Galveston IslandBest things to do
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The 48 best things to do in Galveston Island
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedSep 29, 2025
Updated • updatedSep 29, 2025
Are you looking for the best things to do in Galveston Island? You’re not alone! Many of us love traveling on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to find the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. We’ve looked through different sources to find the best options, including favorites like Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens Attractions Theme Park, and Bishop’s Palace.
Visiting Galveston Island? See our Galveston Island Trip Planner.Why trust us
We scoured through the internet and read through 30 reputable sites and blogs like Time Out and Southern Living. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place like these: 
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Other best of categories in Galveston Island
Restaurants
Cafes
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Bakeries
Family restaurants
Bars
Asian food
Fast food
Amusement park
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a classic waterfront amusement area that offers entertainment for visitors of all ages. Situated along the Galveston Seawall, this family-friendly attraction features a variety of rides, carnival games, shops, and eateries. From the bi-level horse carousel to the pirate-themed mini Lil' Captain Wheel and spinning Texas Teacups, there are plenty of options for little kids to enjoy.
Had so much fun here! Tickets to get in and have unlimited access to all the rides were $30/person and it was worth it (although there are cheaper options for just walking along the pier or for certain types of rides). I recommend going in the evening so you can see everything lit up and get a nice view of the sunset from the rides. We didn't get tickets in advance so we had to wait for a few minutes in line, but they do have that option to make it a bit quicker
Macie R — Google review
Cute experience, for a view and some nostalgia.
Could be better, especially considering the price.
We didn’t purchase anything or ride the rides, we just wanted to soak up a cute experience, so we purchased a walking pass… paying to simply walk the pier is pretty insane.
Nice to walk and experience especially on a nice day. Simply think paying to walk is crazy.
We reached the Pleasure Pier late at night, just as it was about to close, so we didn’t get a chance to go inside. The good part is that the beach is always open and there’s plenty of parking available. What really made the visit special was walking along the beachside and seeing the dazzling lights of the pier reflecting on the water. The sidewalks were glowing with colorful lights from nearby Mexican restaurants, which made the whole atmosphere lively and beautiful. Even without going inside, it was such a pleasing and memorable experience to take in that view. 🌊✨🎡
Such a beautiful getaway from Fort Worth! The weather turned out great, and watching surfers with the ocean breeze was amazing. We biked, walked along the beach, and stopped by local coffee shops — one of our favorite travel rituals. Galveston Island was the perfect spot to relax and recharge!
Prices may vary on weekends, weekday and on rides as well. They will give you bracelet and you can get for a 1 time or all day pass. They have different food place, drinks and rides for kids and adults. Parking can get challenging and have to walk a lot.
I would prefer to go in evening, you will feel nice cold breeze and at night it will feel really good. At the end of the pier it will be nice breeze and colder weather.
Not as expensive as you think. Very well maintained and clean. Great views and even if it is 100 degrees there is usually some wind.
Great rides for the entire family, the giant swing might be the most terrifying ride in Texas when it is windy.
We didn't eat here. I walked the pier while two teenagers rode some rides at night. Great atmosphere, a lot of families, food options, and rides. It did cost almost $80 total for 2 all-day ride bands and a band for walking. Very pretty from a distance during the day and at night from the beach. It was my first and won't be my last visit to Galveston!
Not usually a fan of small money grabbing carnivals, but since I’m still raising kids- they always seem to find a way to make me spend money at these places.
If you can spare $25/person for unlimited rides and $12/person just to get on the pier.
My 3 teens had fun for a couple hours.
All rides were working.
I usually purchase a cringy roller coaster photo but the quality of the image was poor and cheapest photo was $20. No thanks!
The facility was clean, I saw several workers wiping down tables and sweeping.
The bathrooms were clean! I always appreciate a clean carnival bathroom!
PS there is a wind-tunnel like breeze which was appreciated during a hot afternoon
2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Amusement park
Nature & Parks
Aquarium
Botanical garden
Moody Gardens is a 242-acre amusement park in Galveston, Texas, offering a hotel and various attractions such as an aquarium, zip line, and paddlewheel boat. The site also features the Rainforest Pyramid with over 2,000 exotic plants and animals, including saki monkeys and sloths. Visitors can explore marine species from around the world at the Aquarium pyramid or enjoy outdoor water activities at Palm Beach.
