Texas City is an industrial port city on the northwestern shore of Galveston Bay, about 10 miles north of Galveston Island. It is best known for the Texas City disaster of 1947, one of the worst industrial accidents in American history, when a ship carrying ammonium nitrate exploded at the port, killing hundreds and leveling much of the city. That tragic history is documented at the Texas City Museum, which tells the story of the disaster and the city's rebuilding. Today, Texas City is a working-class community with a strong sense of identity and several notable attractions along the bay.
Texas City is on the western shore of Galveston Bay, about 40 miles southeast of Houston. It's known for the Texas City Dike, a 5-mile fishing pier extending into the bay.
The most distinctive feature of Texas City is the Texas City Dike, a 5-mile-long granite breakwater that extends into Galveston Bay. The dike is one of the most popular fishing spots on the Texas coast, drawing anglers from across the region to fish for speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead. The dike has a driving lane the entire length, with designated fishing areas and parking along both sides. It is also a great spot for watching ships navigate the Houston Ship Channel and for catching dramatic sunsets over the bay.
Beyond the dike, Texas City has a nature center with trails through coastal prairie and marsh habitat, offering birding and wildlife viewing opportunities. The city is also close to Galveston Island State Park and the attractions of Galveston, making it a practical base for exploring the area. For visitors from the Hill Country, Texas City offers a different perspective on the Texas coast. It is not a resort town, but it is a real city with a real history, and the dike alone is worth the drive for anyone who loves fishing. The city has a range of hotels and restaurants that are often more affordable than Galveston's.
Drive time from Boerne
Texas City is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes from Boerne via I-10 East to Houston, then I-45 South to the Gulf Freeway, and east on Highway 146 to Texas City.
What to know before you go
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for fishing on the dike. Summer can be very hot with little shade on the dike.
- Texas City Dike: The 5-mile fishing pier is open to vehicles and pedestrians. It is one of the best fishing spots on the Texas coast. Bring sunscreen and water since there is no shade.
- Texas City Museum: Documents the 1947 disaster and the city's history. Small but well done. A good stop for history buffs.
- Nature center: The Texas City Prairie Preserve and the nature center offer trails through coastal prairie habitat. Good for birding.
- Nearby attractions: Galveston Island is a 15-minute drive south. Moody Gardens, the Pleasure Pier, and the Strand Historic District are all easily accessible.
- Dining: Texas City has a variety of restaurants, including several good seafood spots. For more options, head into Galveston.
Updated July 31, 2026