Tag: Moody Gardens Hotel (Page 1 of 3)

Fly Fishing Film Festival Weekend Is Here!

April 25, 2024 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Get the latest schedule of events from films to casting lessons in this festival guide

The time is at hand for fans of the 2024 Fly Fishing Film Festival as we await one more day until the weekend. We’ve prepared this special guide to help festival attendees navigate the scheduled times of events and films as they occur throughout the day. We’ve also added another Fly Fishing class on Sunday due to heavy interest and availability so be sure to check that out if you missed the Friday and Saturday sessions!

Film Festival Show Times

International Fly Fish Film Festival
Friday, April 26

07:00 Intro Ceremony
07:15 Pinawaca
07:29 The Runaround
07:40 The Golden Ride
07:51 A Ride with Clyde
08:05 Intermission
08:25 Tension
08:40 Tunulik
08:49 Kendjam
09:01 Vivid Dreams
09:09 South Caicos
09:24 Closing Ceremony
10:00 Lobby Bar After Party

Fly Fishing Film Tour
Saturday, April 27

07:00 Intro Ceremony
07:15 Only the Salmon Know
07:25 Rio De Gigantes
07:37 Rods, Rolls, & Reality on the Soca
07:43 Transitions – The Bow
07:55 Triple Trouble
08:05 Intermission
08:25 Good Fly Introduction
08:35 Pop’s Flies
08:48 Visibility
09:03 What Lies Above
09:14 A Line in the Sand
09:27 Marlin Fly Project
09:38 Closing Ceremony
10:00 Lobby Bar After Party

Schedule Of Events for Friday, April 26

Fly Fishing Lessons
2:00pm
Oleander Bowl

Food / Cash Bar
4:00pm to 9:45pm
Visitors Center

Vendor Expo
4:00pm to 7:00pm
Visitors Center

IF4 Film Screening
7:00pm to 9:00pm
MG3D Theater

Afterparty: End of Film
10:00pm to ???
MG Hotel Lobby Bar

Learn how to fly fish with the pros from Good Fly! The class is two hours long with limited capacity available. Participants must be 13 years or older.

Satisfy that appetite with fish tacos, concessions, and a cash bar throughout the event. Food and drinks will be available in the Visitors Center lobby.

Browse through the Fly Fishing Vendor Booths to discover the latest gear, apparel, tools, and crafts to enhance your fly fishing experience.

IF4 Film screening at the MG3D Theater with drawings for Fly Fishing prize packages. Intermission includes an animal presentation.

Stay for the afterparty at the Moody Gardens Hotel Lobby bar where you’ll have a chance to win another big prize!

Schedule Of Events for Saturday, April 27

Fly Tying Lesson
11:00am to 1:30pm
Macadamia Room

Vendor Expo
12:00pm to 7:00pm
Visitors Center

Fly Fishing Lessons
2:00pm
Oleander Bowl

Food / Cash Bar
4:00pm to 9:45pm
Visitors Center

F3T Film Screening
7:00pm to 9:00pm
MG3D Theater

Afterparty: End of Film
10:00pm to ???
MG Hotel Lobby Bar

Join us for fly tying lessons and lunch! Lessons will last about 2 hours, with lunch immediately following. Will be held in the Visitors Center.

Browse through the Fly Fishing Vendor Booths to discover the latest gear, apparel, tools, and crafts to enhance your fly fishing experience.

Learn how to fly fish with the pros from Good Fly! The class is two hours long with limited capacity available. Participants must be 13 years or older.

Satisfy that appetite with fish tacos, concessions, and a cash bar throughout the event. Food and drinks will be available in the Visitors Center lobby.

F3T Film screening at the MG3D Theater with drawings for Fly Fishing prize packages. Intermission includes an animal presentation.

Stay for the afterparty at the Moody Gardens Hotel Lobby bar where you’ll have a chance to win another big prize!

Schedule Of Events for Sunday, April 28

Fly Fishing Lessons
10:00am
Oleander Bowl

Added due to overwhelming demand. Learn how to fly fish with the pros from Good Fly! The class is two hours long with limited capacity available. Participants must be 13 years or older.

We expect a great crowd for both nights of the event. If you need hotel rooms for one day or both days, there are still special weekend packages available. Or, come as a spectator and grab an admission ticket for one or both days. All the films will be shown on the largest screen in Texas which is something not to be missed. Take the opportunity to network with other fly fishing fans to share stories and experiences!

