Galveston, Texas, is a barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast, about 50 miles southeast of Houston. This proximity to a city of about 2.3 million makes it a popular (and crowded) spot among Houstonians looking for a sea breeze to cut the heat of summer. It also contains a bustling port for cruisers traveling to Mexico or the Caribbean. But there's more to Galveston than its beaches and convenient cruise port. Galveston has quite a bit to offer visitors – from its Victorian architecture that hosts interesting shops on The Strand to its lineup of museums and its array of seafood-inspired dining establishments.
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With its island locale, seafood features heavily into Galveston's dining scene. Some of the most popular spots include Yamato Restaurant (try the sushi), Shrimp N Stuff (order the catfish po'boy), Gaido's Seafood Restaurant (get the grilled shrimp) and Gypsy Joynt (sample the "sleazy mac & cheese" made with crawfish, bacon, asparagus and avocado).
When it comes to watering holes, The Spot with its bloody mary menu is a favorite, as are Brews Brothers and the Poop Deck dive bar. If you want a fun foodie souvenir for yourself or friends and family, stop by Maceo Spice & Import Co. to stock up on interesting spices, sauces and teas or La King's Confectionary for some saltwater taffy.
The best way to get around Galveston is by car, as it offers the most freedom to reach places of interest on your own time. Galveston's Island Transit bus system is another option for getting around, but visitors will have to supplement their night travel with taxis since the bus halts service in the early evening.
Most travelers fly into Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), which is about 70 miles north, or the William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), about 40 miles northwest, and rent a car to drive the remaining hour or so it takes to reach Galveston Island. Alternatively, visitors can take shuttles, such as the Galveston Express, for $25 to $30 one-way or $50 to $60 round-trip to and from both airports.
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