Explore the variety of activities in Galveston, Texas, that not only provide relief from the heat but also offer memorable adventures for visitors of all ages.
Get ready to beat the heat while immersing yourself in the vibrant offerings of Galveston, where exciting experiences await around every corner.
pictured: Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark
Moody Gardens is a unique and immersive attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of fascinating exhibits, activities, and events. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a fun day out with your family, Moody Gardens has something to offer for everyone.
Containing a world-class aquarium, a living rainforest, a Discovery Museum, and more, there is plenty to do and see at Moody Gardens.
Additional things to do at Moody Gardens include watching outstanding films at the 3D and 4D theaters. Come back when the weather is nicer to experience the Moody Gardens Zipline & Ropes Course, Palm Beach water park, the Moody Gardens Golf Course, and the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, which offers one-hour cruises on Offats Bayou nestled along the Moody Gardens property.
Learn more about visiting Moody Gardens, here.
Boasting the largest collection of art and artifacts related to the American Southwest, The Bryan Museum is one of the state's premier historical and cultural museums. Assembled over a lifetime by Mary Jon and J.P. Bryan, the collection spans more than 2,500 years of history and features 70,000 items, ranging from ancient Native American cultural artifacts to modern 21st-century pieces. The exhibits include rare documents in German, French, Spanish and English, exquisite saddles and spurs, antique firearms, rare books, fine art, religious art, folk art, portraits and rare maps.
In the island's historic downtown district, the Galveston Railroad Museum is the perfect place to spend a couple of hours getting dry. After all, who doesn't love trains? The museum is housed at the site of the 1932 Santa Fe depot and railyard and features more than 40 pieces of locomotives and rolling stock. Here you can check out restored trains, engaging exhibits and even take a 20-minute ride on the "Harborside Express" if you're visiting on a day where this is offered.
Touring Bishop's Palace will take you back to Galveston's Golden Era when the island served as the "Wall Street of the South" and one of the country's wealthiest cities. This stunning Victorian mansion was built from 1886 to 1892 and features an ornate delight of colored stone, intricately carved ornaments, rare woods, stained-glass windows, luxury materials, furnishings, and impressive fireplaces from around the world (including one lined with pure silver). Bishop's Palace is so remarkable that the American Institute of Architects cited it as one of America's 100 most important buildings.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark features the most exciting collection of water rides in Texas and the Houston Area. Every member of your family will be thrilled by the large collection of water slides, lazy rivers, and water coasters. Galveston is a great destination for families, friends, and large groups to play together. Schlitterbahn is committed to providing Texas's hottest, coolest time with signature rides, slides, surfing waves, and not-so-lazy rivers.
This unique museum located in Galveston, Texas, allows you to step aboard a retired jack-up rig and experience three floors of exhibits and interactive displays illustrating the history of offshore oil and gas from seismic technology to exploration and production.
Escape the heat while enjoying a live performance at The Grand 1894 Opera House. This historic venue hosts a variety of concerts, shows, and theatrical productions throughout the year.
With fresh seafood, southern favorites, and a restaurant for every craving, Galveston is the place to be when it’s time to eat.
This family-friendly foodie paradise can deliver up the perfect setting whether you want fancy or casual, intimate or extroverted, at every price point.
Step inside La King’s and the poor weather will leave your mind immediately. This old-fashioned confectionery features a 1920’s soda fountain, serving malts, shakes, ice cream sodas, sundaes, splits, floats and your favorite fountain drinks. They also proudly make and serve "Purity" ice cream, Texas' first ice cream manufacturer, since 1889 founded on Galveston Island. But let us not forget the homemade candy! La King's master candy maker will delight you with his old-time specialties - peanut brittle, divinity, pecan pralines, hand dipped chocolates, fudges, and our famous saltwater taffy made right before your eyes on antique equipment. They make more than 40 candies from traditional recipes, just waiting for you!
Discover the most popular museums in Galveston, TX and experience the rich history of Texas artifacts, documents, memorabilia, artwork, and more.
Museum to consider: The Galveston County Museum cares for over 25,000 artifacts and archives. Recent donations include photographs and documents from a family that survived the 1900 Storm, a pen and inkwell used by photographer and artist Jesus Murillo (1895-1971), and Mardi Gras costumes. The museum staff is always happy to talk with people interested in donating artifacts to the collection.
Where the Texas Coast begins.
Author
Clayton Kolavo Digital Content Strategist
Clayton oversees Galveston Island's online presence through various social media platforms, VisitGalveston.com and other online outlets.
