Are you looking for the best things to do in Galveston, Texas?? Here’s the list with all the travel information you need to plan a family tour.
Galveston is undoubtedly one of the most exciting destinations in Texas. It is filled with scenic beaches, water adventure parks, and historic Victorian architecture. Therefore, everybody has something to enjoy.
Stewart Beach, Galveston Island State Park, and the Strand Historic District are the city’s top three places to visit.
On the other hand, this coastal city is famous for its delicious seafood. There are plenty of restaurants to try.
Let’s discover the complete list of the best and most fun things to do in Galveston, Texas.
1. Things to Do in Galveston: Stewart Beach
You can’t go wrong with Stewart Beach in Galveston for a perfect day at the beach. This family-friendly beach is located near Seawall Boulevard and close to several restaurants and attractions.
If you’re looking for something to do while you’re at Stewart Beach, you can sign up for a Bucket Brigade Interpretive Tour. These 45-minute tours provide insight into Galveston’s turbid water and the area’s natural history.
Participants can sign up near Beach Patrol Tower #6. Tours run at various times and start at 9:30 am, 10:30 am, and 11:30 am, depending on when you sign up. They will last until about 3:30 pm.
For beach fun, head to Stewart Beach, where you can play volleyball, enjoy bonfires, fish, swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, and experience the vitamin sea.
Just rent a beach chair or a volleyball net to have fun with your family.
You can even camp overnight here. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, including horseback riding. The beach is family-friendly and features lifeguards on duty.
Parking is easy, and there is paved access. Stewart Beach is a popular spot for families, so take the time to relax and enjoy the sun!
If you’re looking for a quieter beach, try Pareto Beach. This beach is less crowded and maintained and offered great views. Visitors can watch local fishermen and shipping channel boats while they work in the marina.
Unlike South Beach, this Galveston beach is not pet-friendly. Nonetheless, it’s one of the best beaches to take your children to. And remember: you can enjoy the beach year-round if you visit Stewart Beach in Galveston!
Also, you can enjoy the facilities of an outdoor pavilion, a kiddie playground, volleyball courts, restrooms, concessions, and more.
Address: 201 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (409) 797-5189
2. Things to Do in Galveston: Galveston Island State Park
You’ll love Galveston Island State Park if you enjoy exploring Texas’ nature, historic sites, hiking, and biking trails.
This 2,013.1-acre park is located on the western side of Galveston Island. You can enjoy various activities while walking on the bay and beach sides or participate in various festivals.
Galveston Island State Park offers water kayaking, birding, fishing, and many other outdoor activities for nature lovers. You won’t need a fishing license to fish off the beach at the park.
Nature lovers can observe estuaries, wetlands, and marshes in the park. There are several scenic biking and hiking trails throughout the park.
Remember that the park may close during severe weather, so check ahead of time if you’ll be traveling with a small dog. It’s an excellent place for families, but remember that the park isn’t dog-friendly.
Another great attraction is the 1,130-foot-long Pleasure Pier, which was built on the site of a former pier that Hurricane Camille destroyed in 1961. You can ride rides, play games, and dine at the pier’s restaurant.
The pier is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day and on weekends during the winter. While you’re at the park, be sure to watch out for migrating and resident birds.
On the other hand, you can also explore the island’s history by stopping by the Strand Historic District, which is filled with restaurants, cafes, and galleries.
Address: 14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554, United States Phone: (409) 737-1222
If you are looking for visiting the best beaches in Texas, just check out here.
3. Things to Do in Galveston: The Strand Historic District
Galveston’s historic Strand began as a modest street in 1869. Michael William Shaw, a German jeweler, adopted this street as his address. Then, it was added to the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1970.
Strand means beach in German, and the word was popular in Victorian England. Today, the Strand Historic District covers a five-block area of downtown Galveston.
If you’re planning a visit to the area, make sure to check out the Christmas Dickens Festival.
A stroll along the historic district of Galveston is free. Visitors can browse the shops, dine at local restaurants, and even watch a live show at Saengerfest Park.
