for C ON VEN TIONS
and the UNC ON V EN TIONA L
C ON V EN T ION CEN T ER
The Galveston Island Convention Center at The San Luis Resort is the perfect destination for
your next meeting or event. Located on Galveston’s famed Seawall Boulevard, the two-story,
140,000-square-foot, multi-function property combines well-appointed executive conference
facilities with the luxurious amenities of a relaxing resort:
• Dramatic beachfront setting with
breathtaking views of the Gulf of
Mexico
• More than 700 adjacent hotel
rooms — and 1,400 more rooms
within two miles
• Complimentary shuttle service to
and from contracted hotels
• Column-free, 43,100-square-foot
exhibition hall
• 15,500-square-foot grand ballroom
• 12,000 square feet of breakout
meeting space
• 29,000 square feet of pre-function space
• Complimentary on-site, covered parking
• State-of-the art audio/visual technology —
including soundproof rooms, individual lighting, sound and
climate controls, plus wireless Internet access throughout
LOADING
DOCK
C ON V EN T ION CEN T ER
LE V EL one
LE V EL two
Room
1
EXHIBIT HALL
EXHIBIT
HALL A
EXHIBIT
HALL B
7
2
8
3
9
4
10
5
11
Grand Ballroom
Grand Ballroom A
Grand Ballroom B
Grand Ballroom C
Square
Feet
15,500
5,150
5,150
5,150
Ceiling
Height
20'
20'
20'
20'
Hollow
Classroom Square
1,030
—
340
—
340
—
340
—
Theater
1,660
550
550
550
Exhibits Exhibits
Banquet Reception (8'
x 10' ) (10' x 10' )
1,250
1,575
96
75
415
525
30
25
415
525
30
25
415
525
30
25
6
PRE-FUNCTION
PRE-FUNCTION
KITC
ENTRANCE
Room
Exhibit Hall
Exhibit Hall A
Exhibit Hall B
1) Windward Boardroom
2) Schooner
3) Clipper
4) Harbor
5) Spinnaker
6) Helm
7) Leeward Boardroom
Galleon
8) Galleon III
9) Galleon II
10) Galleon I
11) Yacht
Square
Feet
43,100
21,550
21,550
370
950
950
950
950
660
370
5,100
1,700
1,700
1,700
1,400
Ceiling
Height
30'
30'
30'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
20'
(Numbers correspond to rooms on the
capacity chart below.)
Hollow
Classroom Square
2,950
—
1,475
—
1,475
—
20
12
70
24
70
24
70
24
70
24
50
18
—
12
350
—
115
46
115
46
115
46
100
38
Theater
4,700
2,350
2,350
44
110
110
110
110
74
—
575
190
190
190
155
Exhibits Exhibits
Banquet Reception (8'
x 10' ) (10' x 10' )
3,550
4,500
270
215
1,775
2,250
135
107
1,775
2,250
135
107
30
40
—
—
80
105
—
—
80
105
—
—
80
105
—
—
80
105
—
—
50
68
—
—
30
—
—
—
430
550
30
24
140
180
—
—
140
180
—
—
140
180
—
—
110
150
—
—
EXHIBIT HALL
(BELOW)
PRE-FUNCTION
OUTDOOR TERRACE/BALCONY
GRAND
BALLROOM
PRE-FUNCTION
HE N
AC C OM MODAT IONS with M EET I NG SPACE
On Galveston Island, more than 151,000 combined square
feet of meeting space at various hotels is available for
your next event, meeting or convention. In addition,
accommodations for every budget and preference are
available — from luxury to limited-service lodging, B&Bs,
condos and beach houses.
Hawthorn Suites at The Victorian
Resort & Conference Center
6300 Seawall Boulevard
230 guest rooms
www.hawthorn.com
Hilton Galveston Island
5400 Seawall Boulevard
240 guest rooms
www.galvestonhilton.com
Holiday Inn Resort
on the Beach
5002 Seawall Boulevard
180 guest rooms
www.holidayinn.com
Hotel Galvez,
a Wyndham Historic Hotel
2024 Seawall Boulevard
226 guest rooms
AAA Four-Diamond Award
www.wyndham.com
Moody Gardens Hotel
7 Hope Boulevard
428 guest rooms
AAA Four-Diamond Award
www.moodygardenshotel.com
Seaside Pool at The San Luis Resort
The San Luis Resort,
Spa & Conference Center
5222 Seawall Boulevard
250 guest rooms
AAA Four-Diamond Award
www.sanluisresort.com
The Tremont House,
a Wyndham Historic Hotel
2300 Ship’s Mechanic Row
119 guest rooms
www.wyndham.com
For more information about all of these properties,
contact the Galveston Island Convention and
Visitors Bureau, and let us help make your
event a success.
