YESTERYEAR'S FIGHTING FLEET IS ON DISPLAY AT THE GALVESTON NAVAL MUSEUM
ACTIVITIES FOR AN ACTIVE OR RELAXING VACATION AWAIT
THRILL SEEKERS GET THEIR HEARTS RACING WITH THESE HAIR-RAISING ACTIVITIES
By pier or by sea, sink a line and then dine on a fresh catch
By pier or by sea, sink a line and then dine on a fresh catch
Although Galveston Island has an attraction for any type of tourist all year long, the spring/summer months are my favorite times of year. Beginning with the reason that Galveston appears on many travelers' bucket lists, the weather is optimal and the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico make for the perfect family getaway or location for downtime during your company’s retreat. Or in what’s becoming a world-renowned destination for weddings, Galveston is optimal in the spring and summer for fairytale nuptials, and our newly expanded port makes it easy for you and your spouse to jump on one of 10 cruise ships that call Galveston home.
This issue of Island Soul magazine showcases the distinguishing characteristics of our Island from other tropical destinations in Texas and throughout the United States. For starters, the obvious draw is our location and, by association, prominence as a premiere fishing destination. Each spring and summer, anglers from around the world come to sink a line in the deep blue Gulf, but also to fly fish in our bayous and tributaries and cast off of our piers (page 22).
Yet part of being a warm-weather fishing destination means that our seafood is the freshest, most flavorful in the Lone Star State. That’s a credit to many of our bellwether restaurants and the approach they’ve taken to ensure quality Gulf-to-table dishes, decade after decade. Read about the storied, tried-andtrue restaurants as well as the new joints on the block starting on page 12.
Geography also allows us to be leaders when it comes to getting that perfect vacation adrenaline rush. Our feature story on page 36 gives you a taste of the adventures that await. Cruise our thoroughfares and quaint historic neighborhoods on a Slingshot, or soar high above the Earth on the Texas Star Flyer. Or, level up—way up—and jump out of a perfectly good airplane with one of our expert skydivers.
But falling from the sky or going almost 40 mph down a waterslide might not be everyone’s idea of a fun adrenaline rush. In fact, some people get their rush with tours through living history installations. The Galveston Naval Museum at Seawolf Park (page 38) houses the USS Cavalla submarine and the USS Stewart destroyer escort, both of which are available for tours. It’s a truly singular experience to lay your eyes on two real-life vessels of war that helped preserve and defend our democracy.
This is just the beginning of your Island getaway. Peruse this issue of award-winning Island Soul magazine while lounging on one of our beaches, relaxing at one of our resort or B&B pools, or while patiently waiting to catch a trophy fish. Whatever your fancy, Island Soul has a story for you.
Michael W. Woody, Chief Tourism Officer Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau; Editor-in-Chief, Island Soul
The San Luis Resort is a 32-acre walkable property o ering beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico as well as meeting space in each of its three hotelsThe San Luis Hotel, Hilton Galveston Island Resort, and Holiday Inn Resort Galveston - On the Beach.
Boasting more than 250,000 square feet of meeting space, 700 residentiallyappointed guestrooms, 10 exceptional restaurants, and 3 pools, The San Luis Resort sets the standard of luxury hospitality for intimate and grand experiences.
Each Hotel within the resort features an array of endless entertainment and activities set in relaxing environments that o er a variety of fun for all ages.
Our newly appointed Harbor House Hotel on Pier 21, makes for the perfect stay with spacious rooms and steps away from the cruise ship terminals and Galveston’s downtown scene.
There is truly something for every guest to enjoy.
Dive into Galveston’s cool fishing culture.
From airboats to airborne and heart-pounding water coasters, Galveston Island is home to some of the most thrilling experiences you’ll find in all of Texas.
The Galveston Naval Museum preserves the history of those who have protected our freedom.
Scott Moon, CTA
Roger Velazquez, CTA
For advertising sales, contact Scott Moon at smoon@galvestoncvb.com
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Island Soul is a biannual publication of Visit Galveston. Visit Galveston provides visitor information and assistance to leisure and business travelers in Galveston Island, Texas. Find comprehensive listings for accommodations, attractions, dining and events at the Visit Galveston o cial website: visitgalveston.com.
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Galveston Island State Park renovation is complete 14 years after Hurricane Ike’s destruction.
Galveston Island State Park back in 2008. But as storm cleanups go, Galvestonians are among the elite. Thanks to grants and a sporting goods sales tax, the park has completed all of the improvements 14 years later.
The Category 2 hurricane’s 110-mph winds hit the Island squarely, producing a 22-foot storm surge and causing extensive damage to Galveston Island State Park. Flooding and wind damage devastated surrounding counties.
Park Assistant Superintendent Kyle O’Haver says the restoration included many park resources destroyed by Ike, including the park’s restrooms, boat ramps, camping sites and picnic shelters. The Galveston Island State Park redevelopment project’s restoration efforts began in 2019. That same year, the park celebrated the reopening of its headquarters—one of the most important buildings Ike ravaged on the park property.
It goes without saying that Galveston Island State Park is a place of refuge just an hour from Houston. The park stretches between the beach along the Gulf of Mexico and Galveston Bay and protects 2,000 acres of upper Gulf Coast barrier island ecosystem.
The land is among the last bastions of undeveloped land on all of Galveston Island. The state park protects the land from commercial development.
Beach views and wildlife are among the many highlights that Galveston resident Christian Aaron says has drawn her
to the park since childhood. Her memories of the park include performances at the outdoor musical theater and the “big sign” that stood at the park’s entrance and welcomed visitors.
“It’s a great place to visit and travel to,” Aaron says. “There are so many things to do at the park.”
Aaron praises the many renovations made to the park and says the best time to visit is during the warm-weather spring and summer months.
Post-Ike improvements at the park include the headquarters’ new, flood-proof HVAC system, a new restroom facility and improvements to the restroom building that withstood the hurricane. Renovations to the campgrounds added 95 new campsites, 20 new shelters and new grills at the shelters.
Locals and visitors know the Island generally and the state park specifically as a relaxing paradise with many outdoor perks, including mountain bike trails, geocaches and paddling trails. Photographers’ and birders’ must-see lists include the views from the park’s many observation platforms.
Bargain hunters will appreciate that fishing at the park does not require a permit. The coastal setting is a great natural spot for swimming, camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing and fishing. The park protects both natural and cultural resources, and it provides public access to several of the Island’s habitats. The park’s features include beach and Gulf waters, coastal prairie and wetlands near the bay.
EATcetera
elegant space for up to 32 seated guests for private events. This is the perfect island spot for your private dinner, party or event. The restaurant and sidewalk café are totally private and reserved just for your celebration.
Call 409-762-0803
or 409-939-9403
To make memories, follow these top 10 Island experiences for kids under 10.
Galveston, lovable penguins await; trains showcase local railroad history; and an old-fashioned candy shop/ice cream parlor satisfies everyone’s sweet tooth. Sprinkle on a few pirate tales and these top experiences will provide an unforgettable Galveston getaway for the kids—and parents too!
10. Explore Galveston’s Historic Harbor on the Seagull II
Treat the kids to an adventure on a historic harbor tour aboard the Seagull II. The top deck of this two-hulled catamaran affords panoramic views while the lower level provides shade from the sun. As the kids scan the horizon for dolphins, Captain Brian Leadingham regales them with tales of Galveston’s notorious pirate, Jean Lafitte.
Paddle through Galveston’s wetlands while making memories along the way and leave with your own plein art painting. Discover the tiny sea creatures living in the coastal habitat with an Artist Boat eco-kayaking adventure. Ages 5 and up will enjoy the two-hour paddling experience learning how to navigate through the calm water. On three-to-four-hour experiences (ages 7 and up), the tour stops in the wetlands, where everyone learns how to make a plein art painting.
Step aboard ELISSA—an 1877 tall ship. This eye-catching vessel now serves as a museum documenting the Island’s storied immigration history. The kids won’t realize they’re walking through a history lesson as they follow the footsteps of early immigrants and get an up-close look at what it was like to travel the seas in the 1800s.
/ 1877--------
7. Build a Castle With Sandy Feet Sand Castle
Choose your beach—anywhere from East Beach to Pointe West—and schedule a sandcastle building experience with Emerson Schreiner. Not your average sandcastle, everyone in the family will stretch their creative muscles, get a little sweat going and learn how to carve a sandy masterpiece.
4. Sweeten the Day at La King’s Confectionery
Featuring a 1920s soda fountain serving floats, ice cream sodas, malts, splits and sundaes, over 50 candies made from old-time recipes, and antique arcade games, La King’s Confectionery is an instant hit with sugar-loving kids of all ages. To add to the fun, this Galveston treasure has saltwater taffy-pulling demonstrations for more delicious entertainment.
3. Become a Junior Ranger at Galveston Island State Park
Embrace nature at Galveston Island State Park, where recreational activities include birdwatching, camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking and swimming. Make the experience special with a visit to the Nature Center, where kids can pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Journal and Explorer Pack. Completing the activity journal’s tasks earns them a Junior Ranger designation.
2. Ride the Rails at the Galveston Railroad Museum
6. Catch a Wave With Southern Spears Surf Shop & Rentals
Founded with the goal of providing a retail experience for the customer that embodies the surfing spirit, Southern Spears embraces the surfing lifestyle and culture, and is committed to passing on the “stoke” to the customer. Owned and operated by surfers, Southern Spears offers customers the world’s highest quality surf clothing, equipment and surfboards.
5. Pet a Stingray at Moody Gardens
Hidden behind the doors of Moody Gardens’ Aquarium
Pyramid awaits an awe-inspiring underwater experience that includes Humboldt Penguin Habitat, a Mangrove Lagoon touch tank home to stingrays and a multi-level 30,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico Rig Exhibit.
Fun for all ages, the art deco-designed Galveston Railroad Museum showcases approximately 40 rail cars, model trains and a restored 1932 train depot. Explore the collection before you hop aboard the Harborside Express for a train ride in an open-air caboose traveling one mile up Harborside Drive before returning to the museum.
1. Experience Old-Fashioned Fun at Galveston Pleasure Pier
Originally built as a military recreational facility during World War II, today the Galveston Pleasure Pier delights kids and their grown-ups with thrill-inducing rides and iconic midway games. Get into a Pier Pileup with old-fashioned bumper cars or twist down the flume in the Pirate Plunge.
Whether you’re planning a heart-pounding adventure or a leisurely weekend getaway, Galveston delivers unforgettable experiences that will give you and your brood reasons to return.
the Island’s beginnings. Coastal cuisine, and the authentic boat-totable fresh catch, have always been delicacies and delights for locals and visitors. The surrounding waters and fishing grounds provide an abundance of crustacean and fish that includes everything from the local-caught filet of the day to irresistable oysters and legendary Gulf Coast shrimp.
The Island’s bay, a blend of freshwater and saltwater, is one of the largest estuary producers, second only to the Chesapeake Bay. The bounty creates a marine haven for restaurants and markets, and identifiable flavors and cravings known as Galveston cuisine.
Restaurants and fish markets depend on the seasonality of fish. Each season offers different species and specials that make menus and offerings ever-changing.
Spring is famous for kingfish, mahi mahi, cobia and grouper. “We also prepare American red swai fish and yellowtail or amberjack each spring,” says Brett Otteman, general manager at Katie’s Seafood House. “Our boats are 100 percent located in the Gulf of Mexico, and we rely on the captains to dictate what goes onto the menu.”