The Strand is home to more than 70 historic buildings, and there’s no need to spend a lot of money just to enjoy the atmosphere. While strolling around The Strand, you can also stop by the 1894 Opera House.
The Strand is home to several museums and historical sites, including the Galveston Railroad Museum, located in a former Santa Fe Railroad station.
Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of vintage railroad cars, locomotives, and more from Galveston’s golden age of rail travel. If you like art, you can take in a show at the Grand 1894 Opera House, which has been restored and features elegant decor.
There are several restaurants and bars in the Strand Historic District. And if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax after a long day of sightseeing, The Strand is a great place to visit.
Also, visitors can tour the West Side of Galveston Island by taking a boat tour. The tour lasts 45 to 1 hour and includes U.S. Coast Guard ships, an offshore energy center museum, and submarines. You can also catch sight of dolphins in Seawolf Park.
Address: 2100 Strand, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (409) 762-2515
Things to Do in Galveston
4. 1892 Bishop’s Palace
Visit the historic 1892 Bishops Palace in Galveston to see how life in the late 19th century was on the Texas coast.
This Victorian-style mansion was built by Galveston’s leading architect of the Victorian era, Nicholas Clayton. And this magnificent home was a haven for hundreds of hurricane survivors.
The main stairwell features a stunning marble column, stained glass windows, and a domed ceiling.
The opulent interior of the 1892 Bishops Palace is a work of art. Colonel Walter Gresham constructed the house. Construction began in 1886, and it was completed in 1892.
The house’s exterior features steep roofs, sculptural chimneys, and Tudor arches. And the inside of the home features intricate detail that was once the work of an architect.
The interior is adorned with a collection of artwork and furnishings from the early nineteenth century. This building is currently owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation, which promotes the preservation of the property.
The Bishop’s Palace has four floors, including a raised basement which used to be a servant’s quarters. The building is adorned with intricately carved woodwork, a grand staircase, and a Pullman sink from one of the famed Pullman railcars.
As mentioned above, the Galveston Historical Foundation runs the house, and is open to the public daily. You can also take part in guided house tours and learn about its history.
Its mission is to promote community redevelopment and preserve historic buildings. At the same time, the foundation embraces a broader vision of history. They view history as a captivating story about the lives of individuals who lived here in the past.
Address: 1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (409) 762-2475
5. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
A trip to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier should be on your must-do list if you live in or visit the area.
While you’re there, you may also want to ride the Texas Flyer, a 100-foot high log flume that drops riders at 52 miles per hour.
While you’re there, you can also dine on traditional Texas seafood at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., which is themed after Forrest Gump.
Whether you’re looking for a family day out or something to do with your kids, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier will satisfy your cravings.
With 15 rides, midway games, and carnival booths, this historic pier is an excellent option for children. You can enjoy live music, holiday festivities, classic fair foods, and many other amusement activities.
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is worth visiting if you’re looking for a fun, relaxing day out with your kids.
The Strand offers a unique mix of shopping and dining. You can enjoy old-fashioned candy stores like LA King’s Confectionery, which has taffy demonstrations every half-hour. Some modern restaurants like Vargas Cut and Catch and Rudy and Paco’s also exist.
Visitors can also participate in the Offshore Energy Center’s exhibits on offshore drilling, marine transportation, environmental protection, construction, and pipeline.
If you’re planning a trip to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, check the weather forecast before heading out for a fun day.
The weather in Galveston Island can change quickly, so check the website frequently for updated information. During the winter, temperatures can fall into the 40s. Rain and thunderstorms are common in the area, but the island still survived a major hurricane. While rain and thunderstorms are inevitable, luckily, the weather does not keep the Pleasure Pier closed.
Address: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (855) 789-7437
6. Things to Do in Galveston: Moody Gardens
If you are looking for a fun and educational theme park in Texas, you must check out Moody Gardens in Galveston.
This theme park features three pyramids that stand out from the rest. The first pyramid houses the aquarium, and the Rainforest Pyramid contains a tropical rainforest.
The second pyramid contains exhibits about science and the environment from around the world. The third pyramid is the Discovery Pyramid, where you can meet exotic animals and plants.
