Galveston

Galveston

Founded in 1836 and located in the Gulf of Mexico, historic Galveston is a semi-tropical barrier island. Only 39 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, it lies 50 miles southwest of Houston. Long known for its miles of sandy beaches and Gulf seafood, today Galveston is also recognized for its treasure trove of Victorian architecture and one of the most vigorous historic preservation programs in the country.

Attractions

Galveston Island Ferry, located on Hwy 87 (Ferry Road), continues to be one of Galveston's most popular attractions. Ferries run approximately every fifteen to twenty minutes and are free. The Great Storm, a multimedia presentation at the Pier 21 Theater, gives visitors a glimpse of the devastating 1900 Storm through a multi-image documentary experience. The 27-minute story gives actual accounts from diaries and letters of survivors during and after the storm. One of Galveston's most popular attractions is Moody Gardens, One Hope Boulevard. Work or play, this tropical destination is ideal for families and groups alike. Water your imagination and travel the oceans of the world at the Aquarium Pyramid. Step into the Rainforest Pyramid with thousands of tropical plants, exotic fish and birds. Explore the mysteries of science at the Discovery Pyramid, and take a rocking and rolling ride through the universe at the Ridefilm Theater. Get in the middle of the action at the 4D Special FX Theater. See spectacular images leap from the screen of the six-story IMAX 3D Theater and visit beautiful Palm Beach (seasonal) and the newly expanded Moody Gardens Hotel.

Activities

Spend a lazy day relaxing on the beach or fishing off the coast. Discover the famed historic Strand District and have fun shopping in the city's more than 100 curio shops, outlets, antique stores, art galleries, and numerous museums and gardens. Explore some of the most historic buildings in Texas - Victorian homes and businesses that have withstood hurricanes, fire and modern development. Stop by the Grand Opera House, ranked as one of the nation's finest historic theaters.

Food

Fruitful fishing waters around Galveston Island provide local restaurants with the freshest and largest selection of seafood on the Gulf of Mexico, and area eateries presents these fruits of the sea at their tastiest. Although freshly-caught seafood is a resounding favorite on the Island, area menus offer tastes from around the world, ranging from well-known Cajun favorites to Tuscan secret recipes. You'll find succulent steaks, juicy chicken dishes, and plenty of vegetarian options from which to choose. In fact, when it’s time to dine there are more than 100 restaurants to choose from.

Currency

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency. Traveler's checks and credit cards are also widely accepted.

Weather Forecast

Sailing Calendar

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