Galveston Monthly - Exploring Your Island Paradise

This Month

Mushrooms On The Menu

Can we talk about the magic of mushrooms? Not the psychedelic kind - that’s a different conversation entirely. We’re talking about the rich, earthy, umami-packed fungi that elevate everything from risottos to ravioli, sauces to salads.

Rebirth of 1811 20th Street

Just a block behind the Grand Galvez, a modest sign on a brick façade quietly identifies the Niccolai Apartments. Completed in 1934, this 91-year-old building stands as a testament to Galveston’s evolving residential landscape. The Insurance Board records for 1811 20th Street reveal ...

Guardians of the Gulf

Texian Navy Day is observed annually on the third Saturday of September, a day set aside to honor the courage and determination of the early Texas Navy - those who helped secure the Gulf of Mexico and defend the Republic’s independence at sea.

Hearts, Holes, Coastal Legends

The shoreline offers more than sun and surf - it’s a treasure trove of natural wonders that lift the spirit and spark joy. Among the most enchanting finds are heart-shaped rocks and hag stones, those rare gems with naturally formed holes. For the best chance of spotting them, explore...

Growing Herbs on Gulf Coast

Few things elevate an ordinary meal like the fragrance of freshly picked herbs. A handful of thyme over roasted vegetables, a sprinkle of chopped chives into eggs, or oregano layered into a simmering sauce can turn any kitchen into a haven of warmth and comfort.

The Cotton Exchange

A historic icon in the heart of Galveston’s downtown district has been reimagined for modern luxury living. The Cotton Exchange building - constructed in 1941 at 2102 Mechanic Street where the original 1878 Galveston Cotton Exchange building was located - now offers 21 ...

Winning The Weed War Naturally

August in Galveston can be a double-edged sword for gardeners. The warm, humid conditions fuel vibrant plant growth - but they also create prime conditions for relentless weeds. Left unmanaged, weeds quickly invade flower beds, vegetable patches, and even the most carefully tended lawns, competing for vital nutrients, water, and sunlight.

A Look Back

Located on the 2000 block of The Strand, Hendley Row is a three-story, Greek Revival-style complex built between 1858 and 1859. Composed of four adjoining structures with common brick walls and rusticated granite quoins, the row was home to some of Galveston’s earliest commercial enterprises.

The Great Storm Anniversary Events September 3-12

This September marks 125 years since the Great Storm of 1900, the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history. To honor the lives lost and the resilience of Galveston’s community, Galveston Historical Foundation presents a series of events from September 3 through September 12, including lectures, tours, exhibitions, and commemorative gatherings.

Highlights include the Market Street Social on Saturday, September 6 from 6-9pm, a free community event at the 1904 GH&H Depot featuring live music, food pop-ups, and stories of survival. Additional programs include harbor and trolley tours, a trivia night, and special presentations on hurricane history and coastal resilience.

The Foundation also invites residents to participate in its Storm Survivor Sign Program, recognizing historic homes that withstood the 1900 hurricane. Yard signs and plaques are available for qualifying properties, offering a visible tribute to Galveston’s architectural endurance.

For a full schedule of events and details on commemorative programs, visit galvestonhistory.org.

New Openings Worth The Buzz

From burgers and dogs to cold drinks and breezy patios, Galveston’s newest spots serve up comfort with a relaxed island vibe

Galveston’s dining scene just got a lively boost with the debut of three long-awaited restaurants and a new beer garden - all of which opened to enthusiastic crowds and are already making waves on social media. These fresh additions are positioned to thrive during the fall and winter seasons, offering hearty, family-friendly fare like hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, and pub-style favorites. The beer garden brings a local twist, specializing in craft brews made right here on Galveston Island. And while it’s a haven for beer lovers, it’s also family-friendly, featuring a kids’ corner complete with games and a whimsical playhouse.

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Run for a New Day 5K September 13

Join Galveston Island Brewing for the Run for a New Day 5K on Saturday, September 13 at 7:30am. This chip-timed race is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and mental health initiatives. The scenic route begins and ends at 8423 Stewart Road, winding west on Stewart, south on 85th, and along the Seawall with a water stop at the turnaround. Strollers and dogs are welcome, making it a family-friendly event.

Each entry includes a commemorative t-shirt, a custom pint glass, and for runners 21 and older, two GIB beers. Stick around for the post-race celebration at the brewery, complete with free race photos available online.

