Must See Sights and Landmarks in Galveston Area

"Why You’ll Love It: One of the most historically significant homes of the Victorian eras in the USA, this lavish home, is also known as The Gresham House. It was built in an ornate style with colored stone, stained glass windows, bronze sculptures, and lush furnishings including a fireplace lined with silver!. Taking from 1886 to 1892 to build, the 17,420 square feet residence is opulent."

"Built as a private residence, the Bishop's Palace, also referred to as Gresham's Castle, is often described as one of the most significant Victorian mansions in America. It was completed in 1893 after seven years of construction. Highlights include its castle-like exterior, complete with turrets and towers and sculpted granite, limestone, and sandstone."

"Home to the 1877 tall ship Elissa, a national historic landmark, the Texas Seaport Museum tells the maritime history of Galveston, which was known as "The Ellis Island of the West" in the 1800s. The Texas Seaport Museum has the nation’s only computerized listing of immigrants to Galveston, Texas. The museum’s immigration exhibit tells the story of immigrants who arrived in the United States via ships docking in Galveston Harbor."

"Galveston Historical Foundation brought Elissa from a scrapyard in Greece in 1978. The 1877 Tall Ship Elissa was fully restored and it has been floating as Galveston museum ship ever since. Elissa is one of only 3 ships of its kind in the world and it has been welcoming over 40,000 visitors annually."

"A beautiful old 3-master, the tall ship Elissa is one of the most former ships still in operation today. Built-in Aberdeen, Scotland, Elissa first launched in 1877. Based at the Texas Seaport Museum, the vessel has been designated a National Historic Landmark since 1990."

"On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger stood on the balcony of the building and declared that all slaves were free, marking the date of the historic Juneteenth celebrations in Texas. Ashton Villa was not only the first mansion built on Broadway Boulevard, it was the first mansion built on the island and one of the first brick residences in Galveston, according to Galveston.com. Constructed in 1859 by James M. Brown, a wealthy businessman, the three-story home was built in the Victorian Italianate style and features ornate verandas adorned with cast iron accents."

"Built in Victorian Italianate style, Ashton Villa was one of the first brick structures in Texas when it was constructed in 1859. European craftsmen and slave labour were used to build this home for Colonel James Moreau Brown, a prominent hardware merchant and banker. Today the Villa is home to the Galveston Island Visitors Centre."

"The Strand is one of the first places to visit in Galveston. View historic 19th-century homes, learn more about the history of Galveston, visit a museum, shop ‘til you drop at one of the area’s Galveston boutiques. You may also socialize at one of the bars, or stop by for a bite to eat at one of the mom-and-pop diners located along The Strand, a five-block historic area located nearby the pier."

"The Strand is located in Galveston’s historical downtown district. With an array of intriguing shops, galleries and museums, this is where you can get some of the most eccentric souvenirs. The old-fashioned candy parlor is a great place to visit if you have a sweet tooth."

"Kempner Park is a neighborhood park that is free and open to the public. It has a meandering walkway, lots of shade from numerous oak trees, an historic fountain that dates to 1896 and the Albert Kuhn Memorial Pergola. You’ll also find the stunningly, beautiful 1880 Garten Verein, a dance pavilion that hails from Galveston’s late 1800’s German community."

"Novice fisherman, or those who just want to experience a true Galveston tradition, will enjoy the 61st street fishing pier. It’s open 24/7 from March until December (although hours vary depending on weather conditions), and offers fully rigged rental rods at the rate of $8 per day, including bait. If rods, reels, and bait aren't your thing, you can grab a hot dog and a beer as you watch the fishing action or marvel at the beautiful sunset, but note that there’s a $10 entry fee to get on the two-level pier."

"Fresh baked goods plus an all-day menu of down-home American meals in a homey setting with a patio. Serves an AMAZING breakfast and brunch. They have great homemade waffles, whip cream, and real maple syrup!"

"Enjoy sandwiches, soups, daily dinner specials, or Sunday Brunch. Or, just stop by and pick up something scrumptious from the bakery!. Hours may vary seasonally."

"You can find Woody’s located on the beautiful Galveston Island in Texas!. Paired with great dining you’ll get to enjoy being directly on the beach with panoramic views of the Gulf!. Woody’s is known for having their full Liquor bar, a large selection of draft and imported beers, plus live music every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on the Deck."

"If you’re looking for some sun and sand close to Moody Gardens, look no further than Pocket Park 1. Located at 11102 San Luis Pass Road on the west end of Galveston, and is one of the few area beaches that offers on-beach parking. Pocket Park 1 makes it easy to set up camp for the day and even grill out if you want."