Must See Sights and Landmarks in Galveston Area

"Completed in 1893, the Bishop's Palace, also known as Gresham's Castle, is a very ornate 19,082 square-feet Victorian-style house which survived the 1900 hurricane and is now part of Galveston's Historic Homes Tour. Architectural historians list the Bishop’s Palace as one of the most significant Victorian residences in the United States. The house was built from 1887 to 1892 for Colonel Walter Gresham and his family."

"Galveston's grandest and best-known building, the Bishop's Palace, is an ornate delight of colored stone, intricately carved ornaments, rare woods, stained-glass windows, bronze dragons and other sculptures, luxury materials and furnishings, and impressive fireplaces from around the world (including one lined with pure silver!)."

"The Texas Seaport Museum is home to the tall ship Elissa, built in 1877 and considered one of the finest restored historical vessels in the US. This lovely old ship still puts to sea regularly, and her fascinating story - including her rescue from the scrapyard - is told in the museum on shore. Other highlights include a look at the history of the Port of Galveston, including the names of the more than 133,000 migrants who passed through."

"Explore the decks of this National Historic Landmark and imagine the days when daring sailors challenged the world’s oceans. In the adjacent museum and theater, witness the story of Elissa’s dramatic rescue from the scrap yard and her meticulous restoration by the Galveston Historical Foundation."

"Visit one of the oldest sailing vessels that is still in operation, ELISSA. This 1877 Tall Ship known as ELISSA, can be found at the Texas Seaport Museum. Visit the museum to climb aboard ELISSA and view her historic decks."

"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."

"Although IHOP restaurants are best known for their award-winning pancakes, omelets and other breakfast specialties, the Galveston IHOP has an unbeatable view. The restaurant is open throughout the day and evening offering a broad array of lunch, dinner and snack items as well for the vacationer's appetite."

"3828 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550 • (409) 761-5504 • https://www.gaidosseaside.com. $$$ Seafood Restaurant. Elegant, iconic seafood eatery featuring Gulf views and a nautical theme as well as the freshest coastal catches."

"I have been coming to Gaidos since I was 12 years old and always loved it!. The food was always fresh and tasty. I was always amazed that our waiter could..."

"O’Malley’s Stage Door is one of the most historic bars in Galveston, TX. This pub is situated in the arts and entertainment district right next door to the Grand 1894 Opera House. They have more than 100 craft beers to offer their patrons along with an impressive food menu."

"O'Malley's sports 100 varieties of imported bottled beer, boasts an excellent selection of pub foods wrapped inside a comfortable atmosphere. Mon-Sat: 11am-2amSunday: 12pm-2am. Hours may be seasonal and subject to change."

"Who doesn’t love a good pool party, especially when it’s hosted at night?. Float Pool & Patio Bar is one place you can truly experience unique nightlife in Galveston. Here you’re welcome to wear your bathing suit and take a dip in the outdoor pool while ordering a drink from the swim-up bar."

"You have to try Float Pool & Patio Bar not only for their great atmosphere but the food and drinks are a must-try!. They bring a unique twist to the bars in Galveston. This one of a kind bar features a stunning view of the Texas Gulf Coast."

"The is a dark, upscale restaurant located within an old, historical building on Galveston’s Church Street. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, M & M serves up amazing breakfast entrees and cocktails, appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and dinner entrees. Some special brunch menu items at M & M include lobster eggs Benedict, the M & M asparagus omelet and a stuffed pepper with potatoes, cheese, bacon, eggs and sausage."

"The is a dark, upscale restaurant located within an old, historical building on Galveston’s Church Street. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner,. serves up amazing breakfast entrees and cocktails, appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and dinner entrees."

"Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. If you are craving for a breakfast burrito then come to this family-owned restaurant operating since 1985 serving the community for over 30 years with their authentic Mexican food. They only serve breakfast and lunch six days a week starting from Monday to Saturday."