Galveston Insider

Category: Travel

Travel and tourism in Galveston

  • Testing Location Blocks

    Welcome to our Galveston guide! You can visit the for rides and entertainment, or explore the for Victorian architecture and shopping.

    Hotel Galvez

    Hotel Galvez & Spa is a historic beachfront hotel in Galveston, Texas, originally built in 1911 and nicknamed the “Queen of the Gulf” for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities. Today it offers modern rooms, a spa, and event spaces while maintaining its elegant, early-20th-century charm.

    Hotel Lucine

    Hotel Lucine is a boutique 61-room beachfront property in Galveston, redesigned from a midcentury motel, that blends retro coastal charm with modern design. Its amenities include a rooftop bar with panoramic ocean views, a signature “American fine-ish” restaurant called The Fancy, and a central courtyard pool around which guest rooms are arranged.

    Hotel Galvez

    Hotel Galvez & Spa is a historic beachfront hotel in Galveston, Texas, originally built in 1911 and nicknamed the “Queen of the Gulf” for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities. Today it offers modern rooms, a spa, and event spaces while maintaining its elegant, early-20th-century charm.

    Hotel Galvez

    Hotel Galvez & Spa is a historic beachfront hotel in Galveston, Texas, originally built in 1911 and nicknamed the “Queen of the Gulf” for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities. Today it offers modern rooms, a spa, and event spaces while maintaining its elegant, early-20th-century charm.

    Hotel Galvez

    Hotel Galvez & Spa is a historic beachfront hotel in Galveston, Texas, originally built in 1911 and nicknamed the “Queen of the Gulf” for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities. Today it offers modern rooms, a spa, and event spaces while maintaining its elegant, early-20th-century charm.

  • Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path in Galveston

    Hidden gems and scenic spots in Galveston

    Beyond the popular tourist attractions, Galveston holds many secrets waiting to be discovered. Here are some lesser-known spots that showcase the island’s unique character.

    Tree Sculptures Tour

    Hurricane Ike left many dead trees in its wake, but local artists transformed them into incredible sculptures. Take a self-guided tour to find over 30 carved masterpieces throughout the island.

    Galveston Railroad Museum

    Located in the restored Santa Fe Depot, this museum houses one of the largest collections of restored railroad equipment in the Southwest. Perfect for train enthusiasts and families.

    Bryan Beach State Park

    Just a short drive from Galveston, this undeveloped beach offers excellent fishing, bird watching, and beachcombing without the crowds.

    The Bryan Villa

    This stunning 1859 mansion offers guided tours showcasing antebellum architecture and period furnishings. It’s one of the few pre-Civil War structures to survive the 1900 storm.

    Galveston Bay Fishing

    Skip the crowded piers and try wade fishing in the bay. The shallow waters are perfect for catching redfish, trout, and flounder, especially during dawn and dusk.

    East End Historic District

    Walk through this residential area to see beautiful Victorian homes away from the tourist areas. Many of these houses showcase the island’s architectural recovery after 1900.

  • Best Beaches in Galveston: A Local’s Guide

    Beautiful Galveston beach with clear blue waters

    Galveston Island offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the Texas Gulf Coast. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or a peaceful escape, here are the top beaches every visitor should know about.

    East Beach

    Known as the largest beach park in Texas, East Beach is perfect for families and party-goers alike. With amenities like pavilions, restrooms, and chair rentals, it’s the most developed beach on the island.

    Stewart Beach

    Located near the historic downtown area, Stewart Beach offers easy access to restaurants and shopping. The beach features umbrellas, chair rentals, and is great for swimming.

    Galveston Island State Park

    For those seeking a more natural experience, the state park offers pristine beaches with excellent bird watching and fishing opportunities. It’s less crowded and perfect for nature lovers.

    West Beach

    The quieter side of the island, West Beach is ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds while still enjoying beautiful Gulf waters and sand.