Meetings and Events Houston | Meetings in Galveston Offer a Sunny Disposition

Meetings in Galveston Offer a Sunny Disposition

Article By: Heather Stidham of I: Volume 1 - Issue 1

The Galveston area is ripe with meeting venues that can easily entertain an intimate gathering or a large convention. Galveston, with its history and charm, offers a unique locale for company gatherings. Cool bay breezes, the islanders’ graceful Southern hospitality and Victorian small-town setting greets meeting participants and lures them into the belief that they are meeting in paradise.

Accommodations
Diversity is the perfect adjective for the variation of lodging on Galveston Island. Sandy Beaches have helped to create an environment that is both relaxing and inviting. Galveston offers accommodations for business travelers seeking tranquility mixed with modern amenities.

Flagship Hotel Over the Water – The Flagship Hotel is located on Galveston Island's historic Pleasure Pier. Berthed over the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the pier-based hotel stretches 1,000 feet out to sea, offering conferees a panoramic view of the oceanfront from each cabin. For more information contact the sales office at 409-762-9000 or 800-392-6542 or log on towww.galveston.com/flagship.

Galveston Island Hilton Resort – The Galveston Island Hilton offers an unrivaled setting ideally situated on the 30-acre San Luis Resort where you can enjoy award-winning island hospitality and world-class accommodations boasting magnificent Gulf views. The hotel offers more than 240 guestrooms with private balconies, most with majestic blue Gulf views. For more information contact the Hilton at 409-744-5000 or 800-HILTONS or log on to www.galvestonhilton.com.

Harbor House at Pier 21 – The Harbor House is a modern day translation of a working waterfront warehouse, recreated as a casual, tasteful 42-room inn-style hotel that has been recently updated. This colorful new dockside haven is the site of an early Galveston Steamship terminal - the perfect vantage point for portside ship watching today. For more information contact the hotel at 409-763-3321 or 800-874-3721 or via its Web site at www.harborhousepier21.com.

Holiday Inn on the Beach – Holiday Inn on the Beach features eight stories of Gulf view rooms on beautiful Galveston Island. Located at the premier San Luis Resort in the heart of the Texas Gulf Coast, most of the 178 rooms at the inn have private balconies that overlook the Gulf or the sparkling outdoor pool. Call 409-740-3581 or 800-HOLIDAY or log on to www.holidayinn.com for more information.

Hotel Galvez: A Wyndham Historic Hotel – A sparkling vision of Victorian elegance rising from the sand and surf, the Hotel Galvez – A Wyndham Historic Hotel, was known as the "Queen of the Gulf" in 1911. For nearly a century, the staff of this charming hotel has entertained guests as diverse as Teddy Roosevelt, Howard Hughes and Frank Sinatra. A $9-million renovation has restored the Hotel Galvez to its rightful place as a timeless showplace on the Gulf of Mexico, according to the Wyndham. This timeless hotel offers 226 guest rooms and suites that offer the charm of yesterday and the modern amenities of today. For more information contact 409-765-7721 or 800-WYNDHAM or visit the Web site at www.galveston.com/galvez.

Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center – The Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center is nestled among the lush tropical surroundings and majestic pyramids of Moody Gardens. The hotel features 428 luxurious guestrooms and numerous amenities, including plush bathrobes, lighted vanities, full length mirrors, extra pillows and nightly turndown service. To learn more, contact Moody Gardens at 409-741-8484 or 888-388-8484 or via its Web site atwww.moodygardenshotel.com.

The San Luis Spa, Resort, & Conference Center – An ocean of opportunity waits at The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center. This 30-acre, year-round beachfront resort has earned the AAA Four Diamond Award® for five consecutive years. The 40,000-square-foot conference center has soundproof meeting rooms, ergonomic chairs, individual climate controls and adjustable light and tackable wall surfaces. For more information call 409-744-1500 or 800-445-0090 or log on atwww.sanluisresort.com.

The Tremont House: A Wyndham Historic Hotel –This divine hotel is tucked away in the heart of Galveston Island's Strand Historic District. The Tremont House is an affordably elegant European-style hotel that begs for discovery. Sparkling like a precious stone amidst Galveston's famous collection of Victorian architecture, The Tremont House offers a delightful blend of 19th-century charm and 20th-century sophistication, with exemplary service and luxury that have made it a strong favorite among island visitors. Contact Wyndham hotels at 409-763-0300 or 800-WYNDHAM or via its Web site at www.galveston.com/thetremonthouse for more information.

Hawthorne Suites at The Victorian Resort & Conference Center – As The Victorian Resort has added Hawthorn Suites to its name, guests are enjoying the comfort and value of Victorian Resort condominiums and the high level of service provided by Hawthorn Suites. This lushly decorated hotel is a preferred destination of families and business travelers and features high-speed Internet access, garden whirlpools and private balconies. For more information contact The Victorian at 409-740-3555 or 800-231-6363 or log on to www.galveston.com/victorian.

