GALVESTON DESTINATION GUIDE
GALVESTON ISLAND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 888.GAL.ISLE, 888.425.4753 WWW.GALVESTON.COM
WELCOME WELCOME TO HISTORIC GALVESTON ISLAND! The siren song of breaking waves draws visitors to Galveston’s beaches generation after generation. Warm breezes and year-round temperate seas complement the city’s rich historic districts, award-winning restaurants, unique attractions and bustling shops. And though Galveston’s relaxed island atmosphere is only 50 minutes from Houston, it is a world away in spirit. At 32 miles long and two-and-a-half miles wide, the island is surrounded with incredible history and unique beauty. Known as the Playground of the South, we hope you will enjoy all Galveston has to offer – from beaches, to family attractions, to historic architecture, outdoor adventure, shopping, dining and cruising.
It’s Island Time!
For more information on Galveston Island, please contact the Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau, toll-free at 1-888-GAL-ISLE (425-4753), or visit our website at www.galveston.com.
TRAVELER TIPS If you’re on the island, simply navigate to galveston.com on your mobile device. The site is GPS based and lets you know what restaurants, attractions, shops etc. you are closest to along with directions.
Visiting multiple attractions? Visit our exclusive attraction package website galvestonislandpass.com to receive 40% off when you bundle four or more attractions. If you’re flying, check flights at Houston Hobby Airport (HOU). It’s closest to Galveston. If you’re bringing a group or meeting, contact the Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau to assist with all planning needs. 866.505.4456 | info@galvestoncvb.com If you’re taking a cruise, check-out galveston.com/parkandcruise for a list of lodging options that offer parking and shuttles to the Port of Galveston. If you’ve never been to Galveston, make your first stop the Visitor Information Center located at 2328 Broadway Ave. for maps, discount coupons and other planning tips.
CONTENTS
05
VISITOR INFORMATION & TRANSPORTATION
08
BEACHES
12
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
17
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS
22
CRUISING FROM GALVESTON
25
ECOTOURISM
28
HERITAGE TOURISM
34
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
45
OUTDOOR RECREATION PULL-OUT MAP
51
DINING
57
NIGHTLIFE & CRAFT BREWERIES
61
MEET OUR NEIGHBORS
62
ANNUAL EVENT GUIDE
64
25 GALVESTON MUST-DOS
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GALVESTON ISLAND
VISITOR INFORMATION & TRANSPORTATION THE PAST AND FUTURE GOLDEN AGE The island you know, and the one you don’t To some, Galveston will always be an island defined by its storied past, its 19th-century elegance, big-city ambitions, notorious seaport and even more legendary storms. But visitors to the island these days might be forgiven for thinking they’ve happened upon a new golden age, one even more glorious than the last. From world-class museums to brand-spanking-new cruise ships, from the explosion in entertainment and dining options to the ever-growing number of places to stay, shop and explore, this is not your grandfather’s Galveston — or your father’s, for that matter. Except that it is. The atmosphere is still as warm and friendly as the breezes. The beaches — as beautiful and inviting as they’ve ever been — still go on forever. It’s Galveston as you always knew it, and always knew it could be.
AVERAGE WEATHER TEMPERATURES MONTH
AVG. HIGH
AVG. LOW
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60° 63° 68° 74° 81° 86° 88° 89° 86° 79° 70° 63°
48° 50° 57° 64° 72° 77° 79° 79° 75° 68° 58° 50°
MEAN
AVG. PRECIP.
54° 55° 62°
3.3 in 2.3 in 2.3 in
68° 76° 81° 84° 84° 80° 74° 64° 56°
2.4 in 3.6 in 4.4 in 4.0 in 4.5 in 5.9 in 2.8 in 3.4 in 3.5 in
AVERAGE WATER TEMPERATURES Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 54° 55° 61° 71° 78° 83° 86° 86° 83° 75° 67° 59° 05
GALVESTON ISLAND VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 2328 Broadway Ave. (behind Ashton Villa) 409-797-5144 • 409-797-5143 • info@galvestoncvb.com
DOWNTOWN PARKING / SEAWALL PARKING Be advised that paid street parking is enforced throughout the Historic Downtown District and along Seawall Boulevard. Rates and times vary per location. Signage is posted in each area with more information.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES – CALL 911 University of Texas Medical Branch Emergency Room is located at 901 Harborside Drive.
URGENT CARE CLINICS Affinity Immediate Care 2808 61st St., Suite 200 409-497-2808
Hospitality Health ER 4222 Seawall Blvd. 409-766-1212
Island Health Center 4623 Fort Crockett Blvd. 409-762-7646
UTMB Health Emergency Department 901 Harborside Drive 409-772-9505
UTMB Pediatric Urgent Care 6416 Broadway Ave. 409-772-3695
West Isle Urgent Care 2027 61st St. 409-744-9800
Galveston Island – Port Bolivar Ferry Galveston Ferry Landing End of Ferry Road (2nd Street) 409-795-2230 www.galveston.com/ galvestonferry Free ferry rides take you between Galveston and Port Bolivar and offer a glimpse of playful dolphins
RENTAL CARS Enterprise Rent a Car 5919 Broadway Ave. 409-740-0700 800-RENT-A-CAR www.enterprise.com
TAXIS Busy Bee 409-762-8429
Jeff’s Cab 409-621-5333
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Island Transit System 409-797-3900 www.islandtransit.net
Galveston Trolley 409-797-3909 www.galvestontrolley.com
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GALVESTON ISLAND
Ready Set Go Transportation & Taxi 409-762-2714
Tropical Taxi 409-621-4000
Yellow Cab 409-763-3333
Rideshare Apps
Karr Limousine Service
Uber and Lyft
713-780-8300 www.karrlimousine.com
AIRPORTS Ellington Field
Merlo’s Limousine & Charters
713-847-4200 Charters only
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
866-367-5466 www.merloscharters.com
Super Shuttle
281-230-3100
800-258-3826 www.supershuttle.com
Scholes International Airport at Galveston (GLS)
Superior Limousine & Transportation
409-797-3590 Charters only
866-420-9295 www.superiorlimousine andtransportation.com
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) 713-640-3000
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION Action Limo 713-781-5466 www.actionlimo.com
PET BOARDING FACILITIES The Animal Clinic 701 Broadway Ave. 409-763-6484 www.animalclinic.com
Bone Voyage Pet Resort Clear Lake & Galveston Shuttle 281-229-0299
Galveston Cruise Transfers 409-200-2953 www.galvestoncruise transfers.com
Galveston Express 409-762-4397 www.galvestonexpress.com
Galveston Limousine 409-744-5466 800-640-4826 www.galvestonlimo.com
Galveston Shuttle & Limo 409-761-1184 www.galveston-shuttle.com
Island Breeze Shuttle 409-770-0100 www.islandbreeze.com
6928 Harborside Drive 409-740-2663 www.bonevoyage.net
Dogs At Dolphins View 10720 San Luis Pass Road 409-737-9515 www.dogsatdolphinsview.com
Campeche Cove Animal & Bird Hospital 10015 Stewart Road 409-740-0808 www.compechecovevet.com
Fabian Boarding Kennel 13720 Stewart Road 409-737-9019 www.fabiankennel.com
Galveston Veterinary Clinic 2108 61st St. 409-356-9000 www.galvestonvets.com
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BEACHES A BEACH OF ONE’S OWN Finding your own place in the sun With 32 miles of shoreline and a variety of parks, Galveston Island offers something for every kind of beachgoer. And with warm Gulf waves from spring through October, there’s plenty of time to explore each beach’s unique personality. Whatever your sunseeking fancy, Galveston has a beach for you. Visit galvestonbeachinfo.com for more information.
5 BEACHES TO TRY If you’re a regular visitor, annual beach parking passes provide unlimited parking along the Seawall ($25 pass) and at island beach parks ($50 pass), including East Beach, Stewart Beach, West End Pocket Parks and Seawall Boulevard. Visit galvestonbeachinfo.com for more information. Stewart Beach Located at 6th and Seawall Boulevard, this is a popular, family-friendly destination close to town featuring a children’s playground, umbrella and chair rentals, restrooms, showers, volleyball courts, snack bar and souvenir shop. East Beach This spacious beach on the island’s east end is a favorite for parties and special events. The park offers showers, restrooms, volleyball courts, concessions, a boardwalk, children’s playground, concert stage, outdoor bar and is Galveston’s only alcohol-permitted beach park. 08
GALVESTON ISLAND
WHY DOES THE GULF CHANGE COLORS? The water off the coast of Galveston is turbid, meaning it lacks clarity. This turbidity is a result of suspended solids in the water like sediment, plankton and microorganisms. The ocean and bay floor around Galveston is shallow and covered in very fine silt. This means that wind and waves can easily disturb and suspend the silt in the water. On a calm day, the water around Galveston is actually a lovely shade of blue.
WHAT IS THAT WEED? Every year, there is a potential for large masses of Sargassum (seaweed) to wash up along Galveston’s beaches during the spring and early summer months. The name seaweed incorrectly implies that these brown algae have little value. In fact, it is a floating ecosystem and, once arriving onshore, becomes an invaluable food source for many coastal birds. If you see seaweed floating, grab a handful and quickly shake it to see some of the distinctive, well-camouflaged creatures that call it home. During the summer, join the Bucket Brigade for free eco-tours at Stewart Beach. Learn about the exciting coastal ecosystem led by Artist Boat marine biologists.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
Galveston Island State Park Along the west end of the island, this is a go-to spot for families, fishermen and campers. It’s also camp-ready, providing water and electrical hook-ups, barbecue pits and a fish-cleaning station, plus restrooms, outdoor showers and picnic sites. West End Pocket Parks These small beaches on the west end are some of the quietest in Galveston, perfect for picnics and nature exploration. Pocket Park 2 offers an upgraded pavilion with showers and amenities. Seawall Urban Park The 10-mile stretch along Seawall Boulevard is a popular spot for bikers, joggers and beachgoers alike.
