Darcie Malphrus-Schlegel / Natalie Malphrus
While Galveston has been a major, national tourist destination for more than a hundred years, some of the Island's most overlooked features are among its most interesting! Remember that Galveston was once one of the leading ports in the U.S. and largest city in Texas. It was home to a major Civil War battle (you can still see cannonball holes in some of the historic buildings) as well as wars between competing prohibition-era gangs, and a wide open PERIOD of gambling and vice that spanned into the mid-20th century, spurred by the investments of a local crime family. The Rat Pack called some of the more notorious fun spots along the sea their home away from home. With all that history, it always surprised us that Galveston has historically been viewed as 'only' a beach destination. My mom and I love to travel, and we found over time that some of the best travel can be found close to home. We have lived in and around Galveston for more than 20 years, and have spent a lot of time poking into the various sunny, sandy, spooky, delicious and beautiful spots the island has to offer. After all, while the Galveston beaches are great for families, the real fun of Galveston can be found....beyond the beach! We have collected in this book what we think are some of the more interesting things you can do when you want to take a break from the beautiful views and warm seas, as well as additional resources you can use to identify great activities, terrific food, and fun places to stay. Our hope is that you, like us, will fall in love with ALL that Galveston has to offer, and that no storm, economy or other forces have been able to sink 3
