Star Drug Store
Star Drug Store
510 23rd St, Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 766-7719
For a unique experience that will send you back to a simpler time, visit the Star Drug Store. This historic pharmacy has been around since 1886 and was renovated in 1909, with a tile soda fountain counter added in 1917. Known as the “Oldest Drug Store in Texas,” this charming store was once again restored in 2001 after a severe fire in 1998 and then again in 2008, after it was flooded by Hurricane Ike. Visit today to enjoy an old-fashioned soda fountain, breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch. You will also find an assortment of nostalgic collectibles and gifts.
The Star Drug Store currently operates as an old-fashioned soda fountain that serves breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch. They also sell a variety of gifts and nostalgic collectibles from a simpler time. Learn more about this historic pharmacy in Galveston, which is recognized as the “Oldest Drug Store in Texas,” below.
History
Built by the Scanlons family in 1886, Star Drug Store was originally constructed from wood with elaborate facades, arches, and asymmetrical windows. Then, it was purchased by a local druggist, Charles J. Michaelis, who paid $15,000 to remodel the structure using brick in 1909. A tile soda fountain was added to the pharmacy in 1917. From the 1920s until 1982, the store was owned by Grady Dickinson and George Clampitt, who saw the Star become designated as the first lunch counter on the island.
The Star Drug Store was devastated by a fire in 1998, and it was closed indefinitely until the Tilts family purchased it in 2001. They spent five years renovating the main building and the two loft apartments upstairs. The original horseshoe counter, with its iconic red tile star, was salvaged and remains the store’s most beloved symbol to this day.
In 2008, the famous pharmacy was hit by another tragedy, Hurricane Ike, and was flooded with over 6 feet of water. Luckily, it was saved once again and reopened three months later.
Today
Now, this iconic Galveston destination serves everything from omelets and pancakes to Reuben sandwiches and grilled cheese, surrounded by nostalgic photos and décor from the island’s past. Their famous soda fountain boasts several tasty treats and concoctions, including ice cream sundaes, floats, malts, shakes, and so much more.
In addition to the store, this charming locale also rents out its upstairs loft to guests. This historic accommodation showcases modern amenities such as granite counters, alongside vintage furnishings. It can accommodate up to 4 guests, has a private entrance, and includes complimentary Wi-Fi. You can reserve your spot here.
Fun Facts
- The drug store offered valet parking to customers in the 1900s.
- There is a working cast-iron safe that dates back to 1873.
- The fully restored Coca-Cola sign in the front of the building is one of the oldest porcelain neon signs of its kind.
- David Schwimmer filmed a scene for the movie “Breast Men” at a payphone that was once in the store.
- Many think the Star Drug Store in Galveston, TX, is haunted. This is due to workers’ tools being moved around and locked bathroom doors with no one on the other side.
- They used to have cots available for customers to rest on after the druggist administered their medications.
- When the floors flooded, previous owners used hooks suspended from the ceiling to lift display cases and cabinets off the floor.
Learn more about other historic island landmarks and attractions when you read our list here (link back to history and heritage page).
Google Reviews
Star Drug Store
510 23rd St, Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 766-7719
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The Inn is a little older but don’t let that scare you away. Our room (King bed- courtyard view) was extremely comfortable and cute. The pool and hot tub were by far the best part. The pool bar overlooks the sea wall and water. The staff is very nice and helpful. Can’t beat the location!! We love it here and will definitely stay here again.
Amanda Green
October 24, 2022This is the only place I want to stay in Galveston. Pool amazing! On the sea wall. Walk to the beach or to the pool! Service is excellent and friendly!! I will be back!
Teri Hitchcock
September 27, 2022The rooms are super cute with oil paintings and flower arrangements. The place is pretty clean as well. The pool is absolutely fantastic and the staff treated us like family. Also, breakfast was delicious. Our family had a wonderful time and we plan to come back again.
Jennifer Johnston
August 27, 2022when i travel to galveston, this hotel is my number one option. I like the rooms because they are very warm-welcoming. The beds are so comfortable and I love them so much because they have 6 pillows per bed. The pillows are the best. I know things have changed with COVID. So, if you need anything just ask the front desk people. The pool is awesome my daughter loves it. the spa is great. just the food is not my favorite at the bar.
Bris Ideas
August 27, 2022 -
My friends and I stayed there for a girls getaway.. The location and pool were great. But the reason we would come back was the outsanding customer service, and attentiveness that Anne (front desk lady) gave us. We appreciated it. Will definitely return.
Regina Mills
August 27, 2022We loved staying here clean room, the breakfast is good and you can order from Nick's poolside, and it's great food, great view, great sunrise. Poolside bar, with good music. We had no problems with anything.. We are looking forward to our next month visit
Leticia Rodriguez
August 27, 2022Great rooms comfortable beds and views that are hard to beat. Beach is walking distance across the street with a fantastic pool and restaurant on the grounds. I highly recommend.
Mark Thieme
August 27, 2022+ The staff I dealt with were friendly and very good. I did request some soap for the next day and never got it though. - Rust on the fridge. Socket sparked when I plugged in phone charger. No complete face plate for switch in bathroom and lighting in bathroom as well. Very moody, musty smell. found someone else¿s dirty crusty sock under bed skirting. Water & no soap in d
Verified Hotel Guest
August 27, 2022
