Moody Gardens in Galveston—which houses a hotel, spa, and convention center in addition to its three main attractions (the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, and Discovery Museum)—is embarking on a major renovation project that commenced at the end of September. The refresh is estimated to cost some $6 million, which will be put toward updating the property’s guest rooms and meeting spaces, with completion slated for next February.
“This cosmetic upgrade will modernize our guest rooms in a way that draws inspiration from the resort’s lush botanical gardens and organic materials,” says Steve Kalbaugh, general manager at the Moody Gardens hotel, in a prepared statement. “We’re excited to provide a refreshed look and feel that aligns with our guests’ expectations and delivers an elevated, AAA Four-Diamond experience.”
Guest room enhancements will include fresh carpeting, new furniture, and the addition of modern tech such as Bluetooth-enabled vanity mirrors. King rooms will receive upgraded walk-in showers and double queen rooms will feature new tubs and showerheads. The Frances Anne Moody Ballroom, Floral Ballroom, breakout rooms, and prefunction hallways will all be refreshed and modernized, and the entire renovation project will center on a nature-inspired design concept.
“We’re modernizing while staying true to the tranquil and natural aesthetic that defines Moody Gardens,” Kalbaugh adds. The property sits on 242 acres and features 433 guest rooms, an 18-hole golf course, several swimming pools, a full-service spa, and 103,000 square feet of event space that accommodates groups of up to 5,860 attendees.