Months that end in “er” have long been associated with incredible oyster yields. From September through December, Galveston’s waters deliver delicate yet firm, mouthwatering oysters. This was one of the city’s first seafood exports shipped fresh and on ice by train.
Other popular catches include redfish, red snapper, speckled trout, black drum, flounder, marlin and a variety of tuna species. Gulf shrimp are the stars of Galveston cuisine— boiled, fried, baked or stuffed. Iconic shrimping boats consistently dot the sea’s horizon, scooping up the freshest shrimp daily for the Island.
Century-old eateries, burgeoning fish-entrepreneurs and everything in between combine to make Galveston a foodie destination.
Fish Company Taco is an eatery whose daily specials always sell out and feature Gulf catch and Gulf shrimp. Choose your style and indulge. The chef recommends the “Dirty South,” a sprinkling of Dad’s Pimiento Cheese, corn relish, lime crema and potato chips.
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant is the Island’s most famous and longest-serving restaurant. With humble beginnings in
The Island’s freshest catches of the day are at these dining favorites.Katie’s Seafood House patio Gulf shrimp at Fish Company Taco
1911, each decade has brought more patrons and popularity, using the same recipes today as then. “Our American Red Snapper Michael is always the freshest and hand-cut at our bar. This snapper dish is parmesan coated, sauteed, then topped with fresh jumbo lump crab and topped with our signature white wine lemon butter sauce,” says Nick Gaido, president, Gaido’s Seafood, Nick’s Kitchen and Beach Bar, and Redfish Pool Bar.
BLVD. Seafood is a contemporary eatery on the Galveston Seawall. Enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner and happy hour with their seafood-inspired menu, all with a beautiful Gulf-side view. The shrimp, blue crab and avocado campechana, seawall scallops, and shrimp and quail kisses simply set the tone and expectations for the following courses.
Katie’s Seafood House opened in 2019, and this boat-toplate restaurant has quickly become an anchor of Galveston’s thriving seafood industry. Harvesting the freshest and tastiest fish from the Gulf of Mexico, Katie’s market-inspired items including snapper wings, smoked shrimp-stuffed boudin balls, bama fish and shrimp dip, and Katie’s shrimp frogs put a modern twist on heirloom coastal cuisine.
Rudy & Paco is Galveston’s go-to restaurant and bar for history and classic seafood specialties. Located next to The Grand 1894 Opera House, the place is worth stopping in for ceviche corinto featuring fresh marinated Gulf red snapper.
Also try the jumbo lump crab cake and Camarones
EJ before you catch a show. Their sopa de crab bisque and grilled fresh catch filets rival the adjacent performances.
One of the most classic recreational pastimes in Galveston is fishing. Whether reeling in your own catch or perusing the Island’s numerous fish markets, there is plenty of opportunity to prepare your own fresh seafood for family and friends. Have a feast with neighbors or grill snapper over the perfectly primed grill in your hotel courtyard or rental unit. Either way, don’t miss the experience of cooking Galveston’s prized seafood. Here are some shops to help you get started:
One of the most intriguing and sustainable organizations to help consumers understand boat-to-table dining, the origin of their fish and the intersection of human and sea relationships is Gulf Wild. Consumers can look for the Gulf Wild trademark on menus and at fish markets across the Island. This ensures that your fresh catch was “harvested by U.S. fishermen and came from a well-monitored and continuously improving fishery in the Gulf of Mexico under innovative conservation standards.”
The nonprofit’s breadth of programs includes TransparenSea, Consumer Outreach, Bycatch of the Day and Conservation Covenants.
Opened by Jason Reuter in honor of his great aunt, Aunt Margie’s Bait & Seafood Market is bountiful. Reuter also sells shrimp, crabs, oysters in season, lump crab meat, tilapia and red snapper, among other fresh catch. (409) 744-6930
Across the Island, Galveston Shrimp Company is a mecca for all things Gulf-fresh. Come see the well-stocked cases with Gulf shrimp, varieties of crab, snapper, grouper, tilapia, catfish, salmon, tuna, mahi mahi, steelhead, cod, live crawfish and rotating seasonal fish, both whole and filleted.
One fan favorite is the shop that has no frills. Sampson & Son’s Fish Market has loads of fish, good service and plenty of preparation ideas. Expect to choose from colossal shrimp, fresh stone crab claws, crawfish, oysters, blue crab, snapper and more. (409) 763-9316
Meet the three brothers bringing healthy food and other creative concepts to Galveston.
? If so, you may know that brothers and sisters tend to have their own niches, their own talents. That’s certainly true of the Smecca & Hart brothers—Johnny & Joey Smecca and Danny Hart—who have been using their respective skills to bring great food to Galveston for over two decades.
Galveston Restaurant Group, created in 1997, is responsible for some of the tastiest, most inventive restaurants in the area (see sidebar). While Joey curates the menus, Danny handles operations and Johnny manages marketing, advertising and more. Together, the group has remained resilient through multiple hurricanes and a pandemic—all while serving the community via food donations and their employees via a focus on retirement funds.
“Our people are part of our family, just like Galveston is part of our family,” Johnny says. “We believe in giving back to the community that has given us so much, so we’ll never turn down a request to help people.”
D iscover the delicious dining options made possible by Galveston Restaurant Group.
C lassic American dining meets the vibrant flavors of New Orleans in this local favorite, which offers everything from beignets and chicken and waffles to classic Gulf shrimp. The Gumbo Diner also serves breakfast all day, every day.
T his establishment may be best known for its award-winning happy hour, but the savory sushi will make you want to walk through its doors well before that happiest of hours. Come watch super-talented sushi maestros craft delectable seafood dishes right before your eyes.
O perated by first generation brothers, this is Galveston’s most storied Italian restaurant, merging the tastes of Texas and Italy for nearly 50 years. Like fine wine, it continues to get better.
Pasta, pizza and every other classic Italian dish is available at this can’t miss eatery, recently named restaurant of the year.
No Galveston getaway is complete without a slice of pie from Papa’s. Gourmet ‘zas are always on tap as well as savory sandwiches and other tasty Italian options. Always fresh, always delicious. .
Margs, queso, guac and more are always flowing at the aptly-named Taquilo’s, which boasts award-winning chips and salsa alongside a sensational ceviche bar. You can never go wrong with the shrimp fajitas, just as you can never go wrong with grabbing a drink and posting up under the umbrellas lining Postoffice Street just outside this terrific Tex-Mex eatery.
T his fine dining experience is home to the Smecca brothers’ original kettle cooking. And just like any Galveston Restaurant Group establishment, Saltwater Grill gives you plenty of options. The Certified Angus Beef is simply savory, and elsewhere on the menu, the supertalented brothers have combined classic Gulf Coast seafood with the delectable delights of Asian fusion food. Come for the food, stay for the unbeatable nightlife atmosphere.
S an Fran meets the Big Easy at this award-winning establishment that is perfect for a lunchtime po-boy or a fun night out. It’s highly possible Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar will become your newest culinary obsession, and if so, don’t fret: the Smeccas have opened a location in League City, too. Still, nothing compares to chowing down on some sweet, sweet gumbo while relaxing in the heart of Galveston Island.
Superior accommodations and personalized service keep guests of The Villas at San Luis Resort coming back for more.
luxury vacation is about more than the destination. The accommodations can be equally important, and in some cases, may even enhance the experience to such an extent that guests find it difficult to leave.
At The Villas, for example, a secluded, private oasis on the property of The San Luis Resort, guests receive such thoughtful, personalized treatment that many choose to extend their stays well beyond their original reservations.
“We’re very proud of the fact that 90 percent of our clientele are repeat visitors,” says Villas Coordinator Danielle Stovall. “And nine times out of 10, our guests decide to extend their stays because of the attention that they’re given while they are here. They’re not ready to go home.”
This level of care begins even before they check in. When guests make a reservation, Stovall takes preemptive measures
to learn what’s bringing them to the Island so the staff can cater to their needs upon arrival.
“Anyone can give you customer service, but we create an experience, and each one is unique,” she said.
Stovall offers the example of one couple who stayed at The Villas and had planned to go to Aruba for their 15th anniversary. But they couldn’t travel because of COVID. So The Villas staff brought Aruba to them with tropical flowers throughout the room, a steel drum band playing throughout their stay, and even a little cake in the shape of a hut on a beach in Aruba.
Staff have changed their schedules to meet the needs of guests from different time zones, and they have also worked with the chef to create authentic meals, such as Middle Eastern cuisine to remind them of home.
Guests know they are in for something special the moment they set foot on the property: They are greeted with Champagne or a cocktail of their choice at The Villas exclusive check-in desk. They are then directed to their lavish, spacious room, which not only provides easy beach access but the exclusive use of a temperature-controlled pool shared only by guests of the five villas.
The rooms themselves are luxurious, featuring a light color palette, chandeliers, specially designed linens that are monogrammed with guests’ initials, and state-of-the-art amenities including a Bluetooth system that connects to the music on guests’ phones. Each room is prepped with small gifts, including light snacks, Godiva chocolate-dipped Oreos, a beach bag and shirts, and something personalized to make it truly unique.
Guests have access to all of the amenities of the resort, which include a gym, three restaurants, two boutiques and a gift shop, as well as a golf cart to ferry them back and forth. However, if they don’t want to venture out to a resort restaurant or boutique, that’s no problem because everything from dinner to jewelry to clothing can be brought to them, including fresh coffee from the Starbucks at the resort.
“We take care of everything so that they can just sit back and relax,” Stovall says, adding that Villas guests also have access to a private bartender and concierge during their stay.
Other amenities of the property include private cabanas, spa services (with some services offered exclusively to Villas guests), and a 15-minute ride down the seawall at sunset in The Villas’ Bentley. Guests who want to explore Galveston also find that they have priority at local restaurants.
“Everything is personalized and modified to fit each individual guest,” Stovall says. “The level of service here is completely different from what you receive from most hotels: We take it up quite a few notches.”
Don’t return home without a sweet souvenir or an unexpected treasure from one of these local shops.
destroyed the Island town of Galveston, this resilient community got creative about protecting itself. They built a seawall and in doing so, they also created a thriving recreational venue. The seawall is the longest continuous sidewalk in the United States—perfect for human-powered recreation such as running, biking, skating and more. It’s also a hot spot for shopping, with Seawall Boulevard being home to a host of local shops where you’ll find everything you need for a day at the beach and the keepsakes you’ll want to commemorate your Galveston getaway. Spend a day perusing these troves for the perfect treasures.
Although the building has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times (1900 the great storm, 1909; 1915; 1961, Carla; and 2008, Ike) and several times damaged, Murdochs has persisted as Galveston’s iconic souvenir shop for more than 100 years—but it’s so much more. Of course, this place is overflowing with gifts, collectibles, T-shirts, coral, shells, books and more. And you’ll find anything you need for a day at the beach, from flip-flops to sunglasses, towels to sunscreen. But Murdochs also serves food and drinks, so you might want to sit and relax for a bit. You can enjoy the store’s back deck over the water with stunning views including the nearby Pleasure Pier.