We enjoyed a day at Moody Gardens exploring their pyramids, shows and time at Palm Beach. We were not disappointed at all. All of the staff were helpful and friendly. Our daughter loved seeing all the animals and was especially excited for the kissing monkeys. Palm Beach was a great way to cool off and end our afternoon at the park. We had a lot of fun in the wave pool and lazy river. We will be back at Christmas time for the festival of lights and ice sculptures.
Allyson S — Google review
Moody Gardens aquarium is a must see while in Galveston. The price is a bit of a shock, but I thought it was worth it. Free parking, lots of exhibits.
My 3 year old and 8 year old loved the penguins and seals. I loved the jelly fish room with the neon lights. There are a couple rooms and tunnels perfect for pictures with sharks and larger fish. They have a stingray touch tank, but good luck with that. I think the stingrays are done with people. If you actually take time to look around, you'll need about 90 minutes.
We did a quick vacation over Labor day weekend. It was packed. Still had a good time!!!!
Moody Gardens is such a great experience for the kids, really informative and an overall learning adventure that stuck with them long after we left.
The whole place is loaded with cool animals, but they absolutely loved the Rain Forest Pyramid; seeing the monkeys and sloths moving around right near the pathway was a definite highlight. It's more than just looking at exhibits, too—they're really focused on conservation and education, which makes the whole visit feel worthwhile.
We also spent time in the Aquarium Pyramid, checking out the sharks and the penguins, which are always a huge hit with the kids. You can easily spend a full day exploring the different pyramids and attractions.
Plus, it's so convenient that there are great local restaurants always very close by, making it easy to grab dinner after all the excitement.
What a beautiful and educational experience. Every time I go, the staff are so friendly, inviting, and informative. The rainforest and aquarium periods are well maintained, and the animals all look happy and healthy.
I got the pleasure of speaking to a member of the staff, named Linda, in the rainforest pyramid and she went above and beyond to tell me facts about the animals and make sure I saw so many amazing things. She was kind and encouraged any questions I had. The other staff I saw throughout the park were friendly as well and had a good repertoire with the animals and other staff members.
The exhibits are self paced and well thought out; many of them have informational cards posted about the animals, ecosystem, and other fun facts. I also learned, from staff and the exhibit placards, that a few of the species they host are part of repopulation efforts for endangered species in the wild.
Great aquarium with amazing tanks, you could hang out all day if you wanted to do so, otherwise it will take about 1.5 to 2 hrs to walk though. Try to go early on a weekday before the animals get tired. The sea lions exhibit was great they were so active, barking, and playing around at 11 am. When we got to the jellyfish room it was closed for feeding but we waited about 10 minutes and it was open again, so just hang around if a room or exhibit is closed. The penguins were so cute as well.
Me and the wife have never been. Took the kids (6 and 2). Overall it was 180 for the tickets (military) and another 100 was spend on food and souvenirs. It was pretty nice. The staff was very very friendly and nice, they all seemed to love their jobs and were great with the kids.
I am giving this place 3 stars because mosquitoes were EVERYWHERE. It was so bad that families were running inside while the husbands stood in line to buy tickets. They were so bad they would hide in my daughter’s hair and still come out when we were inside and bite us. Made the trip not worth it. I would suggest putting mosquito air blasts at the entrances of the pyramids and maybe mosquito zappers all over the place. My kids are covered in bites now on the way home. They arnt even talking about how they had fun just how much they itch and hurt from the bites.
Also keep in mind the weather is not even humid as it hasn’t rained in weeks it’s like 85 and dry outside so I can only imagine if it was hot and humid.
Love it love it love it!!!!
It was beautiful, time flys!!!
Took baby & family, everyone enjoyed it.
Going back soon. Great to take young kids.
Restroom were extra clean.
Came to visit from out of state and had a great time with my family. We visited the aquarium and the rainforest exhibits. Both are wonderful places for all ages, but especially taking the kids.
Definitely recommend eating before you come and be sure to bring snacks because everything is ridiculously expensive.
