Galveston Island Welcomes Gordon Research Conferences

Visit Galveston is thrilled to welcome GRC back to the island! Our 32 miles of beaches, rich history and world-class dining and attractions offer the perfect setting to balance business and leisure. We hope you enjoy your stay!

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Things To Do

Our team at Visit Galveston encourages you to explore our vibrant barrier island's many attractions, restaurants, tours and more in your downtime! Whether you're looking for something fun to do within walking distance of your hotel, considering renting a bicycle (provided by the Grand Galvez) to get around or planning to utilize rideshare options, this is guide is a personalized resource to helping you choose what to do!

Walking Distance (Within .5 Miles)
Things To Do

Hit all the rides and check out the dining available on the pier, including funnel cakes, turkey legs, pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, and more. Adults can also cool off with a beer, margaritas, or wine! Want to take a bit of the pier home with you? Visit one of the pier's shops and pick up mementos to help you remember your day of fun in the sun.

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Things To Do

For over a century, Galveston beachgoers have flocked in droves to the beaches that line historic Seawall Blvd. During your downtime, visit the Seawall Beach and get your dose of "vitamin sea." Walk up to one of the many beach concessionaires to rent a chair/ umbrella for a new level of relaxation.

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Things To Do

Directly across the street from the Grand Galvez, this historic gift shop has the best selection of souvenirs to bring home to your loved ones. Or you can simply grab a drink and enjoy the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

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Galveston Duck Tours offers a unique way of seeing the island. Tours start at 25th street and Seawall Blvd. next to Pleasure Pier. This is a great way to see much of Galveston Island without having to drive anywhere. "The Duck" even proceeds to enter the water for a truly unique experience.

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Things To Do

Located only .4 miles from the Grand Galvez, The Bryan Museum is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in history and the arts. The museum houses one of the world's largest collections of historical artifacts, documents, and artwork relating to the American West.

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Biking Distance (Within 2 Miles)
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Baywatch Dolphin Tours, located on Pier 21 in front of the Harbor House Hotel, is only a short distance away from the historical Strand District in Downtown Galveston. They take pride in the fact that they are able to keep prices affordable for everyone while still providing 45 minutes of informative fun for young and old alike!

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Restored in 1895, this Galveston landmark was originally the home of one of the country's wealthiest people in the 1950s, W.L. Moody, Jr. The property is still full of original family memorabilia and is a great way to experience Galveston's old-world charm.

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Visit this iconic landmark to get a closer look into Galveston's history. Just a short trip from the Grand Galvez, this National Historic Landmark is a must-see for all visitors to the island!

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Downtown Galveston is the beating heart of the island. The area contains historic architecture, family attractions, locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, performance venues and more. Whatever your interests may be, this neighborhood has something for all!

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Climb into history and check out this museum's permanent exhibits, including locomotives, gallery, model train layouts, and more. The museum also features temporary exhibits throughout the year, so there is always something new to see!

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Stewart Beach offers a ton of amenities to ensure your day in the sun stays stress-free. It is the perfect beach for you to check out when here for your conference as they have everything you need including chair/ umbrella rentals, concessions, showers and more!

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Driving Distance (Over 2 Miles)
Things To Do

Located about 15 minutes from the Grand Galvez, Moody Gardens contains a world-class aquarium, a living rainforest, and a Discovery Museum, so there is plenty to do and see at Moody Gardens.

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Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark features the most exciting collection of water rides in Texas. Experience the thrills of the tallest water coaster in the world, or lounge around in the lazy river, whatever floats your... tube.

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The 61st Street Fishing Pier is one of the premier fishing piers on Galveston Island. They offer rod rentals, snacks, pizza, cold beer, soda, a beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico! Spend your downtime relaxing and reeling in the perfect fish.

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Venture over to Pelican Island to the gorgeous Seawolf Park for an experience of a lifetime. Here, you can tour a World War II-era submarine (USS Cavalla) and destroyer escort (USS Stewart) along with a memorial and park.

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Stop into Galveston's premier local brewery, Galveston Island Brewing. Located on the West End of Galveston Island and just a block from the beach, this spot is a great stop on your tour of the island. Grab a flight to try several beers and get a 6-pack or growler to take back to your hotel room.

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Trip Planning

With fresh seafood, southern favorites, and a restaurant for every craving, Galveston is the place to be when it’s time to eat.

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