Dolphin World is truly a one-stopshop for visitors to the island. Not only can you fill up on gas, but you can also rent a golf cart or order pizza, shrimp and burgers to go. You can pick up ice, food and groceries in their convenience store as well as pick up souvenirs for the return trip home. They have everything from t-shirts to caps to shells to body boards, jewelry, collectibles and more. (409) 762-2714
This is not your everyday souvenir shop—this is a mecca for those who live, eat, breathe and sleep the surf and skate life, just like the owner, William “Boog” Cram. He says you’ll get more than just a new board when you shop Ohana: You’ll get an education. “We help you select a board, set it up and build it out with accessories or components,” he says. The shop is strategically located near Pleasure Pier and the city’s skatepark. Ohana carries all the popular brands associated with surf and skate culture such as Volcom, but it also has Ohana-branded products. This is the go-to spot for rentals and lessons (with a reservation). And if you’re visiting for the summer, they offer kids camps for children ages 6 to 15.
If it moves in the wind, Kites Unlimited surely has it. Kites are the store’s bread and butter, with prices that range from $4 to more than $700 and from the size of your hand to 100 feet long. But kites are not all you’ll discover here. The store offers flags, flagpoles, yard decor, wind chimes, wind sculptures, toys, windsocks, ground spinners, doormats and so much more. Stephen Newberry, the store’s owner, is the foremost authority and kite expert on the Gulf Coast and has owned the business for more than 40 years. “When visitors go to Galveston Island,” he says, “they need to do two things: Walk on the beach, and walk on the beach with a kite.”
100 , Galveston’s more affluent families strolled these palm tree- and oak-lined streets, strutting in full skirts, tapping ebony canes and swishing in their silk stockings. More than 100 years later, those silk-stocking-clad residents are long gone, leaving only memories—and in a few cases, ghosts—behind, but their homes still make the average person gawk in admiration.
One Queen Anne-style home’s white and mustard-yellow paint makes it look like a Victorian sunspot. Nicknamed “The Great Painted Lady,” little red accents and painted quiltlike designs on the facade make the house and its wrapped porch seem like a set out of a movie, while another two-story periwinkle blue residence nearby is topped by a round porch.
The homes hark back to jolly old Victorian England or the Spanish moss-lined streets of Savannah, Georgia, but the blindingly blue sky and distant crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico give away the illusion. Instead, these more than 200 homes make up one of the prettiest and most unique streets in downtown Galveston.
The Victorian-style homes are two of many tucked along the 14 blocks of the Silk Stocking District in Galveston, which was listed in the Register of Historic Places in May 1996. The colorful Italianate and Victorian manors, charming little cottages and Queen Anne houses are part of a neighborhood that acts as a model for preserving and protecting historic heritage. Several homes within the district also have National Register status.
Nicknamed the Silk Stocking District (referring to the wealth of the families who lived there), the neighborhood was created in the late 1800s along Rosenberg Street. The district, filled with business moguls and early industrialists who “could afford to buy silk stockings,” spanned from Broadway to Seawall Boulevard and from 23rd Street to 26th Street.
But what was an affluent neighborhood in Galveston didn’t start out that way.
Originally, the land was the site of the Texas Cotton Press, but after the Texas Legislature passed a law in the 1890s that stated cotton
presses had to be in rural areas where the cotton was grown, the Texas press went bankrupt.
The old press was moved and demolished, and the land divided into lots to be sold at auction. Today, the neighborhood is one of the most intact residential areas in the city dating from the 19th and early 20th century. It continues to charm and attract fans of architecture, history and even ghosts.
“All these lots were subdivided, and all these homes were built around 1898-99. The land was almost all filled in [with homes] when the 1900 hurricane hit,” says David Bowers, real estate broker with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene. “Galveston was a pure investment-driven type of residential scene at the time. You had your big people who had their mansions, but then 70% of all the other housing was built as rent houses. There was a tremendous flow of people coming through the city making money or moving on, but many of these houses were nice enough to become singlefamily homes.”
Many of the historic homes were spared destruction when the devastating 1900 hurricane demolished Galveston Island. The subsequent grade raising that built up the seawall also
didn’t affect the neighborhood, and today, many of the houses retain their historic feel.
From modest to massive, the Silk Stocking homes range in price from $150,000 to over $750,000.
The Silk Stocking District of today still has its own raucous personality. The Galveston Mardi Gras Parade—one of the largest in the nation—dances straight through the main thoroughfare, and every night, ghost hunters line up for tours to hear the ancient and sad tales of the original residents who do not seem to want to leave.
“We had so many ghost tours coming through that it was a problem; people had hundreds of flashlights shining through
their windows, so we had to put a stop to that,” Bowers says. Even before the push to save and restore old buildings in Galveston reached its peak in the 1990s, residents of the Silk Stocking District knew these old homes were special. The Silk Stocking local historic district was created in 1975, with 25th Street, or Rosenberg, as the core thoroughfare, and renovations are constantly in motion to keep the bones of the old beauties strong.
A self-guided walking tour brochure is available from the Silk Stocking National Historic District office, and no matter what time of day or year, the District remains one of the country’s most unique—and beautiful—neighborhoods to wander.
Bowers himself owns an 1899 Queen Anne in the District, a beauty with 12-foot-high ceilings and 42 windows, a second-story balcony porch and large foyer. While working as an attorney for a title insurance company in Houston, Bowers discovered the gem-inthe-rough in 1984.
“I was looking for old homes and went to Galveston,” he recalls. “I found a ‘for sale by owner’ and bought it that night. At the time, there was much blight in historic Galveston with very little renovation, so my house needed to be completely redone.”
When the house next door became available, Bowers purchased it, too. The Waters and Sarah Davis home, a charming intersection of Italianate and Queen Anne styles, was built as a residence in 1868. The Davis home, like so many others in the Silk Stocking District, has its own story. Waters Davis, who was the president of the Galveston Wharf Company and a railroad tycoon, founded the Galveston Chapter of the Red Cross, so it was only fitting that when the family sold the house in 1957, they sold it to the charitable organization they helped establish.
Many of the houses have names. The Hickenlooper House, with its recognizable double-tier entry portico and eccentric blend of ornamentation, was the original home of Lucy Hickenlooper, who achieved international renown as a concert pianist. Although her home still bears her name, she decided that Hickenlooper wasn’t the most elegant name for a concert pianist. Instead, she changed
her name to “Madame Olga Samaroff Stokowski” after winning a scholarship to the Paris Conservatoire de Musique.
On the southerly end of the District is a gigantic 22,000-squarefoot stucco structure called the Letetia Rosenberg Home for Aged Women. When local philanthropist Henry Rosenberg died in 1882, he left numerous gifts to the Island, including the home for aged women named after his first wife.
“When the 1900 storm hit, that big building saved our neighborhood,” Bowers says. “As the storm hit that structure, it was so big that it started a debris line. All that debris built up and made a dam, so to speak, to keep from letting in other debris and floodwaters. It’s amazing how the Silk Stocking District was basically saved by this monolithic structure at the south end.”
Ashton Villa, a fully restored historic home on the corner of 24th and Broadway, was built in 1859 as the first and largest brick structure in Texas. After the 1900 hurricane, when the Island was raised, the family could not afford to have the massive brick mansion lifted, so the dirt was put around the house. Today, instead of 14 steps up to the front porch, there’s only three. Of the 14-foot fence, only four remain above ground.
“Every home has its history and its stories,” Bowers says. “It’s also just a beautiful neighborhood to explore.”
Galveston’s “pier culture” is unlike anywhere in America, a series of designated wharves where families can watch for dolphins, couples can enjoy a romantic Gulf-side dinner, and visitors and locals alike can fish, fish and fish some more. Add in daily fishing boat excursions and it’s easy to see why Galveston’s coast is considered among the best destinations in North America for pro, novice and experienced fishermen and women.
“I come from North Carolina and I can tell you the fishing here is insane,” says Edwin Galarza of the Galveston Fishing Pier. “I’ve seen 10-foot tiger sharks and red drum runs when people are pulling out fish after fish. This is also one of the best flounder fishing spots anywhere in the world.”
Recently restored, the 50-year-old Galveston Fishing Pier is the longest privately owned pier between Texas and Maine. A 30-pound smooth puffer, the largest ever caught anywhere, and a 220-pound tarpon—a Texas record—were caught from the Pier.
In addition to prize sport fishing, the Galveston Fishing Pier functions as an important education center. The innovative “Teach a Kid to Fish” program features a variety of lessons for second to fourth graders. This is considered a key age for children not only to develop the proper fishing skills but also to learn about the Gulf of Mexico’s fragile ecology and its inhabitants.
The Teach a Kid to Fish program, which comprises of “Intro to the Gulf,” “Ethical Angler Intro” and “Pier Fishing,” provides second through fourth graders with casting lessons, fish ID skills and, for third and fourth graders, lunch at Jimmy’s on the Pier. The program is perfect for parents who love to fish and want to introduce their children to a lifetime passion.
“Lots of families come annually and everyone loves it,” says Galarza, who has worked at the pier for several years. “We provide a safe environment for the often hundreds of people who visit us every day and, as importantly, for the fish by providing paper instead of plastic bags and encouraging
environmentally friendly fishing practices from the beginning of a young angler’s career.”
Visiting the Galveston Fishing Pier, which is open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m depending on weather conditions, is often a whole day or evening affair. The day may begin with Dirty Pier Chai or Colombian Supremo at The Seabean, Galveston’s only seaside espresso stand. Lunch and dinner diners head to Jimmy’s on the Pier, the classic waterfront seafood restaurant that serves custom cocktails and fresh Gulf seafood with a twist (think bacon-wrapped shrimp and a tuna tartare tostada, as well as favorites like classic fried oysters and shrimp).
Two miles away, the 61st Street Fishing Pier also offers an exceptional vantage point from which to cast about for the day or evening. Another 24-hour fishing pier (open from March to December), with reduced entrance fees through the night, and the tackle shop rents gear and sells bait for angling success as well as souvenirs. The two-story observation deck offers excellent coastal views in addition to an assortment of snacks. The new upstairs bar features sodas, beer and margaritas, among other coastal cocktails.
“Fishing here is generally a really good time,” says owner Austin Kimbrough. “People catch a lot of sand trout and small sharks in the summer, which is always a thrill. We also see a lot of red drums. They tend to be 40-to-50-inch fish that weigh upwards of 20 pounds. There’s a lot of excitement on the dock when someone catches one.”
Like other piers, 61st Street Fishing Pier staff received a Texas Parks and Wildlife Angler Education Program Certificate. This prepares them to aid novice fishing enthusiasts as well as encourage proper fishing techniques for all experience levels.
“I began fishing before I could walk,” Kimbrough says. “And I never get tired of seeing people, especially children who’ve never held a fishing pole in their life before, screaming and hollering when they catch their first fish. I like that we help make memories that a child will never forget.”
In addition to privately owned piers, the Galveston jetties stretch 6.5 miles, a world record. They provide ideal granite platforms as wide as 7 feet for safe fishing along the beachfront. Many Galvestonians and visitors recall making their very first cast on a family excursion to the North and South jetties.
Seawolf Park also offers public fishing on its pier in addition to many diverse recreational options for visitors. Located on Pelican Island, land that was once the site of the secondbusiest immigration station in the United States, Seawolf Park is today home to the Galveston Naval Museum, the USS Cavalla, a WWII submarine, and the USS Stewart, a rare escort destroyer (see story on page 38).
“We have a lot of families and groups who come to Seawolf Park,” says Galveston Beach Parks General Manager Vince Lorefice. “Two or three group members will buy a fishing wristband, others will barbecue, and the kids will hang out at the playground and play basketball, soccer and other sports. It’s a great location to do a lot of different things.”
Like the private piers, Seawolf Park teems with fishing enthusiasts throughout the year. Park attendants sold more than 79,000 fishing passes in 2021 alone.
