Growing up in Silsbee, Texas, I often found myself bored during the summer break. However, I've recently begun exploring the Golden Triangle a bit more and have found some fun things to do and interesting places to visit. Since I am a bit of a history junkie, many of these places are museums. However, this list has a little bit of something for everyone. My main goal is to provide ideas for family fun within a couple hours of Beaumont, Texas. From Galveston to Lufkin, this article lists 12 fun places to visit near the Golden Triangle during the summer break! I've also included links to learn more about these fun destinations for your convenience. Enjoy!
1. Galveston, Texas
Galveston, Texas, offers so many fun things to do! While some of the attractions can be costly, there are actually some affordable things to do in Galveston. Galveston has a beautiful historic district and free beach access (with the exception of a low-cost parking fee, should you choose to park on the seawall). Galveston is one of my favorite places to visit. Make sure you check out Murdoch's souvenirs if you decide to visit...you'll thank me later.
2. Ellen Trout Zoo
Ellen Trout Zoo, located in Lufkin, Texas, was a favorite of mine as a child. As a child, my parents would take my brothers and sisters every summer. Adults get in for $7 and kids get in for $3.50. The best part about this zoo is that you don't have to fight crazy traffic to reach your destination. There are picnic areas along the zoo trail, so bring a lunch along. Make sure you ride the train while you're there! It offers great scenery and is a huge hit with children! If you'd like to learn more information, click here.
3. Museum of the Gulf Coast
The Museum of the Gulf Coast, located in Port Arthur, Texas, is one of the most impressive museums in the area. The museum is 39,000 square feet and it is packed full of interesting artifacts. The first floor will be a hit with the kids as it focuses on paleontology and biology. You will also find information about the Texas oil industry and the founding of Texas. The second floor is packed with displays honoring local musicians and a sports hall of fame. Admission is super affordable, as well! Admission for adults costs $6 and admission for children costs $3. Learn more about this cool museum by clicking on the following link: http://www.museumofthegulfcoast.org/
4. Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum
Spindletop Museum is located in Beaumont, Texas. The Texas oil boom began here, and changed not only the Texas economy, but the world economy. This museum is set up like a city from the early 1900's and has a saloon, printing shop, and a mercantile (along with other cute shops and buildings). This "city" will make you feel like you've taken a step back in time. The museum often sets off a gusher for visitors. You can find the schedule here: http://www.lamar.edu/spindletop-gladys-city/index....
5. Huntsville, Texas.
Huntsville, Texas, may not be considered a tourist destination, but it offers some of the best historical attractions in the state. Huntsville is about a two and a half hour drive from Beaumont, making it perfect for a day trip from the Golden Triangle. From the Sam Houston Memorial Museum to the Prison Museum, Huntsville is rich in history. Take the time to visit the Sam Houston monument, which is located off of I-45. If you get a chance to visit, make sure you stop by Mr. Hamburger, which provides an authentic '60's vibe and some of the best hamburgers and milkshakes in the state.
6. Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
This is perhaps one of Southeast Texas' best kept secrets. Located in Orange, Texas, Shangri La is truly beautiful. This is a perfect time of the year to visit. The mild weather has the gardens blooming in full force. One of the best parts of this attraction is the affordable price. Here is Shangri La's website: http://starkculturalvenues.org/shangrilagardens/
7. Tugboat Island
OK, so this one is for the kids, or the young at heart. I remember going to Tugboat Island, located in Port Neches, multiple times on school field trips. This playground is so much fun and is a great place for kids to run off some energy.
8. Lake Sam Rayburn
This destination is for all of the fishermen (and fisherwomen). The is one of my favorite places to be during the summer. Make sure you bring your fishing gear.
9. The Fire Museum of Texas
This museum is located in Beaumont, Texas, and admission is free! You can find old fire trucks on the first floor and a play area for children on the second floor. This is a fantastic educational opportunity for children. Learn more here: http://www.fmotassn.com/
10. Larry's Old Time Trade Days
This is essentially a huge flea market located in Winnie, Texas. The grounds can hold five hundred vendors, meaning there is something for everyone here. The flea market is only open on certain days. You can find the current schedule here: http://www.larrysoldtimetradedays.com/
11. Golden Triangle Raceway Park
The Golden Triangle Raceway Park is located just outside of Beaumont, Texas. Races occur every Friday night between March and September. The Raceway offers family-friendly fun at a low cost, and even offers pit passes to visitors. According to one racing enthusiast, Tyler Anderson, the raceway is "fast, loud, family friendly fun, but is often over looked by Friday night football games." Once a year, the American Sprint Car Series National Tour makes a stop here and the ASCS Gulf South Region Tour stops here monthly (11 times points champion Ernest Haynes is pictured above). You can find more information here and more photo here.
12. Sub Zero Ice Cream & Yogurt
OK, so while this business is a franchise, the Sub Zero located in Beaumont, Texas, is the closest location to the Golden Triangle. This is a new business and the only other Sub Zero anywhere near Beaumont is located in Houston. Stopping here after visiting one of the locations above is the perfect way to end a fun filled day! This is a fun stop for children and adults alike. The ice cream is made in front of the customer with liquid nitrogen, so not only is it a fun and delicious stop, it is also educational. While the ice cream is delicious, the owners of the Beaumont Sub Zero are honestly some of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. They provide a fun, family-friendly environment. Make sure you stop by here on your trip through, or to, Beaumont! Check out their Facebook page here.
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