48-Hour FLASH SALE to celebrate #TexasEclipse2024 starts on April 8

April 7, 2024 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Save $48 Off the Best Available Price at the Moody Gardens Hotel

48-Hour Flash Sale graphic with $48 Off the Best Available Rate at the Moody Gardens Hotel to celebrate the 2024 Eclipse over Texas — Celebrate the #TexasEclipse2024 with this special 48-Hour Hotel Flash Sale

Hotel Sale Details

To celebrate the Eclipse over Texas, we’re launching this special 48-Hour Flash Sale starting 12am on April 8. Save $48 Off the Best Available Rate at the Moody Gardens Hotel (please note: some blackout dates will apply). Guests will have until 11:59pm on April 9 to take advantage of this limited time offer. To access this deal, you can click here.

Colonel Paddlewheel Eclipse Cruise

As an added bonus, visitors may also hop on board the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat for a special Eclipse Cruise. Boarding will begin at 12pm on April 8 and set sail at 1pm. On board, expect to find a specially made eclipse drink and concessions to satisfy any appetites. The boat will return to the dock at 2:30pm.

And, if you’re one of the first 50 people through the gate, you get some solar glasses to help you check out the eclipse. Also, if you’re a Moody Gardens member, you can board for free so don’t miss this opportunity to take advantage of your membership privileges.

Click here to buy tickets and ensure you don’t miss this rare opportunity.

The Colonel Paddlewheel Boat cruising under the eclipse (artist rendition)

Eclipse Details

As the moon passes between the Sun and Earth, the eclipse will last 2 hours and 41 minutes. In Galveston, the eclipse will start at 12:20 p.m and is expected to reach its maximum 91% totality with darkness at 1:40 p.m. As the moon passes, the sun will continue to emerge and the eclipse will end at 3:01 pm.

Moody Gardens Hotel Renovations- Part One

March 8, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 7 Comments

The Moody Gardens Hotel is dedicated to remaining a first-class hotel destination. They believe in providing the best experience for all of their guests, and this includes top-notch accommodations. They are soon to be embarking on the most extensive and expensive renovation since the hotel first opened in 1999.

Over the next three years the Moody Gardens Hotel will be undergoing a $20 million renovation to make it even better for their valued guests. All upgrades have been carefully planned with the comfort and satisfaction of guests in mind.

If you’ve stayed with them recently you may have already noticed a difference in the bedding. The new bedding includes new Sealy plush Euro-Top mattresses, crisp white duvets, and fresh fluffy pillows. However, with the new renovations all guest rooms will be getting a complete makeover. Rooms will be designed with a modern design palette that incorporates new colors, luxe fabrics, and natural stone and wood furniture accents. Bathrooms will feature custom granite vanities, new tile, and new fixtures. Suites will be designed with each one featuring their own unique theme.

The Spa at Moody Gardens will also be receiving a complete makeover with new colors and seating in the waiting area. The treatment rooms will receive new artwork, seating, flooring, and fixtures. The Spa’s Couple Suite will have new decorative wall coverings, freshly upholstered furniture, and a freestanding water feature.

These renovations are just a few of the areas that Moody Gardens will be upgrading! There will also be renovations in the banquet rooms, restaurants, and hotel public spaces! Check back to our blog to learn more about our exciting renovations. These new renovations are just one of the reasons Moody Gardens Hotel remains one of the best places to stay in Galveston! Our resort is not only luxurious; it is also one of the most family friendly hotels in Texas.

Springtime at the Spa at Moody Gardens

March 6, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

The warm weather is upon us and spring is just around the corner! It’s time to start shedding layers and donning lighter clothes for the higher temperatures. Get your mind and body ready for the spring with a visit to the Spa at Moody Gardens.

We currently have a few Spring specials going on at the spa! Save on services such as the Spring Clean Facial, Sweet Feet and Palm Springs Manicure and Pedicure, or the To the Rescue Body Wrap.

Spring Clean: Get your spring glow with a nourishing facial paired with a paraffin dip for your hands. Revive dry winter skin and get ready for spring. 1 hour | $110

Sweet Feet and Palm Springs: Show off your nails this spring with a manicure and pedicure that features the sweet smell of Honeysuckle & Pink Grapefruit. Also includes a paraffin dip for your feet to help you get sandal ready. 2 hours | $90

Calming Passion Flower: Pure passion hydrotherapy bath pairedwith a 25 minute green tea Swedish massage is sure to wash your worries away. 1 hour | $100

Click here for more information

Call 409-683-4440 to schedule your next appointment.

Take advantage of our special spa services and deals while staying at the Moody Gardens Hotel for your spring break. Our hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston, and the spa is just as luxurious.

Spring Break Family Fun at Moody Gardens

March 5, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Spring Break is quickly approaching, and there is no better place to spend it than at Moody Gardens! We create a total vacation for you right here at the Moody Gardens Hotel and our popular attractions. The weather is warming up as well, so visiting the beaches of Galveston is a must.

Moody Gardens “Spring Break Family Fun” gives you and your family the opportunity to break away from your daily responsibilities and enjoy the island. Moody Gardens puts together spring break activities for your entire family. When you are staying at the Moody Gardens Hotel, you will start off each day with a character breakfast. Our resident King of Cool, Sunny the Penguin, will be joining you while you fuel up on eggs and bacon!