1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
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Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Bishop’s Palace, also known as Gresham's Castle, is a massive Victorian mansion in Galveston, Texas. Built between 1887 and 1893 for Colonel Walter Gresham by renowned architect Nicholas J. Clayton, it survived the devastating storm of 1900 and Hurricane Ike. Originally a residence for the Catholic bishop until 1963, this National Historic Landmark is now open to the public for tours.
The Bishop's Palace was an absolutely incredible stop for diving into Galveston's rich history!
Every detail of the architecture is amazing; the more you look, the more hidden gems you discover. The stunning stained-glass windows throughout the home and the intricate wood carvings with their amazing details are truly a sight to behold!
We were truly amazed by the sheer number of paintings and the rich history of the wealthy families who lived here back in the day, and it's incredible how well-preserved the home is!!
Plus, the staff was friendly, and the self-guided audio tour is fantastic. You can pause or rewind whenever you want to soak in all the stories of this beautiful home.
While we understand the palace is undergoing renovations, it would have been even better to have access to the third floor to finish the rest of the palace.
You can purchase tickets online or right at the palace in the basement, where you'll also find a cute gift shop!
Maria B — Google review
This should really be called the Gresham house because that is focus of the tour. Being called the Bishop’s Palace, we thought we would learn about this building’s use as the Bishop’s Palace. Instead we learn almost exclusively about the Gresham family and how the house was before the Bishop lived there. The stained glass of St Therese of Lisieux and the chapel room are beautiful, but you can see that on the self guided tour. You won’t hear much about them at all from the guided tour. They had no idea why the bishop chose this saint for the glass, and only explained that it was added after the previous glass blew out. When in the chapel, the discussion is about what it looked like before the bishop lived there. It seems that the beautiful decorations in the chapel and its use are important and likely more entertaining than knowing a daughter lived there and she had some stuff in the room.
Again, if you want to hear about the Gresham family, then this is a good tour for you. If you want to hear about what the Bishop’s time was like here (as I did), then you’ll be mostly out of luck. I guess they continue to use the name Bishop’s Palace as a bait and switch to attract attendance to the Gresham House.
Note: All of my pictures are from the stairwell and the beautiful chapel.
The exterior was under construction during our visit, but the interior was beautiful and very well maintained. Three floors of impressive architecture and decor. The small gift shop in the basement was a nice bonus.
Best place to visit while in Galveston TX for culture. The inside is huge and have a lot of amazing mural paintings. It's hard to describe in seeing pictures. Viewing with your own eyes vs seeing through a screen or photo is very different.
This place is really cool to see if you like history, or older houses! The tour is self guided through the basement level, first floor, and second! The gift shop has a ton of things and the sweet ladies who were working were so nice!! We booked tickets online but you can buy them there as well.
We went 4 days after Christmas and we're able to go in with no wait. We took a narrow staircase up from the basement gift shop to the 1st floor and were awed with the level of decor! The style is quite gaudy but the craftsmanship in the woodwork is something to be admired!! The palace seems to be a little unkempt due to refurbishing but what took away from the experience for me was that I did not find enough informational cards throughout. We had a handheld device for the audio tour but found it to be difficult to navigate while trying to share our thoughts so we ended up not using it after all.
Self guided audio tours for $15. Beautiful home with exquisite woodwork throughout. Also has a gift shop. Currently, the exterior is under repair, but it's still open for tours.
Me and my family went to Galveston this weekend for my birthday and I absolutely love anything historical. My dad really loved the architect part of the tour, my mom and sister loved the prayer room and bedrooms, and I enjoyed hearing the history around the house and looking at every room. It was an amazing experience and definitely worth doing if you go to Galveston.
1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Rail museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Galveston Railroad Museum is a historic site featuring locomotives, indoor displays of artifacts, and model trains. Visitors can also enjoy Saturday train rides at the museum. Nearby attractions in Galveston include Moody Gardens, historical homes, the Strand Historical District with the Tall Ship Elissa, Seaport Museum, and Galveston County Museum. Additionally, Space Center Houston and San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site are within proximity.
