.

More Houston Summer Ideas

The Best Beaches Around Houston, Texas

If you’re looking for a perfect escape this spring, 

 offers hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting, about 50 miles north of Houston. Let’s take a look at this oasis.

For those who love getting lost in nature, you’ll enjoy 

, where you can admire various plants, wildlife, rivers, creeks, lakes, and streams. The most popular seasons to hike here are winter and spring because of the milder weather. As we head into warmer months, beware of the heat, start your hike in the early morning so you can finish before noon, and stay hydrated.

, located along the shoreline of Lake Conroe, has bike trails, hiking, places to picnic, and campground areas. It’s also great for fishing and water sports. Reserve in advance.

 is near Coldspring, Texas, and includes a swimming area, beach, and well-equipped camping units with a table, fireplace, tent pad, and other items. Some camping units also have water, sewer, and electrical hookups. For bike enthusiasts, try their 21-mile mountain bike trail. Reserve in advance.

 is available on a first-come, first-served basis. At Stubblefield, you can camp, hike, canoe, fish, bird watch, or picnic.

Lake Livingston and Lake Conroe have endless water activities, from fishing to your heart’s content, boating, or a water sports activity.

If you plan to hunt deer or small game inside the forest, then make sure to buy the appropriate wildlife management area hunting permit. Hunters must also wear orange.

If this got you itching to explore the outdoors, here are more of 

If you’re looking for a perfect escape this spring, Sam Houston National Forest offers hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting about 50 miles north of Houston.

Explore Sam Houston National Forest 

How To Explore Sam Houston National Forest

If you keep driving north on I-45, you’ll find this not-so-secret oasis, 

 This master-planned community about 30 miles north of downtown first came to life in 1974. Since then, 118,000 people and 2,100 businesses now make up the community. This suburb also has tons of places to eat, shop, walk, and bike. I mean, 151 parks all in one place?! Let’s explore!

 remains an unparalleled place to listen to live music outdoors. During my freshman year of high school, I watched Gwen Stefani perform live at the Pavillion — my first concert! It was truly B-A-N-A-N-A-S. Another place, where, yes, you will spend your entire paycheck, is the ginormous 

, filled with more than 160 shops. It’s a great place to get lost. You’ll also want to stop by 

 at Grogan’s Mill on Saturdays. Sign-up 

 to learn which vendors you’ll find each week. 

 for a taste of the Big Easy. For fans of seafood, especially those who aren’t close to the Houston location, try out 

Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab.

, a family-owned Greek restaurant, to your list. For other essential places for a bite, read this 

There are tons of parks to hike, bike, and walk in around The Woodlands. Fun fact: Every house in this community is located 

 of a park, pathway, or open space. Explore the sprawling 1,800-acre 

, an outdoor adventure aerial course. If you’re looking for a water adventure, try the 

 or Lake Edges Boat House for kayaks, paddle boards, and water bikes. 

The Woodlands, about 30 miles north of downtown, first came to life in 1974.

Why You Should Visit The Woodlands This Spring 

Why You Should Visit The Woodlands

In honor of scary season, I’m sharing places around the Houston-area that will give you the creeps. A trip to 

 formerly known as Hotel Galvez, in Galveston is a perfect weekend getaway to relax, but it also has some ghost folklore that may keep you up at night. 

Trigger warning: The ghost story mentioned below includes details about a person’s suicide.

Hotel Galvez, an opulent hotel in Galveston, 

 At first, it was used by the United States Coast Guard during World War II. However, by the 1950s, the hotel helped Galveston gain its reputation as the “Vegas of the South” because gambling became popular around town. Celebrity guests such as Frank Sinatra, Howard Hughes, and Lyndon B. Johnson all stayed at the hotel. It became Franklin D. Roosevelt's temporary White House 

when his staff stayed there while he was on a fishing trip.

 Throughout the years, the hotel remained a popular spot for tourists and was nicknamed the “Queen of the Gulf.” More recently, Grand Galvez received a makeover gaining a new pink facade and glamorous fountain made in Italy.

