Port Arthur, a city, is situated in Jefferson County inside the Beaumont-Port Arthur metropolitan area of Texas, USA. The total population of the city in the 2020 census was 56,039
Post Arthur is an attractive town by the sea with an identity formed by its Texan heritage and nearness to Louisiana.
There are quite some fun things to do in Port Arthur, TX. Majority of the top tourist attraction in the city center on its extraordinary history and geography.
Port Arthur’s location on the map has played a big role in forming its cultural diversity. From its large oil roots to local’s southern hospitality, the Texan influence is quite glaring.
With Louisiana nearby, a love of crawfish and Zydeco music shows many Cajun relationships here.
The temples, shrines, and sacred places of the Port Author’s population of immigrants from Asia, Mexico, and Europe has aided in weaving a unique spiritual element into the city’s cultural tapestry.
Here are some of the best things to do in Port Arthur, TX.
Things to Do in Port Arthur, TX
1. Pompeiian Villa
Pompeiian Villa
Pompeiian Villa was initially constructed for Isaac Elswood of Illinois, but James Hopkin of St Louis in 1901 purchased it.
James Hopkins of St. Louis began renting it as a fishing and hunting getaway.
In 1903, a major shareholder of Texaco, George Craig, purchased the Pompeiian Villa and settled with his 10 percent holding in the oil company.
After the death of George Craig, the Villa was once again bought by Capt. & Mrs. Arne Pedersen, who resided in the Villa til their death in 1969.
The Port Arthur Historical Society later purchased the house in 1973 and has refurbished it extensively. Pompeiian Villa has earned a Historical Building Medallion and a Texas Historical Marker.
Book a tour in advance when planning your visit to this historic Villa because they only allow 12 people per tour.
Address: 1953 Lakeshore Dr, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
2. The Golden Triangle Veterans Memorial Park
Golden Triangle Veterans Memorial Park
Among the best places to visit in Port Arthur, TX, is the Golden Triangle Veterans Memorial Park.
This memorial records the 10,000 servicemen and women from Port Arthur, Beaumont, and Orange- two cities of the Golden Triangle-who played active roles in major conflicts such as World War I and World War II.
The Park’s focal point is a 50-foot Tower recording the 930 names of people who were killed or went missing.
The Golden Triangle Veterans Memorial Park has static displays of military automobiles, including an M6OA3, F4-D Phantom Jet, and a UH-1 Huey Helicopter.
The other highlights of this park include an oversized bronze Marine soldier statue, an anchor from the remaining World War II merchant marine ship to be deactivated, the Texaco 55 Mississippi, and an assault landing craft.
Another landmark you should see is the cable-stayed Memorial Bridge.
Address: 7626 Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
3. Sea Rim State Park
Sea Rim State Park is a wonderful place for outdoor camping. It is located in Sabine, 2 hours away from Port Arthur.
Although Rim State Park has 15 campsites with utilities, you can also choose to reside in its cabin. Another option is to go primal camping in the Park on the 5.2 miles of Gulf shoreline that stretches up to Mcfaddin Beach.
Besides camping, you can go fishing, bird watching, and bird hunting at Sea Rim State Park’s 4000 acres of marshland.
Sea Rim State Park also has an easy 1.8-mile paddling trail and a difficult 9.5-mile path for kayakers of different levels.
While visiting this park, make sure you explore its Gambusia Nature Trail, an elevated walkway of almost a mile twisting via a coastal lagoon suitable for wildlife observation.
Before you are allowed into the park, you will have to pay the entrance fee. If you visit when the park is not open, you can pay at the self-pay kiosk
Address: 19335 TX-87, Sabine Pass, TX 77655, United States
4. MaxBowl
Are you looking for a bowling venue that does not have dirty and old lanes, terrible food, and damp rental shoes? If yes, head over to MaxBowl.
MaxBowl is a premier bowling facility in Port Arthur. Maxindoor golf area accepts year-round golfing regardless of the climate, day or night.
