The Best Galveston Wedding Venues – Our Picks for 2023

Welcome to our guide on wedding venues in Galveston! As wedding photographers, we know that choosing the perfect venue is one of the most important decisions a couple can make for their big day. Galveston offers a variety of stunning venues, from historic landmarks to waterfront resorts, making it a popular destination for weddings. In this article, we will provide an overview of some of the top wedding venues in Galveston, including capacity, style, amenities, and starting cost to help couples make an informed decision on their dream wedding venue.

Please note: some of this information may be outdated when you read this post, for best information please contact the venues directly.

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The Best Hotel Wedding Venues in Galveston

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that can offer everything in one place, a hotel or resort may be the perfect choice for you. Here are our choices for the best hotels and resorts in Galveston for weddings:

Grand Galvez (Our FAVORITE Galveston Wedding Venue)

Best for: glamorous and sophisticated weddings with a classic or vintage flair.

The Grand Galvez is a historic hotel built in 1911. The hotel was named after the Spanish general Bernardo de Gálvez, who helped the American colonists in the American Revolutionary War. The Grand Galvez has gone through multiple renovations over the years, with the most recent renovation completed in 2021.

The Grand Galvez has a classic and elegant feel with its European-style architecture, grand staircase, crystal chandeliers, and antique furnishings. The hotel’s 224 guest rooms and suites offer modern amenities while still maintaining the hotel’s historic charm. The luxurious rooms make The Grand Galvez a fantastic option if your wedding will have lots of out of town guests who will need a place to stay.

The Grand Galvez also offers a variety of event spaces suitable for both intimate gatherings and grand affairs. The hotel’s grand ballroom is a stunning venue for weddings, galas, and other large events, with its crystal chandeliers, ornate moldings, and ample space for up to 650 guests. For smaller events, the hotel offers the Terrace Ballroom and the Music Hall, both of which can accommodate up to 200 guests. The hotel also has several outdoor event spaces, including the Beach Pavilion, which can accommodate up to 300 guests for a beachside wedding or event.

Here are some key details about The Grand Galvez:

• Capacity: Up to 500 guests
• Starting cost: $15,000
• Amenities: On-site catering and bar services, audiovisual equipment, event planning services, bridal suite, valet parking
• Phone: (409) 765-7721
• Website: https://www.grandgalvez.com/
• Email: info@hotelgalvez.com
• Address: 2024 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

This historic hotel has a classic, elegant style that provides a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos. The grand staircase in the lobby is a popular spot for photos, and the outdoor veranda overlooking the Gulf of Mexico is perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots.

Check out a few weddings we’ve photographed at The Grand Galvez.

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  Sam & Story | The Grand Galvez
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  1920s Glamour Meets Modern Luxe in Forbes and Emily’s Hotel Galvez Wedding

The San Luis Resort (The best Galveston Venue for a large wedding)

Best for: stylish and upscale weddings with a contemporary or minimalist aesthetic.

The San Luis Resort is a luxurious hotel situated in Galveston Island, Texas. The resort features a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico and offers an array of amenities that can satisfy the needs of different types of guests, such as business travelers, couples, and families. The resort has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when the first beachfront hotel, the Beach Hotel, was built on the site. Over the years, the hotel has undergone several renovations to provide guests with the ultimate luxury experience.

The San Luis Resort features a total of 248 rooms and suites that are elegantly decorated and designed to provide guests with the utmost comfort. The rooms have a contemporary design with a touch of sophistication, and the amenities include a flat-screen TV, high-speed internet access, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a safe. The suites offer more space and luxurious amenities such as a separate living area, a private balcony with a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico, and a Jacuzzi tub.

The San Luis Resort has several indoor and outdoor event spaces that can accommodate a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. The venues include the Grand Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 1,000 guests and features a stunning crystal chandelier, and the Garden Room, which can accommodate up to 300 guests and has a beautiful view of the tropical gardens.

The resort has several amenities that guests can enjoy during their stay, such as a full-service spa, a fitness center, a heated outdoor pool, and a private beach area. Guests can also dine in the resort’s award-winning restaurants, which offer a variety of cuisine options, from Italian to seafood.

• Capacity:
  Grand Ballroom: up to 1,000 guests
  Garden Room: up to 300 guests
• Starting cost: The San Luis Resort does not provide specific pricing information for events on their website. Prices may vary depending on the event type, date, and other factors.
• Amenities: Full-service spa, Private beach area, Award-winning restaurants
• Phone: (409) 744-1500
• Website: https://www.sanluisresort.com/
• Address: 5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551

With its modern design and stunning ocean views, the San Luis Resort is the perfect place to capture the beauty of a seaside wedding. From the sleek lines of its architecture to the shimmering waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the resort provides a picturesque setting for romantic and unforgettable photos.

Don’t settle for ordinary wedding photos. Let us capture the fun of your Galveston wedding.

The Tremont House

Best for: a romantic and elegant wedding with a vintage or classic touch.

