Are you looking for the best things to do in Galveston, Texas? Find a quick yet detailed guidebook and what it has to offer below!
You can enjoy a wide range of thrilling activities, attractions, and things to do in Galveston, Texas; whether you stay for a day, a week, or even longer, this will help you create lifelong memories.
Whether you live in the state or are flying in from another nation, a thrilling vacation is within your budget.
You owe it to yourself and your family to organize a vacation to the island, as Galveston offers many enjoyable things.
1. About Galveston, Texas
Galveston, Texas, is best known for the amazing range of activities it provides. From ancient museums to luxurious cruise ships, one can find almost everything here for entertainment purposes.
There are many underrated places to check out if people desire to experience the best vacation.
Galveston is off the coast of Texas, making it a prime location for cruise ships.
Due to the island’s rich resort history and beautiful sunny beaches, this is the perfect place for you and your family to visit.
Visitors can enjoy many things to do on Galveston beaches, which are entertaining to explore. This place has exciting attractions that will fulfill all your two-to-three-day vacation needs.
Galveston is worth exploring for a day or two for a wonderful time. There are truly amazing things to do here, so check out the whole list.
2. Best Things to Do in Galveston
Many different ways to explore Galveston according to your interests and choices exist. One can experience many things that make it a special place, even if they have only a few hours to kill.
From amusement parks to loads of historical sites, you will have several options to choose from and explore the best of Galveston.
Whether people are looking forward to delving into the island’s unique history or trying local delicacies, one can indulge in various activities the place offers.
Visitors can enjoy activities in Galveston that are unique to the city, including activities for couples, free activities, historical attractions, outdoor activities, fun in the sun, and attractions for kids.
People can relax in the natural beauty of the place, but there is no wrong way to spend a day in Galveston.
Galveston offers a variety of enjoyable things to do every day and night. So, here are the top recommended seven sites to visit for your weekend getaway:
2.1. 1892 Bishop’s Palace
2.1.1. Explore the History
This place is a well-preserved mansion with pretty amazing stonework, craftsmanship, and woodwork from the late 19th century. Gresham’s Castle is another name for Bishop’s Palace.
The castle, which Colonel Walter Gresham had built at the turn of the 20th century, is one of the major tourist attractions in Galveston, Texas.
The Victorian-style house is a designated National Historic Landmark and is accessible daily for visits.
During the tour, guests can explore the house’s numerous historical artifacts and discover more about the state’s past.
2.1.2. Architecture of the Palace
The place details Bishop Byrne, who lived in the house. They also provide information on the mansion’s architecture and other interesting facts.
Although it is not as huge as the Moody Mansion, this palace has more intricate and better architectural details, bronze dragon statues, and beautiful stained glass windows.
The American Institute of Architects was listed as one of America’s most important buildings. The massive palace offers a peek into the life of the local elite in the early 20th century.
This gigantic historic home now holds an interesting spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
2.1.3. Tours for the Inside View
One can join a tour inside the palace with luxurious interiors, including a giant fireplace and a 12m tall unique mahogany staircase.
Every month, an amazing basement-to-attic tour is done, showcasing home areas normally off-limits.
The entry fee is $15 for adults. People will love this place if they are into interesting architecture and history as the estate offers self-guided audio tours and takes about 1-2 hours to complete the entire tour.
Location: 1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
2.2. Moody Gardens
Instead of being a garden, Moody Gardens is a 242-acre entertainment complex with a tonne lot offered to its guests. Schedule a whole day there if you want to take advantage of everything Moody Gardens offers.
Although some consider this one of Galveston’s more expensive activities, most don’t mind the extra cost because there is so much to see and do for the entire family.
Moody Gardens is an amazing attraction. One can do many things here, from enjoying the ocean and meeting penguins.
2.2.1. Rainforest Pyramid House
Visitors can enjoy authentic rainforest adventures and different close encounters with various animals. These animals are usually macaws, free-roaming monkeys, and other endangered plants and animals at the Rainforest Pyramid.
Tourists can also learn about science’s multiple mysteries at the Discovery Museum.
More than 2,000 exotic animals and plants are in the Rainforest Pyramid home.
Other exhibits this place offers include endangered Chinese alligators, giant river otters, fruit bats, and other species.
.2.2.2. Canopy Trail
They also added a new canopy trail where guests get an exclusive bird’s eye view of the rainforest. People can spot rare birds or even two-toed sloths and other species living in and around the forest canopy.
2.2.3. Animal Attractions
Kids will love the sharks, penguins, and much more at the Aquarium Pyramid.
The Public Penguin Encounter and Giant River Otter Encounter are Moody Gardens’ animal attractions, and guests can swim with their favorite creatures in the Aquarium Pyramid.
2.2.4. Other Things to Explore
Additional attractions and activities include the Reef Rescue Virtual Experience, the Rainforest Pyramid, a Discovery Museum, a ropes course, and a zip line.
There are 3D theatres and 4D theatres where one can immerse themselves. There is also a Colonel Paddlewheel Boat cruise, which is unique and fun during summertime in the middle of a lazy river.
