THINGS TO DO ON THE ISLAND
Bryan Museum
Step into history with a tour of The Bryan Museum, located at 1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550! Home to one of the largest collections of Southwestern artifacts, this hidden gem offers a captivating journey through Texas and the American West. Explore rare maps, antique firearms, stunning art, and early Spanish relics—all telling the story of resilience and adventure.
Don’t miss the breathtaking stained-glass conservatory and beautiful courtyard. Whether you’re a history buff or just love discovering something new, this museum is a must-visit!
Shopping on
The Strand
Stroll through the heart of Galveston’s historic district and discover The Strand, a shopper’s paradise filled with unique boutiques, local art, coastal treasures, and charming souvenir shops. Whether you’re hunting for beachy decor, handmade jewelry, or nostalgic candy from an oldfashioned soda shop, this vibrant area has something for everyone. With its stunning 19th-century architecture and lively atmosphere, shopping on The Strand is more than just retail therapy—it’s a true Galveston experience!
Knapp Flower Shop
For generations, Galvestonians have trusted Knapp Flower Shop, located at 1122 45th St, Galveston, TX 77550, to express love, joy, and remembrance with fresh, custom floral designs. From everyday bouquets to weddings and special events, their expert florists craft unique arrangements using blooms that arrive daily. Whether you’re welcoming spring with vibrant plants or honoring a loved one, Knapp Flower Shop has been bringing beauty to Galveston since 1926.
Let’s EatWITH G A L V E S T O N I S L A N D TA C O
Craving bold flavors on the island?
Head over to Galveston Island Taco, located in Hendley Green Park at 412 20th St. in Downtown Galveston. This local gem is owned by Diego Gutierrez, a proud Galveston native who brings his passion for bold, authentic flavors to every dish. Their al pastor tacos are packed with flavor, featuring perfectly marinated pork with just the right balance of spice and sweetness. And if you’re in the mood for a burger, their smashburgers are a must-try—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the edges. Whether you’re after classic street tacos or a next-level burger, Galveston Island Taco is serving up some of the best bites on the island!
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HIDDEN GEMS
Saddle up for an unforgettable experience at Galveston Island Horse & Pony Rides (GIHPR), located at 1929 Boddeker Rd. in Galveston!
Since July 2015, this locally owned, family-friendly business has been sharing their passion for horses and the beauty of Galveston Island with visitors. The team at GIHPR consists of skilled horsemen and an exceptional herd of horses, all dedicated to providing a fun, educational, and unique experience on the beach. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the stunning coastal views or learn more about horseback riding, they offer something for everyone.
Plus, they offer special discounts for BOI (Born on the Island) locals, military, police officers, first responders, and loyal customers. It’s the perfect spot for a memorable ride along the shore with great service and incredible horses!
A MARCH AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
Meet Vanessa Mayorga, the organizer of the March Against Discrimination — a powerful event aimed at raising awareness about various forms of discrimination. These marches unite people from all walks of life in solidarity, advocating for equality and justice while championing the rights and dignity of marginalized communities.
Vanessa Mayorga
March 1881 marked a pivotal moment in the history of medical education and healthcare in Texas with the founding of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston. Established as one of the earliest medical institutions in the state, UTMB has played a crucial role in shaping the future of medicine in Texas and beyond, becoming a cornerstone in Galveston’s reputation as a hub for healthcare and medical research.
The idea of creating a medical school in Texas had been discussed for years, with various cities vying to host the institution. At the time, Galveston was emerging as a vital port city with a growing population and a pressing need for healthcare services. Ultimately, it was the vision of Texas state leaders and health professionals that led to the establishment of UTMB.
Through a legislative act, the University of Texas Medical Branch was officially founded, and Galveston was chosen as the site for the new medical school due to its prominence as a thriving coastal city with established infrastructure, including an active port and a dynamic economy. This made it an ideal location to serve both the academic and practical needs of the state.
From its inception, UTMB’s mission was clear: to provide high-quality medical education, promote health research, and serve the community through healthcare services. The institution was committed to training physicians who could meet the growing healthcare demands of the state while contributing to advancements in health and wellness through research.
The founding of UTMB was a significant step in the development of the medical field in Texas. Before its establishment, medical education options in the state were limited, and many aspiring doctors had to leave Texas to pursue their degrees. UTMB’s creation marked a turning point, making medical education more accessible to Texans and contributing to the state’s expanding healthcare infrastructure.
In its early years, UTMB quickly became an essential institution for both the academic community and the residents of Galveston. It attracted talented physicians, researchers, and educators, contributing to the intellectual and cultural growth of the city.
Beyond education, UTMB also played a critical role in improving public health services in Galveston. As one of the first medical institutions in Texas, UTMB was instrumental in treating the region’s population and advancing public health initiatives. Its faculty and students contributed to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, as well as the development of health protocols for the community.