Some people say that Grand Galvez is haunted. So, who might you find haunting the halls if you stay for a visit?

Audra, the “The Love-Lorn Lady” is still known to frequent the halls of Grand Galvez after her death. Her husband, a mariner, would often sail in and out of the Port of Galveston. While he was away, Audra would rent room 501 in the 1950s. After a terrible storm, Audra received word that her husband’s ship had capsized at sea. Hearing the news, she killed herself at the hotel. Some say that Audra frequently visits the fifth floor of the hotel to this day.

The tragic Hurricane of 1900 significantly impacted Galveston, including St. Mary’s Orphans Asylum. 90 children and ten nuns from the orphanage passed away in the storm. Some believe that Grand Galvez was built over their graves, so visitors say they still see apparitions of the deceased around the hotel.

A small ghostly girl dressed in 19th century clothing is sometimes seen bouncing her ball near the hotel lobby, gift shop, and staircase.

If you’re looking to learn more about Galveston’s haunted spots, check out 

 Want another ghost story? Listen to a real-life 

Have you stayed at Galvez before and have a ghost story to share? Or another Houston-area hotel that’s haunted? 

In honor of scary season, I’m sharing places around the Houston-area that will give you the creeps. A trip to Grand Galvez, formerly known as Hotel Galvez, in Galveston is a perfect weekend getaway to relax, but it also has some ghost folklore that may keep you up at night.

Is This Galveston Hotel Haunted? 

A cold front is coming and it’s starting to feel a bit like fall in Houston.

To celebrate, I’m sharing some quick day trips you can take throughout the season that will provide beautiful sights, delicious food, and great entertainment. Enjoy!

Beaumont, an hour east of Houston, is a perfect escape away from bustling Houston for the day. Check out their 

 on Oct. 21. Enjoy a haunted hayride, tour of a haunted French home, shop at the vendor fair, or decorate your own pumpkin for their annual contest. While you’re in town, 

 all October, an annual tradition for more than 30 years. At the hotel, participants are given clues and have one hour to escape.

Grab the fam or a group of friends and head to 

in Spring to enjoy their beautiful pumpkin patch. They also offer barbecue, funnel cakes, and tons of photo opportunities to post on your social media. While you’re in town, attend this 

 at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church for food, bingo, shopping, and games on Oct. 7 and 8.

It always feels like fall once you take a trip to 

 in Todd Mission, Texas. The festival kicks off this weekend and lasts until November 26. If you attend this weekend, the theme is the Queen’s Birthday Celebration and you get bargain tickets that start at $12. Enjoy performances from clowns, jugglers, acrobats, and magicians. Feast on delicious food, including my favorite — their turkey leg. Pro tip: They have a 

 that gives a prize for the person who provides the most laughter throughout.

Make a stop in this quaint small town about an hour outside of Houston. Many visit this place to see the breathtaking 

, which has a moat, 3,000 pound drawbridge, a chapel, and more. After your trip to the castle, make a pit stop at this historical county landmark, 

. Hungry, now? Grab a delicious burger from The Hill, which has rave reviews.

A cold front is coming and it’s starting to feel a bit like fall in Houston. To celebrate, I’m sharing some quick day trips you can take throughout the season that will provide beautiful sights, delicious food, and great entertainment. Enjoy!


The Best Fall Day Trips From Houston 

Christian Colon, who was originally born in Puerto Rico, first fell in love with airplanes watching them take off into the sky with his parents. His interest grew even more when he became a student at 

Houston ISD’s Sterling Aviation High School,

 where he initially trained to be a pilot. Through mentorship from United Airlines, the 21-year-old is now one of the youngest pilots licensed to fly for Mesa Airlines.

Q: What’s one of your favorite memories from high school and training to be a pilot?

“We had this thing called a solo flight. The solo flight is when your instructor hands you the airplane and you fly the plane on your own. I remember, you had a block [of time] to go to the flight school and fly the airplanes. By the time I got done with my flights, I would be coming back to school because I played sports in high school. Coming back to [school], in my head I’m like Oh my God, I just did this. I couldn’t stop smiling. Who can say I’m going to high school today, but at 12:00, I’m getting my lunch, and then I’m going to fly?”