Palm Beach is Galveston’s only white sand beach accessible from Moody Gardens and worth visiting. This place also organizes a Festival of Lights, a perfect tourist attraction during vacations.
They provide Moody Gardens Hotel, where visitors can stay calm and peaceful. Also, a golf course is included if staying in their hotel.
Location: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States
2.3. The Grand 1894 Opera House
This place is a must-visit in the middle of the Postoffice Street Arts & Entertainment District.
The Grand 1894 Opera House offers performances throughout the year and features a lot of things. They provide Broadway blockbusters, comedy, dance, music, and other interesting performances.
When you enter the Grand 1894 Opera House, its enchanted past is concealed by its exquisite restoration and superb design. It’s a custom you should partake in while visiting Galveston.
Having the opportunity to see the Opera House’s majesty is reason enough to purchase a show ticket.
The setting and acoustics will be much more appealing to opera fans. At the Grand 1894 Opera House, every performance is extraordinary.
Catch the Galveston Orchestra Symphony‘s spectacular performance on Sunday afternoon. Consider purchasing your tickets in advance because performances with renowned musicians frequently sell out.
Witnessing a play at the Opera House is an intimate experience you will never forget, regardless of who you watch perform. Galveston has special activities, such as a kids’ camp.
This opera house is also available as a rental and serves as a venue for private occasions, office meetings, and corporate events. It is a premium location for several world premieres and theatre productions.
The Grand Opera House is a unique historic treasure in the Gulf Coast region.
This place plays an extraordinary part in the history of the Western community and many locals’ lives. This place is on the list of best places to visit in Galveston and holds a prestigious place.
Location: 2020 Postoffice St., Galveston, TX 77550, USA
2.4. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is situated in the heart of Galveston.
2.4.1. How Was Pleasure Pier Created?
The Pier was devastated by a cyclone about 40 years ago. It has been restored as a center for entertainment, stretching from the southern shore to Seawall Boulevard and ultimately overlooking Mexico’s beautiful Gulf.
From spring to fall, crowds gather here to enjoy the turquoise waves lapping at the seemingly endless expanse of smooth sand fronts the ocean.
Spread out into the ocean like a chaotic carnival on colorful stilts, this pier is perfect for a nostalgic feeling.
2.4.2. Rides in Pleasure Pier
It can be an ideal spot for a joyful time, from the roller coasters’ colorful structures to the natural sunrise.
Photo by Amy Peryam on Unsplash Copyrights 2019
Choose from 15 entertaining rides at the Pier, including the Cyclone, Rock N Roll, Galaxy Wheel, and Iron Shark Roller Coaster. Of course, the kiddie carousel is there for small guests.
2.4.3. A Family-Friendly Place
Along this stretch, numerous restrooms may be found at various intervals. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is an iconic and historic dock with many unique shops, the best restaurants, and different rides.
This place is highly recommended to those who like scenic beauty with bright and cheerful surroundings.
Many family-friendly activities are the main source of entertainment in Galveston by the Gulf Coast.
Bringing the whole family to this dock during a lazy afternoon for games, food, and shopping is the best way to enjoy this place. One can walk along the pier and take amazing photos of the Gulf of Mexico’s aesthetic views and sunsets.
2.4.4. Kids and Toddlers Friendly
Visitors can also choose from the huge range of restaurants along the dock. This pier goes into the ocean, stretching approximately 1,130 feet long. The kids usually love the various activities they offer. The attractions include thrilling roller coasters, the Iron Shark, and the Sky Shooter.
People should try the huge Galaxy Wheel for the best and most picturesque views from the sky. The Texas Star Flyer will make visitors feel like flying over the water.
Visitors can even take toddlers here as the place also offers rides suitable for little kids.
Location: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
2.5. The Bryan Museum
This historic building was once known as the Galveston Orphans Home. The museum shows huge collections of historical art and artifacts from around 12,000 years ago.
The permanent collection deals with almost everything from Native American history to the Spanish Colonial Era.
The Texas Frontier, Spanish Colonial Times, and the Rest of the West are frequently displayed at the Bryan Museum—the history of Texas as a state is brought to life through virtual reality.
The museum hosts annual special events featuring guest speakers, exhibits, and other entertaining activities.
More than 6,000 books in the Bryan Museum Library’s collection assist readers in gaining a deeper understanding of the state’s history.
The Texas Masters Gallery inside this museum displays the authentic art of different Texas-born artists.
They also present works of people who traveled through the entire region and captured it beautifully on canvas. The museum is full of artistic creations by famous artists that have been preserved here for eternity.
Before you go, stop by the Museum Shop to pick up a few trinkets to bring home. Both adults and kids use this display when touring the museum.
Location: 1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
2.6. Galveston Railroad Museum
This is one of the best attractions to try if you are visiting Galveston. People can get up close and look around, studying the engines and cars at the museum.
Also, visitors can ride on the infamous Harborside Express, which the museum operates.
Initially built on the former Santa Fe railyard and depot in 1983, the museum has a sizable collection of steam engines from various historical periods, as well as displays and information meant to inform and enlighten anybody with a fascination for locomotives.