STAY SAFE IN THE WATER! Avoid rock jetties and piers at all times. Don’t dive into unknown depths. Be aware of strong surf. And, most importantly, know the meanings of the colored flags posted at each beach denoting current water conditions and swim near a lifeguard: GREEN Conditions are calm. YELLOW Use caution when entering the water. Stay alert. ORANGE Air and/or water quality is poor; swimming is not recommended. RED Strong winds, strong currents and/or tall waves are present. Non-swimmers and children should not venture beyond the surf line. PURPLE Jellyfish, stingrays or other dangerous marine life have been detected.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT A CULTURAL TREASURE CHEST Take a walk on the arts side Adding to the beauty of Galveston Island, the thriving arts scene offers both the performing and visual arts. From stage performances to historical films, to art exhibits, there’s a multitude of entertainment and inspiration to experience. The Galveston Downtown Cultural Arts District has been designated as an official Cultural Arts District by the Texas Commission on the Arts. With this designation, Galveston is part of an elite group of communities that have recognized that investing in creative and artistic ventures offers an effective approach to community revitalization and cultural tourism.
THEATERS Island ETC (East End Theatre Company, live theater) 2317 Mechanic St. 409-762-3556, 888-762-3556 www.islandetc.org
Pier 21 Theater (multimedia) Pier 21 and Harborside Drive Above Willie G’s 409-763-8808 www.galvestonhistory.org
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GALVESTON ISLAND
Premiere Cinemas (movies) 8902 Seawall Blvd. 409-741-1700 www.pccmovies.com
The Grand 1894 Opera House (live theater) 2020 Postoffice St. 409-765-1894, 800-821-1894 www.thegrand.com
ART GALLERIES Galveston Island boasts an abundance of art galleries, with many located in the historic blocks of downtown Galveston. Seekers of beautiful things will appreciate the variety of artwork displayed at venues all over the island.
Admiralty Marine Model Gallery
Arts and Frames
2221 Strand St. 409-766-1776
1126 19th St. 409-762-3628
Affaire d’Art Gallery
Beta Gallery
2227 Postoffice St. 409-789-0079
2328 Strand St. 409-370-3707
Artists’ Studio & Gallery
Clay Cup Studios
1902 Ave. N 512-217-1994
409 22nd St. 409-762-2529
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Derek Anderson Studio
Mamady’s Primitive Art
2224 Church St. 409-750-3773
2211 Strand St., 2nd floor 409-621-5855
Elizabeth Punches Gallery 403 22nd St. 740-624-7797
Emporium at Eibands 2201Postoffice St. 409-750-9536
From The HeART Gallery
The Marketplace at The Peanut Butter Warehouse 102 20th St. 409-632-7165
The Proletariat Gallery & Public House
2111 Postoffice St. 409-300-3009
2221 Market St. 409-356-9092
Gallery Evasion
Q2 Gallery
217 Tremont St. 281-508-1420
Galveston Art League Gallery 2117A Postoffice St. 409-621-1008
Galveston Arts Center 2127 Strand St. 409-763-2403
2208 Postoffice St. 409-256-0762
Rene’ Wiley Studio & Gallery 2128 Postoffice St. 409-750-9077
Strand Gallery
G. Lee Gallery
2418 Strand St. 409-220-1777
2217 Strand St. 409-370-7350
Studio 908 Pottery
Heard Art Gallery & Studio
908 35th St. 409-795-4268
2217 Postoffice St. 903-357-9073
islandframed 515 25th St. 409-256-0062
J Bangle’s Silk Stocking Gallery
Third Coast Gallery 2413 Mechanic St. 409-974-4661
Vacation On Canvas
1124 25th St. 409-763-6161
2204 Postoffice St. 409-974-4066
Katrina Howarth Gallery
Water’s Edge Studio & Gallery
215 Tremont St. 713-550-6431
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GALVESTON ISLAND
1302 21st St. 409-762-1925
GALVESTON ARTWALK Every Six Weeks January-November
Help celebrate the visual arts by attending ArtWalk, organized by the Galveston Arts Center every six weeks. Stroll from gallery to gallery in the Historic Downtown District during these synchronized art show openings. New works by local and national artists are the focus of each ArtWalk with numerous artist receptions and other festivities enhancing the experience. Each event is free and runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call 409-763-2403 or visit www.galvestonartscenter.org.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS SAND, SUN AND FUN Unique finds and world-class gems Galveston Island is home to some of the best attractions Texas has to offer, including Moody Gardens and its newly renovated Aquarium Pyramid as well as Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park. Galveston is a historic beach town offering a plethora of unique museums, including The Bryan Museum, Texas Seaport Museum, Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum and Galveston Railroad Museum. Having one of the largest and well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country, Galveston allows visitors to explore the island’s interesting history by touring one of its popular historic mansions. With 32 miles of beaches, you can’t come to Galveston without soaking in some sun with the numerous outdoor activities available, including dolphin tours, birding tours and more.
SITES AND ATTRACTIONS 1892 Bishop’s Palace 1402 Broadway Ave. 409-762-2475 www.galvestonhistory.org Open daily, tour one of the island’s most popular mansions built of stone and steel, designed by Nicholas Clayton, Galveston’s premier Victorian-era architect.
1895 Moody Mansion 2618 Broadway Ave. 409-762-7668 www.moodymansion.org View opulent furnishings and heirlooms from one of Texas’ most powerful families.
African American Museum 3427 Sealy Ave. www.galveston.com/ africanamericanmuseum On the outside walls of the museum are portraits of some prominent black Galvestonians, painted by artist E. Herron.
The Bryan Museum 1315 21st St. 409-632-7685 www.thebryanmuseum.org Located in the historic Galveston Orphans Home, the museum showcases one of the world's largest collections of historical artifacts, documents and artwork relating to the American West.
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier 2501 Seawall Blvd. 855-789-7437 www.pleasurepier.com This amusement pier features 16 thrill rides, a 5D theater, games, food and entertainment.
Galveston Railroad Museum 25th and Strand 409-765-5700 www.galvestonrrmuseum.com Explore locomotive history with one of the largest restored railroad collections in the United States.
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Haunted Mayfield Manor
2313 Harborside Drive 409-762-6677 www.hauntedmayfield manor.com Get spooked at this yearround haunted house in downtown Galveston.
Historic Downtown District
www.downtowngalveston.org Shop, eat and explore a variety of attractions amid Victorian architecture.
Magic Carpet Golf & Batting Cage
9030 Seawall Blvd. 409-740-2000 www.galveston.com/ magiccarpetgolf Miniature golf and batting cage attraction with a Gulf view.
Moody Gardens
One Hope Blvd. 409-744-4673, 800-582-4673 www.moodygardens.org Explore the Aquarium, Rainforest, and Discovery Pyramids plus 3D and 4D theaters, the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, ropes course and zip line, Palm Beach water park, golf course and more.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum Pier 19 409-766-STAR (7827) www.oceanstaroec.com Tour a retired jack-up rig and learn about offshore drilling.
Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast 2313 Harborside Drive 409-762-6677 www.piratesgulfcoast.com Discover Galveston’s pirate history in this interactive museum.
Rosenberg Library Museum 2310 Sealy 409-763-8854 www.rosenberg-library.org Find fascinating artifacts in this public library museum and archive.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark 2109 Lockheed Drive 409-770-WAVE (9283) www.schlitterbahn.com Popular water park brand offering indoor and outdoor water thrill rides year-round.
GUIDED TOURS Artist Boat Kayak Adventures
2627 Ave. O 409-770-0722 www.artistboat.org Kayak and paint a watercolor of the natural views before you.
Baywatch Dolphin Tours
2100 Harborside Drive 832-859-4557 www.galvestonbaywatch.com Take a tour of Galveston’s historic harbor and watch for playful dolphins.
Capt. Hal Newsom’s Airboat Tours of Galveston Bay
409-632-0089 www.galvestonboattours.com Discover the unspoiled beauty of Galveston Bay onboard the Gator Getter, a one-of-a-kind 450-horsepower airboat.
Dash Beardsley’s Ghost Tours of Galveston Seawolf Park, home of the American Undersea Warfare Center Pelican Island via Seawolf Parkway 100 Seawolf Park Blvd. 409-797-5114 www.americanundersea warfarecenter.com Galveston’s naval museum features the USS Cavalla (WWII submarine); the USS Stewart (WWII destroyer escort – one of only three in the world); a fishing pier and a playground.
Skydive Galveston 9020 Stewart Road 409-420-6231 www.skydivegalveston.com Take a tandem parachute jump over the Gulf of Mexico and land on Galveston’s beaches.
Texas Seaport Museum/ Tall Ship ELISSA 2100 Harborside Drive 409-763-1877 www.galvestonhistory.org Explore Galveston’s history of seaborne commerce/ immigration and tour the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, the official tall ship of Texas.
123 Rosenberg 409-356-9266 www.ghosttoursof galvestonisland.com Learn the rich history of Galveston infused with researched evidence and personal accounts from local residents.
Galveston Cemetery Tours
4002 Ave. K 409-739-7120 www.galveston cemeterytours.com Explore Galveston’s historic cemeteries and learn about Galveston’s past residents.
Galveston Island Duck Tours
25th Street and Seawall Boulevard 409-621-4771 www.galvestonducks.com Tour Galveston in a unique vehicle that travels by land and water.
Galveston Harbor Tours
Pier 22 409-763-1877 www.galvestonhistory.org Take a tour of Galveston’s historic harbor and watch for playful dolphins.
Galveston Helicopter Tours
201 Seawall Blvd. at Stewart Beach 409-750-1699 www.galvestonhelicopters.com Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Galveston Island.
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Galveston Historic Tours
Island Bicycle Company
409-789-9911 www.galvestonhistoric tour.com Explore the history of Galveston’s people and buildings through a variety of tours.
1808 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-2453 www.islandbicycle company.com Explore Galveston’s beachfront or self-guided tours by renting a bicycle.
Galveston History Tour Guide
Island Carriages
409-370-7350 www.galvestonhistory tourguide.com A unique, funny and personal look at Galveston Island's incredible history.
Galveston Horse & Pony Rides East Beach 409-256-0663 www.gihpr.com Ride horses along the Gulf waters at East Beach.
Galveston Segway Tours 519 25th St. 409-692-6691 www.segcity.com/galveston Cruise along the Seawall, visit the incredible tree sculptures and journey by magnificent historic mansions.
Galveston Water Adventures 2100 Harborside Drive 409-220-1206 www.galvestonwater adventures.com Tour Galveston’s historic harbor and see birds, marine life and dolphins.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
22nd and Strand St. 409-765-6951 www.galveston.com/ islandcarriages Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic downtown Galveston.
