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Galveston Overview
Editor's Note: Carnival Cruise Lines' Carnival Ecstasy and Carnival Conquest resumed regular service from Galveston on November 1, 2008, a month and a half after Hurricane Ike devastated the island. Read how the rest of the island is recovering one year later.
On a barrier island just two miles off the coast of Texas in the Gulf of Mexico, this now rather trendy resort town is not just well known for its 32-mile-long beach shaped by wind and waves, but also for its charming Victorian architecture scattered throughout the downtown historic districts. Once one of the wealthiest cities in Texas and "the Wall Street of the South," a devastating hurricane in 1900 nearly swept it away, killing thousands. Today, more than a century later, it is guarded by a 17-foot seawall (a must for strolling) and the waterfront town of Galveston has most definitely returned to its former Victorian glory.
There are several neighborhoods on the National Register of Historic Places that are hard to resist when it comes to sightseeing, but put the Strand District, where you'll find plenty of shops and restaurants amid Victorian iron-front buildings, and the East End District, where you'll spot exquisite gems like Bishop's Palace, on top of your list.
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Other U.S.A. Cruise Ports:
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Language
English.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money
As Galveston is part of the U.S., the currency is the U.S. dollar. International visitors will find it easy to access cash at numerous ATM machines. Exchange bureaus so common in Europe are not in the U.S., but major banks also provide exchange services. Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Some are open on Saturday mornings.
Getting Around
The George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is about 70 miles from Galveston. Hobby Airport (HOU) is closer at 42 miles. And yet: The journey is about an hour and a half from either airport.
At either airport you'll find all the major car rental agencies, such as National,Avis,Dollar, Thrifty and Hertz, and all have locations in Galveston for returning the rental. Daily rentals will run about $70. Parking is available at the cruise terminal and will run about $10 a day. Free shuttle service from the parking facilities to the piers is available.
Notes: These shuttles do not include luggage handling services. The Consolidated Rental Car Facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport centralizes the operations of nine different national agencies. Look for the white and maroon shuttle bus (it's marked "Rental Car Shuttle") outside baggage claim areas.
Galveston Limousine offers frequent service from both airports to the cruise terminal in Galveston. The fare is $30 ($50 roundtrip). For more information, visit www.galvestonlimousineservice.com. Other limousine companies that offer excellent service are Absolutely Limos and Emerald Limousines, both based out of Galveston.
Taxi service from both airports is another option. A typical fare from Hobby is $75, and from George Bush Intercontinental, about $100. There are a number of taxi companies in Galveston: Busy Bee (409-762-6666), Yellow Cab Company (409-763-3333) and Tropical Taxi (409-621-4000) are reliable companies to consider.
Cruise lines typically offer motorcoach services between the airport and Galveston; these are generally available both as part of air/sea packages and a la carte.
Galveston is a walking paradise, but if you prefer to get around on wheels, consider Island Transit, their public transportation system. It operates daily, covering 27 square miles, and stops at designated bus stops and intersections. Fare is $0.60. The Galveston Trolley charges $1. Service along most routes run from approximately 6:15 a.m. until about 7 p.m. (the Bayou Seawall Loop runs until nearly midnight), but check for extended hours on a number of routes. For more information, visit www.islandtransit.net.
Where You're Docked
The Port of Galveston on Harborside Drive.
Hanging Around
$35 million has been invested in expanding and improving the terminal, including a huge passenger waiting area, expanded check-in stations and VIP check-in. But you'll be close to the Strand and all the beaches and attractions, so there's no need to stay put. You'll find in town all the usual services such as telephones, ATMs, etc.
Don't Miss
 On the American Institute of Architects' list of the 100 outstanding buildings in the U.S. is Bishop's Palace, named for the Galveston-Houston Catholic diocese that was housed here from 1923 - 1950. Designed by Nicholas Clayton for Colonel Walter Gresham, it took seven years to build and was completed in 1893. Wait'll you see the hand-carved staircase that took three years to construct. Labor Day - Memorial Day: Daily noon - 4 p.m. Memorial Day - Labor Day: Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Sunday noon - 4 p.m. 1402 Broadway.
In the East End, visit the 31-room Moody Mansion Museum to see the treasures of one of the city's founding families. Guided tours begin on the hour. Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday noon - 4 p.m. 2618 Broadway.
The Texas Seaport Museum is where to see the 430-ton square-rigger Elissa, which was built in Scotland in 1877 and still sails the Gulf coast and beyond. The museum's computer database lets visitors look for information on more than 133,000 immigrants who passed through the Port of Galveston, much like Ellis Island in New York. Information includes their countries of origin, dates of arrival and planned destinations. Daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Harborside Dr.
You'll find most of the city's art galleries along Postoffice Road. Top spots for stopping include the Buchanan Gallery for contemporary works and the E Street Gallery that has the Coffee Haus next door. There's also an Artwalk put on by the city every six weeks or so.
Visit the Railroad Museum and Terminal to see an old waiting room -- now called the People's Gallery -- with 39 life-sized "passengers" whose actual conversations you can listen in on. Outside, on the tracks, you'll see old Pullman sleepers, a 1922 Santa Fe engine and more. Wednesday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m, but hours can vary, so call ahead. 25th St. and Strand.
