Photos Courtesy Gavleston CVB/Kennon Evett
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers games, rides, food and fun for the whole family.
Summertime Means Galveston is Calling BY LEAH CAST
T
here’s nothing quite like visiting the beach at this time of year. Feeling the sand beneath your feet, welcoming the sun as it shines above and exhaling with a sense of instant calm – as if the summer air has brought in a fresh promise of renewal as it rolls off the waves. This is what being on Galveston Island is all about. But, if you step away from the island’s 32 miles of sparkling beaches, you can just as easily fall in love with its unique character and variety.
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H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E
Drawing you in with its old-world charm, Galveston is the type of place that nurtures curiosity. There’s something enchanting about exploring its rich history and visiting historic sites like the 1982 Bishop’s Palace and 1895 Moody Mansion. Wandering through residential neighborhoods like the East End Historical District will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time, leaving you to imagine all that used to be. The new Bryan Museum has the same effect. Here, you can stand in awe of one of the world’s largest collections of artifacts, documents and artwork relating to the American West. And, as a bonus, the museum is housed in a completely restored 1895 orphan-
age that is just as fascinating as the 70,000 historic items found inside. Along the harbor, downtown Galveston’s majestic Victorian architecture creates the perfect backdrop for shopping or perusing the district’s many boutiques, antique shops and
coastal-inspired art galleries. A visit to La King’s Confectionary is always in order (as is indulging in its irresistible chocolates, ice cream and fresh saltwater taffy). Catching a live show at The Grand 1894 Opera House is an equally enjoyable treat in an intimate
Galveston offers premier dining to complement your visit.