With school out and warmer days ahead, Galveston's downtown business district is buzzing with activity. Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind gift or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, late spring and early summer offer the perfect backdrop for exploring the island’s charming streets.
Exciting changes are underway as two new shops bring fresh offerings to the area, while a beloved local eatery makes its long-awaited return in a new location after overcoming a devastating fire.
Favorable weather and the success of Galveston’s new monthly ArtWalk schedule have contributed to a thriving downtown business scene - a remarkable turnaround from last year’s challenges following Hurricane Beryl.
After a morning on the beach or a historic tour of the island, explore the many locally owned shops offering carefully curated selections. Discover cowboy fashion at High Horse Boutique + Hat Bar or ethically sourced vintage and rustic home décor at Home Curated, each bringing its own unique charm to the area.
Wrap up your day with a meal at Huli Huli Hut, the beloved island eatery that has made its triumphant return in a fresh new space, proving resilience and community support can bring a business back stronger than ever.
HIGH HORSE BOUTIQUE + HAT BAR
High Horse Boutique + Hat Bar blends western style with southern charm, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of apparel and accessories. Every piece is handpicked for its quality, character, and craftsmanship, says owner Ashley Ditcharo.
At the High Horse Hat Bar, guests can design one-of-a-kind hats that reflect both their personal style and the island’s distinctive spirit, making each creation as unique as the person wearing it.
Ditcharo grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, which she says shares Galveston’s coastal charm, rich history, and small-town feel.
“From the beaches to the vibrant local shops, it instantly felt like home,” Ditcharo said. She lives with her husband of 17 years, Anthony, and two children in Seabrook.
“Galveston has an unmatched energy - it’s historic, creative, and full of character. We knew this vibrant, walkable downtown was the right place to bring a fresh take on coastal cowgirl southern fashion.”
Ditcharo and her mother, June Ollis, launched their hat bar business last year, discovering a deep passion for the creativity, connection, and community it inspired. After crafting countless custom hats and seeing the joy they brought to customers, Ditcharo knew it was time to expand.
Last month in May, she brought her vision to life with a brand-new storefront in Galveston, offering an immersive experience for those looking for something truly unique.
Ditcharo’s journey has spanned education, entrepreneurship, and real estate, but her true passion has always been fashion and storytelling. Growing up in a home filled with creativity, she watched her mother hand-smock dresses and bring spaces to life as an interior decorator - instilling in her a deep appreciation for design from an early age.
High Horse will be celebrating its opening all summer, with pop-ups from designers and artists, hat bar events, and local collaborations.
The High Horse Boutique + Hat Bar is located at 414 Kemper (22nd Street), Suite 101. The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 11am to 6pm, Saturday from 10am to 6pm (extended hours until 9pm for ArtWalk), and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Closed on Monday.
For more information, call 228.860.9785, follow them on Instagram and Facebook @highhorse.shop, or visit https://highhorse.shop/.
HOME CURATED
Home Curated is a thoughtfully designed collaborative space shared by three passionate women, offering ethically sourced vintage and rustic home décor with a strong focus on sustainability. Owner Kylee DuRee hand-selects unique pieces crafted from durable materials like solid wood, brass, and ceramic - distinctive finds that stand apart from mass-produced offerings.
Many of the treasures at Home Curated are carefully thrifted, while others come from small, family-owned wholesalers who prioritize quality and craftsmanship. In addition to curating exceptional home décor, DuRee provides professional decorating services, making stylish, well-designed spaces accessible to those who appreciate great design but prefer to leave the details to an expert.
DuRee is a proud Born on Island (BOI) and said opening her shop in Galveston was a full-circle moment. “I have childhood memories of playing in the building where my store is now located. Galveston Island has always had my heart,” she said.
“There's something magical about the tight-knit community, the charming small businesses, and the layers of history. That uniqueness is what inspires our shop’s vibe.”
She brings years of experience from managing a custom furniture and home décor store, where she perfected her craft in refinishing, painting, and designing unique pieces while offering tailored home design services. She welcomes collaborations and encourages local creators to reach out directly.
DuRee is partnering with Blackbird Botanicals, a local artisan who crafts 100 percent soy wax candles and other aromatherapy products. Blackbird’s scents are fresh, unexpected, and free from harsh chemicals.
This summer, Forever&Co Permanent Jewelry will be at the shop daily, offering elegant, permanent jewelry - including necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and fitted toe rings - designed for a seamless, lasting touch. Their latest addition, the charm bar, lets you personalize your pieces with delicate, stylish accents to create a look that’s uniquely yours.
DuRee will also host regular events that highlight Galveston's vibrant small business community, giving customers the opportunity to discover local artisans, enjoy a refreshing drink, and uncover unique, thoughtfully curated pieces for their home.
Home Curated is located on the third floor of the Hutchings, Sealy & Company Building at 2326 Strand Street. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 7pm and Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Closed on Monday.
For more information, please call 832.510.0212 or follow them on Instagram @homecurated.co.
HULI HULI HUT
After the devastating fire at their original location in February 2025, owners Adam and Cortney Lee found strength in the overwhelming support from the Galveston community. Fundraisers were quickly organized to assist employees, while the Lees worked tirelessly to find a new home for Huli Huli Hut.
Their search led them to a spacious location on 25th Street, formerly Sharky’s Tavern, which has since undergone a fresh transformation. Inside, the space has been revitalized, while outside, a striking new mural by local artist Justin Lopez adds a vibrant, artistic touch to the restaurant’s next chapter.
“We immediately started looking for another location to get back up and running [after the fire]. After two months, we were contacted by the property owners of this new location and were in the building in seven days,” said Adam.
The Lees are thrilled to have more seating and an inviting outdoor patio, giving guests even more space to enjoy their signature flavors. They’re currently reconfiguring the kitchen to bring back their full menu, ensuring their beloved dishes make a return.
A new addition to Huli Huli Hut is the pizza oven, left behind by the previous owners of Sharky’s Tavern. Excited to put it to good use, they’re brainstorming creative and unique offerings. Of course, the fan-favorite crawfish and seafood boils will remain a staple, keeping the heart of the menu as flavorful as ever.
Originally from small towns south of Fort Worth, the Lees maintain residences in both Galveston and Bolivar, where their other business, the Nauti Beaver Hut, is located.
The Lees have an extensive background in hospitality. Cortney's journey began in her teens, working her way through nearly every role - starting as a to-go girl, then waitress, cook, bartender, manager, and now owner.
Adam opened a bar in his hometown of Alvarado in 2009, where he and Cortney first met. With a background in hosting live concerts at his venue, Adam is eager to bring that same vibrant energy to their new Galveston location, offering live music as part of the restaurant’s experience.
Huli Huli Hut is located at 504 25th Street and welcomes guests daily from 11am to midnight. For more information, call 409.443.5525 or follow them at Facebook.com/HuliHuliHut/.