Galveston, TX Things to Do and Attractions
Reportedly bought for "10 cents on the dollar," this magnificent 28,000-square-foot mansion is the former home of W.L. Moody of the famed Moody family, who grew a financial empire based on cotton, banking, ranching, insurance and hotels. Built in
Reportedly bought for "10 cents on the dollar," this magnificent 28,000-square-foot mansion is the former home of W.L. Moody of the famed Moody family, who grew a financial empire based on cotton, banking, ranching, insurance and hotels. Built in 1895, the mansion has been resorted to its turn-of-the-century grandeur. Its more than 20 rooms serve to display furnishings and artifacts representing the time period and life of the Moody family.
The mansion is available for weddings, business meetings and more. Available for rent are the mansion itself and the landscaped grounds and antique brick patio. Both spaces can also be used together for large events.
Guided tours of the Moody Mansion Museum run daily on the hour from 11 AM to 3 PM. Admission is $7 for adults and $3.50 for students.
Located at Galveston's historic port, the Texas Seaport Museum delves into the state's history in seaborne trade and immigration. Most notably, the museum is home to the 1877 tall ship ELISSA, which sailed for 90 years carrying cargo to ports around
Located at Galveston's historic port, the Texas Seaport Museum delves into the state's history in seaborne trade and immigration. Most notably, the museum is home to the 1877 tall ship ELISSA, which sailed for 90 years carrying cargo to ports around the world. Today guests can learn about this restored ship, measuring in at 99 feet and 9 inches tall, during the 17-minute documentary and photographic exhibits at the museum.
The museum is also home to a unique computer database of the over 133,000 immigrants who passed through Galveston, also known as the Ellis Island of the West. Additionally, the Texas Seaport Museum operates the harbor tours aboard the Seagull II, during which an experienced guide shares stories of the history of the waters.
The Texas Seaport Museum is an exciting venue for private parties. Events of up to 500 people can be held on the ELISSA and museum site, while the pier accommodates up to 300 guests seated. Additionally, the Seagull II offers private charters.
The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $5 for children ages 6-18 and $8 for adults. One-hour harbor tours run at 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM and 4 PM. Tour tickets are $10 for children ages 4-17 and $12 for adults.
Ashton Villa is considered one of the area's great Broadway mansions. James Moreau Brown, a hardware merchant, railroad corporation president, banker, and one of the richest men in Texas, built the Italianate estate in 1859. Saved from demolition in
Ashton Villa is considered one of the area's great Broadway mansions. James Moreau Brown, a hardware merchant, railroad corporation president, banker, and one of the richest men in Texas, built the Italianate estate in 1859. Saved from demolition in 1971 and currently being restored, the mansion is still filled with antiques and original pieces of art. Guests can take a guided tour of Ashton Villa to admire the elegance and luxury of the Victorian era.
Ashton Villa is an elegant, grand location for meeting events, dinners and so much more. It even has a room that caterers can use to prep, and the ballroom is an ideal setting for galas and banquets.
Ashton Villa is open for tours Friday through Sunday at 2 PM, 3 PM and 4 PM. Admission is $6 for children ages 6-18 and $9 for adults. Admission for children under 5 is free.
At the Aquarium Pyramid, guests can "dive" into one of four ocean environments to see nature at its finest, where penguins, sharks, tropical fish, and marine life are plentiful. At the South Atlantic Exhibit, several varieties of penguins, including
At the Aquarium Pyramid, guests can "dive" into one of four ocean environments to see nature at its finest, where penguins, sharks, tropical fish, and marine life are plentiful. At the South Atlantic Exhibit, several varieties of penguins, including King, Gentoo and Macaroni, frolic in the frozen terrain. The North Pacific Exhibit journeys to the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea, home to over 200 species of fish, stingrays and small sharks. Meanwhile, the Caribbean Exhibit, the largest at the attraction, invites guests to stroll through a giant underwater tunnel as they marvel at thousands of tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, eels and more.
Admission to the Aquarium Pyramid is $15.95 for children ages 4-12 and seniors and $18.95 for adults.
