Adventures In Beaumont, Texas & Beyond

Texas was known for cattle, crops, and lumber until in 1901, Beaumont, Texas changed the course of history. It was at this time when the oil deep within the earth surfaced, with a bit of help of course, and this event set in motion the Petroleum Age.

Before this big event oil was a resource for Native Americans and the Spanish, who used the oil for caulking their ships. In the mid 1800's and later there were many unsuccessful attempts to drill for oil. Not until the gusher at Spindletop in 1901 was such a history changing event recorded. Now you can step back and discover the beginning of Petroleum Age at the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum. This unique museum is home to a reconstructed boomtown complete with artifacts, oil derricks, and shops. Learn more about the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, where a gusher really blows by visiting www.spindletop.org.

Beaumont's got more than oil. In fact it's got a lot of what the Cajuns call Lagniappe; a little something extra! Mix in a touch of Cajun and hometown Texas hospitality and you have Beaumont. This Texas town offers travelers a memorable taste of the southwest traditions and spirit. And, when it comes to food there's plenty of spice and salsa to go around.

From Cajun influences to their infamous Tex Mex flavor that blends Texas flavor with traditional Mexican entrees that sizzle; you'll savor every bit of Beaumont's cuisine. Among the ,mouth-watering dishes Beaumont offers Seafood Gumbo made with thick roux and day-fresh shrimp and crab from the Gulf of Mexico, Chili Con Queso that is great with a basket of freshly made tortilla chips and a gigantic margarita.

Sample Beaumont's legendary pork sandwiches made with homemade barbeque sauce and all the fixins you need with a glass of sweet tea to start. Or try the delicious smoked BBQ Brisket and ribs, which are so tender that they fall off the bone!

After great food there are more adventures to experience including taking a Swamp Tour with Adventures 2000+ and learn what a Bayou Safari is all about! Experience the thrill of gator watching and see many species of birds and plantlife. Have the ride of your life while you cruise the cypress swamps with Eli, the best tour guide in Southeast Texas! Visit www.swampandrivertours.com to learn more about the Swamp Tours.

Enjoy all nature in Southeast Texas´ has to offer at the Big Thicket National Preserve. Grab friends and family and enjoy birding, swimming, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and more. Go for a brisk jog to warm up in winter or for a swim to cool down during our warm summers. Visit www.nps.gov/bith for more information on the Big Thicket National Preserve.

With so much to do in Southeast Texas it's hard to cover everything, so the best way to plan your adventure is to visit www.beaumontcvb.com for a travel guide and events schedule!

By Leroy Worley

Photo Credits: Melody Schubert, USA Travel Magazine