There’s something special about the Southeast Region of Texas. Its proximity to the Louisiana border and the Gulf Coast give this part of the Lone Star state a unique feel. This historically rich and diverse region encompasses the metropolitan areas of Beaumont and Port Arthur. The dynamic and vibrant southeast boasts a strong economy, great communities, and beautiful places to explore. If you plan to relocate to Texas, read on to learn more about the Southeast region:

Some of the world’s biggest companies are here. There is a strong petroleum and chemical manufacturing presence in Beaumont-Port Arthur, and that’s only fitting: Back in 1901, the Spindletop oil gusher in Beaumont all but began the Texas oil boom. Today, some of the major businesses in the area include materials manufacturing, forestry and logging, and pipeline transportation.  In the Southeast region, a few of the major employers are ExxonMobil, Goodyear Tire and Rubber, Motiva Enterprises, and Valero Refining Group. 

It’s down by the bay. Texas is not all prairies and plains. Right along the Gulf Coast of Southeast Texas sits Galveston Bay, the largest estuary in the state. Here, freshwater flows in from rivers, bayous, and streams, blending with salty sea water to provide a rich, abundant ecosystem of plant and animal life. Galveston Bay is a great place for nature-lovers. When you need a break from business, you can spend some leisure time by the water.

There’s plenty to eat.  Of course, like any red-blooded Texas town, Beaumont offers great options for local favorites like barbecue and seafood, but this region has really broadened its offerings in recent years. One example is Amelia Farm and Market, which lets its diners enjoy a true farm-to-farm experience at tables under blue Texas skies and big oak trees. Their seasonal menu boasts local produce, pasture-raised pork, and grass-fed beef. There are so many more selections in Beaumont,—from Cajun to Tex-Mex, Asian, Italian, Mediterranean, and Indian—making it a great place for foodies.

Take a nature walk.  When you need to walk off the barbecue or take a break from work, head to the Cattail Marsh in Beaumont. This beautiful setting is comprised of 900 acres of wetlands, more than 8 miles of gravel levee roads, and more than 250 species of birds. Joggers, hikers, bikers, bird watchers, and horseback riders can find refuge in this beautiful, serene space by both the Hildebrandt and Willow Marsh Bayous. Its boardwalk allows for long walks along the water with small lookout spots along the way.

There are gators galore. Take some time to meet Big Beau, the 135-foot-long alligator sculpture greets visitors who come to Gator Country, a local attraction that offers up close observations of these fascinating large reptiles. Tour a swamp, hold a baby gator; At Gator World, the possibilities for adventure are endless. 

Go fishing. There are so many serene settings in the Southeast region of Texas. Sabine Lake in Port Arthur is 14-miles long and full of redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. There, you can fish from one of the lake’s piers or from your own boat. Pleasure Island in Port Arthur also offers some great activities on the water. 

Discover coastal culture. The Museum of the Gulf Coast in Port Arthur covers all kinds of topics from history and nature to sports and pop culture. Janis Joplin, Percy Sledge, and The Big Bopper all hailed from this region of Texas and are featured in the music hall of fame section of the museum. Beaumont also boasts its own collection of art galleries, performing arts venues, and museums. 

Location, location, location. Beaumont-Port Arthur is located along Interstate 10, the highway that stretches from Santa Monica, California to Jacksonville, Florida. This keeps the region connected to some of the nation’s major cities. The area also is home to Jack Brooks Regional Airport and is less than 100 miles away from the international airport in Houston.

Connecting people and businesses with the best places in Texas is important. Are you looking to connect with a Texas community where you can really grow your business? Learn more about which region would be the best fit for you with the Texas Economic Development Connection’s Relocation Planning Tool.