When I say "Guess where we're going?" My kids don't yell Disneyland, they holler "Galveston! We're going to Galveston!" A little paradise that's synonymous to amusement park, beach, water rides, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and eating in the middle of a "Rainforest Cafe" where every few minutes, thunder cracks, lightening flashes and life-sized elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and parrots roar to life.
Living in Texas, we're much closer to Galveston than either of the two Disney Parks and by the time the excitement of departing for the trip begins to wane, we can answer that "timeless" question kids always ask with a "Yes, we are almost there!"
Our first stop is usually to whatever accommodations we have chosen. There are so many gorgeous condos and locations--we always make sure to choose one with a swimming pool and a fishing area that's perfect for kids--as well as enough room for us to spread out a little.
Sometimes, our first stop is NOT our holiday home, because as soon as we turn onto Seawall Boulevard, it's near to impossible not to stop, kick off our shoes and wet the bottoms of our pants, (and only the bottoms of our "pants," if we're lucky), before climbing back into our vehicle and heading off to take our sandy, salty selves to our condo.
Fast food joints, always a hit, are abundant on the island, but it's a mistake to bypass the themed restaurants. While you eat, big-eyed fish stare at you from their homes in the giant aquariums that loom next to your table. Other favorites are the open-air restaurants. Of course, sometimes a bucket of chicken and a trip straight back to the beach is the only thing that will suffice.
For kids that can't get enough water, there's Schlitterbahn Water Park. For future historians, there's the Historic Strand with the waterfront just a few yards away, home of the refurbished Tall Ship "Elyssa." Airplane lovers have the Lone Star Flight Museum. And Moody Gardens, well, Moody Gardens covers it all. It's a theme, amusement, and discovery park all in one. It's triple pyramids tower over the bay, glass windows gleaming in sunlight that grows more dazzling the closer you get to the island.
And who can resist a train ride? Treasure Island Tour Train is your ticket! It's a great way for adults to sight-see while kids just plain enjoy the ride. Traveling through both Old and New Galveston, the trains' 17 mile journey passes several attractions such as Fort Crockett and Jean Lafitte's home.
After a long day of doing just about anything you can think of, it's heaven to go back to the condo for a hot shower or a swim in the pool. While the kids unwind in the game-room, with cartoons or Nintendo on the TV, parents can soak in the gorgeous sunset from their balcony overlooking the water. Galveston is a kid's paradise and when I say kids, I mean big kids too!
This guide to family fun was brought to you by Shadi Houseman.
A beautiful beach is always a sure hit with the little ones--and when (if) they tire of it, a cozy home with a warm bed (and stiff drinks for Mom?) is also the way to go. Make sure you all enjoy your Galveston vacation and book a luxury holiday home today!