Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(
www.mardigrasgalveston.com
)
For the 12 days before Ash Wednesday, Galveston does its best
New Orleans impression, with parades, pageants, parties and more. At least one Sunday is
dedicated to families. Make lodging reservations far, far in advance.
CULTURE
Historic Homes Tour
( 409-765-7834;
www.galvestonhistory.org
)
The Galveston Historical Foundation puts the island's
finest privately owned old houses on display the first two weekends in May. In addition to
tours of historic homes, other events include organized evening strolls, bicycle and bus
tours, and a jazz brunch.
Dickens on the Strand
( 409-765-7834;
www.dickensonthestrand.org
)
The first weekend in December the historic Strand
District morphs into Victorian London. Costumed jugglers and musicians take to the street
as peddlers vend their old timey wares and Queen Vic herself makes a special appearance.
CULTURE
Sleeping
Rates for hotel/motel rooms vary widely, from the lows of midweek winter to the high-
highs of June and July weekends. During special events, two-night stays may be required
and everything books up months in advance. Note that because of the heat in August,
sometimes late summer rates are reasonable.
Be wary of budget motels that we haven't listed. Some are fine, but all are definitely
not created equal here. Note that most of Galveston's 'beachfront' lodgings are actually
across busy Seawall Blvd from the sand. Reliable chain properties, like La Quinta, are
well represented.
The island's official website,
www.galveston.com
,
compiles a complete list of lodgings,
including the many rentable condominiums that line FM 3005 southwest of town.
Beachcomber Inn
( 800-733-7133;
www.galvestoninn.com
;
2825 61st St; r $35-120; )
A block removed from the
beach, this basic two-story motel provides a neat-and-clean budget break. Minifridges and
microwaves in every room.
MOTEL
$
Gaido's Seaside Inn
MOTEL
$