Toll-free: 1-866-505-4456, ext. 145
Direct: 409-797-5145
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.galvestoncvb.com
Hotel Galvez
Hilton Galveston Island
The Tremont House
V EN U E S and AT T R ACT IONS
Experience Galveston’s legendary history, view the
architecture of yesteryear, shop till you drop, wine and
dine or simply enjoy the mild, tropical climate. Whatever
your fancy, there’s no shortage of things to do in
Galveston.
Activities and Attractions at Moody Gardens
One of Galveston’s most popular attractions is
Moody Gardens. Sunbathe at Palm Beach, or play
volleyball on the bright, white sands. Travel the
world’s oceans at the Aquarium Pyramid, step
into the Rainforest Pyramid with tropical plants,
exotic fish and birds, or unravel science’s mysteries
at Discovery Pyramid. Enjoy a rollicking ride
through the universe at Ridefilm Theater, be in the
action at 4D Special FX Theater, or see spectacular
images leap from the six-story screen at IMAX 3D
Theater.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
Schlitterbahn boasts 30 fun, state-of-the-art
attractions and the world’s first convertible indoor/
outdoor waterpark area, Wasserfest. Top-ranked
Schlitterbahn waterparks are the most-visited in
the country. Park is open year-round.
Texas Seaport Museum and 1877 Tall Ship Elissa
This restored iron-hulled barque was built in
Scotland and called on Galveston in the late 19th
century. Walk the decks of the floating National
Historic Landmark, and imagine when daring
sailors traversed the world’s oceans aboard the ship.
Lone Star Flight Museum and Texas Aviation Hall of Fame
Admire this award-winning collection of
historically significant aircraft on the ground — or
actually fly the wild blue yonder in one of three
different historic bombers!
the HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
DISTRICT is imbued with opulent Galveston
history. The 19th century Victorian District has
everything to offer — restaurants, shops, historic
attractions and galleries. Ride in a horse-drawn
carriage, or enjoy open-air trolley routes from
downtown to the Gulf of Mexico.
Ocean Star Oil Rig Museum
Texas is the largest producer of oil and gas in the
U.S. Step aboard an offshore rig and see how it
all happens. Interactive and multimedia displays
transport you to offshore sites around the world.
The Grand 1894 Opera House
Designated as “The Official Opera House of
Texas” by the Texas Legislature, the Victorian-era
theatre remains Galveston’s premier cultural venue.
No seat is more than 70 feet from the stage that
was once the largest in Texas.
1886 Bishop’s Palace
Perhaps Galveston’s grandest and best-known
building, the Bishop’s Palace was built in 1886 and
was named “one of the 100 most important buildings
in America” by the American Institute of Architects.
1859 Ashton Villa
Built in 1859, Ashton Villa was the first of
Galveston’s Broadway “palaces.” See firsthand
the balcony from where the Emancipation
Proclamation was read on June 19, 1865.
1895 Moody Mansion
Bought by W.L. Moody six days after the Great
Storm of 1900, this imposing limestone-and-brick
mansion is filled with opulent furnishings and
heirlooms from one of Texas’s wealthiest families.
The Grand 1894 Opera House
Moody Gardens
1886 Bishop’s Palace
OU T DOOR R E CR E AT ION
The mild weather on the Island enables
visitors to enjoy the beautiful outdoors
year-round. Sandy beaches, golfing,
fishing, birding, volleyball, horseback
riding, biking, kayaking — the ways to
enjoy the Island are infinite.
Miles and Miles of Gulf Coast Beaches
With 32 miles of beautiful beaches,
four full-service beach parks, and
temperate weather year-round, it’s
easy to experience a sun-drenched
day of surfing, sailing, pier or
charter fishing, swimming or simple
relaxation.
Seawolf Park
This park is a memorial to the USS
Seawolf, a WWII combat sub. The
USS Cavalla is berthed here, as is
the USS Stewart. Enjoy picnic and
playground areas, fishing piers and
great views from the pavilion.