The ice sculptures at Moody Gardens are genuinely unique, and the attraction is also great for kids.
The Moody Gardens host its annual Festival of Lights in November and December. These displays feature over a million lights in different shapes and designs that are designed to celebrate the holiday season.
A mile-long ice skating trail is also featured. The festival includes live entertainment, an outdoor ice skating rink, and holiday films. The festival is one of the top holiday attractions in Texas.
Palm Beach is a white-sand beach that opened in 1988. It was originally a sand-only beach but later expanded into a full water park. There are two water slides, Tower Slides, and a wave pool.
There is also a splash pad for toddlers. Aside from the pool and slides, the park also has a kids’ section and a band series.
Address: 1700 Sydnor Ln, Galveston, TX 77554, United States Phone: (409) 683-4653
Things to Do in Galveston
7. Galveston Water Adventures
A day at Galveston Water Adventures means soaking up some sun and exploring the island’s waters.
The tour operator offers free parking, life jackets, and all the essential guidance to have fun. Picnic tables are available on the property, and guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
Choose from various water activities to enjoy on a day out in Galveston.
From dolphin tours to jet boat rides, there’s a water adventure to suit everyone. Galveston Water Adventures can make your vacation memorable, from sunset cruises to dolphin tours.
You can also take advantage of the company’s custom group tours. Kids will love it.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Galveston Seawall Urban Park features ten miles of beautiful shoreline, a colorful Seawall Interpretive Trail, and plenty of attractions.
Families will love Schlitterbahn Galveston, a water park with dozens of thrilling slides and rides for all ages. There’s also a heated indoor area for the winter months. This makes Galveston a fun place to spend the day.
Season passes are available, or you can purchase individual tickets. This is a great way to save money while visiting Galveston.
Address: 2100 Harborside Dr Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-276-6116
8. Things to Do in Galveston: Moody Mansion
You’re lucky if you’ve ever wanted to visit Galveston’s Moody Mansion. Built-in 1895, this Romanesque mansion has 31 rooms and is over 28,000 square feet.
It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And it was named for its first owner, a banker named W.L. Moody, Jr., who was also a cotton broker and insurance executive.
The historic building itself is a must-see. During the late 1800s, this home was the site of Galveston’s first Mardi Gras celebration.
This home has been restored to its former splendor and is furnished with exceptional collections of American Empire and Federal antiques.
It offers a glimpse into the Old South in a breathtaking private home. Tours are offered hourly. You may want to book in advance to avoid the busy times.
Tours of the mansion are available every day. The Moody Mansion is open to the public and is free for children under the age of five. It is located at 2618 Broadway in Galveston.
Visitors can visit the museum during daylight hours, but be aware that the Moody Mansion is reportedly haunted. If you’re looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, plan to arrive early and check out the ghostly house.
There are no specific ghost stories at the Moody Mansion, but guests have overheard disembodied voices and footsteps. Pictures have also revealed unidentified guests. The photos are often blurry, but they may be ghosts.
The Moody Mansion is a must-see location on your tour of Galveston. Just don’t forget to take pictures! You might even be surprised to see someone you know in the Moody Estate!
Address: 2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (402) 762-7668
9. Galveston Naval Museum
You’re missing out if you’ve never been to the Galveston Naval Museum. You can tour a WWII destroyer and submarine in this educational center.
There are also a variety of other exhibits to explore. And there’s even a shipwreck simulator. There’s even a gift shop too! But what’s even better is seeing actual relics of past warships and experiencing them firsthand!
The Galveston Naval Museum is an educational center and event venue within Seawolf Park. It features a WWII submarine and other historic ships.
Visitors can learn about the city’s military history and experience the excitement of a unique historical attraction.
You can also learn about Galveston’s maritime history by touring the city’s historic seawall. The seawall’s original purpose was to protect the island from a hurricane. Since then, it has been extended multiple times, stretching over 10 miles.
It is also great for biking and is located close to many beaches. You’ll love every minute of it. It’s definitely worth a visit. And if you love nature, you’ll find plenty to do on Pelican Island.
