Things to Do in Galveston

After a barge strike exposed Galveston’s vulnerability, a bold idea is back: a Pelican Island land bridge that could replace the Seawolf Parkway span, add rail access, and double as storm-surge protection.

In Part 3 of our exclusive six-part series, The 1839 founder David Landriault sits down with Mayor Craig Brown. He shares how Galveston can grow smarter: tackling traffic with new flyovers, reimagining parks and greenways, and shaping a port that serves both business and community.

In Part 2 of our exclusive six-part series, The 1839 founder David Landriault sits down with Mayor Craig Brown for an unfiltered conversation about managing the success of Galveston. Mayor Brown’s vision for Galveston’s future, balancing port growth, sustainable tourism, small-business support, and workforce housing with civic unity. Brown stresses collaboration between the city, Park Board, port, and citizens to preserve Galveston’s character while promoting economic progress.

Tom Schwenk is a seasoned Galveston real estate broker and the owner of Coldwell Banker TGRE, an independently owned affiliate of Coldwell Banker and one of the most respected real estate firms on the island. With decades of experience and a tireless work ethic, Tom has not only shaped Galveston’s housing market—he’s helped shape the island’s future.

In Part 1 of our exclusive six-part series, The 1839 founder David Landriault sits down with Mayor Craig Brown for an unfiltered conversation about Galveston’s next decade. From bold economic growth and cultural diversity to the harsh realities of flooding and infrastructure costs, Mayor Brown offers both hope and hard truths. This is not just a plan—it’s a call to action for every resident who believes in Galveston’s future.

There’s a rhythm to life on Galveston Island. If you live here long enough, you can feel it.

Once you’re in sync, everything changes. In The Rhythm of the Island, I reflect on how embracing this unique flow has helped me—and the business owners I work with—not just survive the off-season, but thrive in it.

Written By: Teresa Wagonseller, CPA, Fractional CFO, and proud member of The 39ers.