georgec34

We are from UK, flying into Houston, Wednesday. Renting car from Avis, Palmetto Pines, driving down to Galveston about 3pm
Should I use Beltway 8 or travel on I 69 before joining the 45 ?????

volcanogirl

Hi, george - I've never heard of 69. I'd take the Beltway; you'll have to pay tolls along the way, so have cash available. Rush hour traffic will probably be starting about that time.

Texans call the road you're referring to I45 rather than the 45.

If you're looking for a spot to grab a good burger, The Spot along the Seawall is tasty. Also be sure to check out Moody Gardens while you're in the area if you have time. The Strand is great for shopping.

volcanogirl

Not sure how long you'll be in Galveston, but The Galvez is a nice historic hotel if you need one. Mosquito Cafe is good for breakfast.

http://www.hotelgalvez.com/
http://www.moodygardens.com/attractions/

georgec34

Thanks Valcanogirl,
I think I will take the Beltway. How much are tolls ?? What notes/cash do I need ie. dollar bills/ quarters ???
Should I use rental car, built in transponder or is it expensive ????

volcanogirl

Yes, if you can get an EZ Tag in your rental car, that would be the easiest thing to do. The toll roads have various lanes - with an EZ Tag, you can just zip through without stopping at the booth to pay; it automatically charges through the tag. The prices vary based on where you are and time of day. As you approach the toll area look at the signage displayed above each lane to make sure you go in the correct one.

BigRuss

Go find a website that will compare the toll transponder charges - it'll likely be easier. I had to do that for South Florida, which is toll road hell.

MANY Texas toll roads do not take cash anymore and that is true for a lot of the toll plazas on or around the Beltway (https://www.hctra.org/tollroads_rates/).

georgec34

Thanks again,good advice
Volcanogirl and BigRuss

Rich

I69 is the same as the old us 59 that runs northeast to Southwest thru Houston.

Beltway is likely your best bet, but beware of Rush Hour traffic nightmare. Most car rental companies offer a "Easy tag" that gets you thru the tollbooths without having to pay cash and wait in line

georgec34

Thanks very much to all who replied, your info. was extremely helpful and our trip went without a hitch. Again THANKS

volcanogirl

That's great - did you have good weather? Do anything fun? Hope you avoided the flooding.