Convention Centers
Galveston is bursting at the seams with venues to hold business meetings and events. The whole city combines rich culture and traditions with modern amenities, making it one of the most sought after meeting and event destinations in Texas. There are three main convention facilities on the island that can accommodate groups of all sizes.

Galveston Island Convention Center at The San Luis Resort – This new beachfront convention center is the official convention center for Galveston Island. The center features 43,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 15,000-square-foot ballroom and 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Located on Galveston’s famous Seawall Boulevard, the new convention center is in close proximity to more than 2,000 hotel rooms and is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues. For booking information please contact the Galveston Island Convention & Visitor’s Bureau at 866-505-4456 or visitwww.galvestonislandconventioncenter.com.

Moody Gardens Hotel Spa & Convention Center – With 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting space that can host large conventions to corporate meetings and exhibits, Moody Gardens is one of the most sought after meeting facilities in the region. This space includes a 15,180 square foot ballroom, a 60,000 square foot exhibit hall and a 9,100 square foot ballroom. This versatile meeting venue can be the perfect place for an intimate dinner, a small meeting, an exhibit hall or a convention of 2000 people. For more information contact Moody Gardens at (800) 582-4673 or visit www.moodygardenshotel.com.

Hawthorne Suites at The Victorian Resort & Conference Center – Guests can stretch out in any of The Victorian’s spacious one- and two-bedroom condominiums. The Conference Center has over 10,000 square feet of meeting facilities, accommodating groups of 12 to 400. The Grand Salon alone is comprised of over 4,000 square feet of meeting space, divisible into four (4) separate meeting/banquet rooms as needed. On-site catering and audio-visual equipment is also available at this newly-renovated conference center. Contact The Victorian at 409-740-3555 for booking information.

Dazzling Meeting Facilities and Event Venues
The hardest part about planning a meeting in Galveston is choosing a venue! Galveston Island offers dozens of meeting facilities and event venues that are sure to please even the most unique requests. From historic museums to classic homes to modern theme parks, Galveston is the perfect place to plan a meeting or event.

1859 Ashton Villa – One of Galveston’s great Broadway mansions, the 1859 Ashton Villa offers an enchanting setting and a lifetime of history. As the first brick home ever to be built in Texas and the first mansion in Galveston, the Ashton Villas is a landmark in the city. The ballroom can hold 300 for a stand-up function or 200 for a seated dinner. A caterer’s kitchen, restroom facilities and convenient parking make this an ideal location for meetings and events of all kinds. For information call 409-762-3933.

1861 Custom House – After a recently completed six-month restoration that returned it to its original glory through the Galveston Historical Foundation, the 1861 Custom House has become a prime meeting facility in Galveston. Rental rates can be arranged for the second floor including the courtroom, veranda and hallway, which can accommodate 250 people for a seated function. The courtroom itself can accommodate 120 people seated. For information call 409-762-3933.

Garten Verein Pavilion – Originally built as a German social club, Garten Verein Pavilion offers an immense amount of space for meetings and events. This octagon-shaped pavilion includes a caterer’s prep room, restrooms and adjacent parking. The capacity is 300 for stand-up functions and 200 for seated dinners. For information call 409-763-3933.

Moody Gardens – features 242 acres of breathtaking gardens and majestic pyramids. Near the Rainforest Pyramid is the Rainforest Overlook, Garden Lobby, Garden Veranda and other reception rooms. The Rainforest Overlook can accommodate 80 guests for standing receptions. The Garden Lobby can hold 350 guests standing or 240 seated. The Veranda holds 150 guests standing and 104 seated. Four gardens are also available for receptions. They include the Garden of Life, which holds 50 guests standing; Flamingo Terrace, which holds 50 guests standing; Oleander Bowl, which holds 500 guests standing; and the Herb Garden, which holds 400 guests. For information call 800-582-4673, ext. 215 or 409-744-4673, ext. 215.

Moody Mansion & Museum – Restored to its turn of the century splendor, the 28,000 square-foot, four-story structure was completed in 1895. Today, guests visit 20 rooms on a tour that depicts the home life of a powerful Texas family. The elegance of the ballroom, the adjacent front hall and covered porches provide an enchanting setting for special events. The ballroom accommodates 75 people and the kitchen can accommodate a group of up to 48 seated. For information call 409-762-7668.

The Grand 1894 Opera House – Designated as “the Official Opera House of the State of Texas by the 73rd Legislature,” The Grand 1894 Opera House offers an elegant and unique setting for a reception or ball. This glamorous theater has been elegantly restored and is the perfect setting for receptions and other gatherings. The theatre can accommodate groups from 50 to 1,000. For information call 409-763-7173.

Texas Aviation Flight Museum – This unique venue houses exhibits and artifacts that document the rich history of aviation in Texas in a 22,000-square-foot building. With the recent expansion, the museum can accommodate up to 1,500 guests for a stand-up reception and 800 guests for sit-down dinner. The Museum offers more than 50,000 square feet of exhibit space. The Lone Star Flight Museum received the designation as the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame from the 73rd Texas Legislature. For information call 409-740-7722.