“Seawolf is a very popular, multicultural park as well as Galveston’s premier fishing location,” Lorefice says. “People may come to fish, but they also love seeing the variety of ships—from ferries to giant container ships—come through adjacent channel. Because we’re open 24 hours from March through mid-December, you can also come and fish in relative solitude.”
“I’ve seen 10-foot tiger sharks and red drum runs when people are pulling out fish after fish. This is also one of the best flounder fishing spots anywhere in the world.”
The same can be said aboard Galveston Party Boats (GPB), a Pier 19 institution since 1961. The GPB fleet embarks to premier fishing grounds each morning based on veteran fishing knowledge and real-time data. Red snapper is usually the first target of the day, an exciting catch given the species’ renowned fighting spirit. Novice and experienced sport fishermen and women may also encounter ling, dorado (mahi-mahi) and shark, among other challenging fish to reel in.
“Our most popular trip is the 12-hour fishing trip that runs from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.,” says Liz Rogers, who represents Galveston Party Boats. “The fishing offshore is pretty fast-paced. After we get started we try not to make too many fishing spot moves, but we also want to ensure our customers are catching—or at least losing their bait!—on every down hook.”
The Importance of Recycling Fishing Line
There’s a reason why fishing line is strong enough to raise fish weighing 50 pounds or more out of the Gulf of Mexico. The clear monofilament line—a single fiber of plastic that is very hard to see—does not break down in salt water or elsewhere. Relatively cheap to produce and purchase, discarded fishing line is responsible for more than 100,000 marine mammal deaths annually, according to the BoatUS Foundation. The line can also hurt other sea life, kill birds and destroy boating equipment. The high-density plastic, which is not biodegradable, requires a special recycling process.
The Galveston fishing community encourages its members, clients and other visitors to do their part and use special recycling receptacles at various marine stores and vendors. Galveston also schedules regular recycling efforts throughout the year. Please look for specific recycling bins or ask your crew how to recycle your discarded fishing line.
Of course, a voyage in the Gulf of Mexico can yield much more than a great catch, says Rogers. “We can sometimes see really unique species like whale sharks, pilot whales, turtles and so many dolphins. I think our most unique sighting in the last two years would have to be the pod of killer whales [orcas] sighted down south of Galveston. They followed our boat for a long time.”
Wildlife and bird viewing offers a break for friends and family members who may not choose to fish for the entire voyage, which can range from a four-hour Bay and Jetty outing to a 30-hour tuna excursion. True to its name, Galveston Party Boats also offers private charters of every stripe, from corporate outings to bachelor, bachelorette and large group parties.
Captain Shane Cantrell of Galveston Sea Ventures agrees that a variety of experiences makes for the best trips. Like so many sportfishing captains, Cantrell spent his youth, especially his college years, fishing off the various piers. Today, he spends most of his time guiding experienced and novice fishermen and women.
“For our typical fishing charter in Galveston,” he says, “you can expect the captain to provide all the rods and reels, tackle and bait, with fuel and fish cleaning also included for the trip.”
Like GPB, Galveston Sea Ventures offers non-fishing excursions, specifically sunset cruises, dolphin and birding tours.
“A Galveston fishing trip is about having a good time on the water and enjoying time with family and friends,” Cantrell says. “You’ll also learn about fishing and have a professional to assist you along the way to increase your chances of a successful day catching fish.”
Cantrell still loves to fish off the Galveston piers and jetties in his spare time. Likewise, Rogers loves the fishing vibe around the piers and parks.
“Fishing is a legacy industry and activity in Galveston that has developed into its own culture and look,” she says, citing casual clothing styles that have grown out of it.
The fishing community is famously interdependent. It is among the most inclusive recreational activities on the planet, with avid participants from every ethnicity and economic and social class.
“Everybody’s friendly here,” says Andrew Quintana, manager of Aunt Margie’s Bait & Seafood, the locals’ go-to for over a quarter century. “It’s an excellent vibe.”
Whether catching your first speckled trout at 5 years old off the pier (to the delight of Austin Kimbrough) or wrestling successfully with a 25-pound red snapper out in the Gulf or spending a quiet night fishing for flounder from Seawolf Park, there's a perfect spot waiting for you to cast away.
Writer and photographer Crai S. Bower contributes articles and images to dozens of publications including Conde Nast Traveler, Garden & Gun and AARP, where he writes the monthly “Aging Playfully” column. He received a 2022 Lowell Thomas Award for Excellence in Travel Journalism.
From airboats to airborne and heart-pounding water coasters, Galveston Island is home to some of the most thrilling experiences you can find in all of Texas.
Now, your average swing ride at an amusement park takes a wooden seat from the 1950s, puts a bar across your midsection and safely spins you about 10 mph roughly 15 feet off the ground. The Texas Star Flyer, on the other hand, is what happens to a swing ride after it evolves for a century. Riders spin almost 100 feet off the ground at 43 mph. The ride also offers views of the Gulf of Mexico while you’re twisting in the breeze. It’s a stunning sight, though every few moments it’s interrupted by a rip-roaring sound that shakes the pier.
In those moments, the Iron Shark comes alive.
The Iron Shark coaster, opened in 2012, was the first of
its kind in Texas. As a Euro-coaster, it’s distinguished by its daunting drops and tantalizing heights. At one point, the ride rises 230 feet above the Gulf.
“It’s a phenomenal view of the island,” says Joe Zdunek, the pier’s general manager. “From up there, you can see just about anything.”
And there’s a lot to see—particularly if you’re a thrill-seeker.
Galveston Island is revered for its beaches, but it’s also a must-see destination for visitors who love to get their adrenaline pumping. Each year, people from across the world travel to destinations like Schlitterbahn Waterpark
and the Pleasure Pier, and while they’re here, they find a new favorite adventure via one of the Island’s many locallyowned attractions.
“We see people come from Europe all the time to check out the Island and ride some of the rides they’ve heard about through friends or online,” says Ayla Lambert, a spokeswoman for Galveston’s Schlitterbahn Waterpark. “While they’re here, they have so many other options to have a great time.”
Now it’s your turn to experience the adventures that have inspired visitors to traverse oceans. Here’s your guide to some of the thrilling attractions available to you on Galveston Island:
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to fly in a helicopter, this is your chance to find out. Located at the local airport (2115 Terminal Drive), Galveston Helicopter Tours offers a series of aerial adventure options for you and your fellow travelers.
If you’re seeking stellar views, the comprehensive “Around the Island” tour is true to its name. You’ll fly over 24 miles and see everything from the magnificent Moody Gardens to picturesque Pelican Island. Or if it’s romance you seek, just imagine how it’ll feel to glide through the sky at sunset with your significant other at your side and the beaches below as the sun recedes into the background: That’s the experience you can have via the “Sunset Tour.”
Of course, you may just want a classic helicopter experience. If so, the local business’ “Great Value” and “Sea Life” tours offer aerial adventures starting at just $50. And like the Texas Star Flyer, these tours give you an excellent opportunity to spot dolphins as they skip across the ocean— only this time, you’re flying hundreds of feet above the sea. If you’re a lover of great thrills and even better views, what can be better than that?
Well, jumping out of the plane, perhaps. For the die-hard thrillseekers reading this, the answer might be skydiving. Led by instructors with decorated military careers and thousands of jumps on their CVs, Skydive Galveston stands by its promise to deliver a lifechanging experience (though there won't be much standing involved).
Whether you are a veteran skydiver or a first-timer, this experienced crew will do everything they can to make your jump both safe and exhilarating. What's more, while you may be focused on the fact that you're plummeting toward the ground, the Skydive Galveston experience also offers stunning views of the ocean and all the Island's surrounding beauty. In short, it's the kind of adventure you'll cherish forever—and the most fun you'll ever have jumping out of an airplane. To get there, you'll simply hop over to Stewart Road, then hop off the aircraft roughly 14,000 feet in the sky.
Speaking of air, have you ever been on an airboat?
Propelled by the sort of propeller you’d usually find on an aircraft, these boats can reach hair-raising speeds without the
ecological damage caused by other boats. Plus, on Galveston Island, Hal Newsom’s Airboat Tours can reach parts of the marsh other watercraft simply cannot navigate.
“You can really fly on an airboat,” says Newsom, who offers tours to visitors throughout the year. He summarizes the distinctive experience like this: “If you've never been on an airboat, you've never been on an airboat. There’s really nothing else like it.”
Newsom’s experience has earned him the title of “master captain”; he’s been running airboats for over two decades.
Newsom has since commissioned custom-made boats from an outfit in Florida, and like Schlitterbahn, the experiences he leads have thrilled families from across the world. In fact, younger visitors can even get a crash course in boating from the master captain himself (see sidebar). Newsom’s airboat tours are also a perfect way to immerse yourself in the sea life and marshlands of Galveston Island.
But airboat tours are far from the only waterbound thrill available to adrenaline lovers during their time on the
While many of the adventures in this story are fit for the whole family, it’s worth noting that Galveston offers plenty more exciting activities appropriate for younger thrill-seekers (see our “Things to Do” section for more details). If your children aren’t quite ready for gargantuan slides or the crazy curves of a ride in a slingshot, they may enjoy the mini thrills of Schlitterbahn's Bahnzai Pipeline or the Guada Loopy. Both rides can be enjoyed by two visitors, so your kiddos will have company as they scoot down the slide. Likewise, your youngsters will enjoy the Pleasure Pier’s plentiful offerings of kid-friendly attractions, including the Frog Hopper bouncer for younger riders and bumper cars for those who want something a little more competitive.
“All of the kid-friendly rides are at the front of the pier,” says general manager Joe Zdunek. “You can spend hours near the entrance watching your kids sample all kinds of rides.”
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that Hal Newsom gives his young patrons a chance to captain the boat during airboat tours.
“I'll show them how to do it, and it’s completely safe for everyone on board,” Newsom says. “All the kids who give it a try have the biggest ear-to-ear grins you’ll ever see.”
Island. If you and your family want some good old-fashioned high-octane thrills, look no further than the jet boat thrill rides from Galveston Water Adventures. For 25 thrilling minutes, you and your crew can feel as if you’re in a highspeed boat chase straight out of a Bond film. Each boat holds up to 11 passengers, and every trip features enough speedy spins and tight turns to satisfy thrill-seekers of every age. This experience also includes the famed “Hamilton Spin,” a move in which a boat splints 360 degrees on its axis, simultaneously throwing a cascade of water into the air. All that’s missing is the Bond villain giving pursuit (which is probably a good thing.)
And no rundown of water adventures would be complete without mentioning the joys of jet skiing. On that front, Galveston Island has plenty of options for veterans and
novices alike—including Galveston Jet Ski Rentals, which can deliver jet skis and ski boats to the front door of your rental or any lake or bay in the Galveston area. You’ve already pictured what it’s like to soar in a copter with the ocean far below; now imagine this: The wind is in your hair, the sea is right beneath you, and you’re gliding through the water on a craft of your command. You decide where to go and how fast to get there. The Island, in essence, is your playground.
After you’ve tried your hand at jet skiing, you may be craving a land-bound thrill to match the fun you felt at sea. Look no further than Galveston Slingshot Rentals. Slingshots are sleek, three-wheeled motorcycles with vibrant colors and low seating perfect for any speedy journey. Automatic and manual rides are available, and you can rent a ride to coast around town at your leisure. These nifty speedsters are available to rent for two, four, six, 10 or even 24 hours.