An authentic replica of an 1800s paddlewheel boat, the Colonel runs exciting hour-long cruises through Offatts Bayou. Up to 750 passengers can step back in time on this three-deck vessel, which is outfitted with elegant draperies and colorful
An authentic replica of an 1800s paddlewheel boat, the Colonel runs exciting hour-long cruises through Offatts Bayou. Up to 750 passengers can step back in time on this three-deck vessel, which is outfitted with elegant draperies and colorful lighting and staffed by uniformed professionals. In addition to the views, the Colonel often hosts dinner cruises during which guests can enjoy fine cuisine and dancing to the tunes of pianos, banjos, Dixieland jazz bands and more.
The Colonel has two private party rooms, accommodating up to 240 and 280 guests, respectively. Its Promenade Deck can also be rented for up to 300 people, while the entire boat can be chartered for up to 750 passengers.
Regular cruises on the Colonel sail Wednesday through Sunday at 2 PM with an additional cruise Saturday at 4 PM. Dinner cruise schedules vary.
The Discovery Pyramid invites visitors to learn and explore the latest and greatest discoveries in science. Hosting traveling exhibits from around the country, the attraction also regularly hosts its Cultural Speaker Series on the first and third
The Discovery Pyramid invites visitors to learn and explore the latest and greatest discoveries in science. Hosting traveling exhibits from around the country, the attraction also regularly hosts its Cultural Speaker Series on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Here, guests can listen to local descendents and cultural organizations delve into the history of immigration at Galveston Island.
Admission to the Discovery Pyramid is $6.95 for children ages 4-12 and seniors and $8.95 for adults.
A popular spot for everything from outdoor concerts to bikini contests, East Beach is the self-proclaimed "Houston's Playground," located just 45 minutes south of the city. It's easy for visitors to let loose at this surfside party spot, as drinking
A popular spot for everything from outdoor concerts to bikini contests, East Beach is the self-proclaimed "Houston's Playground," located just 45 minutes south of the city. It's easy for visitors to let loose at this surfside party spot, as drinking is 100 percent legal here.
Also at the beach is Big Reef Nature Park. Galveston is known as one of the United States' top locations for birding, serving as home to 500 species of birds that reside, winter or migrate through the area. Big Reef Nature Park serves as one of the best places to catch a glimpse of these birds, including egrets, herons, ducks, gulls and terns. Its East Lagoon Nature Trail also provides the opportunity to take a stroll or to fish in a natural tidal marsh environment.
East Beach is open weekdays, March to May, from 9 AM to 5 PM with extended hours until 6 PM on weekends. From June to September, the beach is open weekdays from 9 AM to 6 PM and weekends from 8 AM to 7 PM. Admission is $8 for cars.
Traveling along 40 blocks on Seawall Boulevard, guests will enjoy a rare opportunity to experience the Gulf of Mexico during the Galveston Island Duck Tour. This unique cruise treats guests to funny yet information-packed stories presented by the
Traveling along 40 blocks on Seawall Boulevard, guests will enjoy a rare opportunity to experience the Gulf of Mexico during the Galveston Island Duck Tour. This unique cruise treats guests to funny yet information-packed stories presented by the captain as they pass popular attractions including several historical mansions, the Strand Historic District and the Silk Stocking District.
Galveston Island Tour is a great option for group excursions. Charters can be arranged for up to 24 people.
Open year-round, the Duck Tours generally run two to three tours each day. Schedules vary based on time of year. Tickets are $10 for children and $15 for adults. Children ages 2 and under receive free admission.
Home to a great collection of restored aircraft and aviation exhibits, the Lone Star Flight Museum serves both to educate the public on Texas' role in the advancement of flight and to honor the men and women who dedicated their lives to this science.
Home to a great collection of restored aircraft and aviation exhibits, the Lone Star Flight Museum serves both to educate the public on Texas' role in the advancement of flight and to honor the men and women who dedicated their lives to this science. On display are over 30 several resorted aircraft including World War II fighters, bombers and executive planes. The museum is also home to the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, which acknowledges those who have contributed to the world of aviation.
The Lone Star Flight Museum also offers unique "flight experiences" in several aircraft, including the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and North American B-25 Mitchell. Passengers ages 18 and older can experience these roughly 40-minute excursions (25 minutes in the air) in aircraft that were designed to drop bombs in World War II, train fighters and more.
