Abandoned buildings are hauntingly beautiful. Whether fully intact or withering away from the elements, their remains tell stories of the thriving businesses that once existed inside the now empty walls. These five hotels in Texas closed their doors long ago, but they still stand as tall and proud as ever - maybe due to some paranormal presences keeping them alive.
The most famous abandoned hotel in Texas, this foreboding building closed its doors in 1972 after thriving during the '20s and '30s. It allegedly has a large paranormal presence, notably that of a lady in white who was said to be Mr. Baker's mistress. Tours used to let visitors see the inside, but now they only cover the grounds.
Laredo's first hotel, the Bender was built in 1913 and was the talk of the town with its impressive 50 rooms and grandiose balcony. It was built in 1926 and abandoned in the later years of the century. In 2011, a paranormal TV crew visited the hotel and reported unexplained knocking and thumping - even in the daytime hours.
Catarina was a thriving boomtown in the 1920s, but all good things must come to an end. When the artesian wells dried up, residents fled to greener pastures, leaving only a few dozen people inhabiting the town. This hotel was built in 1926 and is one of the few remaining buildings there today.
This once-beautiful hotel was abandoned in the '40s or '50s, but nobody knows exactly why. The windows are boarded shut, the walls are decaying, but one sign of the life that once existed inside still remains - a sign reading "air conditioning" propped up in a window.
Built in 1915 as a stop for business travelers, Hotel Viggo soon became an important part of Texas history after it was used as a fortress to protect against Pancho Villa's army. Although abandoned, it remains intact, sitting in the historic Jim Hogg County Courthouse square, where it will remain until the elements wither it away to nothing.
Have you heard of any of these hotels? Are there any other abandoned hotels in Texas that are still completely intact?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
The Tragic Story of How Room 501 at the Grand Galvez Hotel in Texas Came To Be Haunted
Not every allegedly haunted hotel looks like it belongs in a horror movie. Some, like the Grand Galvez Hotel & Spa in Galveston, exude elegance, beauty, and grace, bearing virtually no resemblance to the stereotypical “haunted hotel” that exists in all of our minds — but the reasons why it’s haunted are tragic.
When you think about haunted hotels in Texas, what image comes to mind? A dilapidated old building that hasn’t entertained guests since last century? I’m sure there are plenty of those scattered across the state, but not every allegedly haunted hotel looks like it belongs in a horror movie. Some, like the Grand Galvez Hotel and Spa in Galveston, exude elegance, beauty, and grace, bearing virtually no resemblance to the stereotypical “haunted hotel” that exists in all of our minds.
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As a lifelong Southeast Texas resident, history buff, and paranormal enthusiast, I’ve been intrigued by the Galvez ever since I learned of its history. “How could such a beautiful place harbor such tragic memories?” is the question that often replays itself in my mind. I grew up staying in the hotel any time my family would visit Galveston, and even before I heard the ghost stories, I remember feeling an almost palpable heaviness in the air. It’s clear that a lot has happened here, and in many ways, the story of the Galvez — and the somber story of the ghost that haunts Room 501 — is the story of Galveston as a whole.
One of the oldest buildings on the island, the Grand Galvez opened in 1911 — just 11 years after the devastating Great Storm that killed between 6,000 and 8,000 people — as part of an effort to bring tourism back to Galveston. The hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and became a member of the Historic Hotels of America in 2002. It has changed hands many times and undergone numerous renovations over the years, the most extensive of which took place during this current decade. In 2021, the property was renamed the “Grand Galvez,” and in 2023 became part of the Marriott Autograph Collection.
Now that we’ve delved into the rich history of the hotel, you’re probably wondering how it came to be haunted. The reasons are many, starting with the simple fact that Galveston has seen its fair share of sorrow. From epidemics to bloody battles to devastating hurricanes to pirates, gangs, and criminals, the fourth capital of Texas (and our state’s largest city for a time) is no stranger to death, disaster, and destruction. Many people believe the island is full of restless spirits, and I’ve even heard rumors that the hotel sits on top of an old graveyard that serves as the final resting place for storm victims (although there is no evidence to support that claim). At any rate, if there were ever a place to be crawling with ghosts, it’s the Galvez.
The other explanation for the supposed paranormal activity at the Galvez is much more specific — and much more tragic. It’s centered around the suicide of a woman named Audra, whose soon-to-be husband died at sea before the two could tie the knot. She is said to have hanged herself in Room 501, and to this day, guests who stay in the room report unexplained phenomena such as lights turning off and on and even images appearing in mirrors.
Another ghostly resident of the Grand Galvez is a nun named Sister Catherine, who belonged to an organization that oversaw St. Mary's Orphans Asylum. During the Great Storm, Catherine and her fellow Sisters attached ropes to themselves and the orphans in a last-ditch effort to survive the ravaging winds. They were not successful, and 90 children and 10 sisters died in the storm; their remains were found right in front of the land on which the Grand Galvez sits.
In addition to these two specific stories, generic paranormal activity is in no short supply here. From sightings of a female apparition to in-room telephones ringing with no caller on the other end, there’s an endless supply of spookiness to lose yourself in.
I will say that I personally haven’t seen any ghosts in the hotel, but I have many friends and relatives who swear by their otherworldly encounters. What I can vouch for, however, is that if you simply walk past Room 501, you can sense Audra’s presence. It feels like a wave of despair washing over you, vanishing almost as soon as it comes — but not without leaving the stark reminder that Audra’s story is just one of many similar tragedies that shaped Galveston into the city it is today. Who knows how many other grief-stricken spirits wander the island in eternal wait for their lost love to return?
If you’re interested in learning more about the haunted history of the Grand Galvez (or perhaps booking a room!), visit the hotel’s website. Ghosts aside, staying in this opulent, majestic place will forever leave a mark on you. I’ve heard the front desk even rents out ghost-hunting equipment to guests who ask!
Have you ever stayed at the Grand Galvez? Are there any other haunted hotels in Texas that are still open for business? Tell us in the comments!