Thus, if your quick spin manages to ignite within you a love of slingshot riding (spoiler alert: it almost definitely will), you can return to Galveston Slingshot Rentals and re-up the ride for a daylong adventure. Or, maybe you can slingshot your way to Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention all of the splashy, sun-soaked fun that awaits you at the revered waterpark’s Galveston location. If you’re reading this, you may be familiar with the Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. But don’t make the mistake of thinking both parks are exactly alike—not when the park in Galveston is home to a ride that was, at one point, the world’s largest water coaster.
The aptly named MASSIV Monster Blaster (pronounced “mass-eve,” in the traditional German style) opened in 2016 to much fanfare. Lambert, the park’s spokeswoman, says waterpark “enthusiasts” traveled from across the world to climb the 123 steps it takes to get to the top of this intimidating attraction. After your ascension, you’ll speed
down a twisty, turny slide that is 926 feet long—or roughly the distance of three football fields.
“The ride gives you a strong start and a strong finish,” Lambert says. “There are no lulls, and there’s not another water coaster like that in the world.”
As if that weren’t exciting enough, Schlitterbahn also added a ride called Rohr! to its Galveston location. This drop isn’t for the faint of heart. In fact, some might feel faint merely watching riders plunge down the steep vertical drop that has made this ride another fan favorite.
Rohr! is topped by an imposing 70-foot tower, and after falling from that height (with no floatie, mind you), riders can reach up to 30 mph.
“Because of TikTok, people from Germany have seen videos of the speeds people can reach on Rohr!” Lambert says. “There’s a growing community of waterpark enthusiasts, and there’s a lot of people that want to experience the fun a park like ours can offer after three years of a pandemic. We’re here for anyone who wants an adventure.”
YOUR
After you’ve experienced an airboat, jumped out of an airplane, plunged down precipitous heights and slingshotted your way across Galveston, you might like to end your day watching the sun set at Pleasure Pier.
According to Zdunek, the pier is “the quintessential beach town experience.” You might even see the general manager and his 2 -year-old daughter enjoying the pier’s elephant ride, which is currently her favorite. (“That will probably change by the time this runs, though,” Zdunek notes.)
But before that big Texas sun goes down, you might be tempted to see what all that joyful shouting is about. In other words, you might find yourself drawn to the Iron Shark, perhaps for the second or third time. And as the sky turns from blue to orange to black, you might find yourself having the time of your life.
Located where Broadway Avenue meets the Seawall, Stewart Beach is Galveston’s premier family-friendly beach park. Stewart Beach offers all you need for a day of fun, including umbrella & chair rentals, playground, beach supplies and snack shop, outdoor showers, ADA-accessible restrooms, and free beach wheelchair rentals. Beach Season runs March through October.
$50
The Galveston Naval Museum preserves the history of those who have protected our freedom.The Galveston Naval Museum
he Galveston Naval Museum sits on the northern tip of Pelican Island, looking northwest on one side to the bays protecting the heart of Texas, and northeast on the other side to the Gulf of Mexico, Texas’ window to the world. On an Island with so much history, Galveston’s rich naval story begins here. Surprising to some, that history stretches over almost 200 years, predating the foundation of the Republic of Texas.
And as it turns out, that history has been crucial to the preservation of the freedoms most Americans hold dear.
Before Jim Bowie, William Travis and Davy Crockett drew a line in the sand to secure the freedom of the nascent Republic of Texas, the Texas Navy was hard at work protecting the Gulf flank of the Texas colonists fighting the War for Independence from Mexico. For many years, the Gulf of Mexico had provided an easy route to ship troops and supplies for the Mexican army operating within the Texas territory. To gain independence, Texans needed to disrupt that supply route. Thus in 1835, the sailors whose privateers were the guardians of colonists’ supply routes to New Orleans became the first Texas Navy and the wall blocking reinforcement and resupply of Mexican troops.
The first Texas Navy was pitifully small— four schooners, originally provided by the Constitution of the incipient Republic in 1835. Firefights were few but fierce. Two of these ships were lost in the Battle of Galveston Harbor in 1837, one was captured, and the last ran aground.
Understanding the importance of an effective naval force, however, the Congress of the new Republic allocated another $135,000, and then an additional $280,000, for acquisition of nine new ships. These ships would become the Second Texas Navy, commanded by Commodore Edwin Moore and sited at Galveston Harbor.
It took several years to bring the Second Texas Navy to full operational effectiveness and an unlikely alliance with the breakaway Republic of Yucatan. It also took some private initiative by the Commodore after
several head-butts with Republic President Sam Houston, and ultimately, the people of Galveston, whose direct action prevented early auctioning of the Navy’s ships. Operating from its Galveston base, this new naval presence was increasingly successful at protecting the colonists’ supply lines while blocking Mexican efforts to resupply its own army. None of this action would rise to the notoriety of the Battle of the Alamo of course, but as proved by Generals Santa Anna, Napoleon and many other military leaders—both successful and not—wars are won with logistics and support. In this sense, these Galveston-based, early naval actions were crucial to the establishment of the Lone Star State. And after the War of Independence’s bugles stopped, the Second Texas Navy remained a crucial force preventing the Mexicans from launching any serious attempt to reconquer the territory lost to the newly founded Republic.
This was the powerful opening act in Galveston’s naval history—the efforts of the sailors of the Second Texas Navy protected the freedoms for which the heroes of the Alamo and Goliad fought and died in the War for Texas Independence. But successful as they were, their story is not well known. And their operations were short-lived; the Second Texas Navy was sold by Sam Houston to the United States when Texas became the 28th state admitted to the Union in December 1845.
The Galveston Naval Museum is one of those small jewels that focuses on important stories in U.S. history, particularly stories that are a part of the Greatest Generation’s effort in World War II.
“Visitors will see a unique juxtaposition of the hunter [submarine] and the protector [destroyer escort],” says Brian Abugel, CEO of the Cavalla Foundation. “The Galveston Naval Museum is the only museum in the U.S. where visitors can see these two classes of warship together in the same space.” To the delight of its visitors, the Museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on tours of the ships.
The museum is currently home to museum ships, the USS Stewart (DE-238), a destroyer escort, and the USS Cavalla (SS-224), the WWII submarine that sank the Japanese carrier Shokaku, which had attacked the U.S. at Pearl Harbor. The musuem tells the story of the men who served on these ships.
“Most ship museums are focused on large capital ships like battleships and aircraft carriers,” Abugel says. “They tell the stories of large scale engagements and battles that many have heard about. Our focus is to tell the stories of the ‘Blue Jacket Navy,’ of the ships and crews that did hard, dirty and dangerous work without fame or notoriety.” And what stories the Museum has to tell.
Where : Galveston Naval Museum, 100 Seawolf Parkway, Galveston
When : Open daily, including Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission : Adults, $13; seniors (65+), $10; children (5-11), $8; children (0-4) free. Active military, veterans and first responders, free. Special rates for groups of 15 or more (call)
Sleepovers: Experience a night aboard a WWII vessel (for groups of 15 or more)
Hardhat Tours : Experience the engine rooms and machinery, normally closed to the public
Private Events : On the decks of the Stewart or Cavalla
galvestonnavalmuseum.com
The USS Stewart, named after Admiral Charles Stewart, the Commander of the USS Constitution in the War of 1812, was built in Houston and first set sail in 1943 when German U-boats seriously imperiled Allied shipping. At that time, destroyer escorts protected merchant shipments critical to maintenance of the primary war effort. They would deploy depth charges—canisters with 200-plus pounds of explosives—from automatic launchers on the fantail or from the MK6 “K Guns” mounted on the side decks, in an oval pattern behind the ship. Depth charges were most effective when they detonated within a few feet of a submarine. A direct hit was rare but not always required as shock waves from near hits could loosen submarine joints and damage instruments, requiring a submarine to surface, where it could be destroyed by conventional fire. A destroyer escort would usually carry up to 300 such charges.
During its time in the Atlantic, the USS Stewart made 30 crossings, battling enemy submarines and aircraft as well as heavy seas and icing. Before being transferred to the Pacific theater out of Pearl Harbor, the Stewart also had the distinction of escorting flag officers and President Franklin D. Roosevelt as he boarded the USS Iowa to attend a crucial meeting with British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and
Soviet leader Joseph Stalin. But these are the dry facts of the stories the Galveston Naval Museum tells its visitors.
“Crews on ships like the Stewart did the job of protecting convoys and escorting larger ships, protecting them from German and Japanese threats from above and below,” Abugel says. “These grueling runs would often be marked with long periods of monotony, punctuated by moments of sheer terror.”
The USS Stewart has been restored and maintained by the Museum so that the shipboard experience of the fighting men of WWII can be visualized by the visitor. In the shipboard tour, the visitor can see the depth charge systems and the guns, which would be manned during “battle stations” engagements. Additionally, the visitor can see the other components of shipboard living for the WWII sailors.
USS CAVALLA
The USS Cavalla was a Gato Class attack submarine credited with sinking 34,000 tons of enemy shipping. But certainly its most prized victim, sunk in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, was the Japanese carrier Shokaku, one of the key vessels in the armada that attacked Pearl Harbor to start the war in the Pacific. On June 17, 1944, on its patrol, the Cavalla made contact with a large Japanese task force, which it tracked for several hours. Two days later, it caught the carrier recovering planes and launched an array of six torpedoes. Three struck home, starting multiple fires, which in turn led to explosions of gas and munitions. Within minutes, the gutted carrier sank. For this kill, the Cavalla earned both a Presidential Unit Citation and, appropriately, the “Avenger of Pearl Harbor” appellation.
On its third patrol, in November 1944, the USS Cavalla encountered two Japanese destroyers and successfully dispatched the Shimotsuki in a surface attack. Six weeks later, still on its third patrol, the Cavalla made a nighttime surface attack on a Japanese convoy, sinking two more ships. Finally, on its sixth patrol, it received the cease-fire order and entered Tokyo Bay as part of the fleet awaiting the surrender by Japan on Sept. 2, 1945.
Post WWII, the Cavalla was recommissioned and refitted as a Soviet-era hunter-killer sub and reclassified as SSK-224. Subsequently, the Cavalla participated in NATO exercises before providing an electrical umbilical cord allowing the restart of a diesel generator that had failed on the nuclear submarine USS Thresher during a shutdown of its nuclear reactor.
In the 1970s, after a long and distinguished career, the USS Cavalla was decommissioned and sent to Seawolf Park as part of the Galveston Naval Museum’s installations. Here, she has been restored to allow visitors to imagine life onboard an attack submarine operating in late WWII and during the Cold War.
Recently, the 110-year-old battleship USS Texas (BB-35), now a museum ship, has been repositioned at Galveston for repairs and restoration. The Texas was launched in 1912 and saw its first action in Mexican waters as part of President Woodrow Wilson’s response to the “Tampico Incident,” which saw an American force landed at Veracruz after Mexico detained an American gunboat at Tampico. Shortly thereafter, the Texas made numerous WWI sorties into the North Sea, all without encountering the enemy. Then in WWII, some 30 years later, it escorted numerous war convoys across the Atlantic and later shelled beaches in North Africa as part of Operation Torch. A young Walter Cronkite had been aboard for this operation and launched his storied reporting career as a war correspondent when he broke the first uncensored news of operations in North Africa.
In its final action in the Atlantic, the Texas provided gunfire support in the D-Day offensive in June 1944,, where it shelled the western half of Omaha Beach. It was then sent to the Pacific to provide naval gunfire support for the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. By the end of WWII, it had earned its five battle stars.
