Things to Do in Galveston

Galveston is packed with attractions that keep me coming back again and again (it's one of the easiest beach trips for my from our house in Austin). From its historic Strand District and fascinating museums to family favorites like Moody Gardens and the Pleasure Pier, there’s always something new to discover.

Beach lovers will find miles of sandy shoreline perfect for relaxing or water sports, while nature enthusiasts can explore birding trails and state parks. Whether you’re strolling past Victorian architecture, learning about maritime history, or enjoying fresh Gulf seafood, Galveston blends charm and adventure in equal measure. These are some of the best things to do in Galveston, handpicked from my own travel notes.

1. Seawall Urban Park

Seawall Urban Park in Galveston feels like the Gulf Coast at its most vibrant. Stretching for miles along the shoreline, it’s both a scenic walkway and the heartbeat of the island. Here, the rhythm is set by the waves, the sea breeze, and the blend of locals and visitors strolling, cycling, or just pausing to take in the horizon.

I found Seawall Urban Park to be both laid-back and lively. Families spread out on the sand, fishermen cast their lines, and couples leaned into the railing watching the pelicans dive. Whether you’re chasing activity or craving a salty-aired pause, it has a way of grounding you in the moment.

We stayed at The Tremont House, a historic boutique hotel downtown with easy access to the island’s highlights. Dinner at Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant was the standout — I had the Gulf Red Snapper ($32), perfectly fresh and simply prepared, while my son devoured the shrimp platter ($25).

2. Galveston - Port Bolivar Ferry

The Galveston–Port Bolivar Ferry is both a practical link and a small adventure in itself. Operated by the Texas Department of Transportation, it’s completely free (a rare thing these days) and runs year-round, carrying cars, bikes, and walk-on passengers across the Gulf waters between Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula.

What stood out most to me was how much the ferry ride is more than just transportation. On deck, the salt air whips through your hair, dolphins often leap in the distance, and the broad horizon feels endless. It’s a brief 20-minute crossing, but it gives you a chance to pause, look out at the big sky and open sea, and realize you’re traveling the same waters ships have navigated for centuries.

On the Galveston side, we lined up our car and rolled aboard with ease. My son loved standing at the railing, spotting pelicans skimming the waves. Once in Port Bolivar, the vibe shifted instantly — quieter, more open, with beaches and birding spots just minutes from the ferry dock. It’s the kind of simple excursion that feels like a memory in the making.

We paired our ferry ride with a casual seafood lunch at Stingaree Restaurant & Marina on the peninsula. The blackened flounder ($24) was my pick, while my son had fried shrimp ($18). Both came with a view of the Intracoastal Waterway that made us linger longer than planned.

3. 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA

The 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA is more than just a historic vessel — it feels like stepping into another century. Moored at Galveston’s waterfront as part of the Texas Seaport Museum, she’s one of the few surviving tall ships still actively sailed. Walking her decks, the creak of the wood, the towering rigging, and the scent of the salt air all combine to transport you back to the golden age of sail.

What struck me most was the authenticity. This isn’t a replica — ELISSA is the real deal, restored with incredible care and still seaworthy. You can explore her main deck, peek into the captain’s quarters, and imagine life at sea in the late 19th century. The museum next door adds context, telling the story of Galveston as a bustling port of immigration and trade.

We stayed nearby at Harbor House Hotel & Marina, just steps from the pier, making it easy to explore the Strand Historic District after our visit. Dinner at Riondo’s Ristorante on the Strand was excellent — I had the seafood linguine ($28), while my son tried the margherita pizza ($16). It felt like the perfect pairing of maritime history and Galveston charm.

4. Bishop's Palace

Bishop’s Palace, also known as the Gresham House, is one of Galveston’s most striking landmarks. Built in the late 1800s, this grand Victorian mansion is a masterpiece of stonework, woodwork, and stained glass — a living testament to the island’s Gilded Age wealth and resilience. Walking up its limestone steps, you immediately sense that this isn’t just a house, it’s a statement of artistry and ambition.

Inside, every detail feels deliberate: carved mahogany staircases, intricate fireplaces, and vibrant stained-glass windows casting colored light across polished floors. It’s not hard to imagine the family who lived here, hosting grand gatherings while Gulf breezes drifted through open windows. The sheer craftsmanship makes you slow down and take it all in.

What struck me most was the blend of grandeur and warmth. For all its opulence, Bishop’s Palace feels like a home, not a museum. Guides share stories of its survival through the 1900 hurricane, and standing inside, it’s easy to feel the weight of both history and endurance. It’s one of those places where the past doesn’t just sit on display — it surrounds you.

We paired our visit with lunch nearby at Sunflower Bakery & Café, where I had the shrimp salad sandwich ($15) and my son went for the chicken quesadilla ($13). Both were fresh and unfussy, a nice contrast to the palace’s rich detail. It felt like the perfect Galveston day: history, architecture, and a relaxed meal just around the corner.

5. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark surprised me with how much it balances thrill and relaxation. Spread across dozens of acres, it’s packed with rides, rivers, and pools — but also has shaded spots, cabanas, and a family-friendly vibe that makes it easy to spend a whole day without feeling rushed. It’s the kind of place where kids race to the water slides while parents can float along and enjoy the pace.

The highlight for me was the Massiv Monster Blaster, one of the world’s tallest water coasters — a mix of twists, drops, and splashes that left us laughing the whole way down. My son loved the wave pool and the Torrent River, a fast-moving lazy river that loops the park with surprising energy. Between rides, we found ourselves lingering in the shade with Dippin’ Dots and sodas, the sound of splashing and laughter all around us.

What stood out most was how family-oriented it felt. Lifeguards were attentive, the lines moved quickly, and there was something for every age. It struck me as more than just a waterpark — it was a summertime memory in the making, with just the right mix of excitement and ease.

Afterward, we headed to Number 13 Prime Steak and Seafood for dinner. I had the grilled redfish ($34) while my son chose the ribeye burger ($18). Sitting on the patio overlooking the marina, it was the perfect way to wind down after a day in the sun.

6. The Strand Historic District

The Strand Historic District feels like the heart of Galveston — a place where history and island charm live side by side. Once known as the “Wall Street of the South,” this row of Victorian-era buildings has weathered hurricanes, boom times, and quiet decades, and today it’s one of the island’s most vibrant destinations. Cobblestone-style streets, iron balconies, and colorful façades make it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the traveler looking to linger.

What struck me most was the variety. One moment you’re stepping into a candy shop with barrels of saltwater taffy, the next you’re browsing art galleries or sipping coffee at a sidewalk café. The district has a rhythm all its own — lively during festivals, relaxed in the afternoons, and glowing under string lights after sunset. It’s walkable, welcoming, and packed with hidden corners to discover.

I loved wandering into La King’s Confectionery, where the old-fashioned candy counter and homemade ice cream felt like stepping back in time. For lunch, we tried Riondo’s Ristorante — my seafood risotto ($29) was rich and flavorful, while my son’s margherita pizza ($16) was just the right size for sharing. Sitting on the Strand, watching horse-drawn carriages pass by, it felt like Galveston’s past and present coming together in one moment.

7. Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum

The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum is unlike any other museum I’ve visited — because you’re not just walking through exhibits, you’re stepping onto a retired offshore drilling rig. Permanently docked at Galveston’s Pier 19, the Ocean Star gives a rare, up-close look at an industry that usually feels hidden far out at sea.

What struck me most was the scale. From the massive drill floor to the towering derrick, everything feels larger than life, reminding you of the engineering feats required to tap into oil beneath the ocean. The exhibits break it down into something approachable, with models, equipment, and even a seismic “theater” that explains how companies find oil beneath the seabed.

Standing on deck, with the Gulf breeze blowing and ships passing by in the harbor, I felt the contrast between the rugged, industrial world of offshore drilling and the natural beauty surrounding it. It’s a fascinating perspective — both educational and surprisingly scenic — and one that stuck with me long after the tour ended.

We capped our visit with dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf, just steps from the museum. I ordered the grilled mahi-mahi ($28), while my son enjoyed the fried shrimp basket ($17). Watching the sunset over the harbor as we ate felt like the perfect bookend to a day spent exploring the sea’s connection to Galveston.

8. Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens felt like three adventures in one. Known for its iconic glass pyramids rising against the island skyline, it blends entertainment, education, and nature in a way that’s both family-friendly and surprisingly immersive. Whether you’re wandering through a rainforest filled with exotic plants and free-flying birds, watching penguins dive at the aquarium, or leaning back in a giant-screen 3D theater, the experience feels both playful and eye-opening.

What struck me most was the sense of discovery. Each pyramid offered something completely different: the Rainforest Pyramid felt humid and alive, like stepping into the tropics; the Aquarium Pyramid gave us close-up encounters with sharks, jellyfish, and sea turtles; and the Discovery Pyramid pulled us into science exhibits and interactive displays. We spent nearly a full day exploring, and still felt like there was more to see.

My son’s favorite moment was watching penguins waddle right past the glass in the aquarium, while mine was walking through the lush treetop walkways in the rainforest pyramid, sunlight streaming through the glass above.

After a day at Moody Gardens, we headed to Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant for dinner. My seafood pasta ($26) was hearty and flavorful, while my son went with a classic pepperoni pizza ($18). Sitting by the windows, still buzzing from the day’s explorations, it felt like the perfect way to wind down.

Related Links:

• Places to Visit in Mississippi
• Things to Do in Texas
• Louisiana Beaches
• Things to Do in Florida with Kids
• Florida Gulf Coast Beaches
• Places to Visit in the Southern USA

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and I'm eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to the best places to stay. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.

 

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