The Tremont House, located in the heart of Galveston’s historic district, is a luxurious hotel with a rich history that dates back to 1839. The hotel was first opened by Samuel May Williams and rapidly became a popular meeting place for the city’s business and political elite. However, it was destroyed in the devastating Great Fire of 1865, which destroyed a significant portion of Galveston’s downtown area.

The Tremont House was rebuilt in 1872 and, for the next century, was one of the most prominent hotels in the region. Over the years, the hotel has been home to several notable guests, including Ulysses S. Grant, Sam Houston, and Oscar Wilde. The Tremont House also played a significant role in the development of Galveston’s Mardi Gras celebration, which is now one of the largest in the United States.

Today, The Tremont House is a stunning boutique hotel with a unique blend of 19th-century elegance and modern amenities.

The Tremont House also features several impressive event spaces, including the 8,000 square-foot Davidson Ballroom, which is perfect for large weddings, corporate events, and galas. Other event spaces include the Sam Houston Room, the Samuel May Williams Room, and the Library, each of which offers a unique atmosphere for smaller events and meetings.

• Capacity: 400 guests for a seated dinner
• Starting cost: $125/person
• Website: https://www.thetremonthouse.com/meetings-events
• Phone number: (409) 763-0300
• Address: 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St, Galveston, TX 77550

The Tremont House’s blend of historical elegance and modern luxury make it an ideal location for wedding photos. Its stunning lobby, grand staircase, and rooftop bar all provide unique photo opportunities that will capture the timeless beauty of your wedding day.

The Best Historic Wedding Venues in Galveston

Galveston has a rich history, and many couples are drawn to the city’s historic wedding venues for their unique charm and character. Here are three of the best historic wedding venues in Galveston:

The Bryan Museum

Best for: elegant and sophisticated weddings with a classic or vintage feel.

The Bryan Museum is a popular wedding venue in Galveston that exudes elegance and history. It is a restored mansion built in 1895 and boasts of original artwork, antique furnishings, and chandeliers that lend it a sophisticated charm. The architecture and style of the Bryan Museum is reminiscent of the Gilded Age, making it an ideal location for couples who want to celebrate their special day in a romantic and timeless setting.

The Bryan Museum is situated in the heart of Galveston, and it features several indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings. The indoor spaces include the Reception Hall and Ballroom, both of which are richly decorated and provide ample space for dining, dancing, and socializing. The Reception Hall has space for up to 150 guests, while the Ballroom accommodates up to 100 guests. The outdoor space includes the Bryan Garden, a lush and verdant garden that is perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The garden can accommodate up to 200 guests and features a beautiful fountain that creates a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

The Bryan Museum offers a variety of amenities to make your wedding day stress-free and memorable. Tables and chairs are provided for both indoor and outdoor spaces, and the staff is available to assist with setup and teardown. There is ample parking available on-site for your guests, and the museum can also provide recommendations for catering and bar services. The starting cost for weddings at the Bryan Museum is $5,500.

If you’re interested in booking the Bryan Museum for your wedding, you can contact their events team through their website or by phone. The museum’s physical address is 1315 21st Street, Galveston, TX 77550.

• Capacity: up to 150 guests
• Starting cost: $5,500
• Amenities: tables and chairs, setup and teardown, parking
• Website: https://thebryanmuseum.org/venue-rentals/
• Phone: (409) 632-7685
• Address: 1315 21st Street, Galveston, TX 77550

With its rich history and architectural beauty, The Bryan Museum provides a unique and elegant backdrop for photos. From the intricate details of its Victorian-style mansion to the expansive green space surrounding it, there are countless photo opportunities that will capture the beauty and essence of your special day.

Garten Verein (a unique wedding venue in Galveston)

Best for: romantic and intimate wedding with a vintage or bohemian vibe.

The Garten Verein is a historic wedding venue located in Galveston, Texas. This venue has a rich history, as it was founded in 1880 as a social club for German immigrants. The original clubhouse was destroyed in the hurricane of 1900, but the club was rebuilt and continued to thrive. In the 1920s, the Garten Verein became a popular location for weddings and events, and it has remained a beloved Galveston institution ever since.

The venue features lush gardens, fountains, and a spacious pavilion that can accommodate up to 300 guests. The pavilion is a beautiful open-air space with a large dance floor, perfect for a reception under the stars. The gardens are meticulously maintained, and the fountains add a lovely touch of elegance to the outdoor space. Inside the clubhouse, there are several rooms available for getting ready or for a small indoor ceremony.

The style of the Garten Verein is classic and elegant. The pavilion is surrounded by greenery, which adds a natural and romantic touch to the venue. The clubhouse has a vintage feel, with original wood floors and antique furniture. The overall effect is charming and sophisticated, and it’s easy to see why so many couples choose the Garten Verein for their wedding day.