What a lovely Railroad Museum. For a Saturday it was not busy...but it's well layed out and the range of exhibitions is great. Lady at the entrance desk was welcoming and polite and told us everything we needed to know. We managed to even ride an open caboose on a long stretch along the cruise terminals. Loved everything about this place. Ate from the concession on site. Cheap and cheerful and delicious..again super friendly staff and decent prices.
After we spent a considerable time here, it was close to the historic street cars that go around Galveston.
If you love trains, go for it...
Andrew T — Google review
The largest train/railroad museum we have came across. Tons of train cars and cars to walk through and explore. Lots of displays showing how life was on the cars and what was commonly used on them. Staff was very nice, no wait to see anything, and there’s free parking.
The only thing that did surprise me, maybe because the Rosenberg museum spoiled us, was there’s only two small rooms of model trains. There are shelf’s with tons of model trains but they are on display, unlike Rosenberg who has built huge working city like displays to show them off.
Overall though, the kid loved it and would come back again. We didn’t get to enjoy it but if we would have came the next day they do offer some sort of train rides.
The Galveston Railroad Museum makes you feel like you’re truly taking a step back into our past, walking around and inside these beautiful railroad cars was a special experience. If you love Railroad & Galveston history I highly encourage you to come tour the museum, we truly enjoyed it!
It was super fun. We went on Weekday and literally we had the entire museum for us. Loved it. The ladies in the front office so kinds.
Staff is very friendly and extremely intelligent about all on the yard. An extensive stock of rolling stock on hand. It could be made better if more was accessible. I understand safety issues vs limited staff. It does not take away from a very positive experience here. Highly recommend to rail fans.
I was so excited to go here on our vacation from Ft. Worth but it wasn't that fun. My younger kids had fun but my 13yo and my husband thought it was pretty lame. Got some great photos though! I really planned on coming here because I thought there was a train ride but unfortunately I was mistaken. Probably wouldn't spend the money to go back again.
Great displays of dishes used on dining sars of the past. Plenty of engines and variety of cars to explore. Staff was very polite and helpful. We were a little disappointed in the gift shop but bought some souvenirs.
The Galveston Railroad Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a significant piece of American history. With its impressive collection of trains and locomotives, it's a must-visit for anyone interested in transportation and the evolution of rail travel.
Walking through the museum is like stepping back in time, allowing you to appreciate the sheer scale and ingenuity of these historical machines. The train simulator, while perhaps not the most technologically advanced, is made enjoyable by the enthusiastic operator, who adds a personal touch to the experience.
It's worth noting that the museum's environment can be a bit challenging for those with respiratory issues or allergies to dust and humidity. However, the historical significance of the exhibits more than compensates for this minor drawback.
One of the museum's hidden gems is "Scooter," an elderly orange cat who often graces visitors with his presence. If you're fortunate, you might find him napping peacefully in one of the train cars. And if you're truly blessed, he might even allow you the rare privilege of petting his belly! This unexpected encounter adds a delightful and memorable element to the museum experience.
Overall, the Galveston Railroad Museum offers a captivating and educational journey through railroad history. Despite the potential environmental challenges, the sheer volume of historical artifacts and the chance to meet "Scooter" make it a worthwhile visit.
2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
State park
Nature & Parks
Nestled on the west end of Galveston Island, Galveston Island State Park spans an impressive 2,000 acres of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This park is a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike, offering a variety of activities such as hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and unsupervised swimming areas. Campers can choose from beachfront or bayside sites equipped with picnic tables, water pumps, fire rings, and convenient restroom facilities.
☀️Galveston Island State Park – A Natural Gem on the Gulf
Galveston Island State Park is a beautifully preserved slice of Texas Gulf Coast, celebrating over 50 years of natural beauty and outdoor exploration. Just a short drive from the city of Galveston and near Jamaica Beach, the park offers a peaceful escape with striking coastal views, vibrant plant life, and a welcoming environment for families, campers, and nature lovers alike.
The beaches are clean and expansive, perfect for a stroll or a day by the water. The marshlands and walking trails provide excellent birdwatching and a glimpse of native coastal ecosystems, with interesting flora like the delicate pink puffball flower seen along the trail. Facilities are modern and well-maintained, including a visitor center and educational programs like the “Adventure Learning” setup we spotted during our visit.