Dolphin and Harbor Tour
A Dolphin and Harbor Tour is a
comfortable way to see frolicking
dolphins, a WWII submarine, the
tall ship Elissa and much more.
Private tours are available.
Galveston Country Club
The Galveston Country Club was
founded in 1898, making it the
oldest private country club in Texas.
This 18-hole, championship golf
course is situated on the Island’s
west end, next to Lake Como.
Moody Gardens Golf Course
Galveston’s municipal golf course
recently underwent a $14 million
redesign courtesy of PGA Tour
pros Jacobsen Hardy Golf Course
Design. This links-style, par 72
course is lushly landscaped and
flanked by Sydnor Bayou — an
ideal venue for group outings.
DI N I NG OU T in GA LV E STON
The array of dining options on Galveston
Island reflects its flavorful and impressive
history. Schedule an upscale function
in a Zagat-rated steakhouse or historic
seafood restaurant, or entertain your
group at a hip café or low-key burger
joint. Whatever your needs, Galveston’s
restaurants fit the bill.
Types of Cuisine
It goes without saying that
impossibly fresh Gulf seafood
graces a multitude of menus, but
Italian, Pan-Asian, Latin fusion,
Tex-Mex and American fare are
just as prolific. With such culinary
diversity, there is no shortage of
choices on the Island.
Private Functions and Group Dining
Many establishments offer
private dining facilities designed
to accommodate large groups,
meetings or other off-site events.
Small or large, simple or sublime,
there are ample options to satisfy
every palate — and budget.
Catering Options
Galveston’s culinary landscape
also includes a diverse selection of
catering companies that provide
services for every imaginable event.
Whether you’re hosting a beach
party or a lavish, corporate affair,
you’ll be in the capable hands of the
Island’s event and catering firms.
Island Nightlife
The fun doesn’t end when the sun
sets on the Island. Contemporary
dance clubs, lounges and an
assortment of other events comprise
an eclectic nightlife on the Island.
For a comprehensive list of
restaurants (including those with
private function space) and caterers,
contact the Galveston Island
Convention and Visitors Bureau,
and let us help make your event a
delicious success.
Toll-free: 1-866-505-4456, ext. 145
Direct: 409-797-5145
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.galvestoncvb.com
E X PL OR I NG the unC ON V E N T IONA L
Before your event, or when the doors
close on the last day of your convention,
explore the “un” conventional stylings
that enhance Galveston Island.
January–April
• Galveston ArtWalk
• Mardi Gras! Galveston
• SpringFest and Beach Soccer
Tournament
• Galveston Island Featherfest
• Grand Kids Festival
• Spirit of Flight Air Show
May–August
• Historical Homes Tour
• Oleander Festival
• Galveston Uncorked
• Classic Car Show
• Galveston ArtWalk
• Cinco de Mayo Celebration
• Yaga’s Wild Game Cook-off
• AIA Sand Castle Competition
• Summer Beach Band Concerts
• Galveston’s Juneteenth Jubilee
• Back Garden Tour
• July 4 Fireworks Display
September–December
• Island Oktoberfest
• ARToberFEST
• Downtown Lofts Tour
• Texas Aviation Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony and Gala
• Lone Star Motorcycle Rally
• Strand Christmas Tree Lighting
• Greek Festival
• Galveston.com & Company
Epicurean Evening
• Dickens on The Strand
• Victorian Christmas Homes Tour
• Moody Gardens Festival
of Lights
• Galveston Harbor Parade of
Lights and Boat Festival
Cruises From Galveston
The Port of Galveston is the fourthlargest for cruise travelers in the
U.S. In fact, more people embark
on exotic vacations from Galveston
than from New York or Honolulu.
Set sail on a cruise ship bound for
domestic or international ports of
call — a perfect way to start or
finish your convention.
C ON V E N T ION SERV ICE S
The Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau
provides a number of useful services designed to save
you time and money. From initial planning to post-event
wrap-up, you can count on our expertise and hospitality.
Let us become an extension of your planning team.
Site Selection Presentations
When the Island is being considered as your
meeting/convention destination, we will facilitate
bid presentations.
Request for Proposal (RFP)
We will do the work for you! Once you begin the
site selection process, our sales team will respond
to your request for proposal, check accommodation
and venue availability, distribute your meeting
specifications to vendors to begin the competitive
bid process and arrange site inspections.
