Houston vs Galveston

Just booked Breeze for the 2-11-18 sailing. Flying in on the 9th to Hobby. Looking for hotel recommendations and if we should spend 2 nights in Houston then get to Galveston the morning of the cruise vs spending 2 nights in Galveston and just getting there the night we fly in? First time to Texas and all input appreciated!

Are you going to rent a car? If so, you can stay in Houston, but if not, go to Galveston. The Houston area is HUGE and would be very expensive to visit if using even Uber, much less a taxi to get around. Galveston is compact and makes sense if you won't have a car.

Probably no car. Just noticing Houston hotels seem to be much cheaper for those 2 days. Someone said something about a Galveston Mardi Gras, is that really a thing? Might make the extra cost worth staying out there.

Probably no car. Just noticing Houston hotels seem to be much cheaper for those 2 days. Someone said something about a Galveston Mardi Gras, is that really a thing? Might make the extra cost worth staying out there.

Yes, hadn't checked the dates but you'll be there the second weekend of Mardi Gras. It is a very big deal in Galveston. It is more family friendly than New Orleans, but the Saturday night parade will get interesting! ;p You'll just have to decide if it's worth spending the money the hotels charge.

There is a Doubletree hotel near Hobby that is okay. They have an airport shuttle, saving the cost to get to the hotel. Unfortunately, without a car, you are pretty much limited to the hotel, as strolling through the area at night is both unproductive (not much nearby) and not recommended. So this would definitely be a night-before stop. Get a taxi/Uber/shuttle the next morning and head out.

Once you cross the bridge to the island, the cost goes up...expect at least double for a similar-quality hotel. Probably more if during Mardi Gras.

If you were going to come down a couple of nights before without a rental car, I would definitely not stay off-island, as there just isn't too much to do within walking distance of most of the hotels between Hobby and Galveston. Just pony up the extra cost and explore the island. Look into vacation rentals, as well. There are some near the Strand that are cheaper than hotels and give you the chance to walk to much of the "action".

Just booked Breeze for the 2-11-18 sailing. Flying in on the 9th to Hobby. Looking for hotel recommendations and if we should spend 2 nights in Houston then get to Galveston the morning of the cruise vs spending 2 nights in Galveston and just getting there the night we fly in? First time to Texas and all input appreciated!

I would recommend going all the way to Galveston once you arrive in Texas. Even though you have (2) nights, you really only have one good (full) day of exploring.

Don't try to do too much.

Houston can be overwhelming.

Relax and enjoy Galveston.

Enjoy your cruise!