With its mix of beach access, wildlife viewing, and educational programs, this park is a fantastic stop whether you’re staying on the island or just passing through. Peaceful, scenic, and thoughtfully preserved—Galveston Island State Park is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Texas Gulf Coast.
Ramin H — Google review
We really enjoyed this campground. We stayed on the beach side, site 23. The sites were very large, had cement pads, and a really nice shelter with a room including a picnic table and a clothes line. The proximity to the beach was great and there were garbage cans everywhere to help with clean up.
The beach had a lot of dried up seaweed in the sand area, but once you got in the water it was great. We wore our shoes until we were at the shore. There were hermit crabs everywhere, so you might want to wear shoes in the water as we all stepped on at least one when swimming!
Beautiful sunrises over the water and you can see sunsets on the bay side. This is one of the nicest state parks we've ever stayed at and they had a ton of super cute marine stuffed animals at decent prices at the camp store.
We bought a Texas State park annual pass ($70) because without it you had to pay a daily fee of $5 per person 13+.
Very reasonable prices ($5 per person); it is well worth it! The place is really nice, with lots of grills and covered picnic areas. Each picnic area has a grill, and some even have electric outlets. It also has very nice pathways to the beach. Showers are available outside and inside the restrooms, which are really clean—honestly, the best beach restrooms I've ever seen. The beach has a lot of seaweed, but if you can look past that, it is perfect. The staff is super friendly. Pro tip: It is a state park, so you can fish here without a fishing license! They also sell ice there, just in case you forgot it or need to refill your cooler. I really hope that my review helps with your trip. If it does, please give me a like. Thanks; have fun at the beach!
I just visited here over the weekend while looking for new and unique inshore fly fishing spots. I have to say, the park staff were all super friendly. They clearly loved working there. You have to pay to gain access to the park or camp, but I found out that Disabled Veterans get a lifetime access card if they meet certain requirements. They talked me into stepping inside and getting a free card good for life. The facilities were all clean and good looking, clearly marked and well kept signs, the trails were in good shape for a park. I wouldnt advise bringing a wheelchair or bike on the northern park's trails as they can be muddy. The terrain is flat and meanders through the marsh. There's a lot of birds to look at, neat fishing spots, kayak launch points, observation tower, beach access on the south side of the park, showers, restrooms, campsites with electricity and water, primitive camp sites, saltwater and freshwater lakes, BBQ pits... all sorts of neat things about this park. Be warned, the park is known to have alligators and venomous snakes, so stay on the trails and be alert during the warm weather months.
This park has great facilities! Bathrooms and showers are clean. They also have great rinse of showers at the end of the boardwalk. In addition to the beach the park has a bay side which has some camping and great water trails for kayaking!
We've been coming here for 50 years. Hurricane Ike destroyed and they built it back better. I do miss the old layout but the new has it good points as well. The showers/restrooms are way better and air conditioned. They are letting the seaweed stay for environmental reasons to build back the dunes. We love the beach and come here because we like having a ranger on duty because it's a crazy world we live in. We feel more secure having security on site.
Stayed at the Bayside spot 100. Had a wonderful experience. The Rangers were knowledgeable and friendly. The park staff were all very friendly and accommodating. The kayak launch was great. ( Although a light at the ramp would be excellent.)
Very quiet beach for a day trip! Would come back.
Biggest drawback is that there was a lot of debris and trash on the sand, and therefore a lot of sand gnats.
Biggest plus, the have a wash off station and changing rooms are right off the beach. Bathrooms are a further walk from the beach but very clean and spacious. Great option if want the least amount of sand in your car and don’t mind walking.
Advice: BRING A WAGON!
14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
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Performing arts theater
Historical landmark
The Grand 1894 Opera House is a stunning and historic theater in Galveston, Texas. It hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year, including Broadway musicals, concerts, dance shows, and comedy acts. This ornate theater has survived storms and hurricanes and has been meticulously restored. With its plush navy cushioned chairs, intricate wall details, and grand ruby red curtain on stage, it offers an elegant setting for entertainment.
What a beautiful theater. The self guided tour was $5 each. We were the only people there and were allowed to walk wherever we wanted except on stage. Interesting history with many famous performers.