Seniors, veterans, and active military personnel can enter for $7, children ages five to 11 are $8, and groups of fifteen or more can visit for just $6.
Taking a tour of this historical ship is a great way to learn about Galveston’s history.
Address: 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States Phone: +1 409-770-3196
10. Galveston Railroad Museum
If you’re planning a trip to Galveston, Texas, you might want to include a visit to the Galveston Railroad Museum.
This model train museum features many different kinds of trains, including the famous Warbonnet.
Located in the old Galveston Depot, the Galveston Railroad Museum dives into the history of rail transport in the area. It boasts an impressive collection of vintage passenger cars, cabooses, and engines, including the Texas Limited.
You can especially see the famous Texas Limited train, Santa Fe diesel, and the Depot.
The Depot exhibit recreates the passenger train experience from decades ago, and the Ghost of Travelers Past features a series of plaster molds of passengers. Several special events are held in the museum year-round, and visitors are welcome to participate—for example, train shows, parades, and Mardi Gras celebrations.
This museum is a great family attraction, with plenty of interactive exhibits for the kids to explore.
Galveston Railroad Museum is home to the largest collection of restored railroad engines in the Southwest, as well as forty pieces of dining car china.
There are also two spectacular model railroad layouts to marvel at. You can even ride the “Harborside Express” train on weekends between 11 am and 2 pm. Children under the age of three can visit for free.
Address: 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-765-5700
11. The Freedom Walk
There are many reasons to visit the historical port town of Galveston, Texas. From the area’s natural beauty to the rich history, you can’t miss The Freedom Walk in Galveston.
You will find several museums and attractions worth visiting along the Freedom Walk.
There are five stops along The Freedom Walk in Galveston on a self-guided tour. The tour includes five stops within a one-half-mile area. Each stop consists of a video explaining the story of a historical event.
And they are Pier 21 and the Middle Passage, Juneteenth Historical Marker,
Absolute Equality Mural & NIA Cultural Center, US Custom House, Reedy Chapel – AME Church, and 1859 Ashton Villa.
In addition to being the site of the first historically black secondary school and library in Texas, Galveston is home to some of the state’s most prominent historically black churches.
It also features the oldest continuously operating African American community in the United States.
During the late 18th century, the city was a hub for slavery. On June 19, 1865, Union Army Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, emancipating more than 250,000 Black enslaved people in Texas.
The Texas Seaport Museum features the tall ship Elissa, which was built in 1877. Today, she is one of the best-restored historic ships in the United States. It continues to be put to sea regularly. You can also learn about the history of Galveston, Texas, and its port through the names of 133,000 emigrants.
Things to Do in Galveston
12. Galveston Historic Seaport – Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA
If you’re planning a trip to Galveston Island, you’ve probably considered visiting the Galveston Historical Seaport.
The Galveston Historic Seaport is a great place for families to explore. It has plenty to offer for kids and adults alike.
You can tour the historic seaport and tour the ship museum on your own. It’s worth the visit, as you’ll enjoy the museum and the outdoor exhibits, as well as the connections and well-preserved ships.
A short train ride, available for $5.00, travels between the leading shipyard and the cruise terminal.
Another great attraction is the Texas Seaport Museum, located on Pier 22 of the Galveston Historic Shipyard. The museum features a refurbished tall ship named Elissa that once sailed the waters of Galveston.
The Elissa, which was rescued from a scrap yard, is one of the best-preserved historical vessels in the United States. If you’re looking for a unique way to learn about the history of seaborne commerce, then the Texas Seaport Museum should be the place for you.
In addition to the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, this city is also home to the Galveston Railroad Museum, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig, and the Fossil Galaxy Gallery.
The Galveston Railroad Museum, meanwhile, tells the story of railroad transport in the region. With six permanent exhibits and a large collection of train equipment, you can learn about the history of the railroad and its connections with the seaport.
If you’re traveling with children, don’t forget to bring them to the Strand Historic District, which features several attractions for young and old alike. During your visit, be sure to check out the kid’s playground and volleyball courts.
Don’t miss the People’s Gallery, which features a collection of 1932 fancy gowns and hats.
