Located at the edge of the Galveston metropolitan area, this town was founded in 1824 when John Dickinson received a land grant from the Mexican government and the first settlers arrived. The settlement was officially established on Dickinson Bayou shortly before 1850. By 1860, it became a stop on the Galveston, Houston and Henderson Railroad, which began the town's development into a leading agricultural center and major supplier of fruits and vegetables.

Visitors may access Dickinson Bayou at Paul Hopkins Park or by a public boat ramp on Texas 3 just south of F.M. 517. Recreational activities include water skiing, kayaking, canoeing and fishing. The Bay Area Harbour Playhouse is a center of community theatrical activity with live productions and classes in performing arts.

Annual events include the Dickinson Festival of Lights held between Thanksgiving and New Year's at Paul Hopkins Park, the Fourth of July Old-Fashioned Community Picnic and Parade and Veterans Day Parade.