Lantern Light Tours of Galveston
www.lanternlight galveston.com With the Victorian splendor of Galveston’s historic buildings, scenic Harborside and the breathtaking seawall, there is a tour for everyone.
Seahorse and Classic Carriages 2100 Strand St. 409-925-3312 Enjoy historic Galveston from a horse-drawn carriage.
Taste of The Strand
2028 Strand St. 409-599-5425 www.galveston.com/ taste-of-the-strand Ready for an island dining adventure? Your taste buds are sure to be dazzled as you
sample edibles from wellknown Galveston institutions.
ZippE Bikes
2311 Mechanic St. 409-539-3323 www.zippebikes.com Pick a tour that suits your taste. See the history and architecture, enjoy delicious food from local eateries or take in a little bit of everything.
SELF-GUIDED TOURS African American Historic Places www.galveston.com/ africanamericanguidebook Explore the many ways African Americans contributed to the growth and success of Galveston and Texas.
East End Historical District
www.eastendhistoric district.org Tour the vast collection of beautiful historic homes found in the East End Historical District.
Galveston Historic Architecture www.galveston.com historic-architecture Take a driving tour of some of Galveston’s most impressive architecture.
Galveston Public Art Tour
www.galveston.com/ publicarttour Many of Galveston’s public buildings contain works of art well worth viewing.
The Grand 1894 Opera House
2020 Postoffice St. 409-765-1894 www.thegrand.com Tour this beautiful gem known as the “Official Opera House of Texas.” The intimate space brings characters to life, offering show-stopping live performances.
Postoffice Street Arts & Entertainment District
www.galveston.com/ postofficestreettour Discover historic architecture, art galleries, shops, restaurants and more.
Silk Stocking District www.silkstocking galveston.org The neighborhood includes some of Galveston’s best examples of the Queen Annestyle architecture.
The Strand National Historic Landmark District www.galveston.com/ downtowntour Tour historic downtown Galveston, home to beautiful Victorian architecture.
Tree Sculpture Tour Locations throughout the island www.galveston.com/ treesculptures Tour beautiful tree sculptures transformed from Oaks destroyed by Hurricane Ike in 2008.
THEATERS Island ETC (East End Theater Company, live theater) 2317 Ship Mechanic Row St. 409-762-3556, 888-762-3556 www.islandetc.org
Moody Gardens 3D Theater (films) 1 Hope Blvd. 800-582-4673 www.moodygardens.org
Pier 21 Theater (multimedia) Pier 21 and Harborside Drive Above Willie G’s 409-763-8808 www.galvestonhistory.org Watch a brief documentary on “The Great Storm of 1900,” “The Pirate Island of Jean Lafitte” or “Galveston: Gateway on the Gulf.”
Premiere Cinemas (movies) 8902 Seawall Blvd. 409-741-1700
The Grand 1894 Opera House (live theater) 2020 Postoffice St. 409-765-1894, 800-821-1894 www.thegrand.com
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CRUISING FROM GALVESTON CRUISE CONTROL Enjoy your time in port The Port of Galveston is the fourth busiest home port in the United States with departures from Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Lines. With most cruises departing in the late afternoon and several hotels offering parking and shuttles to the terminals with an overnight stay, cruise-goers have every excuse to add a few hours or days to their vacations. Need an itinerary? We’ve got suggestions no matter how much time you have before that ship sails. HALF DAY • Have breakfast in the East End Historical District then stroll through to marvel at its Victorian homes. • Visit the famed 1892 Bishop’s Palace and 1895 Moody Mansion. • Check out Historic Downtown Galveston’s shops, restaurants, museums and art galleries. • Tour the Texas Seaport Museum and the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA.
WHOLE DAY • Explore the Moody Gardens complex, including the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, 3D and 4D Theaters, Palm Beach and the Colonel Paddlewheel. • Spend the afternoon at one of the island’s many beaches. • Visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for carnival-style games and rides. • Dine at a Seawall restaurant then shop at Murdoch’s gift shop or rent a surrey.
ONE MORE DAY OPTIONS • Rent a beach house or condo and pick up fresh seafood to boil or grill from Pier 19. • Take a dolphin tour from Pier 21. • Visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark, open summer and winter, thanks to heated, indoor water ride options. It features water slides, wave pools and a lazy river. • Immerse yourself in American West history at The Bryan Museum. • For more options, see The Bucket List: 25 Galveston Must-Dos on the back cover.
PORT OF GALVESTON CRUISE TERMINALS Terminal #1 2502 Harborside Drive
Terminal #2 2702 Harborside Drive If using GPS or a map program, use the following: 22nd Street and Harborside Drive 77550
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GALVESTON ISLAND
GALVESTON ISLAND CRUISE PARKING OPTIONS Tip: Book online and receive discounts at several locations
Port of Galveston (official port lots) Parking Garage: 150 24th St. (Indoor parking available) Parking Lots: 33rd Street 409-766-6100 www.portofgalveston.com
81st Dolphin Parking 2801 Market St. 409-256-6877 www.81stdolphinparking.net
Cruise Park
Galveston Park N Cruise 2514 New Strand St. (Indoor Parking Available) 866-479-7275 www.galvestonparkn cruise.com
Lighthouse Parking 309 29th St. 409-454-4849 www.lighthouseparking.org
Port Parking
2815 Harborside Drive 409-354-8787 www.cruisepark.com
202 37th St. (Indoor parking available) 855-435-7678 www.portparking.com
Discount Cruise Parking
VIP Indoor Cruise Parking
8115 Harborside Drive 409-599-4016, 877-215-7449 www.discountcruise parking.net
111 Rosenberg St. (Indoor parking available) 409-765-7300 www.galvestonvipcruise parking.com
EZ Cruise Parking 2727 Santa Fe Place 409-939-0648 www.ezcruiseparking.com
LUGGAGE STORAGE The Cruise Stop
Falstaff Cruise Parking
2418 Strand St., Suite A 409-497-2974 thecruisestop@gmail.com
3402 Church St. (Indoor parking available) 877-365-7275 www.falstaffcruiseparking.com
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GALVESTON ISLAND
ECOTOURISM FOR THE BIRDS Best bets for amateur ornithologists Ecotourism is a growing trend in travel, thanks in no small part to bird watchers, for whom Galveston is a kind of nirvana. More than 500 bird species live on or migrate through the island, often stopping to refuel when crossing the Gulf of Mexico. Visit galveston.com/birding for more information.
SEASONAL BIRDING Brown pelicans, willets, plovers, peeps, sandpipers, ibis, egrets, herons, gulls and terns can be seen year-round throughout the island. Visitors also can expect to see reddish egret, white-tailed kite, oystercatchers, crested caracara, roseate spoonbills and mottled ducks, though in fewer numbers and mostly in remote areas. Spring and fall migrations bring songbirds, including warblers and shore birds. Birds that spend winter on the island include white pelicans, ducks, hawks, sparrows, sandhill cranes and common loons. Mid-to-late April is the single most exciting period for birding. For one thing, the island’s annual FeatherFest is held then; for another, many migrating tropical birds can be seen, including tanagers, orioles, grosbeaks, warblers and painted buntings.
GALVESTON AREA BIRDING LOCATIONS
East End Lagoon Nature Preserve This area is a must-see for all birders, and when conditions are just right, they can enjoy the vast number, variety and beauty of the resting birds without leaving their car. When you reach the large wetland area just south of the Seawall, there are cormorants, egrets, herons, ibis, ducks and more. This beach area is a favorite resting area for black skimmers, gulls, terns and more. Check the tidal ponds for a variety of other species.
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Shrimp Fleet Berth Watch the birds waiting for the return of the shrimp boats, known locally as the “Mosquito Fleet” at Pier 19, and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants on Harborside Drive between 22nd and 19th streets. Kempner Park When weather conditions are right in spring, this wooded park at Avenue O and 28th Street is home to migrant land birds seen sweeping through the oak trees. American robins have nested here, and white-winged doves are common in the surrounding neighborhoods. Offatts Bayou 61st Street crosses the east end of Offatts Bayou. Grebes, diving ducks and, in the spring, pacific loons are often seen in the bayou area.
8 Mile Road This area on the West End includes shallow inter-tidal marsh, tidal creek, oyster reef, mud flats, brackish fresh water pond and pasture. Lafitte’s Cove Nature Preserve Lafitte’s Cove is a 20-acre oak moat preserve and is an excellent place to find migrating songbirds in spring and fall. At least 137 species were recorded in the preserve during past spring migrations. Galveston Island State Park Galveston Island State Park stretches from the Gulf to West Bay and is about 2,000 acres in composition. North of FM 3005, there are several trails with observation platforms to sample a whole range of island birds. San Luis Pass At the far west end of the island, one can walk the Gulf side beach and then the Bay side tidal edge. A great place to see large flocks of gulls, terns, skimmers, avocets, stilts, pelicans, cormorants, waders, sandpipers, plovers plus the occasional songbird.
Birding for Fun 832-372-8236 www.birdingforfun.com Learn how to spot and identify the numerous tropical birds in Galveston from an experienced birder.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
Emma Hickerson, NOAA Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary
Explore the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve to witness the natural tidal marsh environment. Here, visitors enjoy bird watching, nature study, walking and fishing. The tidal creek and pond are prime locations for birding.
Artist Boat Coastal Heritage Preserve The grassy fields along Settegast Road draw American Golden-Plovers, Whimbrels, Long-billed Curlews and Upland Sandpipers during spring migration and Sandhill Cranes in the winter. Dos Vacas Muertas Bird Sanctuary This migratory bird stopover on the bayside of West Galveston contains a pond, small marsh, live oak motte and mudflats. Birding is great year-round.
HIKING & BIKING Galveston Island State Park 14901 FM 3005 409-737-1222 www.tpwd.state.tx.us The park offers camping, bird watching, nature study,
hiking, mountain bike riding, fishing and unsupervised beach swimming. Tours: Educational tours of the flora and fauna of the beach and bay areas of the park are given by appointment only. Contact the park to make arrangements.
