Things to Do In Galveston TX | 40 Best and Hidden Sites (New)

There are plenty of things to do in Galveston TX.

Galveston is a picturesque island city on the coast of Texas, just a short drive from Houston. From the winding coastal roads to the inviting beaches 

But with so much to do and see, it might seem overwhelming about where to start. 

I mean, just look at all wealth of options. 

Families can visit Moody Gardens to see the Aquarium, Rain Forest, and Eco-Discovery Zone. Or take in a show at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. 

On the weekends, stop by the Galveston Farmer’s Market to satisfy your appetite and pick up a souvenir or two. 

Galveston has historic homes, kept in great condition by the Galveston historical foundation. There are fantastic outdoor areas like Seawolf Park. And historic places like Port Bolivar. 

And those things are just the tip of the iceberg of all you can do when you visit Galveston. 

Below we have a complete list of the top things to do in Galveston TX. 

Things to Do In Galveston TX for Adults

Moody Mansion

The Moody Mansion is one of Galveston’s most famous and recognized landmarks. But it’s also known as the most haunted place in Galveston. It’s undergone a few tragedies, like Hurricane Ike, that have led it to being abandoned before being turned into a museum. Visitors report an eerie feeling, hearing voices, and footsteps. 

Ghost Hunt at Hotel Galvez

The Hotel Galvez is one of the most iconic and historic hotels. And full of luxury. Unfortunately, it also might be the home of something else….ghost. Local legends say that Hotel Galvez is home to more than a dozen ghosts. Whether you believe in the stories, Hotel Galvez is one of the best places to stay, and one of the best things to do in Galveston. 

Enjoy a Sunset on the Rooftop Bar at Stuttgarden Tavern

Stuttgart Tavern is one of the many rooftop bars in the city. The couches and tables with umbrellas provide the perfect atmosphere to relax with friends and have a few drinks. The bar has a 3rd-floor patio that showcases magnificent views of the city. And also has a great atmosphere, with live music, and events. 

Texas seaport museum

On this tour, you will take an immersive ride back in time to experience what life was like for sailors during this era. You’ll learn about how they navigated using stars and constellations. How they communicated with each other using flags and lanterns, and how they survived storms at sea. Then you’ll get to climb aboard this historic ship for a guided walking tour. And go below deck where you can see how sailors lived their lives on board – from sleeping quarters to cooking areas! It is also home to the next item on our list of things to do in Galveston TX.

1877 ELISSA at the Galveston Historic Seaport

The ELISSA was built in 1877 and has been restored to look as it did in Galveston Bay in the 1880s.

There are only 3 ships like this that still sail in the world. And the tall ship ELISSA is one of them. This is a site that both kids and adults will love in Galveston.

Pelican Island – One of the Best Things to do in Galveston TX

Pelican Island is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico in the City of Galveston.

Pelican Island is a popular tourist attraction in Galveston, Texas, United States. It is on the west end of the island and is easily accessible by car or bus. 

Pelican Island is now home to some of the most popular attractions in Galveston, including SeaWolf Park and the Naval Museum at Port Houston.

san Luis resort

The San Luis Resort and Spa on Galveston Island offers many great amenities for guests staying at the hotel. If you want to spend some time relaxing during your stay, it is one of the best things to do in Galveston TX.

Galveston Naval Museum

The Galveston Naval Museum is a museum in Galveston, Texas. It is a public educational institution that features naval history, with a focus on the United States Navy and the Gulf of Mexico. There are military artifacts, uniforms, and memorabilia in this repository. It is also a repository for photographs, documents, and other resources. The Galveston Naval Museum introduces visitors to the Gulf of Mexico. Emphasizing the history and importance of the region.

Try a Galveston tour 

Galveston is a great destination for those who want to enjoy the beach and some great attractions. If you are in town with your family, there is plenty to do and see. But when visiting Galveston, one of the best ways to see it is by doing a tour. And there are a variety of tours, from walking tours to bus tours. 

One of the best ways to see this Texas city is by taking a tour bus around town. Which will take you through both historic and modern areas of town while providing commentary along the way.

Cheap Things to Do In Galveston TX

Best Galveston’s Beaches

Galveston is well known for its beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include Moody Gardens Beach, Seawall Boulevard Beach, and Stewart Beach. This could even compete with some of the best beaches in California.

Steward Beach 

A wide, sandy beach on Galveston’s east end, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Because of its shallow water, it is a great beach to visit if you have kids. 

Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach Galveston Texas is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the beach. Whether you’re looking for quiet relaxation or an active family adventure, Crystal Beach is the perfect spot.

Babe’s Beach

Babe’s Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Galveston, Texas. It is a 4-mile stretch of beach that is home to many of the best restaurants and bars in the area. Babe’s Beach offers a great way to spend a day or a night with your family, friends, or significant other.

