Galveston is an amazing travel destination in Texas. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Galveston, Texas, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Galveston, Texas, and the best places to visit in Galveston, Texas.
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Bishop’s Place
Bishop Palace is one of the most fascinating palaces you will see in Galveston, Texas.
The Bishop Palace, also known as Gresham’s Castle and constructed as private property, is commonly referred to as one of the most significant Victorian mansions in America.
The building took seven years to finish in 1893.
Inside the house, there are many treasures you can admire, such as stunning architectural design, stained-glass windows, and bronze dragon statues.
The Victorian-style house is a designated National Historic Landmark and is accessible daily for visits.
During the tour, you can explore the house’s numerous historical artifacts and discover more about the state’s past.
You will be amazed by the exterior’s castle-like design with turrets, towers, and carved granite. Fascinating!
In addition, appreciate its impressive limestone and sandstone as part of the palace’s significant features.
You will also find impressive designs for its interior. These include unique carved stone woodwork, high ceilings, stained glass windows, fireplaces, and elegant furnishings!
Although younger children might not enjoy the tour, it is reasonably priced.
Thanks to the self-guided audio tour, you may also be confident that you will understand the functions of each item inside the house.
Meanwhile, if you are interested in the state’s history, you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to tour Bishop’s Palace.
Come and enjoy a tour of Bishop Palace today!
Address: 1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Everyone will be smiling when you schedule a day at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier!
The entire family will enjoy the rides, activities, and restaurants found here.
The best time to visit is during the evening when the rides are lit against the starry sky for a spectacular display!
Fly above the Gulf of Mexico while experiencing an exciting roller coaster.
Sit back and enjoy the view from the top of the Ferris wheel as people gather on the pier.
At the Historic Pleasure Pier, kids and adults of all ages can enjoy a variety of entertaining and thrilling rides.
You are lucky if you are craving fair favorites like funnel cakes, Cajun-style shrimp, or a juicy cheeseburger. The eateries on the pier offer something to please even the pickiest diners.
Bringing a souvenir home with you is the best way to keep a memory of your time at the pier with your family.
You can browse the stores around the area to get souvenirs, costumes for rides, and much more.
In addition, you can play a few of the Midway Games for a chance to win something! Come for games like Ring Toss, Big Shot Hoops, and Whack-a-Mole!
If you are looking for more adventures, there’s more! Experience a massive Megalodon shark attack or adventure in an old mine.
For families searching for a thrilling experience they won’t soon forget, the 5D Theather Adventures are ideal.
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier has a lot of fun things to offer. So don’t miss out!
Address: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
Visitors to the Galveston Naval Museum can see iconic World War II vessels while learning about American history on either a self-guided or guided tour of the facility.
You can visit bomb compartments and worn decks while learning about the sacrifices, mystery, and history of the crews keeping watch aboard these warships.
At the Galveston Naval Museum, you will learn that the protector and predator are brought together.
The USS Stewart and the USS Cavalla welcome anyone interested in learning more about the drama of the war’s terrible struggles to control the sea’s underwater domain.
History enthusiasts should visit the Galveston Naval Museum.
Take your time studying these famous World War II vessels on a self-guided tour or with one of the museum’s tour guides.
Experience the thrill of predatory submarine patrols in the North Atlantic or the protection of allied forces in the Pacific.
Meanwhile, if you have any questions or concerns, you will find many accommodating and friendly staff around the area.
If you are looking for other places to explore, there’s more! Around the corner of the museum, you will find many stalls and shops which you can visit anytime.
You can also grab a snack or drink to enjoy the tour with your family.
The Galveston Naval Museum will allow you to learn while having fun. Enjoy your vacation!
Address: 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States
Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens is one of the fascinating things to do in Galveston, Texas.
Over 242 acres, Moody Gardens provides more than ten unique attractions, some of which are seasonal.
Choosing just one or two locations to visit in the entertainment area can be challenging because there is so much going on there!
The cost of each attraction varies, but if you want to visit them all, you may buy a one or two-day pass.
Your entire family will enjoy exploring the Jungle Pyramid, a climate-controlled pyramid of a rainforest.
You can also expect to see huge rats, monkeys exploring the area, and some geckos while they are at rest. Fascinating!
Additionally, you can explore various levels of aquatic life in numerous enclosures, ranging from little tanks to a huge 1.5 million-gallon aquarium.