Nearly 250 acres of sun, fun and, believe it or not, education are what you'll find inside Moody Gardens. There's a 10-story Rainforest Pyramid filled with lush tropical plants, butterflies, birds, bats and fish; a 400-seat IMAX 3D Theater; a Discovery Museum housing interactive space exhibits inspired by NASA; and an IMAX Ridefilm Theater offering guests a moving, shaking space-film experience. There's an excellent beach here, Palm Beach, replete with lagoons and waterfalls. Daily 10 a.m. - 8 p.m (until 9 p.m. during the summer months). Hope Blvd.
If it has anything to do with Texans and aviation, you'll find it at the Lone Star Flight Museum. Take a look at over 35 aircraft and a memorial to the 303rd Bomb Group (H) Eighth Air Force. Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 2002 Terminal Dr.
Been There, Done That
Take a guided tour of the Ashton Villa, an 1859 Italianate brick mansion built by a New Yorker who became one of the richest men in Texas, James Moreau Brown. Early September - May, noon - 4 p.m. 2328 Broadway.
Consider a ride on a paddlewheeler day or night. The captain of the Colonel gives a great overview of the sights, and the evening cruises include dinner and live music. April - Labor Day: Noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m.; September - March 2 p.m., 7 p.m. Moody Gardens, Hope Blvd.
Some say it is the oldest library in continuous operation in Texas, so do take time to visit the Rosenberg Library. Its Fox Rare Book Room has incunabula (a book printed before 1501), first editions and historic maps. There's also a sizable collection of Russian and Greek icons. Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday until 6 p.m. 2310 Sealy Ave.
If you'd like to see an exceptional documentary on the hurricane of 1900, stop in at the Pier 21 Theater. Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., running every hour on the half hour. Harborside Dr. and 21st St.
The only winery in Galveston County, the Haak Vineyards and Winery makes premium wines (try their award-winning Blanc du Bois), not just from local grapes but from other areas of Texas. It's down the road a piece (about 20 miles) in Santa Fe, TX -- and worth the trip for tours and tastings. They also have a wonderful experimental olive orchard that's worth a look. Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday noon - 6 p.m.6310 Ave. T, Santa Fe.
Beaches
East Beach: Party central! You can find everything here from umbrellas and water sport equipment rentals to bars, concerts, the Big Reef Nature Park and a gift shop. Drinking on the beach is legal here. Closed from mid-October to February. Swimming here can be a bit risky, since there are lots of fishermen around, which translates to getting "hooked!" Boddeker Dr.
Galveston State Park: The beaches here are quiet, but there are no lifeguards. A good idea if you want to mix it up with hiking the four miles of trails and maybe do a bit of birdwatching. On the west end of Galveston Island.
Stewart Beach: Good choice for families. There are plenty of amenities such as umbrella/chair rentals, snack bars, changing rooms, volley ball courts, a water slide and even a mini golf course and a huge human maze. No alcohol. Closed November - February. 6th Street & Seawall Blvd.
Lunching
Clary's Seafood Restaurant: One of the fancier and more romantic spots in town (men: jackets required). You'll find Cajun-infused seafood aplenty on the menu. Per-person cost for three courses including a beer will run about $45. Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Sunday from noon. 8509 Teichman Rd.
Mod Coffee and Tea House: Cheap and delicious. We love the black bean wrap that's filled with grilled squash, zucchini, smoked mozzarella, perfectly grilled onions and yes, black beans. All served with the best coffee. Per-person cost for three courses including a beer will run about $15. Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., Saturday - Sunday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. 2126 Postoffice St.
Queen's Bar-B-Que: Award-winning -- you'll be licking your fingers after finishing up some of the best hickory-smoked food you ever did taste. Per-person cost for three courses including a root beer will run about $15. Monday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sunday 11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. 3428 Avenue S.
Saltwater Grill: Said to have the best seafood in town. Per-person cost for three courses with wine will run about $30. Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Reservations strongly recommended. 2017 Postoffice St.
Shrimp 'n' Stuff: For nearly 30 years, this cute place is where locals head for gumbo, hush puppies, fried fish and plenty of oysters. In fact, Zagat's once rated their oyster po-boy the best in the state of Texas. Per-person cost for three courses with wine will run about $14. Sunday - Thursday 10:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m., Saturday until 9:30 p.m. 3901 Ave. O.
Sky Bar: If you're looking for trendy, look no further. Wonderful sushi. Per-person cost for three courses with wine (we suggest sake) will run about $50. 2107 Postoffice St.
Accommodations
Total Splurge: The Hotel Galvez because it's where the likes of Teddy Roosevelt and Frank Sinatra hung their hats when they were in town. The Mermaid & the Dolphin because for a B & B, it's tops.
Middle of the Road: Moody Gardens Hotel because the location is fabulous and there are plenty of great rooms for reasonable rates. Tremont House because not only is it charming, it's also well-priced.
On a Shoestring: Hilton Galveston Island Resort because the rooms are large and clean, and it's next door to its sister hotel, the San Luis, which has tennis, a spa and plenty to do for the kids. Best Western Beachfront Inn because not only are the rooms clean and comfortable, but cruisers also get free parking.
Staying in Touch
Juju Hangout & Bar is within walking distance of the port (about two blocks), and has become a well-known "hangout" for locals and cruise ship passengers. Delicious burgers and fries are on the menu, and it houses Playstation 2 set-ups for kids that add to the fun and festive atmosphere (2408 Strand).
Saengerfest Park, also close to port (about three blocks), is a convenient spot for cruise passengers to stay connected free of charge (23rd St. and The Strand).
For More Information
On the Web: www.galvestoncvb.com
Cruise Critic Message Boards: United States
The Independent Traveler Message Boards: Texas
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 Shore Excursions
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