A Charming And Historic Small Town In Texas, Port Lavaca Is Seemingly Frozen In Time
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 25, 2023
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
One of the most charming small towns in Texas is tucked away along the scenic Gulf Coast, and it’s the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Port Lavaca is a quaint little town with a rich and fascinating history, and as you explore, you’ll notice that much of the town appears frozen in time. From a local history museum to an old lighthouse to a restored 1930s performing arts theatre (and let’s not forget about the beautiful beaches!), there are so many incredible things to do in Port Lavaca, Texas.
Founded in the mid-1800s following a Comanche raid on the nearby town of Linnville, Port Lavaca is almost as old as Texas itself. Located on the west side of Lavaca Bay about 130 miles southwest of Houston, the town of just over 11,500 is brimming with historic charm.
As you drive down Main Street, you will see a number of old buildings, including the famous Main Street Theatre. This timeless relic was a thriving entertainment venue in the '30s and '40s, and after being left abandoned for over 30 years, it's now back and better than ever.
Port Lavaca Main Street Theatre, 315 E Main St, Port Lavaca, TX 77979, USA
History buffs also enjoy paying a visit to the Half Moon Reef Lighthouse. Built in 1858, it is the only still-standing screw-pile lighthouse on the Texas Gulf Coast.
Halfmoon Reef Lighthouse, 2300 TX-35, Port Lavaca, TX 77979, USA
Open for over 50 years, this local history museum houses everything from artifacts from the ship of explorer Robert La Salle to a diorama of the once-thriving nearby town of Indianola during its heyday.
Calhoun County Museum, 301 S Ann St, Port Lavaca, TX 77979, USA
Featuring white sand, shallow water, a picnic area and playground, and a 2,200-foot boardwalk, the park is ideal for families. It also has an RV camping area!
Lighthouse Beach Park also boasts a 3,100-foot asphalt walking path that offers picture-perfect waterfront views. Birdwatchers, keep an eye out for all sorts of unique species!
Lighthouse Beach Road, Lighthouse Beach Rd, Port Lavaca, TX 77979, USA
What are your favorite things to do in Port Lavaca, Texas if you’ve visited before? Do you think it’s one of the most charming small towns in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article to learn about the quirky Tee Pee Motel in nearby Wharton. It’s the perfect side trip on your way to or from Port Lavaca!
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