You will also like the 45-minute 3D IMAX film on the U.S.’s history called “America’s best idea.”
Robert Redford narrated the film, which followed three contemporary explorers as they discovered some of America’s breathtaking natural wonders, such as the volcanoes in Hawaii and the geysers in Yellowstone.
After spending some time visiting Moody Gardens, join the Colonel, a recreation of a paddlewheel boat from the 1800s, for a leisurely cruise of Offatts Bayou.
The three-tiered boat has an additional dining space and a bar where you can buy wine, soda, popcorn, chips, sweets, and cotton candy/
Book your trip to Moody Gardens today!
Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States
Moody Mansion
If you are up for something historical, visiting Moody Mansion is a must.
The Moody family, one of the most prominent business people in the Lone Star State, resided in the 28,000-square-foot estate named Moody Mansion.
It was built in 1895 and has gorgeously furnished rooms and a rich history of historical treasures.
You will also hear tales within the Moody Mansion that captivate you from beginning to end.
Your mansion tour will reveal how the house survived a severe hurricane in the 1900s and how the family was significant to Texas history.
The four-floor house has 20 rooms that may be toured by guests and features the family’s collection of furniture and artifacts throughout their 86-year residence.
Meanwhile, you can appreciate the self-guided audio tours of the estate since they will teach you a lot about one of Texas’ most powerful families and period architecture.
Upon visiting, you will wish for the entire house to be displayed instead of simply the first and second floors.
In addition to having all of these attractive features, the Moody Mansion also hosts events all year long.
Each room comes to life as you discover important information about the Moody family, their careers, and their riches. You may also find it easy to picture yourself in the present.
You wouldn’t want to leave Galveston without learning about the rich history of the Moody family!
Address: 2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Museum
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Museum provides the opportunity to step inside the offshore oil and gas business.
The Ocean Star, constructed in 1969 at the Bethlehem Steel Yard in Beaumont, Texas, operated in the Gulf of Mexico until 1994.
The best feature about this fantastic museum on the offshore oil and gas sector is that it is located on a destroyed jack-up drilling rig off Pier 19!
After purchasing your tickets in the gift shop, you go to the Ocean Star by crossing a large pedestrian bridge.
Your kids can receive a passport to complete and participate in several practical activities.
The first story has a climbing basket and a whole area for kids to play in and dress up on the top floor.
Along with this, there are displays, real samples of the equipment, and exhibits about occupations, as well as a movie to get you started on your tour.
The Ocean Star trip typically lasts an hour. Stop by and enjoy your journey at the Galveston oil rig with a cooling system.
Come and join an educational journey in the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Museum that is truly unlike any other.
For individuals who would like a private tour guide, there are audio tours available in English, Spanish, and French. Groups are available for discounted prices.
The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Museum also provides activities for teachers, scout troops, and kids. Fascinating!
Address: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
Pier 21
Welcome to Pier 21, a place for enjoyment close to the Strand Historic on Galveston’s historic harbor.
Here, you will find more than enough, whether you want to learn about local history or have the best dinner.
One of the three documentaries that tell the tales of The Great Storm of 1900, the pirate Jean Laffite, and how immigration via Galveston affected the island may be shown at the Pier 21 Theater to kick off your journey through time.
While roaming the pier, it won’t take long to come across the magnificent 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA at the Texas Seaport Museum, one of just three of its sort in the world that can still sail.
A huge fresh seafood dish is a must-have on every vacation to Galveston, and Pier 21 has two excellent places to fill up.
Visit the famous Fisherman’s Wharf, a restaurant the size of Texas, where you may have gulf red snapper, Mahi Mahi, shrimp, and more while admiring the ELISSA.
You can enjoy the waterfront dining at the magnificent Willie G’s Seafood & Steaks while delighting in specialties like redfish Louisianne, blackened catfish etouffee, or New York strip steak.
You may also create the perfect Galveston night out by pairing your chosen entree with a wine or pinot grigio from the large, international wine list.
You can pick from various tours that take you into Galveston Bay’s waterways. Come and visit Pier 21 today!
Address: 2100 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
Porretto Beach
Porretto Beach is one of the top attractions in Galveston, Texas.
Galveston’s Porretto Beach is a private beach well-known for its welcoming atmosphere and amenities for families.
Here, you will have the chance to experience many fun adventures. You can go picnicking, sandcastle building, and canoeing.
