The Strand Galveston or the historic downtown area of Galveston preserves the historical underpinnings of the city. The district center embraces diverse activities and attractions ranging from Victorian buildings to restaurants, nightclubs, wide varieties of shopping stores. The cosmopolitan strand or Avenue B as it is commonly referred to, is very popular for its seasonal Christmas festival, dickens on strand and the celebration of Mardi Gras. Today, it is renowned as a historic landmark that attracts tourists for its captivating attractions like museums and art-galleries. Certainly, it defines the entertainment pulse of the city.
You will probably want to stay at this restored station and explore the train replicas for many hours. The old Santa Fe Depot looks much the same as it did in its 1930s heyday. Multimedia studios will educate you on the history of rail transportation in the area. Located on Galveston's popular Strand, it is the perfect spot to bring the kids for a full day of activities. After all, everyone knows how the little ones feel about trains. See website for admission and complete visitor details.
The museum interactively portrays the mechanism of oil rigs. The technology is explained with the aid of a video presentation. Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum offers guided tours as well.
Moody Gardens is a picturesque entertainment complex off the West Bay. Established in 1983, it continues to provide education and a living to persons with disabilities. Whether you're on the island for business or pleasure, explore the plethora of experiences it has to offer. The Rainforest Pyramid is home to over 1,000 endangered species of flora and fauna from forests across Asia and Africa. Get up close and personal with Saki Monkeys, macaws and exotic flowers. Aquarium Pyramid is an ode to the Pacific and Atlantic with penguins, seahorses and sharks encompassing the tropical array. Enjoy an astronomic and scientific expedition at the Discovery Pyramid, or the latest blockbuster at the IMAX theater. Laze around on the sandy shores of Palm Beach, Texas's very own paradise complete with a wave pool and river. The pyramids are an oasis of fun and relaxation.
Galveston visitors looking for a place to enjoy nature, swimming, walking trails, fishing or just surf and sun usually find their way to this park. Covering about 2000 acres, the park reaches from the west island bay to the Gulf of Mexico. It is a family paradise with picnic grounds, observation towers, bird watching and full camping facilities. Evening outdoor entertainment is offered during the summer months and reservations are advised for overnight ventures. Located on the west side of Galveston, it is easy to spot. Bring along the family and have some fun in the sun.
Cruise into this harbor and enjoy a trip back to the 19th century. This is the home of "The Elissa" a Scottish sailing vessel built in 1877. She took part in the bi-centennial parade to New York City Harbor July 4th 1976 and still takes a voyage now and then. The museum features computerized information about the immigrants who entered Texas through the Port of Galveston. You will also find assorted maritime exhibits and two screens that show exciting sea films throughout the day.
G. Lee Gallery, is a small art gallery, owned by George Doughlas. The gallery is known for being unique as the main artist of the gallery has been a passionate painter since his second grade, hence the pictures here have a personal feel to it. Its collection features scenic landscaping, paintings of historical facts and children's story books. Visit the gallery to find interesting historical and cultural facts of the town.
Comprised of seven burial grounds created during 1839 and 1939, the Old City Cemetery is made up of paved walkways and concrete curbs. Tall monuments are carved from granite and marble to create seven large above ground vaults. It contains about 900 burials memorizing people who died during the Great Storm of 1900.
The Clear Lake Park is located on the shores of a beautiful lake which goes by the same name. The park is a major picnic spot and includes various sports activities. Clear Lake Park Pavilion is an open-air, covered facility available for picnics, parties and other events. In fact, the Landolt Pavilion is host to the annual Crowfish Festival which includes crawfish eating competition, games, arts and crafts stalls and great live entertainment. The Clear Lake Celtic Music Festival held here too is extremely popular amongst locals as well as tourists.