KAYAKING Artist Boat Kayak Adventures 2627 Ave. O 409-770-0722 www.artistboat.org Enjoy a guided and interpretive Eco-Art Kayak Adventure, paddling to places of natural significance on Galveston Bay. All equipment and art supplies are provided for you to create a masterpiece of the beautiful environment you will encounter.
FLOWER GARDEN BANKS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY Coral Reefs in Texas?
Emma Hickerson, NOAA Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary
Most Galveston visitors don’t realize that just 115 miles off the Galveston coast lies one of America’s ocean treasures, the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. It contains some of the healthiest, most beautiful coral reefs in the entire Gulf of Mexico. From manta rays and whale sharks, to colorful tropical fish and invertebrates, this place teems with life. For more information, visit flowergarden.noaa.gov.
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HERITAGE TOURISM GALVESTON HISTORY An island with a storied past Part Southern, part Texan, abloom with towering oleanders of every color and encompassing more history and stories than cities 20 times its size, Galveston is often called “The Republic of Galveston Island” by its residents because it is so unlike the rest of Texas. The island’s earliest residents were the native Karankawa and Akokisa Indians, who found the pristine waters of the bay to be rich in resources. It wasn’t colonized until 1817, when the infamous European pirate Jean Lafitte established the colony of Campeche here. After Lafitte was forced to leave the island (burning down his town behind him), Galveston as we know it was founded by Michel Menard, Samuel May Williams and a few other early pioneers, whose homes are still standing today. Incorporated in 1839, Galveston quickly became the most active port west of New Orleans and the largest city in Texas. This sophisticated city was home to many of the state’s firsts, including the post office, opera house, hospital, golf course, country club and more. On Sept. 8, 1900, a hurricane, later dubbed the Great Storm, 28
GALVESTON ISLAND
devastated the island in what is still the worst natural disaster in U.S. history. The Great Storm killed more than 6,000 of the island’s 37,000 residents and destroyed one-third of its buildings. However, the storm could not destroy the spirit of the island and its residents. To better protect the city from future hurricanes, a seawall was constructed
y senberg Librar Courtesy of Ro
and the city’s elevation was raised. Despite the resilience of its residents, Galveston never quite returned to what it once was. During Prohibition-era bootlegging, the island evolved into a gambling resort town until 1957, when the Texas Rangers raided the city and ended the illegal gambling.
The island languished until the early 1980s, when a successful campaign of renewal brought the Historic Downtown Strand Seaport District to life. This area of the island contains one of the largest concentrations of Victorian iron-front commercial architecture in the country and offers shopping, art galleries, restaurants and nightlife. 29
AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY Galveston has rich ties in African-American history as the birthplace of the Juneteenth holiday and as the site of many firsts in Texas for the African-American community. While many people think slavery ended on September 22, 1862 – the date Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation – many slaves weren’t freed until much later when news of the proclamation reached their towns. The last of those slaves lived in the South and were freed on June 19, 1865 after the Emancipation Proclamation was read on a harbor pier in Galveston. The celebration that took place that day in Galveston eventually became known as the “Juneteenth” holiday and is now celebrated in more than 40 states. Galveston is home to 14 historically African-American churches that were organized more than 100 years ago and still serve the community today. The island was also the first Texas city to provide a secondary school and public library for African Americans. Pioneers such as politician Norris Wright Cuney, world heavyweight champion Jack Johnson and entertainer Barry White all had ties to the Galveston community.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
A HISTORY OF TOURISM Galveston has had a richly evolving history of European settlement for some 200 years, during which time pirates set their flags in the soil, waves of immigrants from Germany, Italy and Greece made their way to the island, and wealthy merchants planted strong roots. After the Great Storm, Galveston’s economic leaders eventually refashioned the town as a popular tourist destination — which it still serves as today. Although most of the original structures are long gone, the stories of early islanders live on in renovated structures and new establishments created in memory of the past.
Murdochs Perhaps no building symbolizes the resilience of Galveston Island like Murdochs Bathhouse; after all, it has been rebuilt four times, with the last devastation coming from Hurricane Ike in 2008. Originally, Murdoch opened as a swimwear rental store in 1910, but soon became a souvenir shop and restaurant. Today, the long-standing structure carries on its tradition of providing shopping options for seawall visitors.
The Grand 1894 Opera House Behind the red brick façade of The Grand is one of the most acoustically balanced structures in the state. The stage still projects sounds as soft as a whisper to even the backmost rows. Having survived multiple natural disasters, the opera house is on the National Register of Historic Places and continues to delight visitors with shows to this day.
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier First built in 1943, the pier was a favorite spot filled with games and arcades until its utter destruction by Hurricane Carla in 1961. It was rebuilt later as the hotel USS Flagship but was again destroyed in 2008’s Hurricane Ike. Galveston brought it back to life one more time in 2012 as a home to restaurants, games and exciting new rides such as the 100-foot-tall Galaxy Wheel and the Texas Star Flyer, which swings riders 230 feet above the Gulf.
1892 Bishop’s Palace This 19,000-square-foot Victorian home is made of stone and ornately decorated with carved wood, stained-glass windows and massive fireplaces. Today, the mansion is owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation and remains a beloved museum open for guided and self-guided tours daily.
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The Bryan Museum Perhaps no edifice on Galveston Island bears the emotional weight of its history quite like The Bryan Museum. It took the role of orphanage in the late 1800s, serving the island for more than 100 years and sheltering dozens of children during the 1900 hurricane. In 2015, the building reopened as The Bryan Museum, exhibiting one of the world’s largest collections of American West artifacts, with more than 70,000 items spanning 12,000 years.
BUILDINGS TELL THEIR OWN TALES Other significant sites on the island include these time-tested edifices, which all are available for special events. Visit galvestonhistory.org for more information.
1838 Michel B. Menard House 1605 33rd St. A beautiful Greek Revival home, the Menard House is one of the oldest surviving structures on Galveston Island. Named after Michel Menard, a Canadian fur trader and founder of the Galveston City Company, the home currently operates as a museum and event space.
1839 Samuel May Williams Home 3601 Ave. P This rare combination of Creole-plantation and New England architectural styles was built in 1838 for Samuel May Williams, secretary to Stephen F. Austin and founder of the Texas Navy.
1859 Ashton Villa 2328 Broadway Ave. The first brick home in the state, this stunning Victorian mansion serves as a popular wedding venue, as well as the Galveston Island Visitor Information Center.
1859 St. Joseph Church 2202 Ave. K Texas’s first German Catholic church is the oldest wooden church on the island, many of whose original furnishings were saved by The Galveston Historical Foundation. Restoration of the historic worship space is ongoing.
1895 Moody Mansion 2618 Broadway Ave. William Lewis Moody Jr. purchased this 31-room mansion for a meager $20,000 after the 1900 hurricane. Today, tours offer visitors an inside look at the opulent lifestyle of one of the island’s wealthiest dynasties.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
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HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISCOVER DOWNTOWN A great place to shop, eat and explore The charming Victorian-era buildings of the downtown district beckon shoppers with their ornate iron balconies and whimsical painted signs. The district offers more than 100 unique shops, attractions, restaurants and art galleries. The variety of the merchandise includes antiques, home décor, gifts, souvenirs, jewelry, books, specialty shops and clothing for the whole family.
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PIER 21
Nestled along Galveston Harbor, Pier 21 offers waterfront views, delicious dining options and a cluster of attractions that showcase the island’s cultural and maritime heritage.
THE STRAND
Historic downtown Galveston’s main shopping street, The Strand, draws visitors to its diverse collection of boutiques, gift shops, restaurants and attractions housed in majestic iron-front buildings that once made up the “Wall Street of the South.”
GALVESTON ISLAND
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Marked by its beautiful Victorian architecture and colorfully painted storefronts, the Postoffice Street area is full of charm, offering an enchanting blend of art galleries, boutiques, antique shops, chic eateries and lively entertainment. This burgeoning area west of the downtown district boasts old-fashioned, fabled establishments with lots of room for new tenants. Area anchors include Maceo Spice and Import Company, Daiquiri Time Out and Gypsy Joynt.
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Visit downtowngalveston.org for the most updated list of locations
PIER 21 ATTRACTIONS
Olympia Grill Pier 21
Ocean Star Drilling Rig Museum
Sampson & Sons Seafood
Pier 21
Pier 19
Pier 21 Theater
Willie G’s
Pier 21
Texas Seaport Museum Pier 21
1877 Tall Ship Elissa Pier 21
LODGING
Harbor House Pier 21
Fisherman’s Wharf Pier 21
Katie’s Seafood Market Pier 19
Katie’s on the Pier Pier 20 Coming Fall 2018
ANTIQUES AND ART
25th Street Antiques 411 25th St.
The Admiralty Model Ship Gallery 2211 Strand St.
Avis Frank Gallery 215 23rd St.
TOURS
FOOD/DINING
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Pier 21
THE STRAND
Galveston Water Adventures
Beta Gallery
Baywatch Dolphin Tours
Big House Antiques
Pier 21
Pier 21
Harbor Tours at Texas Seaport Museum Pier 21
GALVESTON ISLAND
2326 Strand (2nd Floor) 2212 Mechanic St.
G Lee Gallery 2217 Strand St.
Gallery Evasion 217 23rd St.
ATTRACTIONS
Buster’s Old Time Photos
2217 Strand St.
Chamber Of Commerce 2228 Mechanic St.
Galveston Island Trolley Galveston Railroad Museum 2602 Santa Fe Place
Haunted Mayfield Manor 2313 Harborside Drive (rear)
Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast 2313 Harborside Drive (rear)
Riondo’s Ristorante 2328 Strand St.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory 2217 Strand St.
Shark Shack 2402 Strand St.
Shrimp ’N Stuff Downtown 216 23rd St.
The Spice & Tea Exchange 2309 Strand St.
Starbucks 102 22nd St.
Strand Refreshment 2122 Strand St.
FOOD/DINING
The Beef Jerky Outlet Galveston Art Center
2300 Mechanic St.
2309 Strand St.
2127 Strand St.
Brewchacho’s Taco’s & Cantina
Howarth Gallery
2110 Strand St.
217 23rd St.
Hearsay on the Strand
Mamady’s Primitive African Art
Tremont Café
2410 Strand St.
Yaga’s Café 2314 Strand St. LIVE THEATER
Island ETC
2317 Mechanic St.
2211 Strand (2nd Floor)
Hubcap Grill
Market 25 ABC
Island Pour House Wine Bistro
2300 Mechanic St.
213 23rd St.