Meanwhile, paddleboarding is also a common activity on Porretto Beach.
The Seawall is also a great place to stroll because fewer people are there.
If you are with your furry friends, pets are permitted on the beach, but they must be properly leashed.
Public bathrooms, chairs, and umbrella rentals are examples of additional amenities.
The beach is ideally located next to fast food restaurants and other establishments, making it easy to access.
The place’s most significant events are music festivals and Sand Castle competitions.
You must visit this beautiful beach for yourself. You can park right on the beach and walk to the sea effortlessly.
Additionally, parking is accessible just a short distance away on the Seawall.
Just west of Stewart beach and Galveston’s East Beach, along the Galveston Seawall, is Porretto Beach.
Porretto Beach has a lot of immersive experiences for you to enjoy!
Address: Porretto Beach, Galveston, Texas, United States
Rainforest Pyramid
Rainforest Pyramid is one of the fascinating sites in Galveston, Texas.
If you are travelling with your kids, the Rainforest Pyramid at Moody Gardens is a great place to start your Galveston itinerary.
Tropical plants and animals may be found inside the Rainforest Pyramid, like free-roaming monkeys and sloths, birds, and fish.
Meanwhile, you will be covered in humidity as soon as you step inside the pyramid.
The Rainforest Pyramid is a greenhouse jungle overflowing with lovely tropical flowers, animals, and even waterfalls.
You can walk right through the rainforest’s center on a boardwalk at canopy level.
Family-friendly meals like delicious burgers, giant shrimp, fresh fish tacos, and other dishes are available at Rainforest Pyramid.
Your ears will be filled with birds chirping, and the waterfalls will relax you.
You may also see tropical birds and endangered species up close as you wander through the indoor forest canopy.
In addition, keep a watch out for birds as they will fly around you!
Your journey continues as the road around the pyramid, allowing you to see the complete display from every aspect and ensure that you don’t miss anything.
Wander around and make way for the fantastic land of Rainforest Pyramid!
Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Galveston and a great place to stop on any itinerary is Schlitterbahn.
It is Galveston’s biggest water park and provides a wonderful experience for anyone trying to escape the Texas heat.
The park is made up of water slides, rivers, and coasters. The Schlitterbahn offers activities for people of all ages.
In addition, the park also features Rohr and the MASSIV Monster Blaster, the tallest water coaster in the world!
Among the choices here are water coasters. You won’t get disappointed.
Meanwhile, you will find a few heated swimming pools, a play area for young children and toddlers, the Torrent River, and the Soaring Eagle Zipline.
For added fun, you can also have fun at Torrent Beach and the Screaming Serpents.
Visitors to Schlitterbahn like the Wave Lagoon, but many other activities are available at the park.
Additionally, Schlitterbahn is one of the top hot summer activities in Galveston and the entire state. It is a yearly tradition for locals of South Texas.
The 26-acre water park, approximately 5 miles west of the center of Galveston, attracts tourists of all ages and is particularly well-liked by families.
Know that you can carry outside meals into the field if you want to bring a picnic.
Visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark and prepare for water adventures!
Address: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Seawolf Park
Seawolf Park is one of the fascinating areas in Galveston, Texas.
The park offers fantastic fishing and crab catching for people of all ages, like a picnic space, a playground, and a lot of fascinating history.
But the enjoyment that Seawolf Park has to offer for guests of all ages doesn’t end here.
You can check out the museum after you have finished exploring the park.
Meanwhile, your visit to Seawolf Park and the related museum will be a lot of fun, but there will also be a lot of learning involved.
The USS Cavalla, a World War II submarine, and the USS Stewart are among the park’s other tourist attractions.
In addition, the wreckage of the World War I tanker S.S. Northwest of the park’s fishing pier is where you can see Selma, the biggest concrete ship ever built.
The American Undersea Warfare Center’s exhibits at Seawolf Park provide educational details about how these ships were utilized in conflict.
Additionally, Seawolf Park is unique because of the World War II-related tourist attractions inside its borders.
Seawolf Park is a must-visit location for anyone seeking to enjoy amazing natural beauty mixed with historical significance in Galveston.
Galveston is known for having a talent for historic preservation. By visiting the park, you will see it for yourself.
Feed your eyes with the fascinating beauty of Seawolf Park!
Address: 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
Stewart Beach
One of Galveston island’s best beaches is Stewart Beach.