Kid’s Crew is the perfect way to enhance your family’s spring break vacation. When you check into the Moody Gardens Hotel, your children will receive a Kid’s Crew Fun Pack. All the activities offered are free to hotel guests and include arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, pool coin dives, a bounce house, kite flying, karaoke, Wii competitions, clown face painting, movie nights, and s’mores! Kids can also participate in a game of giant chess or explore the outdoor playground.

The Spa at Moody Gardens is the perfect place for parents to find some time to relax and enjoy their vacation. Indulge in a couple’s massage or take a dip in our hydrotherapy tub.

Moody Gardens Hotel is currently offering a special Spring Break Family Fun hotel package! Book your vacation between March 7^th and 19^thand enjoy the following prices:

Sun – Thurs from $229/night + tax

Fri & Sat from $249/night + tax

When you book two nights, you will get the third night half off! The Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston and the perfect vacation destination for you and your family. Not only do we have great deals, but you can also explore the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, and all the other popular attractions on our grounds.

Spring Break and Easter Hotel Packages

March 4, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

The Moody Gardens Hotel is a 428-room luxury destination nestled in a lush and tropical landscape and is the premiere vacation destination for Spring Break and Easter this season. If you plan on joining us, we have a couple of great hotel packages to make your trip more fun and memorable.

Spring Break Family Fun Package

From March 7^th to March 19^th, you can enjoy our Family Fun package to make your Spring Break the best vacation it can be. Not only will you be able to wake up to a character breakfast with the King of Cool, Sunny the Penguin, but once you book two nights for your family, you will get the third night for half off! Participate in Kid’s Crew activities, dine in the Terrace Restaurant, and relax in the Spa at Moody Gardens! Book now for the following prices:

Sun – Thurs from $229/night + tax

Fri & Sat from $249/night + tax

Easter Weekend in the Gardens Package

Looking to get away this holiday weekend? Moody Gardens has the perfect Easter Weekend getaway waiting for you and your family. On the weekend of March 29^th-31^st, when you book your stay with us you will enjoy a luxurious guest room for one night, fruit, wine, and cheese as well as Easter Baskets for your children. Valet parking is included. When you book two nights, the third night is half off! Book now for the following price:

From $179/night + tax

While you’re spending spring break or Easter weekend with us be sure to check out our special promotions going on at Moody Gardens. At the Spa at Moody Gardens when you buy one Swedish massage, you get the second one free, and at the Moody Gardens Golf Course, you can enjoy a free golf cart and bucket of range balls with your purchase of a round of golf. We look forward to seeing you this spring!

Easter Sunday Buffets

February 28, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Easter in the Gardens is more than just the annual Moody Gardens Easter Egg Hunt. While children will be spending their time running around the Oleander Bowl collecting colorful eggs, there is also an Easter Buffet feast being served. Think of all the time and stress you will save by not cooking a giant Easter Sunday dinner for your entire family or cleaning it up! Moody Gardens is giving you the opportunity to spend less time cooking and cleaning and more time with your family.

Sit down with family and friends this Easter Sunday for a lavish buffet in either the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel Ballroom or the Moody Gardens Garden Restaurant.

Easter Buffet – Moody Gardens Hotel

From waffle and omelet stations to gulf shrimp and roasted leg of lamb, there’s something for everyone at this extraordinary buffet. Don’t forget the dessert table which will include french pastries, cookies and cakes, chocolate mousse, cheesecakes, caramel flan, chocolate amaretto bread pudding and much more!

Adults: $42.95
Seniors: $32.95
Children: $19.95

Seating from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Click here for full menu. For reservations, please call 409-683-4465

Easter Buffet – Garden Restaurant

You won’t be disappointed with the variety of options at this delicious buffet! You’ll have a variety of soups, salads and entrees to choose from, including Pasta del Mar, Chicken Cordon Bleu or a Carved Roast Sirloin. Kids can also enjoy some of their favorites including macaroni and cheese or chicken tenders with french fries. A variety of desserts, assorted rolls and fresh baked breads will also be offered.

Adults: $24.95
Seniors: $17.95
Children (5-12): $11.95 (Children 4 and under are complimentary with adult purchase)

Served from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Click here for full menu. For reservations, please call 1-800-582-4673 ext. 4238

Easter in the Gardens

February 27, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

boy with easter eggs

Easter in the Gardens brings hundreds of families from the area to participate in tracking down all the eggs the Easter Bunny has spread out across the Oleander Bowl at Moody Gardens!

