One Day in Galveston, Texas

Galveston is like a tropical island getaway right in Texas. With great beaches, including the largest beach in the state, and warm, pleasant weather throughout most of the year, its a perfect spot for an ocean getaway. Even winters are temperate here. Typically, high temperatures during January stay above 60 degrees F and lows near 50 degrees F. The resort town is built on an island in the Gulf of Mexico Coast, providing a natural separation from the rest of Texas. This is also symbolic of the individuality that Galveston has come to be known for. It is even referred to sometimes as "The Republic of Galveston", implying jokingly that it is an independent nation.

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Galveston Duck Tours
Galveston Duck Tours offer a different way to view the attractions here; amphibious. That's right; the tour bus covers more than 15 miles of territory on both land and water. Starting on land, you drive through the streets of downtown Galveston. The tour bus then moves right into the water, turning into a tour boat, for a look at th... More >
Galveston Duck Tours offer a different way to view the attractions here; amphibious. That's right; the tour bus covers more than 15 miles of territory on both land and water. Starting on land, you drive through the streets of downtown Galveston. The tour bus then moves right into the water, turning into a tour boat, for a look at the bayou. After that, it returns to land for a look at some of the areas historic mansions. The tour guides are funny, too, adding to the fun. Duck Tours are open year round, usually running 2-3 tours per day. Make sure you call ahead to verify, however, because the tour times can change periodically.
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Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens is a resort and convention center. It has great beaches with blue lagoons and white sand. However, what grabbed my attention were the pyramids. The Rainforest Pyramid is a zoo with over 1,000 species of plants and animals, while the Discovery Pyramid is filled with science-related exhibits. There is also a replica of ... More >
Moody Gardens is a resort and convention center. It has great beaches with blue lagoons and white sand. However, what grabbed my attention were the pyramids. The Rainforest Pyramid is a zoo with over 1,000 species of plants and animals, while the Discovery Pyramid is filled with science-related exhibits. There is also a replica of an old paddle-wheel boat that you can ride into the bay.
Be sure to check the park hours in advance of your visit, because winter hours are limited to weekends and select holidays.
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Schlitterbahn Water Park
Schlitterbahn Waterpark is the world's first and most visited convertible water park, making it enjoyable throughout the whole year. It is outside during the summer season, and heated indoors during the winter. Be sure to check the park hours in advance of your visit, because winter hours are limited to weekends and select holidays. ... More >
Schlitterbahn Waterpark is the world's first and most visited convertible water park, making it enjoyable throughout the whole year. It is outside during the summer season, and heated indoors during the winter. Be sure to check the park hours in advance of your visit, because winter hours are limited to weekends and select holidays. The park rides include uphill water coasters, kids playgrounds, and whitewater rapids, among others. But, don't worry if you are too grown-up for excitement like that. There are also hot tubs to just sit and relax in.
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East Beach
East Beach is a hip party place, not only for Galveston, but for all of Texas. It is the largest beach in the state and also well known for the major outdoor concerts that are frequently held here. Make sure to bring plenty of cash with you, as they do not accept credit or debit cards at the park. If you want to be close to the water, I also recommend bringing your own umbrella and chairs, if you are able. The rental fees for these items can be kind of steep.
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Casa Del Mar
Casa Del Mar features one bedroom suites with fantastic views of the water and the beach right outside the door. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the beach experience, this is the place to stay. I recommend booking your room as far in advance as possible. This is one of Galveston's most popular places to stay.
Duck Tours are open year round, usually running 2-3 tours per day.
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Shearn's Restaurant and Lounge
Being on the ninth floor of the Moody Gardens Hotel offers patrons of Shearn's Restaurant and Lounge a fantastic view of the sunset on Galveston Bay. In fact, sunset and after dark are the best times to enjoy the view here. It is a little on the pricey side, but well worth it if you love quality seafood and steaks. You will also want to take note of the dress code. None of the typical beach clothes, like jeans, shorts a... More
Being on the ninth floor of the Moody Gardens Hotel offers patrons of Shearn's Restaurant and Lounge a fantastic view of the sunset on Galveston Bay. In fact, sunset and after dark are the best times to enjoy the view here. It is a little on the pricey side, but well worth it if you love quality seafood and steaks. You will also want to take note of the dress code. None of the typical beach clothes, like jeans, shorts and tank-tops, are allowed.
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About the Author

Ross Pincock
Ross Pincock
I love music! I have spent most of my life either playing and writing music or listening to a live performance. I also love the outdoors, particularly camping, hiking, bicycling and sitting around the campfire. I am a father and I love spending time with my kids.
Websitemyspace.com/rosspincock
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