Address: Pier 22 Suite, 8, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-763-1877
13. Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
If you’re looking for a fun family activity, you might want to take a trip to Galveston to see the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig.
It’s a retired jack-up drilling rig parked off Pier 19 and features hands-on activities like a climbing basket. There’s also a corner with toys for kids to enjoy.
The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum is a must-see for all visitors to the area. This former oil rig was active in the Gulf of Mexico for almost two decades.
It was acquired by the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum in 1995 and completely refurbished to become an interactive museum.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits on exploration, oil production, seismic technology, and other fascinating topics. The museum has a great kids’ section, with free kid passports available for children to visit and use during their stay.
The museum features three floors of interactive displays. The exhibits explore the history of offshore oil and gas, and you can touch real drill bits and life-size replicas.
The museum also features videos about oil production and seismic technologies, as well as an exhibition about the rig’s daily activities. Afterward, you can climb down the rig and explore its exhibits, including videos and demonstrations of the actual equipment.
While there are many things to see and do in Galveston, visiting the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is a must-do for any visitor to the area.
Address: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-766-7827
Things to Do in Galveston
14. The Grand 1894 Opera House
The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston is located on Postoffice Street and is adjacent to Rudy & Paco and La Kings Confectionary.
The Grand 1894 Opera House is the official State Opera House and is a historic performance hall in Galveston, Texas. Its season includes a variety of live performances, including theater and concerts.
The theater’s grand ruby-red curtain and ornate walls make it an elegant setting for a performance. While you’re here, be sure to sample some local cuisine and visit a nearby restaurant.
A magnificently restored performing arts venue, the Grand 1894 Opera House is one of Galveston’s cultural treasures. It features year-round entertainment with more than twenty professional productions and 70 shows by visiting artists.
You’ll surely find something to enjoy, from Broadway musicals and operas to rock concerts and special holiday shows. You can even purchase tickets in advance to guarantee a seat. So, get your tickets early and make the most of your evening!
The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston has a full schedule of concerts. This year, the venue hosts Robert Earl Keen, a famous singer-songwriter whose “calling-card anthem” has made him one of the country’s most popular performers. Tyler Childers, who was dubbed “The New Voice of Appalachia” by Rolling Stone, is also set to perform here.
Parking in the Downtown area is limited, but there are also public parking lots along 20th and 21st streets. These are within walking distance of the building.
Address: 2020 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-765-1894
15. Things to Do in Galveston: The Bryan Museum
The Bryan Museum is a museum in Galveston, Texas that has a rich collection of artifacts that date back over 12,000 years.
Visitors will learn about early settlers and Native Americans, the annexation of Texas from Mexico, and the Civil War era.
The Bryan Museum in Galveston is located in a former orphanage where many children who lost their families in the Great Storm of 1900 lived.
Children would play in the crawl space under the stairs in the basement, and the museum helps visitors understand the era from a child’s point of view.
The Bryan Museum is set in a lush oasis of century oak trees and features a glass conservatory that glows the same green color as the landscaping.
Located near downtown Galveston, the museum takes visitors on a trip to the American Wild West and teaches them about the culture and history of Texas. It also boasts a collection of over 70,000 objects, including rare books, folk art, and Native American artifacts dating back 12,000 years.
It is open Friday through Monday from 11 am to 4 pm.
Address: 1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-632-7685
Things to Do in Galveston
16. Bird Watching in Galveston
Galveston Island, Texas, is home to 500+ species of birds. You will see two of the most common types of birds: Laughing Seagulls and Brown Pelicans.
Another interesting bird to watch is the Great-tailed Grackle, a large blackbird with iridescent feathers. The female is brown and smaller, about half the size of the male. Both birds gather together in evening flocks. Boat-tailed Grackles are similar in size and color. Both species have dark eyes.
The Galveston Ferry is a good option if you’re planning to take a trip to see these birds. The free ferry takes passengers from the island’s east end to the Bolivar Peninsula, which is perfect for watching birds, bottle-nose Dolphins, and other wildlife in the area.
Bird watching in Galveston is a fun activity for the entire family.