• Capacity: up to 300 guests
• Starting cost: $4,500
• Amenities: Tables and chairs, setup and teardown, parking
• Website: https://www.galvestonhistory.org/garten-verein
• Email: events@galvestonhistory.org
• Phone: (409) 765-7834
• Address: 2704 Avenue O, Galveston, TX 77550

The beautiful gardens and winding pathways of Garten Verein provide a stunning backdrop for photos. With its manicured lawns, blooming flowers, and charming gazebo, it offers endless opportunities for romantic and timeless photos.

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The Trolley Station

Best for: couples looking for a trendy and edgy wedding venue.

The Trolley Station is a unique event space located in the heart of downtown Galveston. This historic building was built in 1912 and served as the city’s trolley station until the 1930s. In the years that followed, the building was used for various purposes, including as a bus terminal and a Greyhound station, before being converted into an event space in the 1990s.

The Trolley Station boasts a distinctive architectural style, featuring red brick walls, large arched windows, and a spacious interior with high ceilings. The building has been renovated to preserve its historical charm while providing modern amenities and facilities for events.

The Trolley Station’s main event space is the Grand Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 350 guests for a seated dinner or up to 500 guests for a cocktail-style reception. The Ballroom is adorned with elegant chandeliers and has a large stage area for entertainment and presentations. The space is also equipped with state-of-the-art audio and lighting systems, making it an ideal location for live performances and other events.

In addition to the Grand Ballroom, the Trolley Station also features several smaller event spaces, including the Platform Room and the Depot Room. These spaces can be used for more intimate events, such as meetings, luncheons, and smaller receptions.

The Trolley Station offers a range of amenities and services to make events unforgettable, including on-site catering, event planning and coordination, and audiovisual equipment rental. The venue also has ample parking space and is easily accessible from major highways and public transportation.

Here is some information on the Trolley Station’s capacity, starting cost, amenities, and contact information:

• Capacity:
  Grand Ballroom: Up to 350 guests for a seated dinner or up to 500 guests for a cocktail-style reception
  Platform Room: Up to 40 guests for a seated dinner or up to 60 guests for a cocktail-style reception
  Depot Room: Up to 70 guests for a seated dinner or up to 100 guests for a cocktail-style reception
• Starting cost: Contact the venue for pricing information
• Amenities: On-site catering, Event planning and coordination, Audiovisual equipment rental, Parking available
• Phone: (409) 763-7176
• Email: events@thetrolleystation.com
• Website: www.thetrolleystation.com
• Address: 2028 Strand Street, Galveston, TX 77550

The Trolley Station is a charming, historic building that has been beautifully restored and converted into an event venue. The venue’s exposed brick walls and vintage details make for a unique and rustic backdrop for photos, and the outdoor courtyard is perfect for capturing intimate shots.

Galveston, Wedding Venue: Get Married on the Beach

Galveston Island is a popular destination for couples looking to exchange their vows with a beachfront wedding. With a long stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, there are plenty of options for a picture-perfect beach wedding. If you’re considering getting married on Galveston beaches, here’s what you need to know.

First, you’ll need to obtain a permit from the Galveston Parks and Recreation Department. The permit is required for any type of event on the beach, including weddings. If you’re not setting up chairs, speakers, or roping off an area you don’t even need a permit!

When it comes to choosing a beach for your wedding, there are several options to consider. Stewart Beach and East Beach are both popular choices for beach weddings, as they offer ample parking and restroom facilities. Another option is Pocket Park 2, a small park that offers a more intimate setting for your ceremony. Other popular beaches include Porretto Beach and Galveston Island State Park.

The best time of year to get married on Galveston beaches is during the spring or fall. The summer months can be very hot and humid, which can be uncomfortable for you and your guests. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, making it a more comfortable experience for everyone.

When planning your beach wedding, it’s important to keep in mind the weather conditions. While Galveston beaches are beautiful, they are also subject to weather conditions such as strong winds and rain. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather, such as renting a tent or moving the ceremony indoors.

Another thing to consider is the tide. Depending on the time of day, the tide can either be high or low, which can impact the amount of beach available for your ceremony. It’s a good idea to check the tide schedule before setting a time for your wedding.

In terms of logistics, it’s important to plan for transportation and parking. If you have guests coming from out of town, you’ll want to provide them with clear directions and parking information. You may also want to consider hiring a shuttle to transport guests to and from the ceremony.

In conclusion, getting married on Galveston beaches can be a beautiful and memorable experience. Just be sure to obtain the necessary permits, choose the right beach, and plan for the weather and logistics. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can have the beach wedding of your dreams on Galveston Island.

Capture the memories of a lifetime with beautiful photos of your Galveston wedding.

Conclusion

Galveston offers a wide range of wedding venues to suit every couple’s taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a historic mansion, a luxury resort, or a beachfront ceremony, Galveston has something to offer. Choosing the perfect wedding venue is one of the most important decisions a couple can make for their big day, and we hope this guide has provided some helpful insights to make that decision a little easier.