The museum contains a one-mile track, more than 40 pieces of inventory, and the greatest collection of dining car cutlery in the Southwest.
The museum has a changing exhibit that elaborates on model trains to encourage visitors’ curiosity.
Visitors can learn more about railroads and their history in Galveston and Texas through permanent and temporary exhibits.
They also have a gift store that provides plenty of options to take your preferred gift home.
Visitors get to enjoy the surrounding view with their friends or family as they make their way down the track. Also, be sure to check the museum’s calendar for events there.
All interested visitors can ride the museum’s train on Saturday.
Location: 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
2.7. Galveston Historic Seaport
This is one of the interesting things to do in Galveston if you are into historical ships and seaports.
At the Galveston Historic Seaport, visitors are greeted by the 1877 ELISSA, a Tall Ship for Texas, and daily encounters with its maritime past.
To start restoration work, the Galveston Historical Foundation transported the 1877 square-rigged iron bark ELISSA from a scrapyard in Piraeus Harbor, Greece, to Galveston in 1978.
By 1982, GHF employees and volunteers had finished the restoration and turned this remarkable, historic ship into an operational floating museum.
The 1877 Tall Ship is currently in service. Only three ships of her kind are still in service, and ELISSA welcomes more than 40,000 guests each year.
She also represents the historical origins of the Gulf Coast as a bustling waterfront and the Official Tall Ship of Texas.
Galveston Historical Foundation’s Galveston Historic Seaport offers a brand-new experience that brings the city’s illustrious immigration history to life.
Visitors can retrace the steps of early immigrants through Ship to Shore, from the arduous sea voyage with its combination of challenges and wonders to the commotion of arrival in Galveston in the 1880s, one of the busiest ports and booming cities in the United States.
Galveston Historical Foundation’s Galveston Historic Seaport offers a brand-new experience that brings the city’s illustrious immigration history to life.
Visitors can explore the beautiful decks of this amazing place. This place is also a National Historic Landmark that has also gained fame as one of America’s Treasures by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Location: 2002 Strand Galveston, TX 77550
2.8. The Strand
Well, a trip to Galveston Island is complete without visiting Historic Downtown Galveston.
This Galveston’s famous avenue, the Strand, is a historic downtown where one can shop for anything they want.
The Strand Historic District is in the middle of a vibrant downtown that offers shopping and dining, museums, entertainment, and amazing nightlife.
The 70+ block historic downtown has a lot to offer, and it’s all within walking distance, so people don’t have to worry about the location.
You may also go to one of the bars or stop by one of the mom-and-pop restaurants along the Strand, a five-block historic district close to the pier, for a bite to eat.
It costs nothing to stroll along The Strand, and the breathtaking scenery guarantees you a great day. The Strand neighborhood is also home to the 1894 Opera House.
You’ll want to visit a couple of the shops and stops along the Strand because there is so much to see and do there, so be sure to bring some cash and be aware of what is available nearby.
Anyone looking to leave the house and unwind with various things to see and do will find it relaxing 9.
Despite the crowds, which frequently include others having the same adventures as you, the countryside is serene and unhurried.
2.9. Hotel Galvez Ghost Tour
It is worthwhile to stay at Hotel Galvez while visiting Gavelston because of the Ghost Tour. The ghost tour will be fun for everyone, including couples, families, and groups of friends.
“Ghost Stories” on the Travel Channel and “Ghost Lab” on the Discovery Channel have featured this trip.
You shouldn’t miss this tour if you believe in ghosts or are interested in the supernatural.
The Ghost Tour, held at night once a month, gives a one-and-a-half-hour tour of Galveston, Texas’s most haunted locations, during which you’ll hear many tales that will make the hair on the back of your neck stand.
After the night tour, packages are available for those who want to add a three-course supper at the Galvez Bar & Grill.
Location: 2024 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
2.10. Schlitterbahn
Schlitterbahn is one of Galveston’s most popular tourist destinations and a great place to stop on any itinerary.
It is Galveston’s biggest water park and provides a wonderful experience for anyone trying to escape the Texas heat.
Schlitterbahn is one of the top summertime activities in Galveston or the entire state, and it is a summertime tradition for inhabitants of South Texas.
The park is made up of water slides, rivers, and coasters. The Schlitterbahn offers activities for people of all ages. The park also houses Rohr and the MASSIV Monster Blaster, the tallest water coaster in the world!
Visitors to Schlitterbahn like the Wave Lagoon, but many other activities are also available at the park.
A few heated swimming pools, a play area for young children and toddlers, the Torrent River, the Soaring Eagle ZipLine, the Torrent Beach, and the Screaming Serpents are among them.
On-site eating options are offered at Schlitterbahn.
Location: 2109 Gene Lucas Blvd., Galveston, Texas 77554
End Note
So this was the list of best things to do in Galveston: museums and other historical places.
With the vast amount of activities, people can never get bored here as there are many other things to do, so make sure to bring your friends and loved ones to enjoy fully.
Have fun exploring!
Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology
