Fort Crockett - Galveston, TX

In 1897, Fort Crockett was the site of United States coast artillery training and harbor defense, with batteries fronting the Gulf of Mexico. Even after the luxurious San Luis Resort was built on and behind the battery, huge gun emplacements remain visible from the seawall highway. Their purposes have changed over time, however, with some of the emplacements now hosting a swimming pool and a wedding gazebo.

Learn more about the area’s history, art scene and culture by visiting attractions such as the Lone Star Flight Museum, Rosenberg Library, Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

Try timing your visit during one of several annual events that run throughout the year, for example, Mardi Gras Galveston, Dickens on the Strand and the Galveston Island Food and Wine Festival.

Dining in Fort Crockett gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with the Gulf of Mexico by enjoying its fresh seafood as well as its sea views.

Numerous restaurants and eateries line Sewall Boulevard and overlook the Gulf. One such example, Gaido's Seafood Restaurant, has been in the fish business since 1911. Although on the pricey side, the food, combined with the service, makes a visit worthwhile. Be sure to try the soft shell crabs and finish off your meal with pecan pie to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Just a few doors down, The Spot serves good food in a fun atmosphere with seaside views from atop its upper deck. Satisfy your tummy with traditional grubs and go for a burger or wings.

For something different, stroll along 45th street to get to Los Compas Restaurant. You'll soon feel welcome at this small, family-operated eatery that provides customers with fresh, authentic Mexican food at a reasonable cost. Try the Barbacoa burritos, a popular favorite.

Like its restaurants, Fort Crockett’s bars and clubs can be found along the seaside and within its streets. Float Pool and Patio Bar on Seawall Boulevard stays true to its seaside location with an island theme and swim up, pool-side bar during summer. It also provides customers with drink and daily happy hour specials and stays open till 2 a.m. Try the shrimp tacos or shrimp burrito.

For a good selection of beers and drinks, head to Brick House Tavern + Tap, a modern sports bar chain also located on Seawall Boulevard. Set in the San Luis Hotel, modern ultra-lounge H20 provides party goers with built-in seating areas, a fire pit, televisions, upbeat music and great atmosphere. If you prefer a more subdued atmosphere, check out Hard Times & Misery Saloon on Avenue S and 43rd Street for a real taste of the neighborhood.

Public transport doesn't help much when it comes to getting around Fort Crockett and Galveston in general. The Island Transit bus system provides islanders with seven routes to get around, however you'll find the service infrequent. Island Transit also partners with the University of Texas Medical Branch and the City of League City in providing transport to Mall of the Mainland and League City, both southeast of Houston. Train service via the Lone Star Coach is also available to take people off-island.

On the island, Galveston locals usually find themselves best off driving or walking, depending on distance. You can park in areas across the island with metered street parking available. Interstate 45 provides access across the bridge to Houston, and State Highway 87 leads to the Bolivar Peninsula via the Bolivar Ferry. Uber does operate in the area, but tends to be pricey.

Residents also get around the island by walking and cycling. A relatively small island, you'll find it relatively easy and safe to get most places, however be cautious in neighborhoods outside the historic discount, Harborside district and the Strand. With many walkers and cyclists flocking to Seawall Boulevard, you'll find this area fun but busy.

A large range of parks and recreation opportunities exist on the island. Colombo Field, a subfacility of Island Little League, can be found on 53rd Street and Avenue S, and provides park goers with an athletic field and baseball / softball diamond. Buccaneer Field, located on 81st Street and Terminal Drive, also offers an athletic field and baseball / softball diamond. Families enjoy the playground and tennis courts at Lasker Park on 43rd Street, as well as the playgrounds at Crockett Park and Jones Park. As for dog owners, they can let their four-legged friends run free at Lindale Dog Park and the dog park at Menard Park.

Various events take place in Galveston’s bigger parks throughout the year, including concerts on the grass at Saengerfest Park as part of Galveston’s Mardi Gras. Galveston Island State Park constantly hosts events and activities, including hikes, jogging, camping, bird watching, fishing, arts and crafts, geocaching and more. Although about a 15-minute drive away and a $5 entrance fee per adult, you won't regret making the visit.

Living in the area will cost you about the same as it would in most parts of Texas, based on Galveston data.

On average, renters in Fort Crockett pay $854 a month for a one-bedroom apartment.

To get onto the mainland by bus costs $2, but from there you'll need another service for transportation in central Houston.

You will make a saving buying gas in Galveston compared to most places in Texas, as gas costs nearly 6 percent less than the national average.

A beer at the pub costs around $3 to $5.

Where Fort Crockett meets the sea, you’ll find Seawall Boulevard, named as such because it runs along the 10-mile-long, 17-foot-high Galveston Seawall. With many miles of the seawall painted with murals, Seawall Boulevard attracts art fans along with beach bums, diners, and shoppers. From surf and skate shops to gift and flower shops, Seawall Boulevard meets a wide range of retail needs.

Historic Murdoch’s Bathhouse was originally built in the late 1800s and rebuilt in 1901, 1909 and 1915 after storm damage. In 1910, this community icon opened Guyette Gift Shop and began selling souvenirs and trinkets. Today, a seating and viewing area provides busy shoppers the opportunity to rest their weary feet while enjoying the seaside view.

While you’re browsing, rent or buy a road, mountain, or child’s bike at Island Bicycle Company. Once you’ve got your bike, you can go on a self-guided bicycle tour with the help of a staff member who will provide you with a map and information. Also on site, the Candy Shop provides cyclists with equipment and accessories if needed.

You’ll also find high value and designer items in the area. Tangerine Boutique on Post Office Street sells a range of clothing, jewelry, and handbags for all occasions. You’ll spot garments by various designers, including Rachel Pally and Corey Lynn Calter.

You can buy your groceries at a number of smaller stores in the area, as well as at chains including Kroger and Walmart Supercenter. Alternatively, stop by Galveston’s Own Farmers Market on Sundays to stock up on fresh, local produce. Located on Post Office and 25th Street, the outdoor market brings together local farmers and producers with the purpose of strengthening community ties through fresh food.