NIGHTLIFE
2413 Market St.
Nautical Antiques 2202 Mechanic St.
Somewhere In Time 124 20th St.
2021 Strand St.
Jimmy John’s
LODGING
The Tremont House
Bliss Lounge
102 22nd St.
2413 Strand St.
La King’s Confectionery
Brews Brothers 2404 Strand St.
2323 Strand St.
The Strand Gallery 2418 Strand St.
LaMixteca Mexican Restaurant
Buckshot Saloon 2409 Market St.
Third Coast Gallery
1818 Mechanic St.
Murphy’s Pub
2413 Mechanic St.
Pelican Joe’s BBQ & Crabs
215 22nd St.
Yesterday’s Best 114 20th St.
2217 Strand St. (2nd Floor)
Patrick’s Pub 2411 Strand St.
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Rooftop Bar at The Tremont 2300 Mechanic St.
Sound Bar 2411 Mechanic St.
Stuttgarden 111 23rd St.
Tsunami 2314 Strand St.
Vault Poker Club 2002 Strand St.
Vintage Crown Bar 215 23rd St. SHOPPING
$10 and Under 2212 Strand St.
A Holistic Solution 2002 Strand St.
The Admiralty 2221 Strand St.
Betsy by Design 2415 Mechanic St.
BLU A Boutique by the Beach 2425 Strand St.
The Boutique Bridal Group 2328 Market St.
BUNCH’A Cool Stuff 2105 Strand St.
Bungalow 2325 Strand St.
Cariloha Bamboo 2226 Strand St.
Conversation Pieces 2114 Strand St.
Couteux Couture
Dorothy May’s
Hendley Market
2111 Strand St.
2010 Strand St.
Eighteen Seventy One (GHF)
Island Silver
2002 Strand St.
Emboldened Elegance Boutique
2428 Mechanic St.
Jamaica Me Crazy Clothing
2211 Strand St.
2401 Strand St.
Frankie’s Liquor Store
Jammin’ Sportswear
2218 Strand St.
2314 Strand St.
Galveston Automotive Professionals
The Jewel Garden
1918 Mechanic St.
Lafitte’s Beat Gifts & Souvenirs
Gracie’s/ Monogramsies
2029 Strand St.
2228 Strand St.
Del Sol
Hazy Daze
2326 Strand St.
2115 Strand St.
LaPalapa 2120 Strand St.
2226 Strand St.
2104 Strand St.
Dolphin World
Head to Footsies
The Make-Up Bar by Skinsational
2122 Strand St.
2211 Strand St.
2301 Strand St.
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GALVESTON ISLAND
The Marketplace at the Peanut Butter Warehouse 102 20th St.
Milagro Imports 2313 Strand St.
Pardon My French 2317 Strand St.
Peanut Butter
Warehouse Market 102 20th St.
Play on The Strand Toy Store
Mysticatz
2119 Strand St.
2021 Strand St.
Portside Bar and Clothing Co.
Nautical Nonsense 210 21st St.
Nefertiti Boutique 202 25th St.
Old Strand Emporium 2016 Strand St.
2121 Strand St.
Stranded Corner Galley 2121 Strand St.
Strand Brass & Christmas on the Strand 2115 Strand St.
2325 Strand St.
Surf Styles
RELAX Life Wear
2119 Strand St.
2418 Strand St.
Tina’s on the Strand
Santa Fe Trail Jewelry
2326 Strand St.
Scent Sations
2208 Strand St.
2217 Strand St. 2029 Strand St.
Otis Spunkmeyer
Southern Imports
Tola Mo’ Bettah Market Way Out West
2128 Strand St.
Shoreline Clothing 331 21st St.
2317 Strand
Outrageous Boutique
Skinsational Body Products
Yaga Mo Bettah Threadz
405 22nd St.
2309 Strand St.
2109 Strand St.
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POSTOFFICE ANTIQUES AND ART
Affaire de Art
Island Salt Air
Hey Mikey’s
415 22nd St.
2120 Postoffice St.
Urban Fitness
Ile Petite Bakery
2009 Postoffice St.
2227 Postoffice St.
Clay Cup Studios 409 22nd St.
Derek Anderson Studio 2224 Church St.
Elizabeth Punches Studio & Gallery
FOOD/DINING
The Apache
2201 Postoffice St.
From the HeArt Gallery
Black Pearl Oyster Bar & Grill 327 23rd St.
EatCetera 408 25th St.
Galveston Coffee Roasters
528 23rd St.
Old Moon Deli & Pies 408 23rd St.
Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza 416 21st St.
MOD Coffeehouse
532 23rd St.
2126 Postoffice St.
Gumbo Bar
Press Box
2107 Postoffice St.
2401 Postoffice St.
2111 Postoffice St.
Galveston Art League 2117 Postoffice St.
Heard Gallery 2217 Postoffice St.
La Maison Rouge 418 22nd St.
Q2 Gallery 2208 Postoffice St.
Rene Wiley Gallery 2128 Postoffice St.
St. John Antiques 2001 Postoffice St.
Upcycle Recycle 416 22nd St.
Vacation on Canvas 2204 Postoffice St. FITNESS
Donovan & Rebecca 1805 Market St.
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Lolo Kai
511 20th St.
403 22nd St.
The Emporium at Eibands
2108 Church St.
GALVESTON ISLAND
Rudy & Paco Restaurant & Bar 2028 Postoffice St.
LIVE THEATER
The Grand Opera House
The Wine Next Door 418 21st St.
2020 Postoffice St. SHOPPING
Saltwater Grill 2017 Postoffice St.
Sky Bar Steak & Sushi 2105 Postoffice St.
NIGHT LIFE
Jack’s Pub
Cruz Cortez
Molly’s Pub
2227 Postoffice St.
510 23rd St.
Old Cellar Bar
Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina
O’Malley’s Stage Door
2101 Postoffice St.
Trattoria La Vigna
2222 Postoffice St.
2406 Postoffice St. 2013 Postoffice St.
Star Drug
Collector’s Gallery
2013 Postoffice St.
2022 Postoffice St.
The Proletariat
Fit Tri Run 518 23rd St.
Fullen Jewelry 2215 Postoffice St.
Galveston Bookshop 317 23rd St.
412 20th St.
2221 Market St.
Vargas Cut & Catch
Sharky’s Tavern
ha.ba’s Clothing Store
2102 Postoffice St.
504 25th St.
2213 Postoffice St.
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Island Brainworks
TSO Galveston
2220 Postoffice St.
515 22nd St.
The Kitchen Chick
The Vinyl Radio Skate Shop
2402 Market St.
Luna Home & Gifts 525 22nd St.
The Naked Mermaid 2113 Postoffice St.
Old Galveston Trading Company 2115 Postoffice St.
Outrageous Boutique 405 22nd St.
2206 Church St.
Visker & Scrivener 406 23rd St.
The Witchery
Style Co 2113 Postoffice St.
Tangerine Boutique
2711 Market St.
Maceo Spice & Import 2706 Market St.
Soul 2 Soul 3104 Market St.
2116 Postoffice St. SHOPPING WEST MARKET ANTIQUES
Antique Warehouse 423 25th St.
Twice Around Treasures 2528 Market St.
PC Optics 509 23rd St.
Gypsy Joynt
Flea By The Sea 2501 Market St.
The Hair Place 2610 Market St.
Island Framed 515 25th St.
Island Music 407 25th St.
FITNESS
Hooked on Acupuncture
2505 Market St.
Yoga Haven
2507 Market St.
Olivine 409 25th St.
Urban Resort 411 25th St.
2218 Postoffice St.
Texaco Collectibles 410 23rd St.
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FOOD/DINING
TOURS
2701 Market St.
519 25th St.
DTO
GALVESTON ISLAND
SegCity
A LITTLE SAND WILL MAKE YOUR NEXT MEETING RUN SMOOTHER Galveston Island for your next convention - meet you there. WWW.MEETGALVESTON.COM / 866.505.4456 ONLY 40 MINUTES FROM MAJOR AIRLINE TRANSPORTATION
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GALVESTON ISLAND
OUTDOOR RECREATION THE GREAT OUTDOORS Pack your gear and get ready for adventure Galveston’s temperate weather generally allows visitors to enjoy the beautiful outdoors year-round. The island offers wonderful Gulf beaches, golfing, fishing, surfing, kayaking, biking and more.
GOLFING Moody Gardens Public Golf Course 1700 Sydnor Lane 409-683-4653 www.moodygardensgolf.com
Galveston Country Club 14228 Stewart Road 409-737-9800 www.galvestoncountry club.com
Tin Cup’s Caddy Shack (driving range) 9020 Stewart Road 409-974-4929
FISHING From bay fishing to deep sea fishing, piggy perch to tuna, Galveston offers something for everyone with a rod, a reel and a love of angling. There are bait and tackle shops, marinas for launching and storing your boat, and fishing charter services that send you home with great memories and plenty of fish tales. Visit galveston.com/islandfishing for more information.
Surf You can fish the surf along most of the island’s beaches year-round. One of the best spots is Galveston Island State Park, where no license is required. The proper combination of bait and tackle will net you redfish, speckled trout and even sharks.
Piers and Jetties The island’s extensive jetty system, as well as places like Galveston’s 61st Street Fishing Pier and Galveston Fishing Pier at 90th Street, provides ample room for the avid angler. Routine catches include croaker, whiting, speckled trout, sheepshead, sand trout, gafftop, sharks and bull reds. Seawolf Park, meanwhile, offers some of the best flounder fishing on the upper Texas coast.
Galveston Bay Galveston Bay is one of the premier saltwater fishing destinations on the entire Gulf Coast. The bay is often calmer than the Gulf, allowing you to fish from smaller boats. Trout and redfish are the preferred haul for most bay fishermen.
The Gulf When it comes to adventurous angling, nothing beats the Gulf of Mexico. Kingfish, snapper, dorado and shark are abundant within 30 miles of shore. Go a little farther, particularly near the oil rigs, and you’ll find ling, amber jack, grouper, sailfish, even tuna.
