Month: January 2013 (Page 2 of 2)

Moody Gardens Offers Year-Round Fun

January 16, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Screen Shot 2013-01-09 at 4.57.21 PM At Moody Gardens, we are not a seasonal attraction that is only open certain times of the year. The fun here is nonstop and year-round! While we do have seasonal attractions, such as Palm Beach and Festival of Lights, we also have our popular Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid, and tons of events each month.

If you do happen to come during the winter or summer seasons, you can’t miss the Festival of Lights or Palm Beach. The Festival of Lights includes over 1 million holiday lights, and is the largest holiday lights festival in the area! Palm Beach opens in the summer, providing guests and island residents with Galveston’s only white sand beach!

Year- round attractions you can’t miss include:

Aquarium Pyramid
Penguin Encounter
Rainforest Pyramid
Discovery Museum
Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

Moody Gardens also offers three different theaters that provide unique cinematic experiences. Catch your next film at the Moody Gardens 3D Theater, Ridefilm Theater, or the 4D Special FX Theater. Each theatre provides a different kind of experience, from a regular 3D viewing to a ride featuring a 180-degree wraparound screen!

Be sure to stay up to date with our Calendar of Events. Each month we have Birding 101 and Birding 201. These free classes are designed to teach visitors about the variety of bird life living on Galveston Island. The classes are presented by Moody Gardens and Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council and available twice a month.

We also offer Pyramid Camp for kids each month, with a variety of different themes. Sign your kids up for Pyramid Kids Camp: Catch Me If You Can in February or Pyramid Kids Camp: Primate Palooza in April!

Learn more about the fun at Moody Gardens by exploring our website.

If you’re looking for family weekend getaways in Texas, book your next trip at the Moody Gardens Hotel. We look forward to seeing you soon.

A Look at the Moody Gardens Outreach Program

January 15, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Are you an educator or parent interested in helping your kids learn more about the rainforest? If you can’t make it out here for a field trip, but still want to bring the knowledge and excitement of Moody Gardens to your students, you may be interested in our Outreach Program.

The Outreach Program presents the Rainforest Roadshow! During the Rainforest Roadshow, a Moody Gardens rainforest expert will bring the wonder and beauty of the tropical rainforests to life for your students in the comfort of your classroom.

The Rainforest Roadshow features multiple interdisciplinary presentations that incorporate rainforest artifacts, plants, and animals. Certain animals, when available, will actually accompany the rainforest expert during the presentation. Throughout the presentations, your students will learn valuable and interesting information about the Central and South American rainforest.

Presentations are forty-five minutes long and available for up to eighty students at a time. Price is based on location. For presentations within Region IV, the first presentation is $100.00. You can schedule additional presentations for $75.00 and up to four presentations in a single day.

Presentations outside of Region IV include a mileage fee. Reservations are required, and they must be made at least two weeks in advance. We recommend booking your Rainforest Roadshow as early as possibly so you can reserve the time slot you want.

For more information and reservations, please call 1-800-582-4673, ext 4325 or email us at education@moodygardens.com.

Moody Gardens is a public, non-profit and educational destination, which is why we are dedicated to teaching the youth about nature and conservation. To learn more about the educational events and activities we provide, visit us at http://www.moodygardens.com/teaching_learning/.

Moody Gardens is also dedicated to providing our visitors with a fun and memorable time, so be sure to visit our Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid. The Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston and a popular vacation destination.

Group Meal Deals at Moody Gardens

January 14, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

sliced whole salami pizza At Moody Gardens, we welcome large groups of any size and kind! Whether you are coming from a school, a convention, or a senior residence facility, we have meal deals to fit your group’s needs.

You can enjoy discounted meal deals at our Palm Beach Concession Stand during the summer season, or year-round at the Aquarium Pyramid Food Court.

The following meal deal options are available with a reservation:

Aquarium Meal Deal 

Hotdog, chips, drink, cookie $5.75
Turkey sandwich, chips, drink, cookie $6.00
Personal cheese pizza, chips, drink, cookie $6.50
Cheeseburger, chips, drink, cookie $6.75

Palm Beach Meal Deal – Seasonal

Hotdog, chips, drink, cookie $5.75
Turkey sandwich, chips, drink, cookie $6.00
Personal cheese pizza, chips, drink, cookie $6.50
Cheeseburger, chips, drink, cookie $6.75

Garden Restaurant Lunch Buffet – Seasonal

$18.00 inclusive per Adult
$15.00 inclusive for Senior Citizens Tuesdays
$12.00 inclusive per Child 4-12

Unfortunately, our meal deal options are only available to pre-registered groups. Reservations must be made through the group sales department. If you don’t have reservations, your group will have to purchase food a la carte, which will require adequate time for everyone to get through the service line.

The group meal deal option is not only more convenient, but will also save you time and money! Without having to worry about getting everyone through the food line and getting everyone paid for, your group will have more time to enjoy the exciting and educational attractions at Moody Gardens such as the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid.

To learn more about group reservations and meal deals please contact us at 1-800-582-4673, ext. 4203 or 4362. We would love to talk to you about how we can accommodate your large group.

