Things to do in Galveston Texas

Galveston Attractions Guide

Galveston, situated along the Gulf Coast region in Texas, is the second largest city and seat of Galveston County. This magnificent city is well known for its historic neighborhoods and a 10-mile (16.09 km) long seawall designed to prevent the destruction caused by floods and hurricane storm surges. Today, Galveston is a popular holiday destination with several tourist attractions. The main places of tourist interest in the city include the Lone Star Flight Museum, Moody Gardens, and the Galveston Schlitterbahn water park.

Pleasure Pier

Galveston’s Pleasure Pier is an iconic landmark that has been entertaining visitors to the island for over a century. The pier was first opened in the late 1940s and has since undergone a major renovation to bring it back to its former glory. The result is a world-class entertainment destination with rides, games, and attractions for visitors of all ages.

The Pleasure Pier is situated on the Gulf of Mexico and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding coastline. Some of the most popular attractions at the pier include the roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and the Texas Star Flyer. These rides offer an adrenaline rush and are perfect for thrill-seekers.

But the Pleasure Pier is not just for thrill-seekers. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions, including a carousel, bumper cars, and a pirate-themed ride. The pier also has an arcade with a wide range of games to keep everyone entertained.

When you need a break from the rides and attractions, you can head to one of the pier’s restaurants for a quick bite or a sit-down meal. The pier has several dining options, including seafood restaurants, burger joints, and sweet shops. Visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Historic Strand District

Galveston’s Strand District is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The area is a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment, showcasing the city’s rich heritage and architectural beauty. Taking a stroll through the Strand District is like walking back in time. The area is home to many restored Victorian-era buildings that now house boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and museums. The district’s architecture is a feast for the eyes and every building has its unique story to tell. The district also boasts a beautiful view of the harbor. Walking along the waterfront, you can enjoy the boats sailing by or take a sightseeing tour of the harbor.

The Strand District is a lively place with many events happening throughout the year. The area is particularly famous for its Mardi Gras celebrations, which attract tourists from all over the world. During the festival, the area is transformed into a colorful and vibrant parade with live music, colorful floats, and delicious food.

The district also has a haunted history. Many of the buildings in the Strand District are said to be haunted, and there are several ghost tours available for those who dare to explore the area at night. Whether you are interested in history, or architecture, or just looking for a fun day out, a stroll through the Strand District is a must-do activity in Galveston.

Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens is a one-of-a-kind destination in Galveston, Texas. With its stunning architecture and lush greenery, this botanical garden and nature reserve is a must-see for everyone visiting the area. The gardens are home to a variety of attractions, including the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, Discovery Museum, 4D Special FX Theater, and a beautiful golf course.

The Aquarium Pyramid is home to thousands of creatures from penguins to sharks, and it’s a great place to learn about marine life. The Rainforest Pyramid is a breathtaking replica of a real rainforest, complete with exotic plants and animals like monkeys, birds, and butterflies. The Discovery Museum is a hands-on educational experience that is perfect for kids, while the 4D Special FX Theater offers an immersive movie experience that will leave you feeling like you’re a part of the action.

If you’re a golfer, don’t miss the chance to play a round at the Moody Gardens Golf Course. This 18-hole course is nestled among the lush greenery of the gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this course is sure to provide a challenging and enjoyable experience.

Galveston Island Railroad Museum

Galveston Island Railroad Museum is an absolute must-visit for anyone who wants to learn about the rich history of the city. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the importance of the railroad to the growth and development of Galveston, and you’ll get to see some of the most impressive locomotives and rolling stock ever built.

The museum is housed in the former Santa Fe Union Depot, which has been beautifully restored to its former glory. Take a walk around the museum and you’ll see everything from vintage railway cars to antique steam engines. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits that will keep younger visitors entertained.

One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to ride on the Harborside Express, a vintage train that takes visitors on a tour of the harbor area. The train ride is a great way to see some of the city’s landmarks, and it’s a fun experience for all ages.

Galveston Island State Park

If you love nature and the great outdoors, then a visit to the Galveston Island State Park should definitely be on your itinerary. The park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that will appeal to both adults and kids alike.

The park is situated on the west end of Galveston Island and spans over 2,000 acres. You can explore the beautiful beaches, hike through the dunes, or go bird-watching in the coastal marshes. There are also picnic areas where you can stop for a bite to eat and enjoy the stunning views.

One of the main highlights of the park is the Nature Center, which is dedicated to educating visitors about the local wildlife and ecosystem. The center includes a touch tank, interactive exhibits, and a 20,000-gallon aquarium that showcases the diverse marine life found in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Galveston Island State Park is also a popular spot for fishing and boating. You can launch your own boat or rent one from the park’s boat ramp. The park also offers kayak tours and fishing clinics for those who want to learn more about these activities.