Modern gated beach home community built exclusively by Coastal Cottage Homes is located in a prime location near Galveston Island State Park and Jamaica Beach. The beach, restaurants and other essential necessities are all within golf-carting distance
Appropriately, the Texas, the last of the WWI-era dreadnought battleships in existence, is now a museum ship. It is an amazing showpiece. Its armaments were staggering, including 10 14-inch guns capable of firing 13-plus miles, 21 5-inch medium caliber guns and an array of smaller caliber arms. But in addition to these powerful armaments, it also boasted several crucial innovations, including rear torpedo tubes, anti-aircraft guns on elevated turrets, gunfire range detectors and production radar units.
But like all steel ships operating in salt water, the Texas is suffering from substantial corrosion and is experiencing serious leaks. To address this, it is currently undergoing a $35 million rebuild of its hull structure while at Galveston. Discussions are now underway where it will be re-sited as a tribute to those who served their country during its almost four decades of operation.
Whether the Texas will join the Cavalla and Stewart is anyone’s guess. But either way, expect new stories as the Galveston Naval Museum grows into its future. Abugel smiles as he sketches what he expects at the Museum.
“We are adding to our collection of artifacts and continue to grow our footprint beyond the confines of Pelican Island,” he says. “Our theme is based around what a forward operating base in the Pacific Theatre would look like. This includes integrating various aspects of Navy, Marine and Army operations to tell the broader story of how these services came together to win the war in the Pacific Theatre.”
Artifacts, texts, pictures and videos cannot convey the full real life experience of those who actually fought to preserve our freedoms—whether in the Second Texas Navy or aboard any of the warships in WWI or WWII. For all visitors, but especially for our country’s youngsters, many of whom are privileged to grow up in an era of relative peace, the Galveston Naval Museum provides an unparalleled onboard experience in its sleepover program. It allows small groups of children to spend a night onboard the Stewart or the Cavalla to simulate the experience of a WWII sailor. The hardhat tour features the engine rooms and other non-public parts of the ships.
And a night onboard is a great place for more stories. Among them, Abugel tells how a small group of destroyers, destroyer escorts and escort aircraft carriers turned back the bulk of the Japanese surface fleet. “It wasn’t the ships themselves, it was the determination and dedication of their crews,” he says.
In its unique concept and program design, the Galveston Naval Museum helps memorialize the experience of the Greatest Generation as it fought to restore and preserve the freedoms we now enjoy. It is a special experience and a special effort by the people of Galveston and the supporters of the small museum to remember the past as we try to secure our freedoms for the future.
Bennett Root is a photographer and writer who has been able to develop his craft over twenty some years of traveling throughout the United States and frequently in Europe and Asia. Most recently, Ben has served as Executive Vice President for the North American Travel Journalist Association (NATJA) and staff writer and photographer for TravelWorld International Magazine
Relax in this charming 1907 home o ering 4 rooms, each with screened-in porches to enjoy morning co ee or a glass of wine. Blocks away from the cruise port and beaches, book your stay today! 409.497.4944
Surfrider Foundation Galveston Chapter is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves and beaches for all people through a powerful activist network. Join Surfrider in their fight to keep Galveston and Texas beaches open and free of marine debris. Meetings are open to the public every second Tuesday at 6pm. For more details, contact Janese. (409)502-8221
Join the La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival in Galveston for two days of live music from local Texas bands of every flavor. Enjoy watching a surf contest, join a yoga or art class, and try great bites and beer. Located at Menard Park on the Seawall, steps from the beach. La Izquierda is a non-profit that supports surfing, music and building community.
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Coastal Waves Vacatons specializes in the Promoton & Operaton of vacaton rental homes for vacaton home owners. We know what we’re doing and are creatng a new hospitality experience by merging the best practces found at the fnest hotels with the Vacaton Home Rental Industry. As a full service boutque vacaton home rental agency, Coastal Waves Vacatons can maximize your full potental as a vacaton home owner. Call us for
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. Follow in the footsteps of immigrants arriving in Galveston in the 1880s at the new Ship to Shore immersive experience
4. Play on the Historic Galveston Island Pleasure Pier
5. Visit Moody Gardens Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid
6. Take the self-guided Freedom Walk tour to learn about Galveston’s rich African American history and the birthplace of Juneteenth
7. Rent chairs and umbrellas and lounge on Stewart Beach and East Beach
8. Tour historic mansions—1892 Bishop’s Palace and 1895 Moody Mansion
9. Splash into Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
10. 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
11. Eat at the iconic Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant
12. Take a walking/biking tour of the East End Historic District’s beautiful historic homes and the Galveston Tree Sculptures
With a transfer station located at 21st Street & Seawall Boulevard, visitors may ride the trolley throughout Downtown Galveston, along the historic homes on 25th Street, then connect with the rubber wheel trolleys and go as far west as Moody Gardens, or as far east as Stewart Beach.
Cost: $1 for adults, free for children accompanied by an adult. Fare includes the transfer at 21st & Seawall.
Hours of Operation: Visit website for latest hours of operation. galvestontrolley.com
13. Take a dolphin tour from Pier 21
14. Tour or watch a live show at The Grand 1894 Opera House
15. Watch saltwater taffy being made the old-fashioned way at LaKing’s Confectionery
16. Explore Pier 21’s one-of-a-kind museums, including the Ocean Star Drilling Rig Museum Galveston Historic Seaport and 1877 Tall Ship Elissa
17. Learn about locomotive history at the Galveston Railroad Museum
18. Catch fish from a pier, on a chartered trip, or go wade fishing
19. Go on a year-round historic cemetery or ghost tour
20. Take a kayak tour with Artist Boat or visit Galveston Island State Park for outdoor adventure
21. Visit the Galveston Naval Museum at Seawolf Park for a tour of a WWII submarine and Navy destroyer escort and great fishing
22. Go bird watching to see some of the 300 species found in Galveston
23. Play golf at Moody Gardens Public Golf Course
24. Buy fresh seafood at Katie’s Seafood Market or Sampson & Son’s Seafood on Pier 19
25. Attend one of the many year-round festivals, including Mardi Gras! Galveston—the third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country
The best way to pay for parking along the Seawall and Historic Downtown is through the PayByPhone app. Simply download the app to your mobile device. PayByPhone goes by license plate number, so you can park anywhere by entering your location code. Please note that the Seawall and Historic Downtown do not share the same parking code.
Seawall location code: 5004
Historic Downtown code: 5689
PayByPhone: 866.234.7275
From bay fishing to blue-water, piggy perch to tuna, Galveston o ers something for everyone with a rod, a reel and a love of angling. There are bait and tackle shops, marinas for storing your boat, and charter services that send you home with a great haul and plenty of fish tales. Head to VisitGalveston.com 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, kings and even sharks.
PIERS AND JETTIES
The island’s extensive jetty system, as well as places like the 61st Street Pier and Galveston Pier at 91st Street, provides ample room for the avid angler. Routine catches include croaker, perch, speckled trout, sheepshead, sand trout, ga top and bull reds. Seawolf Park, meanwhile, is a large recreational park that o ers some of the best flounder and black drum fishing on the upper Texas coast.
GALVESTON BAY
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. For a list of fishing charters, go to VisitGalveston.com.
The State of Texas requires both fishing licenses and saltwater stamps for legal fishing in Gulf waters, on- and o shore. (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.
MORE INFORMATION AT VISITGALVESTON.COM/FISHING
Your big day deserves a memorable setting - and you’ll find it in Galveston. Whether you’re in search of a historic setting for your wedding, an oceanside reception, or anything in between, Galveston can set the stage for the wedding of your dreams.
worldclass hotel and convention meeting spaces, events and receptions don’t have to take place within the traditional four walls. With its rich history and well-preserved architecture, the Island offers a number of unique and elegant venues for your next meeting or convention. From a train museum to an expansive beach park to an upscale restaurant set in a former bank (and more!), the Island will level up your next meeting experience.
Step into a bygone era at Ashton Villa, formerly a private home built in 1859 by James M. Brown, one of the wealthiest men in Texas at the time. Today, Ashton Villa is the only antebellum building—meaning a mansion built shortly before the onset of the Civil War—still standing on Broadway.
Saved from demolition in the 1970s by the Galveston Historic Preservation Society, it features the original crown moldings, hand-carved furniture pieces and spectacular crystal chandeliers, as well as the ballroom that was added in the 1930s, along with the original fireplace. Ashton Villa can accommodate 180 seated guests or up to 300 in a cocktail-style reception, says Historic Properties Rental Manager Lauraleigh Gourley. “One event works best unless it’s the same group—then you could offer breakouts and a general session,” she says.
Erected in 1929, the Scottish Rite Cathedral is decorated in the art deco style and features multiple large rooms available for corporate events. Guests have plenty of
stylish choices, including a large first-floor library with beautiful furniture that can be reorganized to fit dining tables, or a fully functioning authentic 1920s vaudeville theater upstairs that can be used for performances or receptions. While both spaces can accommodate up to 300 people, smaller areas can be set up for conferences’ breakout sessions, says General Secretary Roy De Gesero. “People love the Cathedral because it’s so old and authentic,” he says. “And by Galveston standards, it’s really inexpensive, too.”
Located in an 1895 neo-Renaissance style building designed for the banking firm Hutchings, Sealy & Co, Riondo’s Ristorante serves classic homemade Italian cuisine, with prosciutto di parma, house pasta Bolognese and osso buco, among some of the favorites. Smaller groups would love dining in the former Vault Room that once held the company’s riches and today features elegant tables set among original red brick walls. A larger banquet room named after Galveston petrochemical engineer George P. Mitchell can hold about 75 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 120 for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Riondo’s motto is serving “Farm to Fork” and “Sea to Table,” says owner Don McClaugherty, so guests will always have the freshest food possible. “We also have an extensive wine list and specialty cocktails,” he adds.
Let the vintage trains of Galveston Railroad Museum whisk you back in time a century or two. From small and intimate gatherings of several dozen people to
large corporate events of a few hundred, the museum offers a variety of options. Smaller groups can dine in historic train cars, enjoying authentic settings. Larger teams would enjoy the stylish and beautiful People’s Gallery that can seat up to 250 guests with the newsstand serving as the bar area. With full access to the museum, guests can immerse themselves in the rich history of train travel. Marvel at the olden locomotives that once used to chug across the country delivering everything from mail to food to people. Or take a stroll in the Garden of Steam, where the historic exhibits of a steam tractor and diesel engines are used as art. The museum can also set up gazebos on its property, accommodating up to 800 people. “We have 35 years of experience in event planning here,” says Executive Director David Robertson. “You name it, we can handle it.” Just like the Little Engine That Could.
Too often, business events and receptions are set in colorless conference rooms with artificial lights. With Galveston’s East Beach venue, you can take your event outdoors to the beautiful seaside settings. The largest beach park event venue in the state, East Beach can host up to 10,000 people in a day, says Guest Experience Manager Ann Hobing. Bask in the sun, enjoy the sea breeze and listen to the ocean waves at your next meeting or reception—an occasion that will create lasting memories for every guest. “The beach is a unique spot for any event,” says Hobing. “Your beach event will be talked about for years to come by your clients.”
200 historical markers scattered across Galveston Island, several mark the site of churches dating back to the early or mid-1800s. Just as marriage is a timehonored sacrament, steeped in history and tradition, so are these impressive buildings, as they’ve truly endured the test of time. Many have been rebuilt or restored after storms, and each has its own fascinating history to share. Inside and out, the classic architecture, superb craftsmanship and warm, rich details offer an unsurpassed setting for a memorable wedding ceremony.