For after-hours functions, the museum can accommodate up to 1,500 reception guests throughout its spacious hangars. The Lone Star Flight Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $5 for children ages 5-17 and $8 for adults.
At the Aquarium Pyramid, guests can "dive" into one of four ocean environments to see nature at its finest, where penguins, sharks, tropical fish, and marine life are plentiful. At the South Atlantic Exhibit, several varieties of penguins,
At the Aquarium Pyramid, guests can "dive" into one of four ocean environments to see nature at its finest, where penguins, sharks, tropical fish, and marine life are plentiful. At the South Atlantic Exhibit, several varieties of penguins, including King, Gentoo and Macaroni, frolic in the frozen terrain. The North Pacific Exhibit journeys to the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea, home to over 200 species of fish, stingrays and small sharks. Meanwhile, the Caribbean Exhibit, the largest at the attraction, invites guests to stroll through a giant underwater tunnel as they marvel at thousands of tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, eels and more.
Admission to the Aquarium Pyramid is $15.95 for children ages 4-12 and seniors and $18.95 for adults.
Scheduled to re-open in spring 2010, the Rainforest Pyramid at Moody Gardens is undergoing a $25 million enhancement project. Incorporating a new entry and unique canopy level, the project is not expected to be fully completed until spring 2011.
Scheduled to re-open in spring 2010, the Rainforest Pyramid at Moody Gardens is undergoing a $25 million enhancement project. Incorporating a new entry and unique canopy level, the project is not expected to be fully completed until spring 2011.
Originally opened in 1993, the 10-story Rainforest Pyramid is home to exotic plants that hail from rainforests across the globe. Divided into three sections Asian, African and American the pyramid features more than 1,000 species overall. Guests can see everything from the staghorn ferns of Asia to the orchids and violets of Africa to the rare medicinal plants of Central and South America.
Surviving storms, including the Hurricane of 1900, 1915 and Ike, The Grand 1894 Opera House holds the heart of the Galveston community. After years of neglect, a group of Galveston residents chose to restore and save the theater in 1974. Today, The
Surviving storms, including the Hurricane of 1900, 1915 and Ike, The Grand 1894 Opera House holds the heart of the Galveston community. After years of neglect, a group of Galveston residents chose to restore and save the theater in 1974. Today, The Grand, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as unique, elegant, and breathtakingly beautiful. The popular performing arts venue regularly hosts Broadway musicals, symphony performances, concerts and more.
The Grand is the perfect setting for meetings and special events. The stage can be extended over the seats for large events, and the theater can accommodate groups of 1,000 people comfortably.
The Grand's box office is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Performance schedules and ticket prices vary. Special ticket pricing is available for groups of 20 or more people.
Elegance and fine cuisine are on the menu at 901 Postoffice, a former home that has been transformed into a dazzling spot for after-work drinks or lengthy weekend dinners. Offering a tempting selection of fish, poultry, beef and lamb all prepared
Elegance and fine cuisine are on the menu at 901 Postoffice, a former home that has been transformed into a dazzling spot for after-work drinks or lengthy weekend dinners. Offering a tempting selection of fish, poultry, beef and lamb all prepared with the freshest of ingredients the restaurant's specialties include lightly corn-crusted snapper, chili-rubbed ribeye steak, and stuffed pork tenderloin with a balsamic reduction. During or after dinner, patrons enjoy a wide selection of wines and the gentle sounds of jazz.
With an ambiance of a comfortable 20th century home, 901 Postoffice is the perfect setting for an enjoyable meeting or banquet. Planners can also take advantage of outdoor patio to enjoy al fresco dining parties.
901 Postoffice is open Thursday through Saturday from 6 to 10 PM.
Since 1960, Apache Mexican Cuisine has served locals and visitors with traditional favorites from Mexico, Apache style. Family owned and operated, the restaurant uses the freshest of local ingredients to craft favorites such as enchiladas, Mexican
Since 1960, Apache Mexican Cuisine has served locals and visitors with traditional favorites from Mexico, Apache style. Family owned and operated, the restaurant uses the freshest of local ingredients to craft favorites such as enchiladas, Mexican barbacoa and menudo. For a special treat, patrons should ask about the "Homestyle Special," a dish created from family recipes from the matriarch's homeland of Mexico.
