History of Bay City
Welcome to Bay City, Texas — a charming town full of history and local events with a population of about 17,400 people. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or tasty local eats — Bay City offers something for everyone, locals and tourists alike!
In 1894, David Swickheimer chose Bay City's location, turning it from a basic tent town into a bustling center for rice production. Businesses, schools, and newspapers that popped up along the way played a large part in making the town what it is today — a mix of old-time charm and modern energy.
Bay City Community
Bay City, Texas, takes pride in its tight-knit community, steeped in rich history and vibrant local events.Â
Schools
Bay City has a solid educational system with well-respected schools that foster academic excellence and personal growth in students of all ages.
Parks
Riverside Park offers a serene atmosphere with a lush natural ecosystem, well-maintained playgrounds, walking trails, and scenic views.
Hospitals
Residents and visitors to Bay City have access to excellent healthcare services, including a well-equipped hospital with caring medical professionals.
Community
Bay City is the perfect place to visit on a family vacation. It offers fun community events, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.
Location
Just an hour away from Houston and a quick drive from the beautiful Texas Gulf Coast, Bay City offers the best of both worlds — small towns with peaceful beaches and big cities with exciting attractions.
Things to Do in Bay City
- Kayaking — Paddle along the scenic Colorado River and explore the diverse wildlife in Bay City.
- Fishing — Cast a line from the banks of the Colorado River or the shores of Matagorda Bay to catch various fish, like bass, catfish, and flounder.
- Birding — Watch for birds in Bay City, conveniently located on the migratory bird path.
- Beaches — Drive 30 minutes to peaceful beaches, like Matagorda Beach, for a relaxing day on the Gulf of Mexico.Â
- Hiking — Trek through lush trails, ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.
- Biking — Explore the biking trails at Matagorda Bay Nature Park or ride along the Colorado River.
- Shopping — Browse all the unique shops in the heart of Bay City.
- Golfing — Tee off at the Rio Colorado Golf Course, an 18-hole public course for all skill levels.
- Museums — Learn about the history of Matagorda County at the Matagorda County Museum.
Bay City Events
Tourist-Oriented Events
Bay City comes alive with a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year.
One of the standout events is the Matagorda County Fair & Rodeo at the Matagorda County Fairgrounds. Residents and tourists get together annually to enjoy the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Rodeo, which includes cook-offs, calf scrambles, barrel racing, and bull riding.
Community-Oriented Events
Beyond the tourist attractions, Bay City has a strong sense of community, reflected in its numerous events from Christmas tree lightings to Fourth of July parades.
The Matagorda County Area Go Texan (MGAGT) Cook-Off is among the most popular community events. Locals love participating in the live auction, cornhole and horseshoe tournaments, and, of course, the brisket and rib tastings!
Restaurants
Joe's Italian Restaurant and Pizza
Joe's Italian Restaurant and Pizza receives consistent praise for its delicious and authentic Italian food, including pizza, pasta, and other Italian classics. Customers rave about the fresh ingredients and friendly service.
Fat Grass Restaurant & Bar
Fat Grass Restaurant & Bar offers an elevated American dining experience with creative dishes, exposed brick walls, and an inviting bar ambiance.
K-2 Steak House
K-2 Steak House is a local favorite that serves hearty American food in a rustic setting. While it's known for its delicious steaks, the restaurant also offers a wide variety of menu items, such as chicken-fried steak and fajitas.
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Attractions
Matagorda County Museum
This local museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of Bay City and Matagorda County. It showcases artifacts from the La Belle shipwreck and the region's rise as a center for rice production.
Downtown Bay City Market Day
Downtown Bay City Market Day is held on the fourth Saturday of each month from March to November. It transforms downtown Bay City into a paradise for shoppers and foodies alike with local crafts, fresh produce, delicious food vendors, and live entertainment.
Matagorda County Birding Nature Center
Matagorda County Birding Nature Center is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The center spans 34 acres and features six botanical gardens, three natural ecosystems, and paved paths for easy exploration.
Explore the Best of Bay City from Palacios with Beachside
From vibrant community events and cultural attractions to outdoor recreation opportunities and fantastic restaurants, Bay City has plenty to offer tourists and locals.
Discover all that Bay City offers on a day trip from Palacios. Bay City is just a half-hour drive from our spacious, build-ready homesites at Beachside, making this charming town on the Texas Gulf Coast a must-visit destination. Book a tour to explore our lots and learn more about the community amenities and laid-back lifestyle at Beachside!