If you and your group need a place to lay your heads at night, the Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston.

Galveston Area Attractions

January 10, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

dv801006 Obviously, the most popular attraction in Galveston is Moody Gardens. Our Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, Golf Course, and more have been attracting locals and island visitors for years. However, while we are proud of Moody Gardens there are other great attractions to visit while vacationing (or living) in Galveston.

Galveston Island Ferry: The ferry is one of Galveston’s most popular attractions. The ferry is on Highway 87, and visitors can park and ride the ferry or drive their cars aboard. The ferries are free and run about every fifteen to twenty minutes.

Pier 21 Theater: Want to learn more about Galveston’s rich history, or the historical hurricane in 1900? The Great Storm is a multimedia presentation that gives visitors a look at the devastating storm through a multi-image documentary. The 27-minute film shows the story through actual accounts from diaries and letters of survivors.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: The famous pier is the perfect spot to take your family for a fun-filled day while you’re in Galveston. The pier has been transformed into an amusement park, with tons of rides that soar over the Gulf of Mexico. There are also plenty of shops and famous restaurants, such as Bubba Gump Shrimp.

Seawolf Park: This historic park is a memorial to the USS Seawolf, which was a United States Navy submarine mistakenly sunk by U.S. Navy Forces during World War II. The park also has a popular picnic area, and you and your family can fish off of the well-maintained pier.

These attractions are only a handful of the fun experiences you can have in Galveston. Don’t forget to spend a day on the beaches, hang out along the Seawall, or go shopping in the Strand. To learn more about Galveston and what it has to offer visit www.galveston.com.

If you’re looking for family weekend getaways in Texas, then look no further than Galveston Island. Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston, and one of the best places for entertainment! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Galveston’s “Beach Nourishment Project”

January 9, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

71031838 Moody Gardens is excited about Galveston’s commitment to keeping its beaches beautiful! Galveston Island’s beaches recently received a makeover with the Beach Nourishment Project, allowing residents and island visitors to bury their toes in the beautiful new sand!

The Beach Nourishment Project was a $6-million investment that added over 500,000 cubic feet of new sand to the Galveston beaches between 10^th Street and 61^st street.

The goal of the project was to be done in time for the Kemp Ridley turtle nesting season! The Kemp Ridley turtles are the rarest sea turtles and are critically endangered. Just like Moody Gardens, the city of Galveston is committed to rehabilitating and conserving nature.

On top of helping out Mother Nature, the Beach Nourishment Project was created to make the beaches more appealing for residents and island visitors. The city worked day and night to complete the project, which added over fifty feet of beach along the Seawall, creating an even more exciting and fulfilling beach experience!

This holiday season, come to Galveston and check out the beautiful beaches, shops, and restaurants along the Seawall. While you’re here appreciating our beaches, rest your head at the Moody Gardens Hotel, one of the best places to stay in Galveston.

In the summer season, when you don’t want to go to far from the hotel, we have our own beach right here on the grounds. Palm Beach is Galveston’s only white sand beach. Palm Beach also includes a Lazy River, Wave Pool, Tower Slides, Splashpad, and an Aquarium Adventure. While you’re at Moody Gardens’ own white sand beach, you’ll be surrounded by the lush botanical landscaping, and be near the famous Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid.

Come visit Galveston and Moody Gardens for your family weekend getaways in Texas. We look forward to sharing our beaches and accommodations with you soon.

Dining Options at Moody Gardens

January 8, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Screen Shot 2012-12-21 at 12.04.18 PM Moody Gardens is known for its educational and recreational attractions, such as the Rainforest Pyramid and Aquarium Pyramid, but did you know that we also have quite a few delicious dining options? When you come for the fun, don’t miss out on the food as well.

At the Moody Gardens Hotel, we have the privilege of serving food artfully prepared by Galveston Island’s most celebrated chef, Executive Chef Urs Schmid. Chef Urs and his culinary team use only the finest and freshet ingredients to create our exquisite cuisine. Join us for a memorable meal at Shearn’s Restaurant or The Terrace Restaurant.

Shearn’s Restaurant

If you’re on the hunt for Galveston’s finest dining, then you have found the right place! Shearn’s Restaurant is located on the ninth floor of the Moody Gardens hotel, and its cuisine and service can’t be beat. Locals come to Shearn’s Restaurant to enjoy the entrées and the upscale ambiance. Come taste Chef Urs signature dishes such as the lobster bisque or shrimp DeJonghe for yourself! Join us for dinner Tuesday through Saturday in dressy casual attire. Sorry, but no jeans, shorts, or tank tops allowed.

During the afternoon and evening, enjoy a cocktail in Shearn’s Lounge. Surrounded by views of the pyramids and Galveston Bay sunsets, it’s the perfect location for an evening drink.

The Terrace Restaurant

Dine in a location designed to bring the outdoors inside. You’ll be surrounded by tropical plants, hand-painted murals, hand-painted stained ceilings, and magnificent butterflies when you enjoy a meal at the Terrace Restaurant. The Terrace Restaurant can be found on the lobby level of the Moody Gardens Hotel and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Bring your family in to try the best gumbo in Galveston! Kids also eat free at the Terrace Restaurant when you stay in the hotel!