On Easter Sunday (March 31, 2013), we will be throwing the best Easter celebration around. There will be activities such as games, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and of course, the huge Moody Gardens Easter Egg Hunt! Egg hunts are scheduled for noon and 2 p.m.., but you’ll want to get there early for all the other fun events. Kids aged 12 and under can enjoy all the activities and the colorful eggs throughout the Oleander Bowl.

All activities are open to the public and admission is free. Just show up with your baskets and ready to have a good time. Mark you calendars and get ready to spend your Easter holiday with Moody Gardens this year, and hopefully many more.

The Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston. Our family-friendly hotel is the perfect vacation destination for your next family weekend getaways in Texas. We look forward to spending Easter with you and your family.

Meet Chef Urs Schmid

February 25, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

If you’ve ever had dinner at Shearn’s Restaurant then you’ve tasted the culinary genius of the famous Chef Urs Schmid. His Shrimp Dejonge and Lobster Bisque are famous here on the island, and for good reason! Keep reading to learn more about Executive Chef Urs Schmid.

Urs Schmid was born in Switzerland where he developed his passion for cooking while helping his father prepare meals on Sunday afternoons. As a teenager, he worked in a local hotel kitchen where he had “the time of his life” and decided cooking was his passion.

After graduating from high school, Chef Schmid began an apprenticeship at the Hotel Acker-Montana in Wildhaus, Switzerland. He also began his culinary education in Lucern. Chef Schmid worked in many hotel kitchens before serving in the Swiss Army.

After completing his military commitment, Urs Schmid continued gaining experience in the culinary arts by working seasonal jobs as commie de cuisine and chef de partie in some of the finest hotels in Switzerland, including the five-star Grand Hotel Viktoria Jungfrau in Interlaken.

Urs Schmid followed his culinary passions to the Bahamas where he worked as sous chef at the Cotton Bay Club and sous and executive chef at Cap Eleuthera.

While working in the Bahamas, Urs Schmid was introduced to Mrs. R.E. Bob Smith, who convinced him to come to Galveston where he became executive chef at the Bob Smith Yacht Club. He spent over eighteen years as both chef and general manager of the Yacht Club. His time at the club won him widespread acclaim. He met his wife Elena while working at the Yacht Club and started his family. Elena and Urs Schmid have two sons, and have called Galveston their home since 1980.

In the fall of 1998, Urs Schmid arrived at Moody Gardens and has served as our Executive Chef since our beginning. Under his direction, Shearn’s Restaurant has become the finest culinary destination in Galveston and has won the AAA Four-Diamond Award on more than one occasion.

Executive Chef Urs Schmid has been named Chef of the Year by the Texas Chef’s Association and been awarded a Bronze Star from the Galveston Chapter of the Chaine de Rotisseurs. We are proud to have him as part of the Moody Gardens’ family.

Stay at the Moody Gardens Hotel on your next family weekend getaways in Texas. We are not only one of the best places to stay in Galveston, but also home to the finest restaurant in the area with the best executive chef in Texas!

Shearn’s Restaurant Menu Highlights

February 18, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Shearn’s Restaurant has been receiving AAA’s Four Diamond Award of Excellence since 2004, and for good reason! Located on the ninth floor of Moody Gardens Hotel, Shearn’s is the finest restaurant in Galveston. This elegant restaurant is unsurpassed in cuisine, service, and ambiance. Entrées at Shearn’s are prepared by Galveston’s most celebrated chef, Executive Chef Urs Schmid.

People from all over come to Shearn’s Restaurant to try entrées such as the Shrimp Dejonge and the flavorful Lobster Bisque.

Shrimp Dejonge: This signature dish features six jumbo shrimp baked in a light Marsala cream sauce and topped with Chef Urs’ mouthwatering blend of herb butter. The dish is served with rice pilaf and a side of garden fresh vegetables. This is one entrée you can’t miss. Your taste buds will thank you. You can order this tasty dish as an entrée, or just taste it out as a hot hors d’oeuvres.

Lobster Bisque: Another signature dish from Chef Urs! The creamy bisque is made with fresh lobster from Maine and delicately seasoned. It’s garnished with crabmeat and a touch of sherry.

Crab Cakes Topped with Jumbo Lump Crab: Shearn’s signature crab cakes are a dream come true for any crab lover. The Maryland style crab cakes are topped with lump crabmeat and served with angel hair pasta and tomato fondue.

Portobello Mushroom Tortelloni Rosa: For the vegetarian, Shearn’s offers a selection of gourmet vegetarian options such as the Portobello Mushroom Tortelloni Rosa. The sautéed Portobello mushroom is tossed in olive oil and blended with baby arugula, pine nuts, and served in a Rosa sauce.

Moody Gardens Hotel is not only home to the best upscale restaurant in town, it is also one of the best places to stay in Galveston. After a long day of exploring the beaches, Aquarium Pyramid, and Rainforest Pyramid head over to Shearn’s Restaurant for a beautiful conclusion to your day.