Every meeting destination says they’re different. Galveston actually is.
Here, you can step out of a session and into history, have a breakout on a tall ship, or swap business cards over fresh Gulf seafood. Just 50 miles south of Houston, this coastal island gives groups room to reconnect with rooftop views, unique venues, and a laid-back energy that helps you bring your best ideas forward.
While the 32-miles of beaches are not to be missed, Galveston offers so much more beyond the beach. Galveston, TX is a charming Southern retreat just 50 miles from Houston. It’s a destination full of art, historic architecture, chic boutiques, ghost legends and more- all tucked within a giant Gulf Coast barrier island.
If you are at all a US history buff, you’ve probably heard something of Galveston’s origin story or the long resilient history of hurricanes, battles and more. While there are many local museums to explore, you can learn about Galveston anywhere with the official podcast of Galveston, TX, Galveston Unscripted.
The closest international airport to Galveston is William P Hobby Airport (HOU). Located on the southern side of Houston, it’s about 40 miles – and less than an hour if traffic cooperates – from the terminal to the beach. You may also choose to fly to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), the largest airport in Houston. It's about 70 miles and 80+ minutes from Galveston. For more information, please see our Galveston Travel & Transportation page.
Once you’re on the ground, you have many options for getting from the airport to your lodging. For more details on the following options, see our website on getting here and transportation here.
There are many walkable options available to attendees around each of our incredible venues. However, if the attendees are looking to explore farther than their feet will take them, the island has Uber, Lyft and our historic trolley system. Find more information on the trolley system here.
Attendees can discover a variety of attractions during their time on island, from beaches and outdoor activities to historical museums, haunted tours, shopping and more! Send them a link to our Things to do in Galveston page to get them started!
Galveston’s seafood scene is a must-try for any foodie visiting the area. With the variety of atmosphere and cooking style of seafood offerings, it truly feels impossible to pick just one restaurant as the go to for seafood. Find which of our amazing coastal cuisine spots fits your pallet here!
Galveston Island has versatile private restaurant options that will cater to your group’s needs and create a lasting memory for your next event.
The GICC has 140,000 square feet of event space. Click here to learn more.
Parking for booked events and meetings at the convention center is complimentary. There are 700 parking spaces in the two-story parking garage located directly below the building.
Submit an request for proposal (RFP) or contact the Visit Galveston sales team directly to assist you in your booking efforts.
Galveston has over 5,000 hotel rooms.
From simple inns and national chains to luxury resorts and historic hotels, Galveston has accommodation to suit your needs. Check out the variety of hotels and resorts here!
If you are planning an event that will bring overnight visitation to Galveston Island, contact our sales team or fill out an request for proposal (RFP) to receive their free expertise and assistance in finding the right venue and room block to meet your needs. Following that, your event will be turned over to our services team to assist you with all things island.
If you have already booked your room block and meeting space, still reach out as you may still qualify for some services.
Contact us! We will be able to find out if you worked with our team. If not, we will do our best to assist you with your questions regardless.
We are so glad you asked. Visit Galveston has a team dedicated to assisting you with making your event a success depending on your goals. This can look like marketing assistance and attendance building materials to local expertise and attendee engagement activations. No two events are the same, why should their services be? Contact our team to learn more!