17. Galveston Seawall
Located on the historic seawall, the Galveston Seawall is a 10-mile stretch of wall, 17 feet high.
The seawall is the longest continuous sidewalk in the country and is also home to the world’s longest mural.
Visitors to the area can enjoy the seawall as a backdrop to numerous beach attractions. Its colorful murals add to the ambiance. The Historic Pleasure Pier is another popular attraction in Galveston.
The seawall was built after the Great Storm of 1900, and today, runners, skateboarders, and cyclists decorate it. If you want to catch breathtaking sunset views, surely visit Galveston Seawall.
On the other hand, if you want to explore the city, you can walk along the ten-mile-long Galveston Seawall Urban Park. The Seawall is perfect for grabbing delicious seafood, strolling, and people-watching.
Or you can stop by Schlitterbahn Galveston, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and water playgrounds.
For dining, there are several places to stop by. If you’re looking for a delicious, inexpensive meal, you should check out Shrimp ‘N Stuff. The restaurant has been around for nearly 40 years and features boiled shrimp, burgers, and rotating seafood platters.
You can also grab a sweet treat from La King’s Confectionery, an old-school candy shop. The store features homemade chocolate, ice cream, and other treats.
There are several museums in Galveston. The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum is a great place to learn about the oil and gas industry in the area. It includes three floors of interactive exhibits, as well as restaurants and souvenir shops.
Another must-see is the Bryan Museum, which contains over 70,000 pieces of Texana, including Moore’s Patent Front Loading Revolver and Sharps Patent Four-Barrel Derringer.
Address: Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (409) 797-5198
18. Galveston Arts Center
Those who have never visited the Galveston Arts Center may not know its many attractions.
If you have never been, it is a must-see if you are ever in the area. This museum features a diverse collection of contemporary and classical artwork from local and international artists.
Galveston Arts Center is located right by Seawolf Park, a great place to spend a day enjoying both the beach and the arts. Also, if you are looking for an educational experience, the museum is a great place to do just that.
This art center is an inexpensive way to spend a day in Galveston. The gallery often features bizarre and exciting exhibits. You can even take art classes if you are an art enthusiast.
Weekend classes are also available, so you can spend the day learning something new. It is also a great place to socialize with other art enthusiasts and learn new techniques.
The Museum also hosts art events and classes, which are free to attend.
Whether you want to watch a live performance or enjoy an interactive exhibit, you can visit the Galveston Arts Center and see contemporary art in action. The museum hosts free art walks every six to eight weeks.
It also collaborates with local businesses to showcase the best local talent. You can also enjoy a delicious meal or buy fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms and shops. You can also visit the Galveston Own Farmers Market to sample some local fare. Muffin Tops Catering also offers a variety of baked goods.
Address: 2127 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-763-2403
Things to Do in Galveston
19. East End Lagoon Nature Preserve
Located in Galveston, Texas, East End Lagoon is an undeveloped coastal prairie preserve with many attractions for nature lovers.
The park features a freshwater pond, tidal wetlands, black mangroves, and an upland prairie. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and enjoy the peaceful environment while observing a variety of wildlife.
This park is perfect for families and children learning more about the local ecosystem.
The East End Lagoon Nature Preserve in Galveston is home to more than six hundred acres of habitat and provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. So take your family and friends on vacation to the Gulf Coast and explore the beauty of nature in a new way.
There are several nature trails, and you may spot diverse wildlife like raccoons, coyotes, and dragonflies. And also, there are black mangroves and colorful wildflowers along these nature trails.
The Bolivar Peninsula is known for its natural beauty, including the beaches that stretch along the Gulf of Mexico. For visitors who want to enjoy a relaxing day of nature, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.
Located on the east end of Galveston, East Beach is one of the city’s most popular party destinations. It is a popular spot for festivals and events featuring a boardwalk and pavilion.
It is also home to an active bird sanctuary. And the boardwalk offers a variety of concessions. Alcohol is allowed, so bring your friends and family for a relaxing day in the sun!