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum – At this one-of-a-kind venue guests can step aboard an offshore rig and experience how oil and gas is produced offshore. Videos, interactive displays and models take patrons to offshore locations all over the world. The Rig is available for meetings, luncheons, theme parties and receptions. Rental options include the Conference Room, the Theater, the Third Floor or the entire Rig and can accommodate a group size of up to 500 people. For additional specifics, call 713-975-6442 or 409-766-STAR.

The Railroad Museum – This historical museum provides a unique setting for receptions with space available both indoors and outdoors. The courtyard area includes a gazebo for entertainment and the “People’s Gallery” inside offers ample space for a large reception or ball. The capacity inside is up to 400 guests. For information call 409-765-5700.

The Texas Seaport Museum & 1877 Tall Ship – With moonlight silhouetting the masts of the 1877 tall ship ELISSA, Texas Seaport Museum provides a romantic, outdoor setting for weddings and receptions. The capacity on the ELISSA and museum site is 500 for a standing reception and 300 for a seated dinner on the pier. For information call 409-763-1877.

Dining
Galveston Island offers meeting planners over 50 restaurants that run the gamut from fresh Gulf seafood to tacos along the seawall to Jamaican-style cafes. Popular dining locations in Galveston include:

Gaido's Seafood Restaurant and Casey’s Seafood Café - Serving up fresh seafood and family recipes, Guido’s is a Galveston hot-spot. A Galveston institution, Casey’s offers over 50 years of excellent cuisine and impeccable service. Both of these famous locales are owned and operated by the Gaido family.
Rudy and Paco Restaurant and Bar- Rudy & Paco features grilled seafood and steak with a South and Central American Savor.
Saltwater Grill- Featuring an array of tantalizing fresh-from-the-grill and fresh-from-the-kettle seafood specialties, Saltwater Grill is one of the most elegant establishments in Galveston. Reservations are required.
Yaga’s Café and Bar- From sandwiches to pizza, Yaga's Cafe and Bar is the place to go for Jamaican-style cuisine and an upbeat atmosphere.
Luigi's Ristorante Italiano- Considered one of Galveston’s most exclusive dining locales, Luigi’s offers high-class Italian cuisine and a full-service bar.
Phoenix Bakery- Offering homemade breakfast and lunch, the Phoenix Bakery has established a reputation as a great locale for outdoor dining. Phoenix Bakery also offers catering options.
Original Mexican Café- Located in the East End Historic district near The Strand, the restaurant is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Galveston. Offering classic Mexican food and traditional décor, this local-favorite is an authentic Mexican eatery.

Leisure, Nightlife and Entertainment
Ideal outdoor temperatures make taking advantage of the outdoors easy. From a leisurely walk to adventure sports, Las Vegas has the facilities to accommodate any recreational desire. After a long day of meetings, convention and meeting attendees can enjoy Galveston’s wide variety of outdoor activities. Outdoor recreation includes 32 miles of beaches, golf courses, salt water fishing and much more. There are two 18-hole golf courses located on the Island, the Galveston Island Municipal Golf Course and the Galveston Country Club.

Galveston is home to numerous extravagant homes, art galleries and museums that offer a taste of the history of the city. Meeting attendees enjoy hitting the streets and strolling through some of Galveston’s most historically significant locations. Every six weeks, the art galleries welcome Island visitors and Galvestonians into their galleries for ArtWalk, an event that leads guests through Galveston’s historic streets and into boutiques and galleries.

Two of the newest and most modern attractions in the city are Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark and Moody Gardens. Schlitterbahn Galveston is the world's first convertible waterpark and is the third waterpark in the Schlitterbahn family of Texas parks. The park features uphill water coasters, water slides, kid's playgrounds, whitewater rapids, wave pool, hot tubs and the Boogie Bahn surf ride. This fun-filled park brings out the kid in everyone!

Moody Gardens features a 10-story Rainforest Pyramid, offering an incredible tropical environment and is home to the largest bat exhibit in the Southwest. The Discovery Pyramid features a host of interactive exhibits where visitors can learn about the wonders of science and take a fascinating adventure ride in the IMAX Ridefilm Theater. Moody Gardens newest attraction, the Aquarium Pyramid, is one of the largest in the world and features 100,000 square feet of exhibit space showcasing the waters of the world.

Shopping
The Strand District is known more commonly as “The Strand.” The actual street called “Strand” was named after a street in London. The Strand offers a variety of unique shops to find that perfect little item, or even things for bargain shoppers at one of the many factory outlets. Most of these shops are within walking distance, providing a relaxing atmosphere to browse and enjoy Galveston’s beautiful weather.

Three blocks from The Strand, is the famous Post office Street Arts & Entertainment District. Post office offers even more shops, art galleries and restaurants, all housed in brightly colored historic buildings. There are more than 80 shops throughout the district offering everything from apparel, jewelry and gifts to collector’s items.

Galveston is an exceptional place to hold meetings and events of every kind. It has become one of the most family-friendly destinations in the region and offers patrons incredible food and unique recreational experiences. Modern event facilities and top-notch accommodations make Galveston a true gem in the region’s meeting and event industry.