This is the place to find exciting Texas-style drag racing. This race park is a favorite of the professional sport drivers who come here to compete in major drag-racing events. Such events include ADBA Nitro Showdown, ID Drag Wars, NHRA O'Reilly Nationals, the Pro Stock Superbowl and many others. The park also presents a year-round program of special and weekly events. On Street Nite, which is held every Friday, you can race against your friends or pit your car against 'the best times' on the fastest one-quarter mile on the planet. Saturday night features the 3/8 mile oval track race, Bomber to Sprints. Prices vary by event and night.

The Strand Galveston or the historic downtown area of Galveston preserves the historical underpinnings of the city. The district center embraces diverse activities and attractions ranging from Victorian buildings to restaurants, nightclubs, wide varieties of shopping stores. The cosmopolitan strand or Avenue B as it is commonly referred to, is very popular for its seasonal Christmas festival, dickens on strand and the celebration of Mardi Gras. Today, it is renowned as a historic landmark that attracts tourists for its captivating attractions like museums and art-galleries. Certainly, it defines the entertainment pulse of the city.

Everyone is interested in finding out how this popular coastal city got its start. The port was once the state's major transport center, shipping a multitude of goods in and out from around the world. Today it still has the reputation of having the quickest access to open-sea lanes. All the facilities are under the same command center, and no public funds are needed to stay in operation. Other attractions include Fisherman's Wharf, several seaside restaurants and exciting charter boats. You are also welcome to just sit back and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Surrounded by beautiful, restored landmark buildings, fine museums, art galleries, gift shops and delicious seaside restaurants, you will think that you have stepped back into the 19th century. Take the audiotape walking tour down Water Street to learn about the history of the seaport and its Wall Street background, or just enjoy the many other forms of entertainment available. Stop at the actual center for free brochures, event schedules, and to watch a short film about the area. You can also purchase theater tickets for local entertainment before embarking on your journey through the Strand's treasures.

Visit this popular museum to explore the historical highlights of Galveston Island's magnificent past. Located inside a former private bank building (1919) that features artistic design and outstanding ceilings, the museum displays artifacts relating to agriculture, naval history, mercantile history and much more.Changing exhibits provide a broad view of what was once the state's largest and most affluent county. Caught up in the spell, you might even find yourself wanting to go searching for Karankawa artifacts on the beach when you leave. This place opens at 10am from Monday to Saturday and at 12pm on Sunday.

This beautiful colonial mansion was built in the early 20th century by Texas oil and cattle pioneers, Perry and Ida McFaddin. Designed by one of Beaumont's first educated architects, it includes 12,500 square feet of space with sweeping porches, large white columns, fine furnishings and valuable antiques. The Colonial Revival style was equipped with many modern comforts for this early period of the century. Daughter Mamie set up a museum foundation to preserve the family's history and heirlooms for future generations to enjoy. Call for information about special events and group rates. Guided tours are offered throughout the day.

Visit this center, located 50 miles south of Houston, to see how sea life is raised to replenish and stock the Gulf and Bay coast. The large aquariums, rearing ponds, and fisheries teach both adults and children about marine preservation and ocean conservation. Special fishing programs are offered for youth several times a year. After experiencing the "touch tank," salt water demonstration and wall displays, you will be hooked and might consider returning with a larger group to tour the hatchery.

Plants from around the world can be enjoyed in this park without having to leave the country. On 200 acres of beautiful land, you will find plants, an arboretum, nature trails and excellent picnic grounds. Kids will love the animal sanctuary, koi fishpond and the butterfly collection. Regardless of your favorite aspect, peace and serenity exists in abundance and does wonders for the soul. This is a wonderful way to spend a day. This place opens at 8am from Monday to Saturday. And Sunday this place is open at 10am.

This open-car train on Galveston Island is waiting to show you both new and old parts of the city. Both tourists and locals love the one and a half-hour trip that takes you through the historic district, along the Seawall, downtown, and past the yacht basin. The total excursion is about 15 miles and provides great views of major points of interest that you might have missed on your own. Look for the trolley with the fringe on top and then hop on board and treasure a scenic tour while someone else does the driving.

When you visit Galveston, you begin to realize that time has not erased the evidence of the state's early years. The Greek-style home of Samuel May Williams was shipped from Maine by sea in 1839, and is one of the oldest homes still standing in the area. Williams was the state's first banker and was dubbed the "Father of the Texas Navy" because of his unique ability to finance sea-faring vessels for wartime activity. Special points of interest include a stately winding staircase and a second-floor sea-watch window.