It features contemporary golf stimulators, including putting areas, more than 500 championship courses, and a driving range. It also has a launch monitor, kept in two designated simulation rooms.
MaxBowl also provides the most delicious salads, pizza, and finger appetizers at its on-site sports bar and restaurant, Pin & Tonic.
Some of the best parties in Port Author have been held at MaxBoel.
Address: 3500 Regional Drive, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
5. Rose Hill Manor
Rose Hill Manor
Among what to do in Port Arthur, TX, is to tour the waterfront area of Port Arthur and admire the historic homes that were present during the early evolution of this city, during the late 19th century and early 20th century.
Among these historic homes is the Rose Hill Manor. The Rose Hill Manor is among the oldest landmarks in the city. This Manor, constructed in 1906, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Rose Hill Manor features a 13-foot extensive wraparound porch where you can see the Gulf’s maritime traffic.
This historic mansion also boasts several antiques, a stylish stairway that leads to large rooms, and a grand piano.
A park was constructed on Rose Hill Mansion’s perimeter called the Rose Hill Park. The Park has two tennis courts
Address: 100 Woodworth Blvd, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
6. Museum of the Gulf Coast
Museum
One of the best places to visit in Port Arthur, TX, is the Museum of the Gulf Coast.
The Museum of the Gulf Coast is a must-see for its exhibits for Port Arthur and the whole Gulf Coast region. This Museum has three galleries.
One of the galleries is the Music Hall of Fame, dedicated to the region’s major performers, including Grammy Hall of Famer Janis Joplin.
The Sports Legend Gallery honors 80 exceptional Gulf Coast athletes. The third museum is the Notable People Gallery spotlighting 40 Gulf Coast natives’ professional accomplishments.
At the Museum of the Gulf Coast, you can also admire an exhibit of the creative artworks of Robert Rauschenberg, a Port Arthur native.
You would have to pay a tiny entrance fee to tour this museum, but it is worth the price as you can easily spend a few hours here.
Address: 700 Procter Street, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
7. La Maison Acadienne
La Maison Acadienne is a recreation of the houses of the original French inhabitants of Nederland. Several descendants of these pioneer inhabitants still reside in the region.
La Maison Acadienne has authentic furnishing and artifacts, remaking the Cajun pattern of life before the emergence of modern conveniences.
La Maison Acadienne, located near the Dutch Windmill Museum, allows guests to explore several attractions in one area.
There’s also a devoted tourist guide available to answer any questions about this attraction.
Address: Nederland, TX 77627, United States
8. Babe Zaharias Golf Course
If you are a golf lover visiting Port Arthur for a vacation, you should not miss the opportunity to golf at Babe Zaharis Golf Course.
Babe Zaharia Golf course is a 150-acre public course that was established in 1978 and has an 18-hole championship layout.
This golf course pays respect to Port Arthur local Babes Zaharis, who is seen as one of the greatest female athletes, outshining not only in golf but track and field, baseball, and basketball.
You will also have access to a driving range with about 20,000 sq feet serving as a tee-off space and a practice green.
Babe Zaharias Golf Course also has a male and female restroom and a golf shop offering food services.
Playing Golf at Babe Zaharias Golf Course should be on your checklist of what to do in Port Arthur, TX.
Address: 3500 Jimmy Johnson Blvd, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
Explore this list of things to do in Stephenville, and things to do in Granbury for a memorable Texas road trip.
9. Texas Artists Museum
Port Arthur and its Gulf Coast region offer several inspirations for artists. The Texas Artist Museum was opened in the 1970s. Texas Artists Museum was fully renovated after Hurricane Rita wrecked it in 2005.
This museum came to be through the innovation of the Texas Artists Museum Society and the pioneer Port Arthur Mayor Bernis Chandler.
The Museum has three galleries to highlight local artists, with red-letter days every second Thursday of each month.
You can also attend the artist’s reception available to the public. The reception features music and dancing.