Offshore/Blue-water Charter a boat for a trip 100 miles out for some of the most challenging sport fishing anywhere. White and blue marlin weighing hundreds of pounds are there for the taking, as are large tuna, wahoo and dorado.
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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO The State of Texas requires both fishing licenses and saltwater stamps for legal fishing in Gulf waters, on- and offshore. (State parks are the notable exception). There are also strict catch limits and size restrictions for certain species of fish and crab. Avoid the often sizable fines by checking with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (tpwd.texas.gov) beforehand.
FISHING PIERS Galveston’s 61st Street Fishing Pier 6101 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-8365 www.61stpier.com
Galveston Fishing Pier 9001 Seawall Blvd. 409-974-4383 (90th Street Fishing Pier) www.galvestonfishingpier.com
Lee and Joe Jamail Bay Park 1600 61st St. 409-934-8100
Seawolf Park 100 Seawolf Park Blvd. 409-797-5114 www.galveston.com/ seawolfpark
BOAT RAMPS Galveston Bait & Tackle 9301 Broadway Ave. 409-740-1185 www.galveston baitandtackle.com
Galveston Yacht Basin 715 N. Holiday Drive 409-765-3000 www.galveston yachtbasin.com
Lee and Joe Jamail Bay Park 1600 61st St. 409-934-8100
FISHING CHARTERS 2 Fish’Aholics Charters 432-202-8420 www.2fishaholics.com
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GALVESTON ISLAND
3G Fishing Charters 979-777-4867 www.3gfishingcharters.com
Angler Charters 409-771-3408 www.anglercharters galveston.com
Angling Adventures 281-844-7887 www.anglingadventures.net
Aqua Safari Charters 409-795-7480 www.aquasafaricharters.com
Bay Bound Guide Service 281-546-5816 www.baybound.com
Bay Fishing Adventures 281-793-0267 www.bayfishing adventures.com
Capt. Craig Lambert 832-338-4570 www.galvestoninshore fishing.com
Circle H Outfitters 281-535-1930 www.galveston.com/ circlehoutfitters
Fish N Divers 979-255-3528, 979-777-4867 www.fishndivers.com
Fishin Addiction 832-640-1133 www.gulfoffshorefishing.com
Fishing Galveston TX 409-739-8526 www.fishinggalvestontx.com
Fraziers Guide Service
Galveston Party Boats
281-337-0321 www.fraziersguideservice.com
409-763-5423 www.galvestonparty boatsinc.com
Freedom Fishing 409-771-6827 www.galveston.com/ freedom-fishing
Galveston Charter Guides 409-256-1423 www.galveston charterguides.com
Galveston Fishing Charter Company 832-917-3474 www.galvestonfishing chartercompany.com
Galveston Fishing Charters 713-724-9939 www.galvestonfishing charters.com
Galveston Fishing Guides 713-256-9260, 832-526-9569 www.galvestonfishing guides.com
Galveston Guide Fishing
Galveston Sea Ventures 512-639-9188 www.thefishinaddiction.com
Galveston Shark Fishing 713-256-9260, 832-526-9569 www.galvestonshark fishing.com
Get Hooked Fishing Charters 409-698-7112, 409-698-7122 www.gethookedfishing charter.com
Go Coastal 713-775-8255 www.gocoastal guideservice.com
Hingles Guide Service 409-766-0018 www.hinglesguideservice.com
In The Zone Fishing Charters 281-300-6215 www.inthezonefishing charters.com
409-256-1265 www.galvestonguide fishing.com
Kapt. Keepers
Galveston Sport Fishing
Out Cast Charters
409-370-6448 www.galveston.com/ galveston-sport-fishing
979-248-1529 www.outcastfishin charters.com
713-302-0607 www.kaptkeepers.com
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Paparda Rey Fishing Charter 713-352-7458 www.offshorebiggame.com
Reel Men Fishing Charters 409-771-7020 www.reelmenfishing charters.com
Rod Bending Charters 409-599-0909 www.galvestongulffishing.com
Seaplay Sport Fishing 281-851-6151 www.fishseaplay.com
Spec-tacular Trout Adventures 409-632-0924, 832-228-8012 www.spec-taculartrout.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing Guide
BIKE & SURREY RENTALS Explore Galveston’s beautiful beachfront and architecture on a bike or surrey.
EZ Rentals 4712 Seawall Blvd. 409-765-7574
Goody Rentals 2402 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-1062
Island Bicycle 1808 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-BIKE (2453)
Joy Bike Rental & Gift Shop 3114 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-0474
832-428-3340 www.texassaltwaterfishing guide.com
Jungle Surf Rentals
ToppDogg Guide Service
Seawall Souvenirs
832-606-0844 www.galveston-fishing.com
6026 Seawall Blvd. 409-740-1300
Wave Dancer Charters
ZippE Bikes
409-988-8888 wavedancercharters.com
2311 Mechanic 409-539-3323
Williams Party Boats 409-762-8808 www.charterfishing galveston.com
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GALVESTON ISLAND
1020 Seawall Blvd. 409-600-5555
8 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES TO TRY Caribbean Breeze Boat Rental (boat rentals, Jet Ski and parasailing) 1021 61st St. 409-740-0400 www.galvestonboatrentals.com Ride Galveston’s waters by boat, Jet Ski or parasail.
Extreme Watersports 1723 61st St. 409-539-3455 www.extremewatersportsgalveston.com Get on the water with a flyboard, hoverboard, paddleboard, kayak or boat rental.
Galveston Horse & Pony Rides East Beach 409-256-0663 www.gihpr.com Ride horses along the Gulf waters at East Beach.
Gulf Coast Water Sports 53rd Street and Seawall Boulevard 713-208-0695 Zip across the Gulf on a rented Jet Ski.
Sea Star Base 7509 Broadway Ave. 409-572-2560 www.ssbgalveston.org For those interested in learning to sail or simply looking to enjoy a day out on the water, Offatts Bayou is the place to be.
Skydive Galveston 9020 Stewart Road 409-420-6231 www.skydivegalveston.com Take a tandem parachute jump over the Gulf of Mexico and land on Galveston’s beaches.
LEARN TO SURF Ohana Surf & Skate 2814 Ave. R 1⁄2 409-763-2700 www.ohanasurfandskate.com
Southern Spears Surf Shop 6026 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-2772 www.southernspearssurf.com
C-Sick Surfin’
STAND UP PADDLEBOARD Galveston Paddleboard Center 6026 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-2772 www.paddlegalveston.com
SUP Gulf Coast 29th St. and Seawall Blvd. 409-692-8629 www.supgulfcoasttx.com
4300 Seawall Blvd. 409-770-9455 www.c-sicksurfin.com
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DINING TASTE OF THE GULF Tempting choices for every palate Ready to eat? When it’s time to dine, there are a variety of restaurants to choose from. Be sure to sample the specialty of the island – fresh seafood – but don’t miss out on the fantastic flavors to be found all around town. Visit galveston.com and sort by distance to find the nearest locations
AMERICAN Allen’s Restaurant
Café Michael Burger
3701 Winnie 409-632-2176
11150 San Luis Pass Road 409-740-3639
America’s Kitchen
Charlie’s Burgers
500 Harborside Drive 409-763-4906
BBQ Barn & Burgers 5703 Stewart Road 409-740-2783
Blake’s Bistro at The San Luis Resort 5222 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1500
Blue Water Grill 16708 San Luis Pass Road 409-974-4934
Brews Brothers 2404 Strand St. 409-763-2739
Brick House Tavern & Tap 3502 Seawall Blvd. 409-763-5649
Bryants Jungle Cafe
Golden Corral Buffet & Grill 6200 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1080
Gumbo Diner
1110 23rd St. 409-632-2999
3602 Seawall 409-762-3232
Chili’s Grill & Bar
Gypsy Joynt
500 Seawall Blvd. 409-766-1690
2711 Market St. 409-497-2069
Denny’s
Hearsay on The Strand
1410 Seawall Blvd. 409-763-5954
EATcetera 408 25th St. 409-762-0803
Farley Girls 801 Postoffice St. 409-497-4454
Float Pool & Patio Bar 2828 Seawall Blvd. 409-765-7946
Foxtail at DoubleTree By Hilton
2410 Strand St. 409-765-5604
Hooters 6028 Heards Lane 409-744-2395
Hubcap Grill 2021 Strand St. 409-220-3551
Huli Huli Hut 312 19th St. 409-443-5525
Hummel’s General Store & Deli
2525 Jones Drive 409-741-8300
1702 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-4141
13722 San Luis Pass Road 409-737-9954
Buccaneer Bay
Galvez Bar & Grill
IHOP
8910 Seawall Blvd. 409-632-7204
2024 Seawall Blvd. 409-515-2145
Cafe in the Park at Moody Gardens Hotel
Garden Restaurant at Moody Gardens
Ile Petite Bakery & Deli
7 Hope Blvd. 409-741-8484
1 Hope Blvd. 409-741-8484
2108 Church St. 409-497-4259
5224 Seawall Blvd. 409-740-7474
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Island Pour House Wine Bistro 213 23rd St. 409-632-7187
Jack’s Pub 2406 Postoffice St. 409-539-5595
Jack’s Pub Seawall 3802 Cove View 409-497-4372
The Jetty Restaurant at Holiday Inn Resort 5002 Seawall Blvd., Suite A 409-740-5311
Jimmy’s on the Pier 9001 Seawall Blvd. 409-974-4726
Katie’s on the Pier 2000 Wharf Road (Pier 19)
Leo’s Cajun Corner 3201 Broadway Ave. 409-765-5151
Leon’s World’s Finest In & Out Barbecue House 5427 Broadway Ave. 409-744-0070
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Lolo Kai Smoothies & Wraps 528 23rd St. 409-539-5664
Maceo Spice and Import Company 2706 Market St. 409-763-3331
Mel’s Blueplate Diner 910 38th St. 409-789-6355
Miller’s Seawall Grill
Old Moon Deli & Pie 408 23rd St. 409-497-4446
Old Strand Emporium 2016 Strand St. 409-515-0715
O’Malley’s Stage Door 2022 Postoffice St. 409-763-1731
1824 Seawall Blvd. 409-763-8777
