Garten Verein

One of Galveston’s favorite special event venues! Set in verdant Kempner Park, the historic Garten Verein tiered dancing pavilion offers a magical venue for weddings, receptions, dinners, and parties. The building’s most unique octagonal design and panoramic windows allow spectacular views from every angle. It resembles a grand glassed-in gazebo. This air-conditioned facility includes a caterer’s prep room, stage and dance floor. Viewing available by appointment with the Galveston Historical Foundation.

In February 1876, a group of German businessmen organized the Galveston Garten Verein (“garden club”) as a social club for family and friends. The Garten Verein’s tiered dancing pavilion, built in 1880, is the only one of the structures to survive the 1900 Storm (though it required extensive rebuilding).

The Garten Verein pavilion was restored in 1981 after a fire and in 1998, the entire Kempner Park and pavilion were refurbished to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund.