The Historic Hotel Galvez

The Hotel Galvez is located in Galveston, TX.  A very majestic, seaside hotel that is rich in history and beautiful architecture, it first opened its doors in 1911.  Some of the hotels guests include celebrities such as Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Stewart.  American Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower, Lyndon B Johnson and Franklin D. Roosevelt stayed here, as well as General Douglas MacArthur.

There is a certain mystic about the hotel and it is said, by some, to be haunted.  Most of the ghost sightings and occurrences reported happen on the 5th floor, where one of the guest checked in …but never checked out!  The lovelorn lady of the fifth floor.  The story goes that many years ago she checked into room #500.  She would go upstairs to the turrets, and gaze out at the ocean.  Her fiance’ was at sea, and she was deeply concerned for his safety, fearing he may not return to port. One day her greatest fears were realized when she received word that his ship was lost at sea.  The lady refused to believe her fiance’ was really gone.  After a month of denial, in utter despondence, she returned to one of the turrets and hung herself.  In a sad, sad twist of fate, a month later her fiance’ returned, looking for his love – he had survived after all!  Now her spirit is “forever more” to roam here, at the Galvez Hotel.

Although my son and I saw no ghosts while we were here, we did enjoy touring the hotel.  My youngest son and I stayed here one July for a weekend getaway.  It is only about an hour drive from where we live.  We often enjoy taking a day or weekend trip to Galveston for shopping, eating out and being at the seashore.  My son chose the Galvez for this particular stay in Galveston because of the wonderful resort style pool area.  It is almost like you are in Mexico when you are poolside at the Galvez.

It rained this particular stay at the Galvez, the entire weekend!  We did not get to spend much time at the pool. 😦

The resort style pool is not the only amenity that is pleasing for kids. My son also enjoyed the mini museum they have set up.  You can tour and learn about the interesting history of the hotel and island.  If possible, include a Sunday in your stay.   Not only are the rates cheaper, but the Sunday brunch is one of the best on the Island.  The fitness center and spa were very nice and seemed to have a lot to choose from compared to other hotels.   They have a very nice lobby, piano bar and lounge area as well.

My son enjoying the mini museum at the hotel. 🙂

Our room at the hotel Galvez.  We were on the 3rd floor with a partial seaside view.  No 5th floor for us!

The rain did not stop us from enjoying a walk around the beautiful grounds of the hotel.

Our view from the beach – front of the Hotel Galvez.

Overall, I would recommend a stay at Hotel Galvez.  Having stayed here on several occasions, and everyone being extremely pleasant; from the valet to the check in, to the room service!  The only thing I might mention is that some of the rooms are a little smaller than other hotels and it smells a little musty in damp weather.  But hey, it is a 100-year-old hotel.

Part of the A-Z Challenge 2014.

Thanks for visiting!