Address: Boddeker Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-797-5111
Things to Do in Galveston
20. Things to Do in Galveston: Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston
The Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Galveston, Texas, is an outdoor theme park with slides and pools.
In addition to rides and attractions, the Water Amusement Park is also home to various outdoor attractions.
The water park is open seasonally. During the summer, you can spend a whole day splashing and frolicking around on one of the many water slides. You can even go tubing!
The Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston is located about 5 miles west of downtown Galveston. This park has over 30 water slides, including body slides that reach 65 kph!
There are also numerous splash pools, water playground areas to enjoy, and an adventure zip line to complete the experience.
Of course, there are dozens of thrill rides and attractions at Schlitterbahn Galveston, including the Screaming Serpents, a side-by-side racing slide, and the Cliffhanger body slide, which plunges 81 feet.
A three-person raft slide called Thunder Tub sends you through dips and twists, while the Massive Monster Blaster whirlpool is a twisting, turning, splash-filled journey.
The Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston offers rides for all ages and specializes in kiddie pools. For the adults, there are several dining options on-site, including the Shrimp Haus Restaurant.
It also offers a cashless Wristband to load money on it and scan it to pay for rides and attractions. In addition to dining and drinking options, Schlitterbahn Galveston has plenty of activities for the entire family, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
Address: 2109 Gene Lucas Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States Phone: +1 409-770-9283
21. Things to Do in Galveston: East End Historic District
The East End Historic District is located in the city’s business district. Located next to downtown, it is the first local neighborhood designated as a historic district in Galveston.
The district contains many Victorian-era houses and buildings that are now restaurants, shops, galleries, and antique stores. Visitors to the district can tour the homes and gardens and participate in a holiday decorating contest.
The East End Historic District is a nationally recognized landmark that is made up of about 50 blocks of homes. The neighborhood has many unique architectural features, such as ornate carvings and brightly colored stained glass windows.
You can also tour the historic homes and gardens by participating in fundraising events hosted by the East End Historical District Association. Most recent visitors to Galveston say that the East End Historic District is one of the highlights of their trip.
The beautifully manicured gardens and architectural details make this an important part of the historic district and make it a unique place to visit.
On the other hand, it has several museums worth visiting. The Bryan Museum is located in an old orphanage and contains a collection of artifacts from different periods of Texas history. You can even take a tour of the ship while eating lunch! It is located in the East End Historic District.
Address: 1501 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: (409) 763-5928
Things to Do in Galveston
22. Things to Do in Galveston: Seawolf Park
If you want to go fishing, then you should visit Seawolf Park in Galveston. This beach is a favorite among fishing enthusiasts, as there is a good chance you will catch some Summer flounder, Red drum, or black drum. Here are some of the amenities you can enjoy at Seawolf Park:
As mentioned above, Seawolf Park features a beloved fishing pier, a playground, a World War II submarine, and picnic sites.
A lighted fishing pier and a three-story pavilion provide some excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can also learn about the history of submarines at the American Undersea Warfare Center, operated by the Cavalla Historical Foundation.
The park also honors the brave submariners of World War II who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Over 30% of the Japanese fleet was sunk by American submarines.
The USS Stewart is one of two surviving Edsall-class destroyers in the U.S. Navy. The ship was designed for hunting down submarines and protecting merchant ships from attack.
It was built in Houston in 1942 and later moved to Galveston to begin its career in the region. You can also visit the USS Stewart’s home and museum in Houston. The museum also houses a model of the ship, and you can also see the original crew members who helped build it.
Address: 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-797-5114
Things to Do in Galveston
- Stewart Beach
- Galveston Island State Park
- The Strand Historic District
- 1892 Bishop’s Palace
- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- Moody Gardens
- Galveston Water Adventures
- Moody Mansion
- Galveston Naval Museum
- Galveston Railroad Museum
- The Freedom Walk
- Galveston Historic Seaport – Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA
- Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
- The Grand 1894 Opera House
- The Bryan Museum
- Bird Watching in Galveston
- Galveston Seawall
- Galveston Arts Center
- East End Lagoon Nature Preserve
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston
- East End Historic District
- Seawolf Park
Things to Do in Galveston
