Strand

The Strand Historical District, Galveston's downtown, was named after London's famed Strand and was known in the 19th century as the Wall Street of the Southwest. Today the Strand boasts one of the biggest collections of historic buildings in the United States, a favorite destination of tourists from all over the world. Adding to the charm of the Victorian and early 20th century buildings are streetcars, horse-drawn carriages and a series of unique arches.

Among the historic buildings and tourist destinations in the Strand are:

The Grand 1894 Opera House
The Tremont House Hotel
United States National Bank
The Railroad Museum (Shearn Moody Plaza)
The Cotton Exchange
The Stewart Building
The Maritime Museum
St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica
Trinity Episcopal Church
and many other historic buildings housing art galleries, shops and restaurants to satisfy every taste.

Some prominent events in the Strand include:

•Mardi Gras - two weeks before Ash Wednesday each year - parades, street festival, costume balls, festivities of all sorts. Galveston's biggest single tourist event.

•Dickens on the Strand - first weekend in December - relive Dickens' London with performers, food, parades and a skating rink.

•The Trolley Run - competition for all levels of runner - held the last weekend in March - 1999 will mark the 12th annual run.

•ArtWalks - Galleries and antique shops open for browsing, artist receptions, charity auctions - Saturday evenings 6-9 p.m., every six weeks year-round.

•Galveston Harbor Parade of Lights - Spectacular nighttime exhibition of festively and fancifully decorated boats.

•Music and Arts Festival - a wide variety of local and national performers and artists - held each October.

•Downtown "Walk-About" - A treasure hunt. Walkers visit 25 participating merchants for the chance to win prizes. Proceeds benefit Clean Galveston.

•Oktoberfest - First Lutheran Church. Traditional fall celebration with authentic German band, food and crafts. Back to Menu