Featured in many foodie and regional magazines, including Texas Monthly, this restaurant is can serve groups or private parties of up to 55 guests. Apache Mexican Cuisine is open daily from 7 AM to 2 PM with additional hours Saturday from 5 to 8 PM. Hours may vary based on season.
DiBella's is not a place to miss while in Galveston. With intriguing family photos adorning the walls and the sounds of Dean Martin crooning in the background, the atmosphere of DiBella's is extremely inviting, almost as if stepping into a family
DiBella's is not a place to miss while in Galveston. With intriguing family photos adorning the walls and the sounds of Dean Martin crooning in the background, the atmosphere of DiBella's is extremely inviting, almost as if stepping into a family home for dinner. Its authentic Italian selections, most of which are served with antipasti, fresh garlic bread, and soup or salad, include the made-to-order ribeye with pasta and the chicken and sausage served with fresh vegetables and creamy penne pasta.
DiBella's serves lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM and dinner Tuesday through Friday from 5 to 9 PM. DiBella's is also open for dinner Saturday from 5 to 10 PM and Sunday from 5 to 9:30 PM.
Standing out among the many seafood restaurants in the area, Mario's Seawall Italian Restaurant shines as Galveston's oldest Italian restaurant. Offering traditional Italian cuisine, Mario's boasts an extensive menu that includes gourmet pizzas,
Standing out among the many seafood restaurants in the area, Mario's Seawall Italian Restaurant shines as Galveston's oldest Italian restaurant. Offering traditional Italian cuisine, Mario's boasts an extensive menu that includes gourmet pizzas, stuffed pastas, calzones, and popular poultry dishes such as chicken parmesan and wood fire-roasted rosemary chicken. Seafood is not completely off the table, though, as Mario's offers options such as seafood fettuccine alfredo, one of the house specialties.
Mario's new banquet facility, which overlooks the Gulf, can accommodate up to 120 people for company functions, wedding receptions and more. The restaurant also offers off-site catering.
Mario's Seawall Italian Restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM and Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 11 PM. Pizzas start at $10. Dinner entrees average about $15.
Located on the ninth floor of the elegant Moody Gardens Hotel, Shearn's Restaurant sets the standard for fine dining in Galveston. Among its selection of fresh seafood and steaks, Shearn's menu favorites include the Shrimp Dejonge, or jumbo shrimp
Located on the ninth floor of the elegant Moody Gardens Hotel, Shearn's Restaurant sets the standard for fine dining in Galveston. Among its selection of fresh seafood and steaks, Shearn's menu favorites include the Shrimp Dejonge, or jumbo shrimp baked in Marsala cream sauce and served with rice pilaf and fresh vegetables, and the lobster bisque, a creamy soup made with fresh Maine lobster and topped with jumbo lump crabmeat and a bit of sherry. After dinner, patrons can enjoy a cocktail at the restaurant's lounge, which overlooks Galveston Bay.
Shearn's Restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday. Entrees range from $19 to $36.
Offering one of the largest outdoor decks in Galveston, The Spot is the perfect place to enjoy both stunning Gulf views and tantalizing fare. Guests happily dine on gourmet hamburgers, sandwiches and seafood with a Cajun twist such as crawfish
Offering one of the largest outdoor decks in Galveston, The Spot is the perfect place to enjoy both stunning Gulf views and tantalizing fare. Guests happily dine on gourmet hamburgers, sandwiches and seafood with a Cajun twist such as crawfish etouffee, shrimp and sausage gumbo and Uncle Bill's Famous Shrimp PoBoy. High rollers can also order from the "Royal Spot," which includes a meal fit for a king or queen: a large King burger, large onion rings and a bottle of Dom Perignon, all for $200.
Boasting a laidback, island vibe, The Spot is also popular for its famed Tiki Bar. Here, guests can enjoy libations from a list of wines, draft beers and, of course, margaritas and pia coladas, which are served in a coconut, no less.
The Spot can accommodate small functions in several venues. The Blue Room can accommodate up to 16 guests, the Yellow Room, 44 guests, and upstairs, 140 guests. Full restaurant buy-outs are also available.
The Spot is open Monday through Wednesday from 3 PM to midnight, Thursday and Friday from 3 PM to 2 AM and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 AM. Entrees average $15; burgers and sandwiches range from $5 to $8.