East End Historical District

One of the best ways to get a feel for the history and culture of Galveston is to take a self-guided tour of the East End Historical District. This area is home to some of the city’s oldest and most beautiful homes, many of which have been lovingly restored to their former glory.

As you stroll through the tree-lined streets, you’ll see a variety of architectural styles, from Victorian mansions to charming bungalows. Many of these homes have historical markers outside, which provide information about their owners and the history of the area.

One of the highlights of the East End Historical District is the Bishop’s Palace, a stunning Gothic-style mansion that was built in the late 1800s. This impressive structure boasts intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a stunning tower that offers incredible views of the city and the Gulf of Mexico.

Another must-see attraction in the area is the Moody Mansion, a 28,000-square-foot mansion that was built in 1895. This impressive home features a mix of styles, including Romanesque, Renaissance, and Colonial Revival, and is filled with original furnishings and artwork.

Stunning Island Views

The 32-mile-long, historic island of Galveston borders the beautiful Gulf of Mexico; the stunning beach and charming historic community offer visitors access to miles of pristine beaches, historical attractions, and Galveston’s lively culture. The fantastic beach escape boasts many gorgeous beach houses, condos near the ocean, and waterfront homes. In addition to offering spectacular ocean views, the extraordinary oceanfront homes in Galveston may also feature an array of amenities such as cable TV, Wi-Fi internet access, and family-friendly living.

Attractions & Events

The city’s historic downtown and spectacular beaches attract thousands of tourists every year. Another major attraction in the town is ‘The Strand,’ a downtown neighborhood of historic buildings. The area is home to several historical museums and mansions and features miles of beachfront. The Strand also hosts several annual cultural events such as

• the Mardi Gras Festival
• the Lone Star Bike Rally
• the Galveston Island Jazz & Blues Festival
• the Texas Beach Fest
• a Victorian-themed Christmas festival called “Dickens on the Strand”

The Balinese Room, a historic nightclub on a 600 ft (182.88 m) pier extending into the Gulf of Mexico, is yet another attraction in the city. Other important landmarks in the city include the Galveston Railroad Museum, the University of Texas Medical Branch, the restored Grand 1894 Opera House, Ashton Villa, Bishop’s Palace, the Hotel Galvez, and the official Tall Ship of Texas, Elissa, at the Texas Seaport Museum.

Several buildings in the city are noted for their extraordinary architecture. Galveston’s tallest buildings include the American National Insurance Company Tower, San Luis Resort South Tower, One Moody Plaza, John Sealy Hospital Towers at UTMB, and the Medical Arts Building. The Port of Galveston, popularly known as Galveston Wharves, is also well worth visiting. Located on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, the Port of Galveston serves as a passenger cruise ship terminal for cruise ships operating in the Caribbean.

• Website: www.galveston.com

Beaches

Galveston Island is famous for its beautiful beaches that stretch for miles and miles. One of the top things to do in Galveston is to relax at the beach. There are several beaches to choose from, each with its own charm and unique features.

One of the most popular beaches is Stewart Beach, which offers powdery sand, clear water, and family-friendly amenities such as showers, restrooms, and concessions. It’s perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with kids.

Another great beach is East Beach, which is known for its lively atmosphere and fun events such as concerts and festivals. It’s a great spot for beach volleyball, fishing, and people-watching.

Galveston operates numerous public beaches and beach access points throughout the island. Popular island beaches and beach parks include:

• The Galveston Island State Park
• The East Beach
• The pocket park on San Luis Pass Road at the seventh mile
• The pocket park at located at 11745 FM 3005
• The pocket park at San Luis Pass Road at the eleventh mile
• Stewart Beach
• The Seawall Urban Park
• Galveston Island

Galveston Island Boat Tours

Galveston Island offers an exciting opportunity to take a boat tour to see dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitats. These tours are available throughout the year, providing a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the most popular tours is the Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour, which takes guests on a journey through the scenic waters of Galveston Bay. On this tour, you’ll get to see playful dolphins swimming and jumping alongside the boat, as well as a variety of other marine life, such as pelicans, herons, and seagulls.

Another popular option is the Sunset Cruise, which offers a romantic and peaceful way to end your day. As the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll have the opportunity to see dolphins and other animals in a different light, as well as take in the beautiful views of the coastline.

Dining

Galveston is packed to the brim with an array of restaurants and delectable menu options. Along the historic island, the Waterfront and Strand areas offer many of Galveston’s most delicious dining options. From Texas steak, Italian, and Greek to Mexican and seafood, Galveston is sure to accommodate a wide variety of tastes.

