Shun Fall's Sweater Weather While Stretching Your Summer on Galveston Island

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It's that time of year again...when summer temperatures break and the leaves start to turn. Sure, you could pretend to be excited for pumpkin-spice everything, but let's be honest: we all live for summer.

One place where fall doesn't mean the immediate arrival of sweater weather? The Texas Coast.

Cast your eye upon Galveston Island, one of Texas’ most popular destinations, and with its beautifully restored historic town centre, mouthwatering coastal cuisine, and endless activities, it’s easy to see why. Here are the can't-miss highlights you need to experience while stretching your summer in Galveston. 
 

Walk down Galveston's gilded memory lane

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The first image that’s conjured when speaking of Galveston is inevitably The Strand. 

The Strand, Galveston’s restored historic centre, is known for it’s shopping, dining and entertainment. Walk down streets lined with Victorian era buildings and historical sites dating back to the 1800’s.

Museum lovers should check out the Railroad Museum’s passenger depot and dining car exhibition for a nostalgic immersion into the old glamour of railway travel. 

Feast on local flavours

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As your stomach begins to rumble, head to the east end of the historic district to the heralded Mosquito Café, where huge windows, hardwood finishes and antique glass create a beautiful space to enjoy delicious, eclectic fusion brunch. Serving everything from Senegalese vegetables to Grandma's meatloaf, Mosquito is celebrated for an atmosphere as unique as the cuisine. 

Get your thrills at the Pier

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Belly full, it’s time to enjoy ocean views of the Gulf Coast.

Head to the waterfront to Pleasure Pier, Galveston’s over-water amusement park that delights visitors with rides like the Iron Shark Roller Coaster or the Gulf Glider.

For those with a less than iron stomach, there’s always the old-fashioned carousel, or simply get a pier pass and enjoy midway games and the shops from the comfort of ground-level. 

Take a walk on the wild side

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When you’re tuckered out, you’ll need to find some water to cool off.

Stewart Beach Park is the most family friendly stretch of sand on Galveston Island, or take a walk along the boardwalk at East Beach and catch the locals practicing for the annual sandcastle competition.

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If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, consider a trip to Matagorda Bay Park, or pencil in a kayak adventure with Artist Boat Kayak Tours, were you’ll paddle through the protected regions of Galveston’s Gulf Coast. The Artist Boat group is a non-profit, dedicated to conservation through education and inspiring adventures. The kayak tours help fund their efforts. 

Peep the glamour of the past

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On your way back to town, awe at the towering turrets of the Bishops Palace (aka Gresham's Castle), a 19,000-square foot residence-turned-museum. It is considered to be one of the most important Victorian buildings in the country. 

Dine after dusk 

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Head to your suite to spruce up, then it’s back on the town for a pre-dinner drink.

Riondo’s is and an Italian joint in the heart of the historic district that offers sea-to table fresh food and signature cocktails. Try a Heck’s Sazerac (rye, absinthe and bitters). You’ll be tempted to stay for the Gamberi scampi, but another Galveston institution awaits... 

With a strict “no shirts, no flip flops” dress code, Rudy & Paco is an upscale dining haven serving seafood and steak with South and Central American flavours. Impress your taste buds with a Filet de Pargo Simpatico: plantain encrusted, sautéed red snapper, served over raspberry chipotle sauce and topped with jumbo lump crab meat. Finish with a cuatro leches or four milks cake - one of Paco’s family recipes - for a succulent end to an unforgettable day in Galveston. 

 

When You go:

Where to stay:

Casa del Mar Beachfront Suites, located directly on the Seawall beachfront, offers fully furnished suites, each with a private balcony and studio kitchen.

Guests have access to two tropical pools, a shared, trellised BBQ area, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi, which is available throughout the property.

The 24/7 concierge, known as Certified Tourism Ambassadors, happily assist guests one-on-one with making reservations at restaurants and attractions, as well as recommend local events that may be taking place during your stay. 

Travel Tip: Compare prices on the internet but book direct to avoid 3rd party booking fees. Call Casa’s on-site team for the best service and best prices: 800-392-1205. 

 

            

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