Things to Do in Galveston
Explore Galveston Island beaches, attractions and parks on your weekend trip.
I’ve spent 27 years as a travel writer, and you can bet Galveston (a 3 hours and 30 minute drive from my house in Austin, TX) always calls me back. I relish its Gulf-side beaches, ornate Victorian homes, upbeat festivals, and family fun, and you will feel the same.
I came for the beaches but stayed for the layers...Victorian architecture, unexpected art, a working harbor humming with history. One minute I was eating tacos on the seawall, the next I was exploring a tall ship or standing in awe under a rainforest canopy. This island isn’t just sun and surf—it’s stories, textures, contrasts. And every block felt like it had something to say if I took the time to listen.
Best Things to Do in Galveston, TX
Seawall Urban Park
There’s something about the Galveston seawall that slows everything down. I parked the car, kicked off my sandals, and just started walking, miles of ocean breeze, crashing surf, and wide Texas sky. The path stretched on endlessly, with people biking, fishing, or just sitting with their faces turned to the sun. I remember thinking, “I didn’t know I needed this much space to breathe.” It wasn’t about doing something, it was about being somewhere that let you be.
What I Loved Most: Sitting on a bench with the sound of waves in one ear and laughter in the other, watching pelicans dive into the Gulf.
My highlight? A shrimp taco plate at Fish Company Taco, just a few blocks inland. The tortillas were warm, the shrimp grilled with lime and chipotle, and the mango salsa sealed the deal. I brought them back to the seawall and ate with a view that made every bite better.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Beachfront along Seawall Blvd
- Vibe: Relaxed, breezy, open
- Highlights: Beaches, walking paths, ocean views, people-watching
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset for cooler air
- Cost: Free; parking meters along Seawall Blvd
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Address: Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
Galveston - Port Bolivar Ferry
The ferry wasn’t just transportation, it was an experience. I drove aboard just before sunset and headed straight to the railings. The breeze was salty, the gulls noisy, and dolphins leapt in the distance like they knew we were watching. I remember thinking, “This is one of those simple things you’ll remember more than you expected.” It was a short ride, but one that lingered.
What I Loved Most: Watching the sky turn gold and pink as we floated past tankers and pelicans, quiet, calm, and just the right kind of in-between moment.
My highlight? A quick bite at Sunflower Bakery & Café beforehand, an egg salad croissant and a lavender lemonade, both fresh and made with care. I brought the drink aboard and watched the sun dip toward the horizon, drink in hand, heart full.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Galveston to Port Bolivar Peninsula
- Vibe: Serene, nautical, free-spirited
- Highlights: Dolphin spotting, ocean views, free transport
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the view, early morning for no wait
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 24 hours; departs every 20–45 minutes
- Address: 1000 Ferry Rd, Galveston, TX 77550
Recommended Activities for Families
1877 Tall Ship ELISSA
Stepping aboard the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA felt like stepping into a different era. The wooden decks creaked underfoot, the sails loomed above, and everything smelled faintly of salt and stories. I wandered slowly, letting my hands trail along ropes and railings, imagining life at sea more than a century ago. I remember thinking, “She’s not just a ship, she’s a survivor.” And in every line and detail, that history held firm.
What I Loved Most: Climbing the forecastle and staring out over the water, imagining the horizon through the eyes of a 19th-century sailor.
My highlight? Lunch at Olympia Grill at Pier 21, just steps away. I had the grilled red snapper with lemon butter, paired with a Greek side salad. Fresh, bright, and just nautical enough to match the moment.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Texas Seaport Museum at Pier 21
- Vibe: Nautical, historic, hands-on
- Highlights: Fully restored tall ship, museum exhibits, harbor views
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds
- Cost: ~$10 adult museum admission
- Hours: Daily 10am–5pm
- Address: 2100 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550
Bishop's Palace
Walking into Bishop’s Palace was like stepping onto the set of a Gothic novel, only grander. The carved woodwork, stained glass, and towering staircases made every room feel like a chapter in a forgotten story. I took my time on the self-guided tour, trailing my fingers along velvet ropes and marble banisters, thinking, “Someone really lived like this, right here.” The past didn’t feel far away. It felt like it had just stepped into the next room.
What I Loved Most: The view from the second-floor balcony, where I could see the Gulf glinting in the distance through weathered palms.
