Six years after the devastation of Hurricane Ike, Galveston Island is BOOMING!
September 13, 2008, Hurricane Ike broadsided Galveston Island. Hours after the storm hit at 2:00 a.m., people began assessing the damage…and it was massive. James W. Little, 3rd generation owner of Murdochs Pier (a historic Galveston landmark) found one wall left standing. The Lone Star Flight Museum, my new favorite place to visit on the Island, was flooded with 8 ft. of water. The vintage airplanes received moderate to severe damage. The Aviation Hall of Fame was destroyed. Another new favorite, The Galveston Railroad Museum, suffered damage to several rail cars and locomotives. One of the model railroad scenes was also destroyed, although now both exhibits have been repaired and rebuilt.
Justine (FAB’s extraordinary video editor) and I had heard rumors that Galveston had up’d the anti on tourism with new attractions. We decided it was time to pay Galveston a visit.
Stay, Go, Do
Where to Stay:
Hotel Galvez: If you’re looking for class and elegance, head straight for the Hotel Galvez. The hotel was named after Bernardo de Gálvez y Madrid, Count of Gálvez. However, Count Galvez never actually set foot on Galveston Island! [box class=”download”] Located at 2024 Seawall Blvd. [/box]
Where to Go:
Patty Cakes: Begin your morning with delicious muffins, croissants and scones from Patty Cakes. [box class=”download”] Located at 704 14th Street. Hours: Closed Monday, Tues – Sat 7:30-6:00, Sun: 8:00-3:00 [/box]
The Grand 1894 Opera House: From Patty Cakes, you’re close to downtown, so enjoy the history and ambiance of Galveston’s historic downtown area. Henry Greenwall was the power behind the construction of The Grand. Water from Hurricane Ike dealt structural damage, but the theater is open and the season is underway. Being a part of this grand ‘ol lady is worth the price of admission.
[box class=”download”] Located at 2020 Post Office Street.[/box]
La Kings Confectionery: snack time at La Kings. Indulge in ice cream and freshly made salt water taffy. Merely sitting at the 1920 style ice cream parlor tables and chairs will bring a smile to your face.
[box class=”download”] Located at 2323 The Strand. Hours: Sun-Thurs 10:00-6:00, Fri: 10:00-7:00, Sat 10:00-9:00 [/box]
Galveston Railroad Museum: Look down the Stand (Galveston’s Main Street) to that tall, white building. At one end of the building is the Galveston Railroad Museum. Inside is a masterful depiction of rail travel of yesteryear. Outside is the train collection and the model railroad scene.[box class=”download”] Location: 2602 Sante Fe Pl Hours: open every day 10:00-5:00
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Murdochs Pier: Stop in for some souvenirs or just to marvel at one of the best views of the Gulf from Murdochs Pier.
[box class=”download”]Location: 2215 Seawall Blvd Hours: open every day at 9:30 [/box]
What to Do:
Galveston Historic Pleasure Pier: This entertainment venue lights up the Galveston night sky with neon that blinks and whirls. Enjoy rides, cotton candy, screams and thrills on this historic pier.
[box class=”download”]Location: 2501 Seawall Blvd Hours: Fri: 4:00-10:00, Sat: 11:00-11:00, Sun: 11:00-8:00 [/box]
Beach time: stroll the Seawall, rent a bike or small trolley. Enjoy the seas breeze, hot sun and people playing all around you.
Lone Star Flight Museum: Beautifully displayed vintage airplanes in a 100,000 sq. ft. hangar. Close to Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn. Don’t miss this walk through aviation history.
[box class=”download”] Location 2002 Terminal Dr Hours: open every day 9:00 to 5:00. [/box]
Galveston Island has recovered from Mother Nature’s 2008 devastation and welcomes you to join her celebration.