Pat C — Google review
This beautiful, historical theater is so comfortable and elegant, I could sit just admiring it for hours! The acoustics are excellent and the stage is visible from all angles. It's worth a trip there, even if you don't see a show.
A beautiful historical Opera House. Young woman at ticket booth was very polite and friendly. I enjoyed the color which brought the viewing area to life. I can imagine watching a performance. Just beautiful.
Came here for a musical- The Addams family and it was a great show and great venue. Loved the souvenir cups to use for our drinks so to be sure we didnt spill anything. The only negative was a tale as old as time fighting for the women's restroom during intermission.
What can I say about this charming venue. Stepping through the doors is like boarding a time machine. Upon entering you are immediately transported to the 1800's. Reminiscent of Downton Abbey days. High, beautifully decorated ceilings. Yet despite the touch of opulence it's a very intimate setting. I've purchased high end seats to obstructed view seating and I have never had a bad experience. The ushers are very nice and helpful. The Grand is centrally located so there are tons of eateries in walking distance. If you haven't been, please make an effort to come. You won't be disappointed.
Such a beautiful interior with nice sound.
I highly recommend visiting and watching the orchestra.
The seats are small with not much leg room especially towards the front but it is a little better towards the back due to the slope.
Beautiful and historic Opera House. Seats are VERY narrow, tight and uncomfortable. Entire row must exit before anyone can come and go. Not handicap accessible that I could see. Fun experience to see The Nutcracker in such a beautiful venue. We enjoyed the ballet immensely.
Audio was really good. Temperature was a bit cold. Seats were kind of narrow and there was a guy that was 6 ft 7 sitting in front of me so my view was obscured but overall I thought it was good. Saw the Fred Hammond emancipation show.
2020 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Temporarily Closed
Water park
Water & Amusement Parks
Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston is a 26-acre outdoor water park located just 5 miles west of downtown Galveston. It's a popular destination for families, offering numerous water playground areas, pools, a zip line, and dozens of waterslides. The standout attractions include side-by-side racing slides, thrilling body slides plunging 81 feet, raft slides with dips and twists, and a water coaster providing a splash-filled journey.
I had a fantastic time at Schlitterbahn Galveston! The park is clean, well-maintained, and the rides are a blast — perfect for all ages. The staff were especially friendly and helpful throughout the day. One young woman in particular stood out — she made sure we were secured properly on our floats and helped prep us for a fun and safe journey through the water. Her attention to detail and positive attitude really enhanced our experience. Schlitterbahn Galveston is definitely a great place for a fun day with family or friends. Highly recommend
Timothy B — Google review
I’m deeply disappointed in what this park has become. I used to enjoy Schlitterbahn Galveston many years ago when it felt like a well-run, family-friendly destination. Sadly, it has deteriorated into a frustrating mess, clearly suffering from terrible management and complete lack of care for the guest experience.
Let’s start with the ridiculous waiver policy. Anyone 18 and over is required to sign a waiver — not at the entrance, not online, but inside the park, after you’ve already waited to get in. You then have to stand in yet another unnecessary line, wasting time on something that should be easily handled with a digital signature or at the front gate. It’s outdated, inefficient, and honestly insulting.
Now about the employees — most of them seemed completely disinterested, bored, and unaware of how to handle crowds or keep things moving. The lines were brutally long and slow, and it was clear that with a bit of effort and basic staff coordination, things could have flowed much more smoothly. Instead, everything felt like chaos run by people who just didn’t care.
This park is the textbook example of poor leadership. It’s like no one at the top is paying attention — and the guests are the ones paying the price (literally and figuratively).
And finally, the food. Don’t even get me started. Overpriced, bland, and served with the same indifference as everything else. It honestly felt like an afterthought.
I won’t be coming back. Schlitterbahn Galveston used to mean something — now it’s just another poorly managed, overpriced theme park that takes your money and offers very little in return.
Splashtastic Memories with a Few Ripples
Our recent visit to Schlitterbahn Galveston was an absolute blast, creating a treasure trove of family memories we'll cherish. The sheer variety of waterslides, catering to all ages, ensured everyone in our group found something to thrill them, and the adult swim-up bar was a welcome oasis for those seeking a more relaxed pace.