Q: When you’re piloting a plane, what do you enjoy the most about the experience?

"I’m trying to soak it all in still. I’m just focused on do this right. Don’t mess this up. I’m still trying to bring my school knowledge into the flight deck. Recently, I had the opportunity to fly my parents. I took them from Jacksonville, Florida and back. That was a wild moment. I also enjoy the view. It looks like what people might think heaven is. It’s beautiful. I have what 45 years in my career left? I don’t think I will ever get used to the view. ”

Q: What’s a dream destination that you want to fly to?

“Flying back home to Puerto Rico. Hopefully I get blessed enough to go to United. They fly from Houston to Puerto Rico. Just have my family be out there and see the airplane land. Being able to land back where I was born, seeing the beach and all that, coming in for the landing, I feel like would be pretty cool.”

This 21-Year-Old Houston Pilot Is Living The Dream

What Houston celebrities, public figures and key citizens have to say about living here.

3 Questions With Houston Public Figures

3 Questions With

Margie Seaman isn’t letting her age stop her. She published her first 

romance novel “Someday Belongs To Us”

 at 85-years-old, and is already working on a sequel. She 

 about her adventures across Texas and beyond called The Graytripper.

What inspired you to write your first novel now?

“When I went through school, all my teachers said when you grow up you need to write. I don’t think of myself as a writer, but I think of myself as a storyteller and a character developer. So, I thought, I’m going to do that, when I get a little older, I’m going to write a book. Well, when I got older, I got married, had three kids, had a job, a career, and kept thinking I’m going to write that book next year. After about 70 years of procrastinating, it dawned on me when I hit 82. On my 82nd birthday, I thought, I better stop saying I’m going to do it next year because next years are getting a little bit limited.”

What’s the most memorable trip you’ve taken recently, and why?

The trip I went to Paris, Texas, into Carthage, [and] Kilgore. I’ve been in Texas all of my life. I had not gone to the area in East Texas as much. Paris is a really charming little town. They have a replica of the Eiffel Tower. It’s not quite as big as people think. It has a cowboy hat on the top, so that’s perfect. We got to Carthage. We found the country western museum. It’s a beautiful brick building, very large. They have things from every country western singer known throughout the time.”

What advice do you have for someone younger who feels behind in achieving their dreams?

“I had a major heart attack, had open heart surgery, quadruple bypass, had an intestinal bleed afterwards and had to go back in ICU. That’s only been two years ago. So, I have a very strong appreciation for the fact that I’m still hanging around. Seriously, to me life is a gift that I’m given every morning when I wake up. When somebody gives me a gift, then I have to do what is right and I have to appreciate that gift. To appreciate that gift, I need to live it to the fullest extent that I can. I need to contribute to whatever I can. My goal is to let people know that if you have a dream, if you have a goal in life, you can still accomplish it. Just do it.”

Margie Seaman isn’t letting her age stop her. She just published her first romance novel “Someday Belongs To Us” at 86-years-old, and is already working on a sequel. She also has a travel blog about her adventures across Texas and beyond called The Graytripper.

travel

Your Guide to the Strand District in Galveston

How to Get a REAL ID in Texas

10 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Texas Before You Die

Latest articles

Your Guide to the Strand District in Galveston

How to Get a REAL ID in Texas

10 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Texas Before You Die

The Best Beaches Around Houston, Texas

How To Explore Sam Houston National Forest

Why You Should Visit The Woodlands

Is This Galveston Hotel Haunted?

Latest articles

The Best Beaches Around Houston, Texas

How To Explore Sam Houston National Forest

Why You Should Visit The Woodlands

Is This Galveston Hotel Haunted?

The Best Fall Day Trips From Houston

This 21-Year-Old Houston Pilot Is Living The Dream

This 86-year-old Houstonian is a first-time author