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Located approximately 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston is a barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast. Its close proximity to the bustling city of Houston, with a population of around 2.3 million people, attracts many locals who seek respite from the summer heat and refreshing sea breeze. Galveston is not just known for its beautiful beaches and bustling cruise port, where popular cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney offer sailings to Mexico and the Caribbean. This charming island also boasts Victorian architecture in the East End Historical District, interesting shops along The Strand, and an impressive lineup of museums. Additionally, Galveston is a great choice for an affordable and family-friendly vacation, with its abundance of beaches and water parks that cater to all ages.
Galveston offers optimal conditions for a visit during October to November or March to April. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm without being too hot, and you can find reasonably priced accommodations. If you’re looking for a bargain, winter is the ideal time to secure a good deal on your stay, although it might be too cold to fully enjoy the beach activities in Galveston. The period from May to September marks the long summer season, characterized by high rates for lodging, increased tourism, and hotter temperatures.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Galveston. Select what you would enjoy!
Bishop’s Palace Col. Walter Gresham, an attorney and entrepreneur, commissioned Bishop’s Palace, also known as Gresham’s Castle, in the late 1800s. The renowned architect Nicholas Clayton designed this magnificent structure in Galveston. In 1923, the …
East Beach, located at the easternmost point of Galveston, is a wide stretch of sand that offers a perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying various events and festivals all year round. One exciting event during the summer is the annual …
Galveston’s East End Historical District is a delightful neighborhood filled with beautiful houses in soft, pastel colors. With its flower-filled streets and tree-lined avenues, it offers a picturesque setting for residents and visitors alike. This …
Galveston Children’s Museum The Galveston Children’s Museum offers an exciting experience with lots of fun things to do for young children. Designed for kids between 1½ and 12 years old, this museum provides a fantastic opportunity for families to …
Galveston Island Brewing, known as the largest brewery in Galveston, invites beer enthusiasts to enjoy their delicious creations. They brew a variety of beers right on-site, offering a wide selection for everyone’s taste. Their year-round drafts …
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a charming dock extending from the Texas Gulf Coast. Within its premises, you’ll discover amusement park attractions, stores, and places to eat. Despite facing adversity, this pier has proven its …
Galveston Island State Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty. Situated approximately 15 miles away from The Strand, this park provides an array of enjoyable outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and …
Discover the fascinating world of trains and railroads at the Galveston Railroad Museum! This educational museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that will captivate visitors of all ages. With both permanent displays and rotating exhibits, there’s …
When you’re looking to journey from Galveston Island to the Port Bolivar peninsula, or if you just want to enjoy the scenic views along the route (which is a popular choice for many visitors), the ferry is your best option. The ferry service is …
Welcome to Moody Gardens, an expansive 242-acre theme park that offers a wide range of exciting attractions alongside its own hotel and convention center. Let’s explore the wonders that await you within this amazing complex. Feel the thrill of our …
Step into the captivating world of Moody Mansion, an impressive estate covering a vast area of 28,000 square feet. This magnificent residence holds a rich history as the cherished abode of the esteemed Moody family, renowned entrepreneurs from the …
Galveston offers an unexpected delight for tourists: a museum dedicated to offshore drilling. Despite initial skepticism, many visitors have been pleasantly surprised by the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum. With its interactive exhibits, …
Schlitterbahn Waterpark, located approximately 5 miles west of downtown Galveston, is a fantastic destination for families seeking a fun-filled day. Sprawling across 26 acres, this water park offers an array of exciting attractions. You’ll find …
Stewart Beach in Galveston is a highly favored beach destination known for its wide stretch of sand and abundance of convenient facilities. This beach offers various amenities such as lifeguards, restrooms, showers, concession stands, and even chair …
The Bryan Museum is a fascinating place where you can explore the rich history of Texas and the American West through a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and interactive displays. It was named after J.P. Bryan, who had a passion for collecting …
Let me introduce you to an exquisite theater that hosts a variety of musical and art performances throughout the year. From Broadway musicals and concerts to dance shows and comedy acts, this place has it all. The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston …
Downtown Galveston boasts a charming area known as The Strand. This five-block district is a National Historic Landmark, characterized by its collection of 19th-century buildings housing various establishments like shops, galleries, bars, and …