While the fun factor was high, there were a few areas that could use improvement. The closure of some slides was a minor disappointment, though I'm confident there was a valid safety explanation behind it. More pressing was the scarcity of inner tubes – our family had to actively hustle to find and secure them amidst the large crowds, which was a bit frustrating. Similarly, the distribution of life vests seemed uneven across the park. We noticed a concentration of kids' vests near the White Water Raptor area, while the majority of adult vests were clustered near the wave pool entry, making it a scavenger hunt at times.
The kids' area, despite being a source of great joy for the little ones, did have one noticeable drawback: the water in certain spots appeared to have a rather unappetizing "poop relevance," which was a bit off-putting.
On the brighter side, we were pleasantly surprised by the food prices within the park, which we found to be quite reasonable. A huge bonus in my book was the option for families to bring their own food, offering a fantastic alternative for those who prefer to pack their own meals.
Finally, a crucial piece of advice for future visitors, especially given Houston's unpredictable weather: I strongly encourage purchasing the ticket insurance. The waterpark is quick to shut down for any lightning threats or significant weather notices, and without that insurance, refunds are not issued.
All in all, despite a few logistical bumps and a less-than-pristine kids' area, Schlitterbahn offers a truly great day of fun and the opportunity to make lasting family memories.
I had an amazing time at Schlitterbahn — it was romantic, fun for the kids, and easy to swim, walk around, and grab a drink. The vibe was great and the park is well laid out for a full day of fun.
That said… the prices are insane. Walk-in tickets were super high, and even buying online only saved a little. $20 just for a locker, plus paid parking? It adds up fast. If you’re planning to visit more than once, get the summer pass — it’ll pay for itself.
Overall, I still really loved the experience, but be ready to spend a lot if you go.
The park was clean and the staff was friendly. We rented a cabana and have no real complaints about general staff and services. We did have an instance with people skipping the line and the staff didn't do anything about it even though some families waited up to 45 mins to get a tube for the larger water roller coaster.
Park “ electricity died “ . It was my last day in Galveston and I was excited for the water park . After ONE slide the power goes out. I go to try and get a refund and am offered tickets for another day. I live 5 hours away obviously I cannot go another day. Refused a refund after explaining my situation. I’m down 100$+ on tickets, 20$ parking, 20$ locker . All for one ride. This is what happens when six flags corporate greed ruins a perfect water park . Will not be returning after being scammed for almost 200$ unbelievable
This review is me comparing this location to the the other schlitterban locations. We went to the south padre park before it was renamed and loved it. Than we went to New braunfuls location and absolutely love it!
This was the last location on our bucket list to visit. And it is by far the worst!
Yes you can take a cooler at no cost like the other locations.
Yes now you have to wear a life vest honestly I'm fine with it especially for my kids safety.
The line to be exempt with a wristband is ridiculous. This should be offered online and verified at the entrance so you don't have to make 2 lines and waste time.
We visited Monday 7/28 half the ride were not working so the ones that were had huge lines. The smell in one side of the park is horrible! Everything sold is so overpriced so make sure not to forget your phone holder because you will pay $32.
I'm 8 months pregnant so expected to be limited to what I could enjoy. I was pregnant when I went to south padre.
My kids and husband were very limited on what was available and tolerated with the smell. The park is very small in comparison. I really doubt we will ever return to this location.
This place has grown since it first opened. There are lots of different rides for everyone in the family. It's basically one giant lazy river, with multiple beach areas to enter and exit the river. The park is also littered with multiple kids areas (toddlers) and poolside bars. There's also cabanas you can rent and a hotel on site for longer stays. There is something for everyone in the family, and if you haven't been yet, ticket prices are definitely worth all the fun you'll have here!
2109 Gene Lucas Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
Museums
Local history museum
Historic Sites
History Museums
Moody Mansion, a 28,000-square-foot estate dating back to 1895, is a restored historical gem filled with original furnishings and artifacts. Once home to the prominent Moody family, known for their diverse business ventures, the mansion boasts 31 rooms and offers hour-long guided tours through 20 of them. Visitors can explore the family's rich history and marvel at the beautifully decorated rooms that showcase their collection of furniture and curios accumulated over 86 years.