Pre-Convention Collateral
For groups working directly with the CVB, we will
supply collateral and promotional materials to help
promote the Island as your meeting destination.
Housing
The CVB will provide housing assistance to groups
that qualify as citywide conventions.
Registration Assistance
For conventions and meetings that are booked
through the CVB, personnel will be made available
to assist with your event registration.
Name Tags
Upon request, name badge holders and printable
inserts are provided to groups that exceed 90
rooms per night.
Attendance Building
Given the resort atmosphere of Galveston Island,
rest assured that your attendance will be recordbreaking! There are limitless ways we can help you
“pre-promote” your meeting on the Island.
On-Site Information Center
We will furnish an on-site information desk and/
or personnel for citywide meetings. Personnel
will disseminate required collateral, maps and
directions and will provide other delegate services.
Publicity
We will submit a news release promoting your
meeting to local media on your behalf.
Welcome Bags
If you work with the CVB, we will provide
complimentary welcome bags to your attendees.
Official Welcome
Upon request, a local representative will welcome
your attendees at the start of your meeting. With
prior notification, your group can also be presented
with a proclamation from the mayor during the
opening session.
Additional Services and Information
For more information and to request or arrange
services, please contact the Galveston Island
Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Toll-free: 1-866-505-4456, ext. 145
Direct: 409-797-5145
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.galvestoncvb.com
Seattle/Tacoma
4.5 hours
T R AV ELI NG to the ISL A N D
Portland
4.25 hours
Montreal
6 hours
Minneapolis
2.75 hours
Boise
6 hours
Nestled in the sparkling waters of the
Gulf of Mexico, Galveston Island is more
accessible than you might think. Having
the flight volumes of the nation’s fourthlargest city provides maximum flexibility
for scheduling. Just 50 miles south of
Houston, an oasis waits to meet your
convention needs.
Air and Ground Transportation
Passengers bound for Galveston
Island will land in Houston at Bush
Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
Ground transportation from both
airports follows a direct route south,
along Interstate 45. For airport
shuttle options and prices, visit
www.galvestoncvb.com.
Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
Located 70 miles north of
Galveston, IAH is Houston’s
largest airport. It ranks third in the
number of non-stop domestic and
international flights in the U.S. and
is home to Continental Airlines.
Toronto
3.25 hours
Milwaukee
2.75 hours
Salt Lake City
3.25 hours
San Francisco
4.25 hours
Chicago
2.5 hours
Omaha
2.25 hours
Denver
2.25 hours
Kansas City St. Louis
2 hours
2 hours
Phoenix
2.5 hours
San Diego
3.5 hours
Albuquerque
2 hours
Raleigh-Durham
2.75 hours
Charlotte
2.5 hours
Little Rock
Dallas1.25 hours
1 hour
El Paso
1.75 hours
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
This urban airport is located
40 miles north of Galveston
Island and is a major hub
for Southwest Airlines.
Atlanta
2.25 hours
Birmingham
1.5 hours
Austin
45 min.
New Orleans
1 hour
Houston/
Galveston
Orlando
2.25 hours
San Antonio
45 min.
Chartered Air Transportation
Chartered planes, private jets and
helicopters can fly directly to the
Island via Scholes International
Airport (GLS), which can
accommodate planes the size
of a Boeing 767 and smaller.
Miami
2.5 hours
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©2007 Galveston Island Convention and Visitors Bureau. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the express, written permission
of the copyright owner(s). The Galveston Island logo and tag line are the trademarks of the Galveston Island Convention and Visitors Bureau. All other trademarks, logos, copyrights
and service marks are the property of their respective owners. (11/07)
Creative direction/writing/editing: v.creative studio : : results. by design. (www.vcreativestudio.com) | Additional editing: Sandra Cook | Published by: AJR Media Group
Photography: Galveston Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, Robert John Mihov l, Getty Images and iStockphoto.com | Map courtesy of: National Archives and Records
Administration (ca. 1864)
Washington, D.C.
3.25 hours
Louisville
2.25 hours
Memphis
1.5 hours
Oklahoma City
1.25 hours
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New York
3.75 hours
Philadelphia
3.25 hours
Pittsburgh
3.0 hours
Las Vegas
3 hours
Los Angeles
3.5 hours
Boston
Albany
4.75 hours 4 hours
Detroit
2.75 hours
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