Galveston Beach 

This one is a simple decision. TripAdvisor has voted Galveston one of America’s top 10 beaches. 

The beach has calm waters and a magnificent view of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s also home to many water sports like swimming, body surfing, and kayaking. There are some restaurants nearby if you want to grab something to eat after enjoying the water.

The island is home to miles of white sand beaches  and clear blue water – what more could you want?

East Beach Galveston

East Beach Galveston is an outstanding beach to relax and have a great time. If you’re looking for a fun and active beach, this is it! It has many people, from all walks of life, which makes for a great day. It has a lot of things to do and see, such as volleyball courts, surfboards, and a pier.

Wander the Strand Historic District

The historic Strand district is the heart of the island and a great place to shop, dine, and be entertained. It’s also home to many of Galveston’s oldest homes and buildings. 

Today, The Strand District has over 100 shops and restaurants to explore.

If shopping isn’t your thing, then there are plenty of other unique attractions for you to check out. Including The Old Opera House, The Tremont House Hotel Museum, The Gulf Coast Theater and Institute (GCTI) Center Stage Theater

The east-end historic district is a great place to start your family’s Galveston vacation. And might be one of the best places to visit in the US.

Things to do in Galveston TX – The Galveston seawall

The Galveston Seawall is a great place to spend the day. Whether you want to spend one of your vacation days exploring the beach or just relaxing with a good book.

Explore Every Inch of South Padre Island

South Padre Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas. It’s a great place to spend a weekend or even just a day.

Here are some things to do in Galveston South Padre Island:

1. Kayak through Laguna Madre Bay

2. Visit the National Butterfly Center and see the monarch butterfly sanctuary

3. Watch the sunset at Mustang Island State Park

4. Tour the USS Lexington Museum at Bayport Naval Air Station (must schedule ahead)

5. Take your kids to Schlitterbahn Waterpark on Padre Island National Seashore

Unique Things to Do In Galveston

Enjoy a Meal At O’Malley’s Stage Door

Looking for a place to enjoy a drink and a sandwich in Galveston? Look no further than O’Malley’s Stage Door Pub. This popular pub offers a wide variety of beers on tap, as well as a selection of sandwiches and other snacks. 

O’Malley’s Stage Door sits on the steps of the Grand 1984 Opera House. They have over 100 types of beer and a variety of deli sandwiches. 

Take a Stroll on the Seawall Blvd

Galveston’s Seawall is a must-see for any visitor to the island. This 10-mile-long concrete barrier protects the island from the Gulf of Mexico and offers stunning views of the water and the beaches. Be sure to take a walk or a bike ride along the Seawall while you’re in Galveston – it’s a great way to spend a sunny day. 

Cool Off at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston is the perfect destination for a day of summer fun. They have so many unique attractions to offer you and your family. From thrills and excitement like the Ultimate Wave Pool. And the Hillside Slides to fun for the little ones like the Aquapod. Or the Lazy River, Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston will keep you cool for days! 

They have 31 rides, rivers, and chutes. Making it one of the best things to do in Galveston TX with kids. 

Grand 1984 Opera House

The Grand 1894 opera house is the centerpiece of the wharf district and is home to the Galveston Ballet, Opera, and Symphony. The city’s oldest playhouse has been transformed into a performing arts center with a modern look but keeps its original charm.

The Grand Opera House hosts performances by local and national artists throughout the year. It’s also one of the most popular venues for weddings, receptions, and other special events.

Moody Gardens Hotel

Moody Gardens offers three beautiful gardens: Rainforest Pyramid, Aquarium Pyramid & Palm Beach Gardens. Each pyramid offers unique experiences. Including rainforest rides like the Sky Trail Ropes Course & Zip Line. An aquarium tunnel under waterfalls. And an interactive discovery trail. Plus educational exhibits. That teaches visitors about conserving plants and animals around the world!

Visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: 

This amusement park has a variety of rides, games, and restaurants. But it is also a historic site. 

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is great for families! The kids and I loved swimming, riding the rides, and eating cotton candy. It was a fun-filled fun day!

This pier has been around since 1905 and is full of rides, food, and entertainment. It is a great place for locals to hang out and for tourists to visit.

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum

The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Galveston Island. The museum is on the beach, just a short drive from downtown Galveston, and is open year-round.

Visitors can tour the entire rig deck or take a ride up to the derrick floor for a bird’s-eye view of the rig’s capabilities. Exhibits include displays on offshore drilling operations and historic photographs of shipwrecks off the Texas coast. And over 500 feet of interactive touch screens telling the story of offshore drilling through the years.