Awards will be given to overall male and female finishers, plus 1st–3rd place in age groups: 19 & under, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, and 60+. Can’t attend in person? Support the cause with a donation or join the virtual run from anywhere.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to support a great cause, this event is perfect for everyone. For registration and full event details, visit galvestonislandbrewing.com.

Visions of the West Exhibition & Art Untamed Event

September 26 – October 12 | The Bryan Museum Art Untamed: Saturday, October 18 | 6:30 p.m. | The Coronado Club, Houston

The Bryan Museum presents its 4th Annual Visions of the West Exhibition & Auction, a celebration of contemporary Western art running from September 26 through October 12.

This year’s exhibition features works from 30 artists across Texas and the U.S., including three Galveston-based artists - Vickie McMillan-Hayes, Rachel Wiley-Janota and Erica Marie Williams.

The season’s centerpiece is Art Untamed: A Night of Contemporary Western Art, held on Saturday, October 18 at 6:30pm at The Coronado Club in Houston. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, live music, and both live and silent auctions featuring works from the exhibition.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the artists and explore the inspiration behind their creations.

Tickets for Art Untamed are $200 for Museum and Coronado Club members, and $250 for non-members. For tickets, museum hours, and full event details, visit thebryanmuseum.org.

Adopt-A-Beach Cleanup September 20

Make a difference by taking part in the Texas General Land Office’s September 20 Adopt-a-Beach Clean-up. Each year in April and September, volunteers come together to protect Galveston’s coastline, ensuring the beaches remain clean and enjoyable for everyone. By dedicating just a few hours, you can have a lasting impact on the environment and the local community.

This event offers a rewarding volunteer experience, a great team-building activity, and a meaningful way to spend time outdoors. Connect with like-minded people who care about coastal conservation and take part in a simple yet powerful effort to keep Galveston beautiful.

Adopt-A-Beach will provide trash bags and non-latex gloves to clean the beach, plus gifts from Adopt-A-Beach. Consider bringing your own work gloves or trash pickers if you have them. Also, please remember to bring plenty of drinking water, especially if children will be with you.

Volunteers can go to Menard Park, 2222 28th Street at 27th and Seawall Blvd., to pick up your cleanup supplies and get suggestions on where to go or you can go clean up any area of the beach you prefer. You can pick up supplies beginning at 8:30am and then cleanup begins at 9am until noon.

Fort San Jacinto Historic Point Beach Cleanup September 20

Join your fellow community members and our island visitors in preserving Galveston’s coastal beauty at the Fort San Jacinto Historic Point beach cleanup on Saturday, September 20 from 9am to noon. Located at the far east end of the Seawall, this important cleanup effort helps restore and protect one of the island’s historic and scenic waterfront areas.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome to participate in clearing litter and debris from the beach and surrounding areas. Grabbers, bags, and gloves will be provided to make the cleanup process smooth and efficient.

Please wear comfortable footwear and clothing appropriate for sandy or wet conditions, as some areas may require walking through soft sand or shallow water. Weather can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly - this event will take place rain or shine.

Hosted by Galveston Park Board, The Blue Herron and Owl Creek Landscaping, the event is proudly sponsored by Indie's Coffee Bar and Nifany's Sweet Store Café Bar, bringing the community together for a great cause.

After the cleanup wraps up at noon, volunteers are urged to stick around to enjoy special treats. Be sure to bring a reusable container for water to stay hydrated during the cleanup.

White Wine & Western Whimsy September 28

Moody Mansion invites guests to an elegant evening of Texas charm and historic treasures on Sunday, September 28 from 5:30-7:30pm. Guests will enjoy a rare, up-close viewing of Mrs. Mary Moody Northen’s exquisite silver and turquoise collection - an extraordinary blend of artistry, history, and Southwestern flair.

The evening includes a self-guided tour of the beautifully preserved mansion, with docents stationed throughout to share insights into the mansion’s rich past. Sip crisp white wine, savor gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and take part in a Q&A with the museum curator and some of the Island’s most knowledgeable docents.

This is a rare opportunity to view Mrs. Northen’s prized collection, which is seldom on public display and will soon return to the vault. Once the event concludes, these treasures will remain behind closed doors for years to come.

Tickets are $50 and are limited. For reservations and event details, visit moodymansion.org.

Home & Garden
Enjoy inspirational interiors, decorating and gardens from those that help shape Galveston Island style.

Food & Drink

Where to find lunch, brunch, dinner covering casual to fine dining. These places are not afraid to try new things. Hope you're hungry.

Arts & Culture

Beaches aren't all Galveston has to offer. Local theater productions, contemporary art exhibits and other family events that always inspires.