It has an excellent location on one of Galveston’s main strips. It provides a ton of fantastic amenities for guests to enjoy.
While swimming and having other beach fun, lifeguards watch out for everyone’s safety.
In addition, they also provide snacks and drinks to satisfy your thirst.
There are showers accessible, a playground for kids, and you can rent chairs and umbrellas.
Meanwhile, this beach is well-maintained, cozy, and welcoming to families.
Plan a stop at the beach to round off the journey, as it is close to Pleasure Pier.
You may do this before your cruise departs or after an exciting day at the pier.
Stewart Beach is located where Broadway Avenue and the Seawall meet.
Additionally, the opening time is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the off-season.
Remember that alcoholic drinks are not allowed at this family-friendly beach.
Recent visitors enjoyed this beach’s numerous amenities, spacious parking lot, and close access to Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.
The nearby bars serve alcohol if you want to chill and relax.
You can spend the day tanning and sipping lemonade for further relaxation.
Beat your boredom and come visit Stewart Beach!
Address: 201 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
The Bryan Museum
The Bryan Museum welcomes visitors to discover the history of Texas and the American West.
The museum is located in a Renaissance revival-style structure. It is built in the former Galveston Orphans Home, surrounded by lovely sceneries.
Beaming with works of art, souvenirs, interactive exhibits, and more.
It is open from Wednesday until Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located in the center of Galveston.
Meanwhile, the permanent collection includes various topics, including Native American history, the Spanish Colonial Period, and Texas Independence.
Both artists born in Texas and the ones who toured through the state and painted it are featured in the Texas Masters Gallery.
If you are fortunate, you might even run into Mr. J.P Bryan, who founded and launched the Bryan Museum in 2015.
More than 6,000 books in the Bryan Museum Library’s collection enable readers to gain a deeper knowledge of the state’s history.
Additionally, there are artworks by many artists, including Andy Warhol, all over the museum.
The museum also hosts events throughout the year that feature special guests, exhibitions, and other entertaining activities.
Plan a trip to Bryan Museum if you enjoy Texas culture or history. Make your time worthwhile and enjoy the sight!
Address: 1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
The Grand 1894 Opera House
When you enter The Grand 1894 Opera House, its fascinating history is covered by its stunning restoration and beautiful design.
Located in the city’s historic district, particularly the Postoffice Street Arts & Entertainment District.
Galveston’s Grand 1894 Opera House is a stunning and remarkable landmark.
The setting and acoustics will be much more appealing to opera fans.
Meanwhile, year-round musical and artistic acts are presented in this very magnificent theater.
Featuring anything from Broadway shows and orchestras to stage shows ad comedy plays.
At the Grand 1894 Opera House, every performance is extraordinary.
Additionally, the theater seats 1,000 and has luxurious blue cushioned chairs framed in wood, artistic details on the walls and carpet, and a huge ruby-red curtain on its stage.
As a result, it is recognized as “The Official Opera House of Texas.” It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The ticket office opens at 9am on Monday through Friday.
The Opera House is a perfectly preserved Victorian auditorium that has endured numerous hurricanes.
In addition, it presents a wide schedule of musical and theatrical production and several entertaining programs for children of all ages.
Come and visit the magic of theater shows!
Address: 2020 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550, United States
The Strand
Among the first locations to go to in Galveston is The Strand.
Today, it is home to many diners, bars, museums, and antique shops.
Making it a lovely location for some exploring, shopping, and dining.
Anyone looking to leave the house and unwind will find it to be a relaxing environment.
In addition, The Strand is a five-block area known as a National Historic Landmark, home to various stores, galleries, clubs, and diners.
You can also view historical 19th-century residences and discover Galveston’s past.
You may also go out and drink at one of the bars or grab a bite from one of the mom-and-pop restaurants along The Strand.
Meanwhile, check out a museum, and shop all you want at one of the region’s Galveston boutiques.
Numerous of Galveston’s top tourist attractions are located in the region.
The Strand is also home to a wide variety of food and shopping options, from small desserts like LA King’s Confectionery.
Here you can see the chewy candy demonstrations and enjoy more modern establishments.
Also close are Pier 19, which is home to the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum, The Texas Seaport Museum, and restaurants with water views.
Make time and drop a visit to The Strand!
Address: 2100 Strand St, Galveston, TX 77550-1633, United States