Palm Court at the Hilton
Mosquito Café
5400 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-5000
628 14th St. 409-763-1010
Patio Grill
Murphy’s Irish Pub
5316 Broadway Ave. 409-974-4854
213 22nd St. 409-762-6167
Nate’s West End Seafood & Steaks
Pelican Joe’s 2217 Strand St. 409-771-5637
17575 San Luis Pass Road 409-737-9530
Porch Café
Oasis Restaurant at Four Points Sheraton
Press Box
2300 Seawall Blvd. 409-974-4796
2401 Postoffice St. 409-765-5958
GALVESTON ISLAND
1625 East Beach Drive 409-762-0808
Prohibition Red’s
Stuttgarden Tavern
Pho 18
2401 Church St. 409-766-7170
111 23rd St. 409-497-4972
704 Holiday Drive 409-762-8849
Queen’s Bar-B-Que
Sunflower Bakery & Café
Pho 20
3428 Ave. S 409-762-3151
Rainforest Café 5310 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-6000
Saltgrass Steak House 1502 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-4261
Seahorse Grill 3802 Cove View Blvd. 409-741-8400
512 14th St. 409-763-5500
Texas Pit Stop BBQ 6612 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-2222
Tremont Café at The Tremont House 2300 Ship’s Mechanic Row 409-763-0300
Waffle House
2101 Broadway Ave. 409-750-9200
Pho Thai 3728 Broadway Ave. 409-762-3888
Sky Bar Steak & Sushi Bar 2105 Postoffice St. 409-621-4759
Yamato Japanese Restaurant 2104 61st St. 409-744-2742
Shark Shack Beach Bar & Grill
2825 61st St. 409-741-9323
2402 Strand St. 409-497-2006
West End Restaurant & Sand Bar
Sharky’s Tavern
21706 Burnet Drive 409-497-4152
BAKERIES, COFFEE & DESSERTS Bahama Buck’s
Yaga’s Café & Bar
500 Seawall Blvd. 409-632-7436
504 25th St. 409-443-5584
ShyKatZ Deli & Bakery 1528 Ave. L 409-770-0500
Sonny’s Place
2314 Strand St. 409-762-6676
ASIAN China Sea
1206 19th St. 409-763-9602
4402 Broadway Ave. 409-762-9998
Soul 2 Soul Café
Happy Buddha
3104 Market St. 409-539-4351
2827 61st St. 409-744-5774
The Spot Restaurant & Tiki Bar
Happy Coffee Shop Smoothie & Juice Bar – Cambodian Restaurant
3204 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-5237
Star Drug Store 510 23rd St. 409-766-7719
The Steakhouse at The San Luis Resort 5222 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1500
5102 Broadway Ave. 409-974-4492
Ben & Jerry’s 4408 Seawall Blvd. 409-770-9566
Dawn Donuts 706 Holiday 409-765-7778
Dawn Donuts 6302 Stewart Road 409-741-0044
Donut Palace 2117 Broadway Ave. 409-765-8022
Fika Java and Juicery
Healthy Chinese Buffet
613 University Blvd. 409-443-5797
6125 Central City Blvd. 409-356-4289
Frio’s Gourmet Pops 6302 Seawall Blvd. 409-443-5977
Stranded Corner Galley
Himalayan Taste Sports Bar & Restaurant
Galveston Coffee Roasters
2121 Strand St. 409-539-5546
5902 Broadway Ave. 409-974-4358
532 23rd St. 409-497-2754
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Happy Coffee Shop
Starbucks (Kroger)
5102 Broadway Ave. 409-974-4492
5730 Seawall Blvd. 409-741-8580
Hey Mikey’s Ice Cream
Starbucks (Randalls)
2120 Postoffice St. 208-602-3286
Home Cut Donuts 6807 Stewart Road 409-744-8887
Ile Petite Bakery & Deli 2108 Church St. 409-497-4259
La King’s Confectionery 2323 Strand St. 409-762-6100
Marble Slab Creamery 2705 61st St., Suite D 409-740-1229
MOD Coffeehouse 2126 Postoffice St. 409-765-5659
Navarro Bakery 3801 Broadway Ave. 409-765-1771
Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt 6606 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-8000
Patty Cakes Bakery 704 14th St. 409-762-2537
Rita’s Italian Ice 6026 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-4237
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory 2225 Strand St. 409-762-4340
Starbucks
2931 Central City Blvd. 409-744-0413
Sugar Bean Coffee & Cream 11 Evia Main, Suite 101 409-974-4473
Texas Star Bakery 5425 Broadway Ave. 409-744-5905
FINE DINING Number 13 Prime Steak and Seafood Restaurant 7809 Broadway Ave. 409-572-2650
Rudy & Paco Restaurant & Bar 2028 Postoffice St. 409-762-3696
Shearn’s at Moody Gardens Hotel 7 Hope Blvd. 409-683-4554
The Steakhouse at The San Luis Resort 5222 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1500
Vargas Cut & Catch 2102 Postoffice St. 409-762-2101 Opening Fall 2018
ITALIAN CiCi’s Pizza 6105 Stewart Road 409-740-3300
Gino’s Pizzeria Pasta & Subs
102 22nd St. 409-621-2577
6124 Stewart Road 409-762-6481
Starbucks
Grotto Ristorante
2808 61st St. 409-741-2158
5222 Seawall Blvd. 409-740-8605
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Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza & Italian Restaurant 416 21st St. 409-765-6262
Mario’s Pizza
13708 San Luis Pass Road 409-443-5556
Mario’s Ristorante 2202 61st St. 409-744-2975
Mario’s Seafood & Italian Restaurant 628 Seawall Blvd. 409-763-1693
Papa’s Gourmet Pizza & Subs
4400 Seawall Blvd. 409-766-7272
Riondo’s Ristorante 2328 Strand St. 409-621-9595
Russo’s New York Pizzeria 500 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-0200
Sapori Ristorante 7611 Stewart Road 409-497-2424
Trattoria La Vigna 412 20th St. 409-497-4927
MEDITERRANEAN
Olympia Grill
4908 Seawall Blvd. 409-766-1222
Olympia Grill at Pier 21 100 21st St. 409-765-0021
MEXICAN Apache Mexican Cuisine 511 20th St. 409-765-5646
Brewchacho’s Tacos & Cantina 2110 Strand St.
Bronco Burrito
4917 Broadway Ave. 409-762-9344
Chilaca Mexican Grill
708 Holiday Drive 409-974-4582
El Gusto Del Pueblo
La Estacion
Mi Abuelitas
2428 Ball St. 409-762-4262
1728 45th St. 409-621-1616
La Michoacana Tacqueria
Nopalera Grill
3301 Broadway Ave. 409-765-5231
3714 Broadway Ave. 409-763-0410
La Mixteca Mexican Restaurant
El Jardin Mexican Café
1818 Ship’s Mechanic Row 409-762-2235
El Nopalito’s
Los Compas Taqueria & Mexican
413 24th St. 409-763-9289 614 42nd St. 409-762-2121
2314 45th St. 409-762-1140
El Rey Mexican Restaurant
Los Lazos
1519 39th St. 409-457-3472
6316 Stewart Road 409-443-5309
5001 Broadway Ave. 409-762-5777
The Original Mexican Café 1401 Market St. 409-762-6001
Pennie’s Tex-Mex Take Out 1713 37th St. 409-765-5719
Rivera’s Mex-Sal Restaurant 4901 Broadway Ave. 409-762-6369
Los Primos Cafe
Salsas Mexican Restaurant
712 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-1944
6701 Stewart Road 409-740-6888
4604 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-2630
Henry’s Mexican Restaurant
Mercadito Y Taqueria
Taqueria Melchor Ocampo
3802 Broadway Ave. 409-762-5870
1220 23rd St. 409-497-2281
Gorditas Mexico
2823 Broadway Ave. 409-765-8400
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Nick’s Kitchen & Beach Bar 3828 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-9625
Rudy & Paco Restaurant & Bar 2028 Postoffice St. 409-762-3696
Saltwater Grill 2017 Postoffice St. 409-762-3474
Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina 2101 Postoffice St. 409-497-4279
Tortuga Coastal Cantina 6010 Seawall Blvd. 409-741-5000
SEAFOOD Benno’s on the Beach 1200 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-4621
Black Pearl Oyster Bar & Grille 327 23rd St. 409-762-7299
BLVD. Seafood 2804 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-2583
Bubba Gump Seafood 2501 Seawall Blvd. 409-766-4952
Cajun Greek 2226 61st St. 409-744-7041
The Citadel 10327 San Luis Pass Road Opening Summer 2018
Darlene’s Shrimp Shack 1727 61st St. 409-740-4118
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Fish Tales 2502 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-8545
Sampson & Son’s Seafood Market (fresh seafood only)
Fisherman’s Wharf
Pier 19 409-763-9316
2200 Harborside Drive 409-765-5708
Seahorse Grill
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant
3802 Cove View Blvd. 409-741-8400
3802 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-9625
Shearn’s at Moody Gardens Hotel
Gumbo Diner
7 Hope Blvd. 409-741-8484
3602 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-3232
Joe’s Crab Shack 3502 Seawall Blvd. 409-766-1515
Joe’s Seafood 3702 Broadway Ave. 409-763-0763
Katie’s on the Pier 2000 Wharf Road (Pier 20) Coming Fall 2018
Katie’s Seafood Market (fresh seafood only) Pier 19 409-763-8160
Landry’s Seafood House 5310 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1010
Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar 2107 Postoffice St. 409-744-8626
GALVESTON ISLAND
Shuck’s Tavern and Oyster Bar 414 21st St.
Shrimp ’N Stuff Downtown 216 23rd St. 409-974-4609
Shrimp ’N Stuff Restaurant 3901 Ave. O 409-763-2805
Vargas Cut & Catch 2102 Postoffice St. Opening Fall 2018
Waterman’s Restaurant 14302 Stewart Road 409-632-0233
Willie G’s Seafood & Steak 2100 Harborside Drive 409-762-3030
NIGHTLIFE & CRAFT BREWERIES DRINKS WITH A VIEW Sparkling nights on the Gulf Whether you’re after a twinkling city skyline or a sweeping vista of the Gulf, Galveston Island offers a host of watering holes with plenty of scenery to sip by. Visit galveston.com and sort by distance to find the nearest locations
NIGHTLIFE 23rd Street Station 1706 23rd St. 409-443-5678
3 Doors Down Bar at the Peanut Butter Warehouse 102 20th St. 409-632-7165
B’Jiggers at The Holiday Inn Resort
Bliss Lounge 2413 Strand St. 409-763-1000
Brews Brothers 2404 Strand St. 409-763-2739
Bubba’s On The Strand 2408 Strand St.