At Texas Artists Museum, you will discover its Concept Gallery, which contains over 200 artworks by 30 artists. You can choose to buy these artworks or merely view them.
Address: 3501 Cultural Center Dr, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
10. Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp
shrimp tacos
Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp is a Mexican Cajun Seafood Restaurant. Their menu includes BBQ shrimp, fish, and shrimp tacos, shrimp & grits, and steaks.
Their boudin quesadillas are very popular because they taste amazing. Don’t forget to try their tasty margaritas when you visit.
Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp offers a fun and animated yet relaxing environment.
Address: 3400 Jimmy Johnson Blvd, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
11. Sabine Pass Battleground State Historic Site
Sabine Pass Battleground State Historic Site
Sabine Pass Battleground State Historic Site faces the Sabine River, which flows to the Gulf of Mexico.
This place was the site of an important Civil War battle in September 1863, where associates of the Confederate Davis Guard fended off a Union force.
The statue of Lt. Richard Dowling, commander of the Confederate Davis Guard, is among the things you will find at this park.
This park also has a monument devoted to the union’s loss in the battle, a scale model of the civil war period sabine fort, and many other outdoor educational displays.
From the Sabine Pass Battleground State Historic Site, you can also see the Sabine Pass Lighthouse.
Address: 6100 Dick Dowling Rd, Sabine Pass, TX 77655, United States
12. Port Arthur’s Faith Trail
One of the top things to do in Port Arthur, TX, is to explore Port Arthur’s Faith Trail, especially if you’re a religious tourist.
Port Arthur’s Faith Trail features different places of worship for various faiths. Three great stops along the Faith Trail are situated in the city.
The first stop is the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple, where you can stroll the stunning gardens and marvel at the statue of Buddha.
The second stop is the shrine at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, a gorgeous 17-foot bronze sculpture of the Virgin Mary showing herself to Juan Diego. The site features rocks from the religious site in Mexico where the vision happened.
The last attraction is the Queen of Peace Shrine and Garden, another location featuring the statue of the Virgin Mary.
This attraction was constructed by the Queen of Peace Vietnam Catholic Church, which features Stations of the Cross ushering to a tower with a statue of the Virgin Mary on top of a globe.
Address: Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
13. Doornbos Heritage Park
Why don’t you visit Doornbo Heritage Park with your friends, family, spouse, or partner?
Doornbos Heritage Park was christened after a Doornbos Family member to honor him for helping the city obtain its endowment.
The Park has a sports field with tennis courts and a community pool suitable for having a picnic or lazying around with your loved ones.
Also, the park’s large green space and play areas are perfect for jogging, picnicking, and playing.
Aside from these amenities, you will discover that Doornbos Heritage Park has many more amenities to offer visitors.
The Nederland Recreation Center, which has a gym and an event area, is also housed in this tourist attraction.
Address: 2301 Avenue H, Nederland, TX 77627, United States
14. The Nederland Performing Art
Another way Nederland provides entertainment to guests is through the Nederland Performing Art.
The Nederland Performing Art Theater is a fabulous place to spend your evening and watch a performance featuring local talents.
The theater stages different events, including concerts, shows for the high school, and plays. Additionally, the Nederland Performing Art houses the Nederland High School Band.
If you are curious about the best young talents in Nederland, you should attend one of their performances.
The Nederland Performing Arts Theater can accommodate up to 2,000 people, so you can rest assured that there will be enough space for you and your loved ones.
Address: 2101 N 18th St, Nederland, TX 77627, United States
15. Texas Wildlife Refuges
If you have a license, you should consider hunting and fishing at Texas Wildlife Refuges during your holiday in Port Arthur. It is one of the fun things to do in Port Arthur, TX.
The Texas Wildlife Refuges are two, and they are; Texas Point and Mcfaddin. You can access these two refuges through South Gulfway Drive, and you can find an RV park as well along this corridor, also acting as an entrance to the Sea Rim State Park.
Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge offers 3,600 hectares of Coastal Marsh habitat for fishing and hunting.
