2 Days in Galveston: Things you must see, must eat & must do

During the late 1800s, Galveston was home to a number of really prosperous families. In fact, it was occasionally referred to as the “Wall Street of the South.” Even though a lot of the grandeur from this period tragically was ruined by the hurricane of 1900, some of the stunning homes—such as Moody Mansion—have been restored. The 28,000 square-foot building, originally completed in 1895, was home to the Moodys, a powerful Texas family who helmed a massive cotton empire. Visit the mansion’s 20 rooms to get a sense of what it would have been like to be a member of this elite family.

Make a stop at La King’s Confectionery to treat your sweet tooth to fresh saltwater taffy and other handcrafted delights, including some of the best homemade ice cream in Texas. They still employ the “old world” candy-making practices learned by Jimmy King in 1927 and brought to The Strand in 1976 by his son Jack. You actually get to watch the taffy being made during your visit, and if you’ve never had fresh saltwater taffy 30 seconds after it’s been wrapped up, you need to… it’s a revelation.

For a more “otherworldly” taste of Galveston history, book a room at the Hotel Galvez & Spa. If you’re here on a Thursday night, you can reserve a spot on the “Dinner with Ghosts” tour to learn about the hotel’s haunted history, which has been featured on Discovery Channel and Travel Channel. Audra, a 1950s bride-to-be who took her own life thinking she had lost her great love to a storm at sea. In a cruel twist of fate, her beloved actually survived his journey and came back to find his betrothed dead… although she is said to still be walking the hotel halls. The hotel has an on-site restaurant that serves up some pretty outstanding meals. If you stay overnight, ask for the highest room possible to get the best views of the gorgeous beachfront. This is an especially great spot to stay if you’re in town for a cruise, since they offer shuttles to and from the port.

There are plenty of places to find fresh seafood on the island, but there’s more to Galveston than just shrimp and fish. The Pier 21 location of Olympia Grill serves up delicious Greek food—including plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free dishes—in a family-friendly atmosphere. Start with the combo appetizer, which includes hummus, falafel, dolmades, and more, and then follow that up with a juicy gyro topped with tangy tzatziki sauce. If you’re worried about a crowd, they take reservations!

Another museum you can fit into a short visit is the Lone Star Flight Museum, which will teach you a lot about the state’s impressive aviation history. The museum houses more than 40 restored aircraft—most in working condition—and chronicles important events in Texas aviation as well as the lives of many brave pilots. It also includes the official Texas Aviation Hall of Fame!

If you have the time, get up close and personal with dolphins on a BayWatch Dolphin Tour. Tours are $10 a person and leave from Pier 21—a great place to grab a fresh seafood meal before or after you depart. Pro tip: They say that the best time to see the dolphins frolicking in the wake is during the last tour of the day. Sit on the boat’s left side for the best view!

Nonno Tony’s Seafood Kitchen is just one of those special places. Named for the Italian patriarch of the restaurant, this eatery is a great place to bring family and friends thanks to its upbeat atmosphere and extensive menu. You’ll find everything from classic Italian dishes and Asian fusion-inspired meals to Creole options and traditional American favorites. Everything Nonno Tony’s makes is prepared in an open kitchen; the steam kettle and brick ovens only add to the ambiance.