Galveston Travel Information
Thirty-two miles of beaches, surf and sun make Galveston one of the
most popular vacation destinations in Texas—even for Texans.
Sailors, surfers and beachcombers fall into the relaxed, easy island
pace, lulled by the water lapping onshore and palm trees bending in
the winds. Once devastated by a hurricane in 1900 (the
deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history), Galveston made a
remarkable comeback. Some of the buildings survived the hurricane and
are still standing, as part of the 36 square block historic district.
Antique and art galleries, shops and businesses fill the ornate
buildings. Carriage rides are a unique way to travel through
tree-lined streets in The Strand and other historic districts. This
isn’t to say that Galveston is all well-preserved history.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark is certainly a new
development, and the three pyramids of the Moody Gardens are island
landmarks. These pyramids are the Rainforest Pyramid, the Discovery
Pyramid, and the Aquarium Pyramid and together they create an
attraction part zoo and part amusement park. Because of its
proximity to Louisiana, Cajun influences abound on the island,
including a huge Mardi Gras celebration. It's not unusual to see a
purple or yellow house along the road for a touch of Mardi Gras spirit
year-round. The island also has a touch of pure French influence, as
pirate Jean Lafitte once made Galveston his home. It's rumored he
buried treasure on the island, though it's never been found.
All along the shores, dinner cruises, paddlewheel boats and
charters are readily available. For a different kind of sea
experience, at the Texas Seaport Museum and Tall Ship Elissa you can
climb aboard the ship for a firsthand view of this National Historic
Landmark and American Treasure, this ship over 120 years old and still
sailable. Galveston lies offshore of Houston. Take I-45 across
the bridge.
| 