The Mcfaddin National Wildlife Refuge provides a larger area of 23,000 hectares. You are allowed access to 8 miles of interior roads and boat ramps.
Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge and Mcfaddin National Wildlife have nature trails for hiking and wildlife observation.
Address: 7950 S Gulfway Dr, Sabine Pass, TX 77655, United States
Considering a Texas road trip, check out our guides on things to do in Lake Travis, and things to do in Lufkin for a memorable trip.
16. “Tex” Ritter Historical Park
Nederland is well-known for its peaceful parks. Among these parks is the “Tex” Ritter Historical Park, where you can visit, relax and have a good time.
The park was named after Tex Ritter, a country music celebrity born in the Netherlands.
You can admire the stunning scenery at “Tex” Ritter Historical Park while having a picnic, working out, engaging in meditation, or listening to music.
The park has a gazebo and a dining area so you can bring your meal home. If you are visiting with kids, you can discover different ways to spend some quality time with them while engaging in necessary physical activities.
So make sure you visit “Tex” Ritter Historical Park and have a lovely time with your friends and family.
Address: 1500 Boston Ave, Nederland, TX 77627, United States
17. Gulf Coast Seafood
Gulf Coast Seafood
Why don’t you dine at one of the fantastic seafood restaurants in Port Authur during your vacation?
This seafood restaurant grew its name from serving fresh yield from The Gulf of Mexico provided to it every day and made with hand-picked ingredients.
Gulf Coast Seafood has more than a hundred options on its menu with quick and friendly dining services.
The restaurant presents a Chinese steam table for a hot meal offered at a quick pace during every lunch hour.
So aside from seafood, you will have a selection of fried rice, chicken and pork dishes, and Chinese egg rolls.
Address: 6137 W Port Arthur Rd #1960, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
18. Boston Avenue
Boston Avenue in Nederland is home to unique shops and events and a fabulous place to spend a couple of hours.
Boston Avenue is located in Nederland, 15 minutes from Port Arthur. This tourist attraction is home to some of the best shopping experiences in Nederland.
You will discover boutiques, beauty services, record shops, financial services, and restaurants on Boston Avenue.
Boston Avenue offers a unique experience downtown, and several restaurants with restaurant offering something for everybody. It is also home to numerous festivals and other events all year round.
These include the Christmas Parade, Third Thursday shopping events, and the Heritage Festival.
Additionally, there are many dining options downtown, so you don’t have to worry about leaving hungry.
Address: Boston Ave, Nederland, TX, USA
19. B&B Theatres Port Arthur
The calming, contemporary multi-screen B&B Theater Port Arthur offers blockbuster movies.
This theater was established by two families, Bills, and Bagby, who ran movie theaters and formed this one in 1980 out of passion and business.
B&B Theater Port Arthur has witnessed the emergence of audio, widescreen, color, 3D, digital, and much more theater evolution.
The theater offers the most recent quality and convenience featuring DOLBY 7.1 Surround Sound and digital sounds.
When you visit B&B, you can enjoy stadium seats, cup-holder-furnished high-back rocking chairs, big screens, 3D digital presentation, and plush electric recliners.
Address: 3100 FM 365, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
20. Port Arthur Little Theatres
One of the fun things to do in Port Arthur, TX, is to watch a performance at Port Arthur Little Theatre.
This theater has held season performances since 1939 and has presented over 3,000 stage productions.
You will be shocked at these local talents’ vibrant and top-tier theatrical performances. Their presentations and performances have attracted thousands of visitors to Port Arthur Little Theatre.
The repertoire in this theater includes entertainment fare for everybody, including well-known musicals, holiday programs, and drama.
You can purchase a ticket at Port Arthur Little Theater online to book a seat at one of its many shows ahead of time.
Address: 4701 Jimmy Johnson Blvd, Port Arthur, TX 77642, United States
21. Port Arthur RV Resort
For visitors traveling in an RV, Port Arthur RV Resort offers comfortable camping accommodations for you during your stay in the city.