One of the most historic is St. Joseph’s Church, constructed by German immigrants in 1859. It’s the oldest German Catholic church in Texas and the oldest wooden church building in Galveston. Even more impressive, it’s one of the few pre–Civil War buildings still remaining on the Island. Although it was damaged in the 1900 hurricane, it retains much of its original
character, including a coffered ceiling painted with Gothic symbols and an elaborate altar. It’s now maintained by the Galveston Historical Foundation.
Galveston is the birthplace of Juneteenth, the historic date in 1865 marked the end of slavery in the South. Juneteenth is honored faithfully around town and especially at Reedy Chapel, the “mother church” of African Methodism in Texas, which was built upon land formerly owned by slave owners who wanted to give their slaves a place to worship. The church hosts a Juneteenth celebration for the entire community with live entertainment, games and a Freedom March. Though the 1886 building was damaged by the 1900 hurricane, it was completely restored. Inside is one of the oldest pipe organs in Texas, an ornate masterpiece built in 1872, featuring 800 pipes.
These historic Galveston churches and synagogue make stunning backdrops for memorable weddings.Trinity Episcopal Church
The Island’s oldest organized congregation is First Presbyterian, established in 1840. The current church, dedicated in 1889, took 16 years to complete and was heralded the world over as one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the country. The stunning stainedglass windows add a dramatic and colorful touch, and wedding packages include a professional accompanist playing the specially made pipe organ, crafted using pipes from other organs.
First Evangelical Lutheran Church’s congregation is equally rich with history, having been established in 1850 by the Island’s then-small German population. The current building is an impressive white structure featuring massive stone walls, gorgeous jeweled windows and an exquisite wooden interior designed with Gothic influences.
Built in 1847 using 500,000 bricks that arrived from Belgium by ship, St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica was the first cathedral in Texas and the primary cathedral of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Standing proudly atop the church is “Mary, Star of the Sea,” an inspiring cast-iron statue. Inside, a high-water mark shows where Hurricane Ike dumped 8 feet of water into the church in 2008. The cathedral then underwent a four-year restoration and is now one of the most beautiful places for Catholics to worship and hold sacred ceremonies such as weddings.
Sacred Heart is a massive, pristine white structure and was once the largest church in the state. The building’s majestic “onion dome” has topped the church since the early 1900s, after the original dome was damaged in a storm.
The Jewish community in Galveston first began to take shape in the 1840s, with members encouraged to celebrate their faith at home, since there weren’t enough for a congregation. That changed in 1870 with the construction of a Gothic-style synagogue for Congregation B’nai Israel, though sadly it burned down. The congregation moved into its current building in 1954—a modern, red-brick temple designed by Tibor Beerman, a then-congregant who was a Holocaust survivor. The Rabbi Henry Cohen Memorial Temple
features an impressive sanctuary, a smaller, cozy chapel space and a social hall.
Texas’s first African American Baptist Church, formed as the slave congregation of another Baptist church, moved to its Avenue L site in 1855 and became Avenue L Baptist Church—referred to as “The Ave.” The first building was destroyed in the 1900 hurricane and replaced by a small wooden structure. As a testament to the church’s history, the 1904 wooden building still stands next to the current one (1916), which is a stately redbrick structure that offers a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.
Trinity Episcopal Church
Avenue L Baptist Church
Congregation B’nai Israel
First Evangelical Lutheran Church
First
Reedy
In 1863 during the Civil War, a cannonball struck Trinity Episcopal Church, but the building stood strong. Legend has it that the cannonball is still embedded in the bricks of the 1857 building, and that’s just one of the cool facts about this church. After Hurricane Ike in 2008, shards of broken stained glass were handcrafted into jewelry, which has since been sold to help other disaster-affected areas and people around the world, including Ukrainian refugees. Trinity’s grand sanctuary is ideal for large weddings, as it holds up to 550 guests.
There’s no official wedding season in Galveston, as the weather is ideal year-round. Check with each church or synagogue for availability, requirements and other important details as you plan your special Island wedding.
Here’s how to schedule an event, request a tour or just drop in for a service
Here’s your quick guide to the adventures, experiences and excursions that await you on Galveston Island.
incredible choice: You’re here on Galveston Island. Now, you may be wondering how to best maximize your time. After all, there is an endless list of experiences awaiting you and your crew. But that’s why we’re here.
Island Soul compiled a guide to some of the most exciting activities during your stay. Take a look, make your pick, then enjoy your adventures.
Calling all history buffs and maritime adventurers: From April 13-16, you can enjoy unforgettable tours of the kind of ships you’ve likely only seen in adventure movies. For the annual Tall Ships Festival, centuries-old galleys line Galveston’s historic seaport, allowing you to channel your inner Jack Sparrow (actual piracy not encouraged.) Plus, the fan-favorite fest is complete with seabound excursions and more music and food than you and your fellow maties will know what to do with.
Juneteenth is now a federal holiday recognized throughout our country, and Galveston is where it all began. In fact, you can walk the precise pathway Union soldiers took when they delivered the news that all slaves must be freed. That trail will take you on a walk through history, starting at the pier and winding through several local landmarks.
JetSurf Houston is proud to host the 2nd Annual MotoSurf Texas Cup at Moody Gardens. MotoSurf is an internationally recognized and regulated sport, rapidly growing throughout the world. JetSurf is the fastest and lightest motorized surfboard in the world, and this competition will include the best JetSurfers from across the globe.
If you’ve read our feature for thrill-seekers (see page 36), you already know Galveston has some adventurous automobiles available for rent. But if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, or something the whole family can enjoy, look no further than a surrey. You can rent these family-size bikes at venues like the Salt Water Gift shop, and they’re perfect for coasting along the Seawall and capturing memories you’ll always treasure.
Scenic Saengerfest Park is comfortably nestled in Galveston’s Historic Strand District, and one of its alluring amenities is a life-size chess board available for games throughout the day. After trying your hand at chess, you can browse the shops downtown, grab a bite at a local restaurant and catch a late-night movie or music back at the park.
Since you’re already at Moody Gardens, you might as well stay for dinner, right? Colonel’s Paddlewheel Boat is a stunning replica of a classic 1800s paddlewheel boat. Think Mark Twain, then add a picturesque sunset and a savory dinner. The seacraft takes off from Moody Gardens and offers a rotating menu of themed dinners, including French cuisine and a bayou buffet. This is your chance to capture some breathtaking photos and enjoy fantastic food—all while cruising beneath the Texas sky.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Galveston without some seafaring adventures, and you have plenty of options for exploring the Gulf. Via GTX Charters, you can quite literally choose your own adventure. Want to see some dolphins? There’s a charter for that. Prefer a more adventurous, intrepid voyage? There’s a charter for that, too. You and your crew can even choose an overnight charter, dropping anchor off the coast and letting the waves rock you to sleep.
We’re calling “all aboard” to railroad enthusiasts and lovers of novelty experiences: Galveston’s top-notch railroad museum is home to fascinating lore and interesting anecdotes about the rails of our country and our state, and after strolling through the building, you can step back in time by boarding a train. The museum offers real-life railroad rides throughout the year, and a historic 1949 rail coach once used by actor Jackie Gleason is available for overnight stays.
And speaking of history, if you prefer to enjoy your blasts from the past on solid ground, Galveston’s Historic Homes tours (May 6-7 and 13-14) are ready for you. These tours are organized by the Galveston Historical Foundation, our resident experts for our Island’s illustrious history. You can experience firsthand the many generations of architectural innovations that have taken shape in our community, and you might just leave with one of the best souvenirs imaginable: Inspiration.
The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is housed in the former Ocean Star rig. Explore the retired rig in Galveston Harbor and learn about the oil and gas industry through hands-on activities and experiments. What trip to Texas would be complete without learning how to extract oil and gas from the ground?
Moody Gardens is an irresistible resort replete with just about any beachfront experience you can imagine. Take, for instance, the animal encounters. If you’ve ever wanted to meet a giant river otter up close and personal, Moody Gardens has you covered. Likewise, if you’d like to both meet a penguin and take home a painting created by said penguin (because who hasn’t?), the Private Penguin Encounter is the place to be.
713.582.0129
The Galveston Children’s Museum Learning Center is so informative and enjoyable that kids don’t even think of it as learning. The Museum’s interactive exhibits encourage creativity, inventiveness and resourcefulness. The museum also features local builders, artists, educators and crafters.
Galveston Island is well known for their Easter Egg hunts. One constant is the Easter Egg hunt at Seawolf Park where plenty of eggs are to be found along with some special eggs. Who knows, you might even see the Easter Bunny.
A Galveston getaway is always a great idea – particularly if you arrive as the beaches are opening. Spoiler alert: If you’re reading this that’s exactly what you’re doing. Both beaches are must-see destinations for anyone hoping to soak up the sun and grab some beach fun, and both opened March 11th.
Stewart Beach is Galveston’s premier family-friendly beach park, names as one of the “10 Best Beaches for Families” by Family Vacation Critic. Located where Broadway meets the Seawall, Stewart Beach has all the amenities you need for a family fun day.
Located on the eastern tip of the island, East Beach is home to a pavilion, boardwalk, and entertainment stage as well as restrooms, showers, chair and umbrella rentals, and a children’s playground. Unlive most Galveston beaches, alcohol is permitted at East Beach.
The Bryan Museum always delivers. Whether it’s a stirring exhibit showcasing the history and culture of Texas cowboys or the thoughtfully-curated collection on display at the museum year-round, you can always count on an intriguing experience inside this must-see museum. What’s more, the museum is available for private tours, allowing you and your fellow visitors to leisurely peruse the halls and absorb the art and history at your own pace.
Clay Cup Studio is a family-friendly business offering every type of craft you’d want to do, like throwing pots, canvas painting, or even fusing colored glass. The strength of Galveston’s art culture is so pervasive that you’re bound to encounter art on your trip, so take it up a notch and create some of your own.
You’ll find larger, more expensive wedding venues in Galveston, but you won’t find a more elegant setting for the most important day of your life. The 28,000-square-foot mansion is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, faithfully restored to its original splendor. It offers historical ambiance for memorable occasions like your wedding, reception, bridal photography, and more. For dramatic 360-degree views of the 1895 Moody Mansion, visit
Port of Galveston Cruise Parking is the most convenient, secure cruise parking on the island, with online reservations and 24-hour port police security. Sign up for our Loyalty Rewards program to earn discount points every time you reserve cruise parking. Park and walk from our Express lot or parking garage, or take the free shuttle from our nearby Economy lots. We’re also taking parking reservations now at the newly opened Royal Caribbean terminal. To sign up and reserve parking, visit
What better way to see historic Galveston than in a 1908 Model-T replica electric cart? Take it shopping on The Strand or stroll along the seawall. But don’t forget to tour all the historic homes, hunt for Tree Sculptures, Turtles About Town or take one of Carriage Haus’ new “Guided Tours” in these timeless vehicles.
Wave Dancer Charters is a private fishing company with more than 30 years experience in the Gulf of Mexico. Charter trips for up to six people include everything you need at no additional cost. We provide rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice and water. On arrival back to the dock, your catch will be cleaned and bagged for your trip home.