Join us at Moody Gardens for your next special occasion or family weekend getaways in Texas.

Why You Should Use Moody Gardens Convention Center for Your Next Event

January 7, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Screen Shot 2012-12-21 at 11.51.06 AM The Moody Gardens Convention Center provides the perfect destination for either business or pleasure. The location rests on over 200 acres of tropical gardens, making any event you hold here a memorable experience! Not only do we provide ample amounts of meeting and event space, but a four-diamond resort to accommodate your guests as well.

No matter what kind of event you plan on putting together, the Moody Gardens Convention Center has you covered. With over 100,000 square feet of combined meeting spaces, and a 60,000 square foot barrier-free ballroom-quality exposition center with over 5,000 available seats, you will have plenty of space to create the perfect event. Our meeting spaces can accommodate from the grandest of galas to intimate events.

The exposition center has floor boxes every thirty feet complete with water, power, air, and data drains. It also houses state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment so your guests will not be disappointed with your event.

The Moody Gardens Convention Center has two onsite business centers, making your event more efficient and convenient for company events. With a covered parking garage that can hold up to 1,000 cars, your guest will have easy access to the facilities they need.

Our full-service resort features 428 luxurious rooms and suites, so when the attendees are ready to rest their heads, their accommodations will not be lacking in comfort and service.

Moody Gardens Convention Center has built a reputation for being a premiere destination for recreation, meetings, and events. No matter what reason you need to use our space, our world-class property and professional staff is here to provide you with the best hospitality and client service in the business.

When you aren’t joining us at Moody Gardens for business purposes, come see us for your next family weekend getaway in Galveston! The Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston!

Rooms and Suites Offered at Moody Gardens Hotel

January 3, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Queen Queen rm667 Final

If you’re looking for family-friendly hotels in Texas, then book your next vacation here at the Moody Gardens Hotel! Our hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston, and we have the finest rooms and suites in the area to accommodate our valued guests.

King and Queen Accommodations

Each room is a reflection of the botanical beauty of the Moody Gardens. The interior design of each hotel room combines both style and tropical ambiance to create the best guest room accommodations on the island. Each room provides 500 square feet of space, and a variety of views, such as the Pyramids, Galveston Bay, and marinas. Choose from rooms with either a king-sized bed or two queen-sized beds. Expect unbeatable amenities, such as complimentary high-speed Internet, mini fridges, plush bathrobes, lighted vanities, full-length mirrors, extra pillows, and more.

King Jacuzzi Suites

All the great amenities from the king and queen accommodations are a part of the king Jacuzzi suites, but they offer even more. Located on the third floor, these luxury suites feature an expanded living area, a balcony overlooking the Pyramids and Galveston Bay, and of course, a separate Jacuzzi area.

One and Two Bedroom Suites

Looking for even more luxury? Stay in one of our sumptuous one- or two-bedroom suites individually designed with stunning views of Moody Gardens and Galveston. Expansive living and dining areas, wet bars, and complimentary wireless Internet connectivity are all a part of these suites. Choose from a one-bedroom with a king-sized bed and connection parlor, or a two-bedroom suite with a king-sized bed and a room with two queen beds.

Book your next vacation to Galveston with us! While you’re staying in the Moody Gardens Hotel, be sure to check out the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, and other surrounding attractions.

Why Moody Gardens Makes a Great Romantic Getaway

January 1, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Shearns 2009 4X5

Looking to get away with your significant other? Moody Gardens is the perfect place to visit if you want a memorable romantic getaway.

Moody Gardens Hotel Suites: Our king Jacuzzi suite features an expanded living area, green marble bathroom, balcony overhanging the Pyramids or Galveston Bay, and best of all, a separate Jacuzzi area! What’s more romantic than a luxurious private suite with a large Jacuzzi! Light the candles and enjoy your romantic space.

Shearn’s Restaurant: Shearn’s Restaurant is the most exquisite restaurant in Galveston. Locals come here for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Share a romantic dinner, with fine cuisine prepared by Galveston’s most celebrated chef, Executive Chef Urs Schmid. Dressy casual attire is required, so dress up and expect to have a wonderful evening together.

Spa at Moody Gardens: The Spa at Moody Gardens would love to accommodate your romantic getaway with a little pampering. Indulge in couple’s massages and find time to relax together. The spa also offers hydrotherapy for couples. Enjoy our Belvedere Hydrotherapy tub with 147 jets designed to detoxify and massage your body.

Galveston Beaches: Galveston offers over thirty miles of beautiful sandy beaches for you and your loved one to enjoy. Spend a day (or more) soaking up the sun, swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, and playing in the sand together. There are also plenty of shops and boutiques along the beach on the Seawall, or in Galveston’s famous historic district, The Strand.

Book your romantic getaway with Moody Gardens today! Click here to get started.

Don’t forget to also check out the other attractions at Moody Gardens, such as the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid, while you’re here. We also provide stellar room service if you decide you want to spend most of your time together in your suite.