UTMB also became a hub for medical research in Texas. Early research efforts focused on infectious diseases, which were a significant concern at the time, especially in coastal cities like Galveston, vulnerable to epidemics. The research conducted at UTMB contributed to combating diseases such as yellow fever, malaria, and tuberculosis, which had long plagued the region.
Over the years, UTMB has evolved into one of the most respected medical institutions in the United States, expanding its scope to offer a worldclass hospital, clinics, and specialized research centers. The school’s commitment to education and training remains central to its mission, continuing to produce some of the nation’s top medical professionals.
UTMB’s influence on Galveston and the broader Texas healthcare landscape is immeasurable. It helped solidify Galveston’s reputation as a center for medical innovation and expertise, playing a critical role in improving the health and well-being of Texans for generations.
Meet Hector Martinez, the talent behind Hectic Ink, has been tattooing for over five years, specializing in black and grey realism. His passion for art, especially in charcoal and pencil drawings, translates into his intricate and lifelike tattoos. Hector focuses on custom designs and often works from references to ensure precision. He creates meaningful, personal tattoos, including memorable memorial pieces. Whether it’s your first tattoo or a new addition, Hector’s expertise guarantees exceptional work.
Q: How long have you been tattooing, and how did you get started?
A: I’ve been tattooing for a little over five years, on and off. I started my part-time apprenticeship in 2018, but my tattoo journey came to a halt in 2020 due to the pandemic. That’s why I say five years— since I wasn’t able to tattoo during that time.
Q: Can you describe your tattoo style or specialties?
A: My tattoo style is a mix of everything, but my favorite is black and grey realism. I’ve always gravitated toward charcoal and pencil drawings in my artwork, so naturally, that’s what I feel most comfortable with when tattooing.
Q: How do you stay up to date with tattooing techniques and trends?
A: I have a great mentor, Chauncey Kochel (CK), who is always willing to give me advice, answer my questions, and help in any way he can. The “University of YouTube” has also been a huge resource for learning and staying current.
Q: How do you approach custom designs? Do you prefer to create your own or work off a reference?
A: I love the opportunity to be creative and design custom pieces. However, since black and grey realism often requires a high level of detail and accuracy, I typically work from references.
Q: What do you love most about tattooing?
A: First and foremost, I LOVE art—it’s my passion. Tattooing is the ultimate form of art for me. Having my canvas be a person who is proud to wear my work on their body is an incredible honor.
Q: Do you have any advice for someone getting their first tattoo?
A: Think about placement—not just for this tattoo but for any future ones you might want. I’ve had clients regret past tattoos because they didn’t consider how they would flow with a full sleeve or larger design later on. Sometimes, we end up having to cover them to make everything cohesive.
Q: What’s the most meaningful tattoo you’ve worked on?
A: I can’t pick just one. I’ve done multiple memorial tattoos that have been truly meaningful to me. Memorial tattoos hold deep significance for people, and the fact that they trust me to create something so personal is an honor.
Zoppe Family Circus
Thursday, March 13 • 6:00 PM
401 Seawall Blvd in Galveston, TX
Experience stunning acrobatics, thrilling equestrian feats, hilarious clowns, and touching storytelling. With its timeless charm and family-friendly vibe, it promises an evening full of laughter and wonder. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tradition!
2nd
Annual Marchtoberfest
Saturday, March 15 • 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
8423 Stewart Rd., Galveston, Tx
A fun, unique event that combines the spirit of Oktoberfest with a springtime twist. It is held in March and celebrates German heritage, culture, and traditions. The festival features live music, German food, craft beer, games, and various familyfriendly activities. The event typically includes a variety of German-style beers, bratwurst, pretzels, and other traditional dishes, alongside live entertainment such as polka bands and other local music performances.
Galveston Craft Show
Saturday, March 15 - 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, March 16 - 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
5600 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, Tx
Showcasing a wide variety of handcrafted items from local and regional artisans. Features a large selection of unique, handmade crafts, including jewelry, home décor, clothing, art, pottery, candles, and more. It provides a great opportunity for attendees to shop for one-of-a-kind items, meet talented crafters, and support small businesses.
Salsa’s Mexican Restaurant
Known for its vibrant decor and delicious Mexican cuisine, Salsa’s is a great place for a lively night out. You can enjoy great food, margaritas, and a fun atmosphere to keep the energy going. Check out the mariachi’s on Wednesday’s.
Galveston Yacht Basin
For a more quiet, upscale night, you can visit the Galveston Yacht Basin. It’s a scenic place to enjoy a stroll along the water or even dine in some nearby upscale restaurants.
Galveston Island Ferry
For a peaceful, scenic experience, consider taking a ride on the Galveston Island Ferry. The ferry operates 24/7, so you can catch a late-night ride and enjoy a beautiful view of the bay and nearby islands. It’s a relaxing way to end the evening.
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