Things To Do In Galveston
It’s surprising that there are so many things to do in Galveston. And no trip to Galveston Island is complete without visiting the Historic Downtown, Strand & Seaport areas. Our team has put together the ultimate guide to experiencing Galveston for you. Take a look, you just might find your next adventure! Make sure you get the most out of your stay and experience all that Galveston has to offer!
Things to Do – Historical Areas
Once known as the “Wall Street of the Southwest”, Galveston’s famed avenue, The Strand, anchors the historic downtown. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark for its outstanding collection of 19th century architecture.
After the Hurricane of 1900 the area became a warehouse district. And it wasn’t until the 1960’s that the area was revived and restored, eventually being added to the ‘List of America’s Most Endangered Places’ in 2009.
Today The Strand is the heart of a vibrant downtown and waterfront. Offering shopping, dining, museums, entertainment, accommodations and nightlife.
A popular Galveston destination stop for visitors and locals alike – abuzz with art, culture, unique shops, chic eateries with outdoor seating, and true Galveston hospitality. The District boasts Sixty-Eight 2019 Best of Galveston awards, and is one of only 24 districts designated by the State of Texas as a Cultural Arts and Entertainment District.
You’ll be transported back in time, as you stroll through the historic Victorian architecture. Its artsy atmosphere has made this area a fresh hangout for locals and the center of the island’s most popular cultural events.
Things to Do – Galveston Adventure Parks
Pleasure Pier
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a pleasure pier in Galveston, Texas, United States. Opened in Summer 2012, it has 1 roller coaster, 15 rides, carnival games and souvenir shops
Schlitterbahn
Cool off and BLAST OFF this summer at our water park near Houston, Texas. Even if you prefer rivers, wave pools, and lounging in the sun. There is something for everyone at this unique Texas attraction.
Things to Do – Moody Gardens Pyramids
Aquarium Pyramid
Dive into the oceans of the world in a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium teeming with creatures from tuxedo-clad penguins to seals, stingrays, sharks and more!
Rainforest Pyramid
Experience the rainforests of Asia, Africa and the Americas. Enjoy an up-close experience with animals ranging from River Otters to Saki Monkeys and an array of birds!
Discovery Pyramid
Learn more about the bones that keep us and animals moving in this exciting exhibit with interactive activities. Examines how bones are part of cultures all around the world.
Zipline & Rope Course
Challenge your agility, balance, and strength at Moody Gardens as you encounter the new five-tier Sky Trail® Explorer Ropes Course and thrilling new Zip Line.
Palm Beach
Featuring the only white sand beach in Galveston! Lounge in a cabana, try to luck at balance in the wave pool, or relax the day away with a float down the lazy river.
IMAX 4D Theater
The 4D Special FX Theater goes way beyond 3D movies! Immerse yourself in the special effects, such as wind, smoke, mist, leg ticklers, seat buzzers and SFX sound system.
Things to Do – Galveston Beaches
Babe's Beach
Located directly across Seawall Blvd. - only a few minutes walk time between you and the ocean!! Known for its cleanliness and freshly blown in sand! Find seashells scattered across the wide spread beach, rent beach chairs and umbrellas (seasonally) for ultimate relaxation and rest assured knowing that there's a lifeguard on duty!
Stewart Beach
Named one of the “10 Best Beaches for Families” by Family Vacation Critic in 2013. Offering plenty of amenities for a day at the beach as well as on duty lifeguards. The park is home to a pavilion, concessions, restrooms, showers, chair and umbrella rentals, beach volleyball courts, children's playground and more. Admission fees may exist.
Things to Do in Galveston – Adventures
Extreme Water Sports
The Flyboard is a 1000 gallons of water per minute at over 60 PSI. It's pure adrenaline pumping, heart pounding, eye catching fun!
Galveston Water Adventures
Enjoy a Party Barge; take an eco-tour to see Dolphins and marine life, enjoy a sunset cruise or custom private party aboard a custom built tour boat.
Water & Land Rentals
K6 Island Sports is your fun in the sun headquarters. Providing you all of your outdoor adventure needs! Golf Carts, Kayaks, Bicycles, Fishing, Surf Boards and more! FREE DELIVERY!
Things to Do – Galveston Tours & Museums
Moody Mansion
Restored to its turn of the century splendor, this 28,000 square-foot, four-story Galveston historic home was completed in 1895. Featured on the Travel Channel's 'Most Famous in Texas'. Option of self-guided audio or guided tour options.
Galveston Mansion & Silk Stocking District
Due to prosperity enjoyed by Galveston in the late 1800's there are a number of meticulously restored mansions throughout the town, many of which can be toured...and a few may surprise you with stories of being haunted.
Railroad Museum
Historical museum that is dedicated to the restoration, observation and re-use of historic facilities and equipment. Offering train rides and various exhibits.
Children's Museum
The Galveston Children’s Museum is filled with fun and entertaining interactive exhibits and hands-on programming for ages 18 months to 12 years.
Explore Offshore Drilling
Visitors to the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum and Education Center enjoy experiencing the offshore industry first-hand on an actual retired jack-up drilling rig.
Tree Sculptures
Hurricane Ike damaged and uprooted many trees. Years later, sculptures have replaced the majestic oaks. Local artists have carved amazing art pieces out of what once was towering oak trees.
Galveston’s History
During the mid 19th century, Galveston, though not a large city by world standards, emerged as an international city with immigration and trade from around the U.S. and around the world. The island has sometimes been called the “Ellis Island of the West”
During the 1920s and 1930s, the city re-emerged as a major tourist destination. But soon fell on though times as it was overshadowed by the nearby growing city of Houston. After a long stagnant period during the 40s and 50s, in 1957, the Galveston Historical Foundation began its efforts to preserve historic buildings. The community rose together and with restoration efforts financed by motivated investors within the community, the city once again evolved and gradually created the Strand Historic District, And a new, family-oriented tourism emerged in the city over many years.
Before you looking at all there is to do in Galveston, learn about how it came to be. At the end of the 19th century, the city of Galveston was a booming metropolis with a population of 37,000. During this golden era of Galveston’s history, the city was home to a number of historical Texas events. Including the state’s first:
- post office (1836)
- naval base (1836)
- insurance company (1854)
- gas lights (1856)
- Roman Catholic hospital (1866)
- Jewish Reform Congregation (1868)
- electric lights (1883)
- medical college (1891)
- opera house (1870)
- orphanage (1876)
- telephone (1878)
- school for nurses (1890).
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