Buck’s West
The Cove at The San Luis Resort 5222 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1500
Daiquiri Time Out (DTO) 2701 Market St. 409-497-2760
Drunken Monkeyz 202 20th St. 409-443-5533
Float Pool & Patio
5002 Seawall Blvd. 409-740-3581
16708 San Luis Pass Road 409-737-3700
Beerfoot Brewery
Buckshot Saloon
Galveston Island Brewing
2816 Ave. R ½ 409-762-2337
2409 Market St. 409-210-2825
8423 Stewart Road 409-740-7000
2828 Seawall Blvd. 409-765-7946
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Galvez Bar (inside the Hotel Galvez) 2024 Seawall Blvd. 409-515-2145
Havana Alley Cigar Shop & Lounge 201 26th St. 409-621-1166
Huli Huli Hut 312 19th St. 409-443-5525
The Island Pour House Wine Bistro 213 23rd St. 409-762-0144
Jack’s Pub on Postoffice 2406 Postoffice St. 409-539-5595
Jack’s Pub on Seawall 3802 Cove View 409-497-4372
Longboard Pool Bar at DoubleTree by Hilton 1702 Seawall Blvd. 409-762-4141
MOD Coffeehouse 2126 Postoffice St. 409-765-5659
Molly’s Pub 2013 Postoffice St. 409-763-4466
Murphy’s Pub 213 22nd St. 409-762-6167
Nick’s Kitchen & Beach Bar
Old Cellar Bar
Robert’s Lafitte
2015 Postoffice St. 409-763-4477
2501 Ave. Q 409-765-9092
Old Quarter Acoustic Café
The Rooftop Bar at The Tremont House
413 20th St. 409-762-9199
2300 Ship’s Mechanic Row 409-763-0300
O’Malley’s Stage Door Pub
Rumors
2022 Postoffice St. 409-763-1731
3102 Seawall Blvd. 409-497-4617
Poop Deck
RumShack
2928 Seawall Blvd. 409-497-2392
3204 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-5237
Press Box
Safari Beach Company
3828 Seawall Blvd. 409-761-5502
2401 Postoffice St. 409-765-5958
Ocean Annie’s Inside Hilton
Proletariat Gallery & Public House
Sand Bar
5400 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-5000
2221 Market St. 409-356-9092
21706 Burnet Drive 409-497-4153
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910 Ave. M 409-762-1420
The San Luis Bar 5222 Seawall Blvd. 409-744-1500
Sharky’s Tavern
Squeeze Rita’s & Tequilas 3204 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-5237
Stuttgarden Tavern
Yaga’s Café & Bar 2314 Strand St. 409-762-6676
111 23rd St. 409-497-4972
CRAFT BREWERIES Beerfoot Brewery
Shearn’s Lounge (9th floor inside Moody Gardens Hotel)
Tin Cup’s Caddy Shack
2816 Ave. R ½ 409-762-2337
9020 Stewart Road 409-974-4929
Brews Brothers
7 Hope Blvd. 409-683-4554
Tsunami
2404 Strand St. 409-763-2739
504 25th St. 409-443-5584
SideYard 3204 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-5237
Sound Bar 2411 Mechanic St. 409-632-2168
The Spot Restaurant & Tiki Bar 3204 Seawall Blvd. 409-621-5237
2314 Strand St. 409-770-0999
Vintage Crown Bar 215 23rd St. 409-877-4400
The Wizzard
Devil and the Deep Brewery 25th and Postoffice streets 409-220-3313
2325 Church St. 409-762-9173
Galveston Island Brewing
Woody’s Bar
8423 Stewart Road 409-740-7000
11149 San Luis Pass Road 409-740-6969
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MEET OUR NEIGHBORS LISTED BY DISTANCE
Tanger Outlet Center 5885 Gulf Freeway, Texas City About 17 miles north of Galveston 281-534-4200 | www.tangeroutlet.com
Tanger Outlet Center offers all the name brands you know at incredible prices.
Haak Vineyards & Winery 6310 Ave. T, Santa Fe About 20 miles northwest of Galveston 409-925-1401 | www.haakwine.com
Bottling wines that have won national and state-level awards, Haak Vineyards offers tours and tastings daily. The beautiful Spanish-style building on the multi-acre vineyard boasts a 1,800-square-foot wine cellar. There’s also a gift shop, deli and picnic area.
Space Center Houston 1601 NASA Parkway, Houston About 25 miles north of Galveston 281-244-2100 | www.spacecenter.org
As the Official Visitors Center for Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston offers an insider’s view of the amazing history and exciting future of the American manned space flight program. Many exhibits are geared toward children, with plenty of hands-on, interactive experiences, while other exhibits appeal to adults and feature actual NASA artifacts.
Kemah Boardwalk Entrance at Bradford Street and 2nd Street, accessible via state Highway 146 and 6th Street, Kemah About 26 miles north of Galveston 877-285-3624 | www.kemahboardwalk.com
Seven restaurants, carnival rides and games, shopping and more along Galveston Bay make up the Kemah Boardwalk experience. The picturesque boardwalk offers views of yachts and pleasure boats as they cruise along Clear Creek Channel, which connects the many area marinas to Galveston Bay.
Lone Star Flight Museum 11551 Aerospace Ave., Houston About 35 miles north of Galveston 346-708-2517 | www.lonestarflight.org
The Lone Star Flight Museum is an aerospace museum that displays more than 40 historically significant aircraft and more than 1,500 artifacts related to the history of flight. Historic flight experiences are also available. 61
GALVESTON ANNUAL EVENTS JANUARY Chili Quest & Beer Fest Galveston ArtWalk Galveston Restaurant Week FEBRUARY Mardi Gras! Galveston Galveston Marathon MARCH Spring Break Galveston ArtWalk APRIL The Grand Kids Festival FeatherFest & Nature Photofest Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Galveston Wine Festival Earth Day Divas Half Marathon Texas Adopt-A-Beach Clean Up Third Coast Music Festival Galveston Beach Revue MAY Historic Homes Tour Yaga’s Wild Game & BBQ Cook-Off Memorial Day Ceremony at Seawolf Park JUNE World Oceans Day Bands on the Sand & Fireworks at Moody Gardens Summer Band Concerts Juneteenth Celebration Galveston Cajun Festival JULY Bands on the Sand & Fireworks at Moody Gardens Summer Band Concerts AUGUST Galveston ArtWalk Bands on the Sand & Fireworks at Moody Gardens AIA Sandcastle Competition SEPTEMBER BrewMasters Craft Beer Festival Galveston Island Wild Texas Shrimp Festival Texas Adopt-A-Beach Clean Up
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OCTOBER Ghosts of Galveston ARToberFEST Oktoberfest Greek Festival D’Feet Breast Cancer 5K/10K NOVEMBER Lone Star Motorcycle Rally Veterans Day Salute at Seawolf Park Winter Wonder Island Events Moody Gardens Festival of Lights and ICE LAND Galveston ArtWalk DECEMBER Dickens on The Strand Winter Wonder Island Events Downtown Lanterns & Lights Moody Gardens Festival of Lights and ICE LAND Breakfast with the Sandhill Cranes Santa Hustle Half Marathon and 5K MONTHLY EVENTS Gulf Coast Volleyball Tournament (March-Sept) Movie Nite on the Strand (first Saturday March-Oct) Music Nite on the Strand (second Saturday March-Oct) Galveston Island Market (third Saturday March-Oct) Sandcastle Building Lessons (every Saturday June-Aug) Stay & Play Sunday Fireworks (weekly June-Labor Day) GALVESTON ISLAND VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 2328 Broadway Ave. (behind Ashton Villa) 888-GAL-ISLE (425-4753) 409-797-5144 www.galveston.com SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES WITH US @ Facebook @ Galveston Island Tourism Instagram @ galvestonisland Twitter @ galvestonisland Pinterest @ galvestonisland Snapchat @ galvestonisland
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THE BUCKET LIST: 25 GALVESTON MUST-DOS 1. Watch a sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico or sunset on Galveston Bay. 2. Discover the unique boutiques, antiques, art galleries and restaurants in historic downtown. 3. Play on the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. 4. Visit Moody Gardens Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid. 5. Bring the family to Stewart Beach. 6. Visit the historic mansions – 1892 Bishop’s Palace and 1895 Moody Mansion. 7. Splash into Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark. 8. Visit one of the world's largest collections of historical artifacts, documents and artwork relating to Texas and the American West at The Bryan Museum. 9. Eat at the iconic Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant. 10. Take a walking/biking tour of the East End Historical District’s beautiful historic homes and the Galveston Tree Sculptures. 11. Take a harbor tour from Pier 21 and watch for dolphins. 12. Tour or watch a live show at The Grand 1894 Opera House. 13. Watch saltwater taffy made the old-fashioned way at La King’s Confectionery. 14. Explore Pier 21’s one-of-a-kind museums, including the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum, Texas Seaport Museum and 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA. 15. Learn about locomotive history at the Galveston Railroad Museum. 16. Watch “The Great Storm” documentary at the Pier 21 Theater. 17. Take an African American Historic Places tour. 18. Go on a ghost tour. 19. Go on an Artist Boat kayak tour or visit the Galveston Island State Park for outdoor adventure. 20. Visit the American Undersea Warfare Center at Seawolf Park for a tour of a WWII submarine and Navy destroyer escort and great fishing. 21. Go bird watching to see some of the 300 species found in Galveston. 22. Play golf at Moody Gardens Public Golf Course. 23. Visit Rosenberg Library and Museum, the oldest public library in Texas. 24. Buy fresh seafood at Katie’s Seafood Market or Sampson & Son’s Seafood on Pier 19. 25. Attend Mardi Gras! Galveston – the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country.
VISIT GALVESTON.COM FOR DIRECTIONS AND MORE EXPERIENCES. STOP BY THE GALVESTON ISLAND VISITORS CENTER, 2328 BROADWAY AVE. (BEHIND ASHTON VILLA), TO PLAN THE PERFECT ISLAND GETAWAY!