My highlight? Coffee afterward at MOD Coffeehouse a few blocks down, an iced hazelnut latte and a quiet moment on their patio to take it all in. The perfect contrast to all that grandeur.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: East End Historic District
- Vibe: Ornate, historic, mysterious
- Highlights: Victorian architecture, stained glass, self-guided tours
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden light through stained glass
- Cost: ~$15 adults
- Hours: Daily 10am–5pm
- Address: 1402 Broadway Ave J, Galveston, TX 77550
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
I expected slides and splash zones, but Schlitterbahn was a full-on adventure. From wave pools to lazy rivers to heart-pounding drops, it was the kind of place that made you forget what time it was. I floated down the Torrent River, water surging under me, and thought, “This is what joy feels like when you let go.” Kids were laughing, adults were too, and for a few hours, it was nothing but play.
What I Loved Most: The Master Blaster water coaster, part thrill ride, part magic carpet. I screamed and laughed the whole way down.
My highlight? A quick lunch from the Blastenhoff Grill inside the park: a classic cheeseburger and curly fries that tasted like childhood summers. Eaten in a dripping swimsuit with sun on my shoulders, it was perfect.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Mid-island Galveston
- Vibe: Fun, family-friendly, energetic
- Highlights: Water coasters, lazy river, kids’ zones, shaded cabanas
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in early summer for fewer crowds
- Cost: ~$60 per adult; discounts available online
- Hours: Seasonal; generally 10am–6pm
- Address: 2026 Lockheed Rd, Galveston, TX 77554
The Strand Historic District
The Strand was like walking through a time capsule, with a twist of salt air. The Victorian buildings, the iron balconies, the smell of pralines drifting from candy shops... it felt like the kind of place where you wander without a plan. I remember browsing antiques, sipping iced coffee, and thinking, “This is how to spend an afternoon, with no destination, just discovery.”
What I Loved Most: The mix of history and charm, every block held something different, from galleries to vintage finds to ghost stories.
My highlight? A scoop of bourbon vanilla from La King’s Confectionery, served in a house-made waffle cone. I ate it on a bench outside while a street performer played blues guitar nearby. It was small, perfect, and real.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Downtown Galveston
- Vibe: Historic, walkable, whimsical
- Highlights: Shopping, candy shops, art galleries, historic buildings
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early evening stroll
- Cost: Free to explore
- Hours: Shops typically 10am–6pm; some open later
- Address: Strand St, Galveston, TX 77550
Attractions for Couples
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum
I didn’t expect to be fascinated by offshore drilling, but then I stepped onto the Ocean Star. This converted rig-turned-museum stood tall in the harbor, and once inside, it was like entering the engine room of the Gulf Coast. The exhibits were immersive, hands-on, and surprisingly captivating. I remember thinking, “So much of what powers our lives starts right here.”
What I Loved Most: Standing on the helipad, looking out at the harbor with oil platforms in the distance, it made the whole operation feel tangible.
My highlight? Brunch afterward at Riondo’s Ristorante nearby, crab cake benedict with lemon hollandaise and a side of rosemary potatoes. Elegant but hearty, it felt well-earned after geeking out over petroleum pumps and drill bits.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Pier 19, Galveston Harbor
- Vibe: Educational, industrial, unexpectedly cool
- Highlights: Drilling rig tour, interactive exhibits, energy history
- Best Time to Visit: Midday with time to linger
- Cost: ~$10 for adults
- Hours: Wed–Sun, 10am–5pm
- Address: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550
Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens felt like a choose-your-own-adventure story wrapped in glass pyramids. One moment I was watching butterflies flit through a rainforest canopy, the next I was underwater, face to face with a stingray. The sheer variety, zoo, aquarium, science exhibits, kept me curious from the moment I arrived. I remember thinking, “This isn’t just for kids. This is for anyone who wants to feel wonder again.”
What I Loved Most: The Rainforest Pyramid, humid, lush, and filled with life. Sloths napped in the trees while colorful birds darted just overhead.
My highlight? Lunch at Garden Restaurant inside Moody Gardens. I had the grilled fish tacos with avocado crema and citrus slaw, bright, refreshing, and exactly right between exhibits.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Off Hope Blvd near the west end of Galveston Island
- Vibe: Immersive, educational, family-friendly
- Highlights: Rainforest, aquarium, 3D theater, paddlewheel boat
- Best Time to Visit: Morning to beat crowds; plan for a full day
- Cost: ~$60 for day passes (combo tickets); discounts online
- Hours: Daily 10am–6pm
- Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
Conclusion: Why Galveston Stays With You
Galveston isn’t polished, it’s real. It’s salt on your skin, a praline in your hand, wind in your hair as the ferry pulls away. It’s the way history creaks underfoot at Bishop’s Palace and the way pelicans dive beside offshore rigs. It’s colorful, casual, and deeply human. What started as a beach getaway became something richer: a place I didn’t just visit, I connected with.
If you love Galveston, check out these Southern places:
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
