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Galveston Texas

Article by Megan Jannise
Photography by George Hosek

Galveston is one of the most popular vacation spots in Texas, visitors and tourist from around the world have been flocking to Galveston  to take advantage of this extraordinary Texas travel destination for decades.

Galveston Island has much to offer these pleasure seekers, including clean beaches, tropical resorts, dramatic history, spectacular annual events and much, much more. So, sit back and explore Galveston's most comprehensive on-line travel guide.

Galveston Island boasts 32 miles of Gulf Coast beaches. East Beach, also known as R.A. Apffel Park, is a private beach that features an outdoor pavilion, snack bar, showers, game rooms and volleyball courts. Alcohol consumption is allowed at this beach.

East beach is open from 8am-6pm in March to May, 8am-7pm June to September, and 9am-6pm the first two weeks in October. The admission costs seven dollars per vehicle.

 

For families, Stewart Beach on the Seawall and 6th  Street is the perfect beach for kids. A unique life size human maze and a mini golf course complete the activities at Stewart Beach.

The hours are 9am-5pm March to May, 8am-6pm June to September, and closed October to February. The cost is $7 a vehicle.

The beach sponsors family-oriented events such as volleyball tournaments and sandcastle competitions. Stewart beach also features an outdoor pavilion, volleyball courts, and a snack bar.

Entrance to Stewart Beach. Copyright George Hosek
 
The seawall, provides a concrete barrier that protects the town from major storms and hurricanes, like the Great Storm of 1900 which destroyed much of the town.

The seawall flanks most of the city, including many of the public beaches on the Island. Galveston Seawall construction began October 27th, 1902 and was completed July 30th, 1904.

Mural Galveston Seawall. Copyright George Hosek
 
The beach, seawall and Galveston Island Convention Center at San Luis Resort.
 
Moody Gardens is another attraction that is unique to Galveston Island and one that should not be missed.

Moody Gardens features a 10 story Rainforest Pyramid, a 3D IMAX theater, and a Discovery Pyramid, where visitors participate in interactive exhibits about science, and Palm Beach, a white sand beach with a blue lagoon, perfect for children.

Moody Gardens recently built an Aquarium Pyramid, which is the largest in the world and showcases the waters of the world.

Moody Gardens Pyramids. Copyright George Hosek
 
Galveston Island boasts almost as many dining out choices as it does activities. Whether you prefer seafood, Greek, American, or Italian food, Galveston has it covered.

The Rainforest Café on the Seawall offers not only great food but also a unique atmosphere. You will enjoy your dinner in while experiencing the sites and sounds of a realistic rainforest.

Another great restaurant in Galveston is The Spot on the Seawall. The Spot features hamburgers and sandwiches all served on homemade rolls.If Italian food is what you are craving, try Mario’s on the Seawall.

 

They offer everything from old-fashion spaghetti to Penne del Sol, with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic and roma tomatoes.

For the kids, Mario’s has some of the best pizza this side of New York. Seafood is one of Galveston Island’s specialties, where restaurants enjoy some of the freshest seafood along the coast.

 The Fisherman’s Wharf at Pier 22 is hailed by Texas Monthly as the premiere restaurant on the Texas Gulf Coast.

If weather permits, there is dining outside.  Fisherman’s Wharf suggests that reservations be made for groups over eight.

Rainforest cafe in Galveston
 
Accommodations in Galveston are superior to most anywhere else. One resort in particular embodies the qualities of Galveston Island: luxury, breathtaking views, and beauty.

The San Luis Resort located on the Seawall offers a beachfront resort with terrific amenities. The San Luis features a conference and banquet room, several restaurants, a salon, spa, and a fitness facility.

The pool, which features a waterfall and Jacuzzi spa, was just renovated. Private cabanas are also available for rent.

San Luis Resort Hotel
 
 
Living in Galveston provides for a unique real estate market. Galveston is home to many historical neighborhoods. Galveston is one of the country’s most important concentrations of late 19th and early 20th century architecture.
 
 
There is also an abundance of beach houses on the beachside and the bayside. Rental property is in high demand in Galveston. Rental property managers say to plan on allowing at least a month to find a place, possibly longer in the summer.

Galveston Island offers lodging, attractions, and world renowned beaches and unparallel dining. There is plenty to do in Galveston, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Whatever your plans, the Island offers something for you.

 
 
Galveston Medical Center Complex
 
For those who want to make Galveston home, the Galveston School District serves 9,500 students. There are eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and one high school.

For higher education, The University of Texas Medical Branch also makes its home on Galveston Island. It is a major academic heath science center that provides patient care, research, and community service to the community.

UTMB also provides care for those unable to pay for it themselves. It not only helps mold new doctors, but also helps those in the community.

 
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

Family-owned and operated, Schlitterbahn Waterparks has been a leader in family water entertainment since 1979.  The company operates three parks in Texas, all of which offer family amenities that include free parking and free inner tubes. Guests are also welcome to bring a family picnic basket, excluding alcohol and glass containers, into the parks.

The attractions in Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark cover approximately 15 acres.  German-style castle spires and architecture provide the visual focal point.  The park also offers food kiosks, retail shops, changing facilities with showers and lockers, group areas, plus more than 20 state-of-the-art attractions.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark
 
The Strand at night. Copyright George Hosek
 
City of Galveston

The Grand

University Texas Medical Branch

Virtual Tour of Galveston Island

Texas Seaport Museum

Mardi Gras Galveston

Mardi Gras! Galveston

Galveston College

Texas A & M University at Galveston

1900 Storm

 

Mardi Gras Galveston

Dickens on the Strand

Rosenberg Library

Lone Star Flight Museum

 
 
 

 

 

 

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Content copyright George L. Hosek. The articles and photographs on this site are for viewing on your computer only, absolutely, no commercial or personal reproduction without written consent from George Hosek.