In recent years, Galveston has become an attractive community for young culinary talent to settle. Inventive young chefs have made their way to the unique island to serve exciting new dishes in some of Galveston’s best restaurants. The names of Galveston chefs such as Paco Vargas, Robbin Murphy, Chris Loftis, Ross Warhol, and Phil Bouzo are garnering national attention and cementing the island’s reputation as a popular fine dining destination. The top restaurants of Galveston are:

• Rudy & Paco
• Shearn’s
• Number 13
• Gaido’s
• The Steakhouse

Arts And Culture

The island’s expansive historic downtown is Galveston’s arts and entertainment hub. The historic buildings of downtown Galveston are filled with cultural institutions, including several theaters, galleries, and museums.

ArtWalk is an event enjoyed by many. The downtown district hosts an ArtWalk event every six weeks that draws thousands to the island—the exciting cultural event boats well-known national artists, gallery openings, and many vendors. Additionally, the dazzling street celebration serves up a delicious array of food truck fare as the music sounds reverberate through the streets.

If you’re looking for live music, head to The Grand 1894 Opera House, which is a historic theater that hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and musicals throughout the year. You can also catch a show at The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, which is home to an amusement park and an outdoor concert venue.

For those who enjoy a good laugh, The ETC Comedy Club is a must-visit. The club features local and national comedians that will have you laughing all night long.

Family Friendly Attractions

There are many enticing options for families seeking fun in Galveston. From taffy-making at the La King’s Confectionery to the Galveston Turtle Tour, there are many fantastic opportunities for families looking for something fun to do. Family-friendly attractions in Galveston include the following:

• The Schlitterbahn Waterpark
• The Galveston Railroad Museum
• The Lone Star Flight Museum
• The Texas Seaport Museum

Weather

Galveston, an island just off Texas’ Gulf Coast, enjoys moderate year-round temperatures. Most visitors arrive on the island in the spring and summer seasons. Average summer high temperatures are in the high 80s, while winter lows hover around a comfortable 51 degrees.

How To Get There

Galveston is easy to get to by cruise, private boat, or car. The closest airport to Galveston is in Houston: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Therefore, those traveling to Texas by plane must travel an additional 45 minutes to get to the island. Whether you take your private car or rent one, the easiest way to cross into Galveston is by taking Interstate 45 southward to the island.

Ashton Villa

Ashton Villa, situated along Broadway in Galveston, Texas, was established by James Moreau Brown in 1859. Brown was a banker, a wholesale hardware merchant, a railroad corporation president, and the wealthiest man in Texas. This Italianate home was the grandest mansion in the state at the time it was built. It was the first brick house to be built in Texas. Wonderfully renovated in 1971, Ashton Villa is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Recorded Texas Historic landmark. Today, Ashton Villa has antiques, original art, and family heirlooms. It offers a close glimpse into the life of a well-known Victorian family.

Ashton Villa was one of the few homes that survived the Great Storm of 1900. After the Brown family left the mansion, it became home to the El Mina Shrine Temple. However, the Shriners moved out by the 1970s, and the villa was in line for annihilation. Fortunately, the city of Galveston bought the property from the federal government for use as a museum. Ashton Villa is the greatest treasure of Galveston Island and is open to the public since 1974.

Ashton Villa is also considered the “most haunted building in America”. The ceiling fans in the Villa have been known to turn themselves on; a chest of drawers in Bettie Brown’s dayroom reportedly locks and unlocks without a key; one bed refuses to stay made; and the ghost of Bettie has also been seen several times in the Gold Room. People on tours have also reported feeling a presence around them. The main attractions on the campus include the Heritage Visitors Center, a gift shop, and an information center.

Ashton Villa is the center of social life on the Island. Enchanting settings for receptions and weddings, parties, meetings, and luncheons are offered by the elegant ballroom of the Villa. Other features of this lovely villa include a Caterer’s prep room, convenient parking, and restroom facilities. This opulent Mansion had set the standard for all the magnificent homes that followed. It is a great place to visit or to celebrate your next event.

• Address: 1859 Ashton Villa, 2328 Broadway, Galveston, TX 77550
• Telephone: (409) 762-3933
• Hours of Operation: Summer: Mon-Sat, 10 AM – 4 PM; Sun, Noon – 4 PM; Winter: Noon – 4 PM daily
• Tours: Noon – 4 PM daily, on the hour
• Website: www.galvestonhistory.org/

Final Word

We hope you enjoyed reading our article on the 10 best things to do in Galveston, Texas. Galveston is a beautiful city with plenty of activities for tourists and locals alike. From the beaches to the museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We encourage you to visit Galveston and try out some of the activities we’ve mentioned in our blog post. Let us know which ones were your favorite in the comments below. Happy exploring!