When it comes to getting married, a destination wedding at the beach ranks high on many couples’ wish lists. The historic beach town of Galveston offers 32 miles of sand and sea to serve as a picturesque backdrop for this special day.
And, the romance doesn’t end at the beach. Galveston Island offers plenty of one-of-a-kind wedding venues – from Victorian mansions to lavish gardens and even a historic tall ship! Make your wedding a fairytale affair. If you’re in the market to tie-the-knot, here’s a look at our favorite places to get married on the island.
VICTORIAN GRANDEUR
CONSERVATORY AT THE BRYAN MUSEUM
For classic Victorian elegance, there is no place like the Conservatory at The Bryan Museum. This crystalline venue features a magnificent European design of intricate metal ironwork and beautiful emerald green glass. At 2,000 square feet, the Conservatory is nestled in lush gardens and opens onto an expansive stone terrace and vine-covered gazebo. The perfect setting for a private party or wedding, the Conservatory can accommodate parties of 250 standing or 150-180 seated. Plus, an adjacent pavilion provides a luxurious custom-designed Bridal Suite and Groom’s Lounge.
GARTEN VEREIN
Set in verdant Kempner Park, the historic Garten Verein offers a magical venue for weddings, receptions and private parties. The ornate architecture of this Victorian dancing pavilion is just as unique as its stand-out octagonal design. The building’s panoramic windows provide spectacular views from every angle, resembling a grand glassed-in gazebo. Garten Verein can accommodate groups of up to 300 standing and 250 seated.
MOODY MANSION
Experience the elegance of an earlier era in Galveston with a fairy tale wedding at the historic Moody Mansion. Built in 1895, this majestic home is filled with opulent finishes, from its oak and mahogany-paneled walls and silk wall coverings to its grand ceiling murals and gold adorned embellishments. The mansion’s descending staircase, highlighted by a gorgeous stained glass window, is the photo-perfect backdrop for any bride’s special day.
HISTORIC HOTELS & SPOTS
Galveston’s historic hotels provide many romantic options for weddings that include the convenience of on-site services, from catering to spas. Historic Hotel Galvez has been creating enchanting weddings for more than 100 years with plenty of locations to choose from, including its elegant Music Hall, Terrace Ballroom and beachfront outdoor space Centennial Green.
TREMONT HOUSE
In historic downtown Galveston, The Tremont House ballroom is a stunning venue for parties of up to 400 guests while The Rooftop Bar is the perfect setting for an intimate sunset ceremony.
TALL SHIP ELISSA
Galveston’s 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA is a unique site for an intimate, nautical ceremony. The historic ship features a quarter of an acre in surface area and gorgeous views from its dock station on Galveston Harbor. Ceremonies can be complemented with seated dinner receptions for up to 300 people on the harbor pier.
SACRED HEART CHURCH
Sacred Heart Church is by far one of the most stunning places of worship in Texas. Located on historic Broadway Avenue, this early 1900s cathedral features ornate octagonal towers, flying buttresses, and elaborate ornamentation and arches reflecting architectural influences of Moorish, Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque styles. For a traditional, religious wedding, there is no venue in Galveston quite as breathtaking.
SEASIDE VIEWS
BEACHES
With Galveston having 32 miles of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico, couples can easily opt for a sand-between-your-toes ceremony. Galveston’s East Beach and Stewart Beach both offer special services for weddings, including designated, groomed beach space and access to the park’s pavilions. And, Island Weddings and Baroque Events can help couples transform their beach setting into ceremony shape with beautiful canopies, aisle greenery, floral décor and more.
MOODY GARDENS
Along Offatts Bayou, the Moody Gardens Hotel offers grand ballrooms, lush botanical gardens and beautiful views of the Moody Gardens pyramids and waterfront views. The 242 acres of tropical Gulf beauty are perfect for intimate or grand ceremonies.
ADDITIONAL WATERFRONT SPACES
For a wedding overlooking Galveston Harbor, Seawolf Park is a romantic option, especially at sunset. This secluded park provides a nicely landscaped grass event area and jetty area with a rock backdrop overlooking the water. On the beachfront, The San Luis Resort’s outdoor wedding gazebo provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. The resort’s expansive Grand Ballroom and pool hill are also popular choices.
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