Hidden Things to Do In Galveston

Bolivar Flats Bird Sanctuary

Bolivar Flats Bird Sanctuary is a small refuge for migratory birds, on the Texas Gulf Coast, in Galveston. Bolivar Flats Bird Sanctuary is a small refuge for migratory birds, on the Texas Gulf Coast, in Galveston. Birds and other wildlife can find a resting place at Bolivar Flats. Flocks of Snowy Egrets and White Ibis are often seen feeding on the shallow water and mudflats.

You can walk along the beach while taking in the beauty of these birds. Be warned, though, if you head inland, watch out for poisonous snakes. That alone might be while it is one of the hidden things to do in Galveston. 

Go dolphin watching on Galveston Bay

There is nothing quite like watching the dolphins jump in the air, playing in the waves, and swimming around in their natural habitat. Galveston Bay is a great place to do just that. You can go on a dolphin-watching tour during the right season. Either way, you will have a fun and fulfilling experience.

The old train car at Galveston Railroad Museum

Galveston Railroad Museum features old train cars that are worth exploring. The museum is full of various train cars and trains, some dating back to the 1800s. Visitors can experience the old train cars up close and take a ride in a caboose. You can even spend the night in one, although it isn’t budget-friendly. 

Explore History at The Bryan Museum

The Bryan Museum is a museum that is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Texas.

Visitors can learn about Texas’ past from the 1800s up to the present day. The museum has over 70,000 objects in its permanent collection. 

Whether you’re exploring Texas’ past. Through the eyes of the Native Americans who lived on the land for millennia. Or learning about the people who led Texas to become one of the most influential states in the US. Learning the history of the place you are visiting is easily one of the top things to do in Galveston TX.

Bishop’s Palace

If you love history, then Bishop’s Palace might be the most important thing to do in Galveston TX.

The Bishop’s Palace is a historic landmark in Galveston, Texas. It was built in 1892 and designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.

Bishops Palace is one of the most significant Victorian residences in the country and is a must-see for any Galveston visitor.

Galveston Island State Park

Galveston Island State Park is a beautiful, historic park on the Texas Gulf Coast. It has a variety of attractions, including a nature center, kayak rentals, and a beach. Galveston Island State Park is a beautiful, historic park on the Texas Gulf Coast. It has a variety of attractions, including a nature center, kayak rentals, and a beach.

Galveston Children’s Museum, Galveston Texas

The Galveston Children’s museum has interactive exhibits that help children learn while they play. They have a variety of exhibits that are suited for toddlers and preschoolers to teenagers. The museum also has indoor and outdoor play areas where children can play and explore to their heart’s content.

Things to Do In Galveston for Free 

Port Bolivar

The Bolivar Peninsula is a long, skinny strip of land on the southeast side of Galveston Island. The nature of its geography has always made it an attractive refuge for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

life-sized chess at Saengerfest Park

Are you up for a game of life-sized chess at Saengerfest Park in Galveston, Texas? In the heart of Galveston, Texas, there is a small treasure that many people don’t know about. It’s a place that those who love the outdoors, chess, and seafood will love. Saengerfest Park is simply enchanting. The park not only offers a large chessboard but also a restaurant and a pier with a view of the Gulf of Mexico.

Galveston Fishing Pier

Galveston Fishing Pier is a beautiful place to spend your day. It’s right on the water and has some of the best views in Galveston. The pier is located right off Seawall Boulevard, so if you’re staying at one hotel or condos along this strip, you’ll have no problem getting there.

Things to Do In Galveston for Couples

Galveston Island Brewing

Galveston Island Brewing is a locally owned and operated microbrewery

They have a great selection of beer, and it’s always changing. The food is also great, and you can bring your food! There’s a lot to see in Galveston and this is a must-stop on your trip to the island.

Enjoy a Romantic Helicopter Tour over Galveston TX 

If you’re looking for a new way to see the natural beauty of the Gulf of Mexico, a helicopter tour of Galveston is for you! You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Texas coastline, the Gulf of Mexico, and the picturesque beaches of Galveston. Whether you’re a Lone Star State local or a tourist, taking a helicopter tour over Galveston is a must-do experience. See the beaches from the sky on a helicopter tour, of Galveston Texas. This isn’t the cheapest thing to do. But it is one of the best things to do in Galveston TX for couples, or adventurers.

Galveston Arts Center

The Galveston Arts Center is a nonprofit organization that has been serving the community since 1977. Its mission is to encourage and promote art in all its forms. By providing opportunities for artists, and education for the community. And a forum for cultural enrichment. The facility offers classes and workshops for all ages, as well as exhibits of local, regional, and national artists.

Galveston is a great tourist destination with an amazing history and beautiful beaches. The city has plenty of things to do for families, couples, and singles alike = and maybe it is a good place to explorer the best adventure book for couples.. Here are some of our favorites! It can be one of the cheapest places to visit in USA if you plan your trip out right.

I hope this list of the best things to do in Galveston TX helped you plan your trip!