- AUGUST 13
Book by Terrence McNally • Music by David Yazbek
By Leslie Kimball
By Phil Olsen
By James McClure
Book by Harvey Fierstein • Music & Lyrics by Jerry Herman
Based on the play by Jean Poiret
By Ken Ludwig
Magni cent on the outside . . . You must see inside!
e 1895 Moody Mansion is lovingly restored, revealing to explore, and open daily for tours.
The Tremont House has long been the lodging of choice for Galveston visitors. Located in the historic Strand district, it is within walking distance of a wide array of shops, restaurants, museums and galleries. The hotel is a romantic retreat and home of The Rooftop Bar, Galveston’s only open-air rooftop lounge.
Create new memories and make your reservation online or by phone today!
Also home to the Galveston Children’s Museum, “Where Learning Is Child’s Play.” GalvestonCM.orgJULY 4 TH PARADE & FIREWORKS
DATE: July 4
WHERE: Seawall Boulevard from 59th to 22nd streets
ADMISSION: Free
From fireworks over the beach to a traditional hometown parade, Galveston knows how to do Independence Day. The Island will celebrate with its annual July 4th parade featuring a procession of floats, decorated military vehicles and performers.
Special Events April 2023 - October 2023
GALVESTON STEAMPUNK FESTIVAL
DATE: April 1-2
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place
ADMISSION: Day passes for children are $15 and $35 for adults
Visitors can experience machines, performances, music, costumes, lectures and more. Held at the Galveston Railroad Museum, the event will hearken back to a time inspired by 19th century industrial steam-powered machinery.
MEMORIAL HERMANN IRONMAN 70 . 3
DATE: April 2
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd.
ADMISSION: Free for spectators
The race will begin with a 1.2-mile saltwater swim in Offats Bayou followed by a 56-mile bike course along the Gulf Coast and a 13.1-mile run that will lead athletes to the finish line at Moody Gardens’ Discovery Pyramid.
TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE
DATE: April 13-16
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Galveston Harborside
ADMISSION: Adult tickets start at $15
The festival will feature five visiting ships along with Galveston’s own 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, the Official Tall Ship of Texas, with an exciting Parade of Sail in the Gulf along Seawall Boulevard on the afternoon of April 13.
DATE: April 29
TIME: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Postoffice Street from 20th to 23rd streets
ADMISSION: Free
Hosted by The Grand 1894 Opera House, the Grand Kids Festival introduces children and families to the arts. This year’s festival marks its 27th anniversary and features three blocks of activities, entertainment areas and vendor booths.
DATE: April 29-30
TIME: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place
ADMISSION: Adults $20, students 16 and under $15, 4 and under free, strollers welcome, Harborside Express Train Rides $8 per person
FESTIVAL
DATE: April 20-23
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Locations vary
ADMISSION: Prices vary
As one of the nation’s top locations for birding, Galveston Island will host the 21st annual FeatherFest, one of the largest birding festivals in Texas. FeatherFest is held during the spring bird migration—the best time to visit world-renowned birding hot spots of Bolivar Flats and High Island.
Plan to be at the Galveston Railroad Museum as model train collectors and enthusiasts display their train sets. Larger than you can imagine, these spectacular displays come with all the bells and whistles.
DATE: May 6-7 & 13-14
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Locations vary
ADMISSION: $35-$40
Rich in history and standing as a testament to survival, the Galveston Historic Homes Tour features numerous historical and architecturally significant homes located throughout the Island’s vibrant historic neighborhoods.
YAGA’ S WILD GAME & BBQ COOK - OFF
DATE: May 12-13
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Pier 21
ADMISSION: Free
Calling all backyard chefs, sportsmen and women, and outdoor enthusiasts: Come show off your culinary skills.
Benefiting the Yaga’s Children’s Fund, the event will feature a wild game cookoff, live entertainment, silent auction, “Run Wild 5K” and children’s activities.
WORLD OCEAN DAY
DATE: June 10
TIME: 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
WHERE: East Beach Park
ADMISSION: Free
World Ocean Day has been celebrated internationally since 2002. Here in Galveston, enjoy kayaking, interpretive beach tours and interactive exhibits hosted by eco-friendly businesses including Moody Gardens, Turtle Island Restoration Network and the Galveston Arts Center.
DATE: June 15-19
TIME: Varies
ADMISSION: Prices vary
Juneteenth originated in Galveston. This year’s festivities will include picnics, African American heritage exhibits, re-enactments and concerts. The annual reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in front of the official Juneteenth monument will take place June 19 to commemorate June 19, 1865—the date the last slaves were freed in the South.
HOTTER THAN HELL BIRDING COMPETITION
DATE: June 25-26
TIME: Noon Sunday to noon Monday
WHERE: Locations vary
ADMISSION: $100 per team
This semi-competitive race is to see which team can identify the most bird species in Galveston County in 24 hours. Teams consist of three to five members and participants help build citizen science data during one of the least birded times of the year.
MOODY GARDENS AIR, CAR AND BOAT SHOW
DATE: Aug. 11-13
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Moody Gardens marina, convention center and expo hall
ADMISSION: Prices vary
Daytime and evening performances will loop, roll and scream through the air with this unique air show that will range from the glory of the P-63 King Cobra and DH-115 Vampire to the Ghostwriter pyrotechnics show planes with daredevil pilots sending off fireworks trails to light up the night sky.
The Adams League Mansion
o ers eight distinct bedroom suites that have been renovated and adorned with sophisticated Victorian elegance. Whether you want to host a party, wedding, family reunion, or other event, the Adams League Mansion can provide you with the accommodations you need.
DATE: August 12-13
TIME: Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday all day
WHERE: East Beach
ADMISSION: Free
For the 36th year, members of the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects will hit the sand and build for five intense hours as they fight to maintain the structural integrity of their sculptures. The competition is considered one of the world’s largest amateur sandcastle competitions and draws thousands of spectators to watch teams vie for the coveted Golden Bucket Award.
DATE: August 25-27
TIME: Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
WHERE: Convention Center at the San Luis Resort, 5600 Seawall Boulevard
ADMISSION: Prices vary
Attendees have the opportunity to look, learn and participate in the fastestgrowing entertainment industry in the world. Visitors can participate in panel presentations and experience hands-on opportunities including virtual reality, new games and technology.
ISLAND RIDE OUT AND BIKE EXPO
DATE: Aug. 25-27
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Moody Gardens
ADMISSION: Prices vary
This 18-mile ride is the main event, featuring the latest gear and presentations by pros. Cyclists can choose from several of the Explore on Your Own tours, check out the Bike Pub Crawl, Reserved Back Alley Bicycler Zone and a Saturday Night Palm Beach Party with fireworks for Rideout participants and hotel guests.
GALVESTON ISLAND WILD TEXAS
SHRIMP FESTIVAL
DATE: Sept. 23-24
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand Street
ADMISSION: Prices vary
Entertainment Inc. will bring foodies a little taste of heaven by featuring some of the best shrimp gumbo the Gulf Coast has to offer. This year’s festival features seafood cook-off, gumbo tasting, L’il Shrimps Parade, live music, a children’s area and a Strand merchant walkabout.
GALVESTON GREEK FESTIVAL
DATE: October 7-8
Time: Saturday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sunday 12-5 p.m.
WHERE: Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 714 19th Street ADMISSION: Free
Two full days of Opa! and YaSou!, the event features authentic food prepared on site, Greek wines, Greek beer, bouzouki, Greek DJ, dancing, vendors,
gifts and tours of the Church. Souvenirs and merchandise from Greece are hand selected for the Galveston Greek Festival.
ARTOBERFEST
DATE: Oct. 21-22
TIME: Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Postoffice Street
ADMISSION: $5
The 26th annual ARToberFEST in downtown Galveston is a juried fine art festival that will feature various artists, food and live music on Postoffice Street amid Galveston’s Victorian architecture, art galleries and shops.
BIKE AROUND THE BAY
DATE: October 21-22
TIME: Sunrise
WHERE: Baytown
ADMISSION: Varies
Riders are given the option to participate in the full Bike Around the Bay two-day route from Baytown to Galveston and back or can select to ride one day. There is also a separate oneday ride on Galveston Island that starts at Moody Gardens.
HARVEST MOON REGATTA
DATE: October 26
TIME: Boats line up at noon, race starts at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Spectators can line up along the seawall from the Pleasure Pier westward
ADMISSION: Free
This annual sailboat race from Galveston to Port Aransas will be celebrating its 36th year. Spectators can watch the start of the race as it sails past the iconic Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.
DATE: Oct. 27-28
TIME: Varies
WHERE: First Lutheran Church, 2415 Winnie Street, Galveston
ADMISSION: Free
Island Oktoberfest will “oompah” back to Galveston for its 41st year, celebrating German heritage with a full weekend of food, drinks, live performances, games and special activities. Attendees are encouraged to dress in traditional German costumes.
DATE: October 2023
TIME: Varies
WHERE: Locations vary
ADMISSION: Prices vary
The place of the deadliest storm in U.S. history, Galveston Island is a popular destination for “haunted” exploration. From a 112-year-old “haunted” hotel to Galveston’s storied harbor, cemeteries and Victorian mansions, there are numerous ghost tours to be explored throughout October.
There’s always action on the Island. Go to visitgalveston.com / events for a full list of happenings, dates, prices and times, as well as new events and cancellations.
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was born in Switzerland in 1824. He began working at age 17 in a textile factory and quickly befriended John Hessly (his employer’s son). He soon joined Hessly on his journey to Galveston in 1843 to pursue a partnership in a dry-goods store and wound up buying out Hessly’s shares in less than three years and becoming sole owner. Rosenberg thrived in Galveston and quickly became an active investor in banking, real estate and transportation.
In 1869, Rosenberg was appointed Swiss consul to Texas, a position that he held until his death. He served as director of First National Bank of Galveston in 1868 and expanded his influence in 1871 when he became president of the Galveston City Railroad Company. He served as chairman of the licenses and assessments committee, then a second term as the chair of the finance and revenue committee.
Rosenberg served on the city library committee and helped organize the Galveston Bank and Trust Company in 1874, serving as both its president and manager. He served as president of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway Company and as vice president of the Galveston Wharf Company from 1889 until his death in 1893. He was a supporter of Trinity Episcopal Church and contributed to the construction of Eaton Memorial Chapel in 1882. Later, he became an active member of Grace Episcopal Church and built the Rosenberg Free School, which he donated to the city of Galveston in 1886.
The depth of his devotion to civic contributions, however, would not be fully realized until his passing. His will stipulated that funds were to be provided for the construction of the Galveston Orphans’ Home (which now houses The Bryan Museum), a sizable endowment for Grace Episcopal Church, and funds to construct 17 drinking fountains “for man and beast” throughout Galveston. More than half of the original 17 fountains remain on the Island, perhaps the most impressive of which is on the corner of 21st and Strand, which features separate receptacles for people, horses and dogs. Many visitors to the Island make it their quest to find all nine.
Rosenberg’s will further provided money for the construction of a building to house the Galveston Men’s YMCA (unfortunately, torn down in 1954) and a heroes’ monument commemorating those who fought in the Texas Revolution (at the intersection of 25th and Broadway). Finally, Rosenberg bequeathed more than $600,000 for a free public library, the Rosenberg Library, which still serves Galveston today (the first public library in Texas).
He was married to Letitia Cooper from 1851 until her death in 1888. He then married Mollie Ragan Macgill in 1889. Both marriages were childless. He died in Galveston on May 12, 1893, and was laid to rest in Loudon Park Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland, beside his first wife. His residence still stands at 1306 Market Street.
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