Port Arthur RV Resort is one of the well-known camping spots in Port Arthur. This RV Resort offers a total of 134 large sites.
The resort’s amenities include free Wifi, swimming pools, numerous shower, laundry facilities, and a Texan-shaped swimming pool.
Additionally, Port Arthur RV has a pavilion with enormous screen Tv and complimentary DIRECTV access.
Every street and site in this resort is paved with concrete and shielded by lush green areas.
Address: 2950 W Farm to Market Rd 365, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
22. Pleasure Islands
One of the best things to do in Port Arthur, TX, is to explore Pleasure Island through a bridge on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Pleasure Islands is an artificial island that came to be through the building of the Sabines Niches Intracoastal Waterway and the Port Arthur Canal.
An 18-mile-long waters surround Pleasure Island, providing different recreational activities, including fishing and boating.
You can fish onshore at Pleasure Island’s 275-foot-long dock, which faces Sabine Lake. If you are interested in boating, you can head to Miracle Beach Boat Launch or the Pleasure Island Marina, where you will find 300 floating boat slips.
Additionally, the Marina houses the Port Arthur Yacht Club, which has a clubhouse offering adult sailing lessons.
Besides water-based recreational activities, you can also go hiking and biking on the trails on Pleasure Island. Pleasure Island also features Berry’s Treasure Disc Golf Course, which has held significant events.
Address: Port Arthur, TX, United States
23. Walter Umphrey State Park
Walter Umphrey State Park offers a boat ramp, an RV site, a lit fishing pier, and public bathrooms.
The park welcomes kids and is a fabulous location to observe the several passing ships in the Sabine Channel.
Families often gather on the pier in the summer to dine, fish, and take in the fresh and lovely wind. Furthermore, Walter Umphrey State Park has areas for tent camping and picnics.
You can visit Tackle, Grill, and the Causeway Bait opposite the street if you want to buy fishing bait, food, or beverage.
Address: 3964 Martin Luther King Jr Drive, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
24. The White Haven
Why don’t you schedule a tour of the White Haven historic mansion that is said to be over 100 years old? It is one of the top things to do in Port Arthur, TX.
This magnificent house was constructed in 1915 for British Consul Dr. H. D Morris and Local Physician.
Initially, the mansion was designed using the architectural style of a New England Colonial house, but subsequent landlords renovated it in the Southern Greek Revival design.
Eventually, the magnificent version included majestic columns, large porches, and sprawling verandas.
The White Haven Mansion’s furnishing, such as the original Wedgwood China pieces, French Screen from the Empress Carlotta of Mexico, and Candelabras from the Shah of Persia, deserves to be talked about.
Address: 2545 Lakeshore Dr, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
25. Clifford Distilling, LLC
Clifford Distilling, LLC offers a top-notch variety of rum and whiskey. This distillery is solely operated and controlled by veterans.
All the spirits at Clifford Distilling are handmade to get the best flavor, and you can drink it straight or blend it with your favorite mixer.
Clifford Distilling organizes events every other Saturday, and this event features live music and food trucks.
They are devoted to assisting the Port Arthur community and giving back to the community.
Clifford Distilling also tries to buy items from Texas companies unless it is necessary to buy from somewhere else. The distillery offers tours and tastings to make your visit to this place more enjoyable.
Address: 235 Procter St, Port Arthur, TX 77640, United States
Would you like to know some of the best attractions in Texas? Here is a tourist guide on things to do in Lubbock and things to do in Deep Ellum for a fun time.
Plan Your Trip to Port Arthur
Port Arthur is located 100 miles east of Houston and is the centerpiece of the largest oil refinery in the state.
Besides being the focal point for petroleum, the city has beaches, peaceful waterways, notable museums, and some of the best birding trails around the world.
The city also has several opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing.
Port Arthur is a fabulous vacation destination to visit with loved ones. There are several things to do in Port Arthur, and you will not regret any moment you spend here.