Audio and tour was very well organized and detailed. Beautiful home. The special touch with ringing the doorbell to start your tour was a great touch! Loved it!
Diana W — Google review
Pop-Up Ghost Tour at Moody Mansion with Spooky Gin. The tour was amazing with knowledge shared on the Moodys' and their contributions and interactions with Galveston. The additional Galveston history and ghost stories just added to the ambience. Add in the fact that you are getting a guided tour of this beautiful home and seeing original items used by the Moodys makes you feel like you are stepping back in time.
I would definitely reach out to see when Moody Mansion will be doing another one of these pop-up tours, because this is an event everyone needs to experience.
Beautiful mansion but unfortunately I don't think it was worth the money. We paid online but the guy that was in the ticket booth area was very polite! Also the older lady who opened the door to let us in was very nice as well! We went on a Tuesday so it wasn't busy at all! Parking lot is a pain because the spots are so close together.
Beautiful mansion, worth the trip, knowledgeable hosts. Also you must ring the doorbell before entering. Lots to see inside, enchanting and beautiful vintage pieces
The closet I came to time traveling on this trip! Moody Mansion is takes you back to a time of grandeur, debutants, and life before technology. A must for any history buff and architect lover.
Very interesting self guide tour. Friendly personnel. A very beautiful house. I recommend seeing this house
I had the honor to visit this historical place. The people were nice. I was there to photograph a Quinceañera. Its a bit narrow for the dress but we lived it. A bit hot but thats normal.
Love the tour on the Mansion it was huge and beautiful also the history of the mansion .
2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Museum
Art museum
History museum
Embark on a captivating journey through Texas history at The Bryan Museum, nestled in the charming Galveston Orphans Home. This remarkable museum boasts one of the largest collections dedicated to Texas and the American West, featuring over 70,000 artifacts that span an impressive 12,000 years. As you wander through its halls, you'll encounter everything from Native American relics to modern-day treasures that tell the stories of cowboys, pioneers, and those who forged the frontier.
Fantastic museum for kids and grown-ups. It has a variety of exhibits that focus on Texas history. It was great to visit after my social studies exam.
I liked the tablets that can be used to get more information on certain topics. It allows to get as much or as little as you want while there.
I was impressed by the story of the orphanage that was there. It's definitely worth checking out in full.
I picked up some silk scarves as souvenirs and they were very good.
Tudor T — Google review
The entire property is stunning! The grounds, beautifully restored orphanage now museum & the conservatory are exquisite! The attention is obvious & the collections are amazing.
A board meeting was hosted in the conservatory which was spectacular! Thank you for sharing this beautiful piece of Galveston Island history!
Front desk volunteer, Phyllis Hodges, was so welcoming & informative! True testament to Texas hospitality!
This historical building used to be an orphanage. We came here for the Juneteenth celebration. We enjoyed the music and the museum. A lot of art and history on Galveston and Texas. Beautiful property and grounds. A must see if you're ever in Galveston.
The Bryan Museum is a world-class destination offering profound insights into the complexities of Texas and Western history. Its masterful curation within a historically resonant setting creates an unforgettable educational experience. Beyond regional significance, it stands as a vital repository of American frontier heritage.
Neat museum of Texas history with amazing artifacts from the Revolution and Republic eras. Also some nice western art. Current display of Texan artist for Hermes who made a scarf I bought my mom in 1985.
Awesome exhibit on Kermit Oliver, Texas artist! The staff - from the curator, Eric, to security, Phyllis, to Stephanie in the gift shop were A-List! It was well worth the drive to Galveston.
I've been many times,my Mother is the Horticulturalis at the museum, the grounds are beautiful the staff is excellent and the exhibits are top notch
Very unique, interesting, beautuful museum. Full of great history.
Beautiful grounds, interesting history of the building. Gorgeous interior, & well decorated
Very friendly, nice employees.
A friend told my hubby & I about the museum.
We highly recommend, it's definitely worth seeing!
We give The Bryan Museum a five star rating!
1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Museum
Science Museums
Specialty Museums
The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum, located on Galveston's Pier 19, offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of offshore drilling. This retired jack-up drilling rig has been transformed into a museum with three floors of interactive displays and models. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the rig to see drilling equipment, fascinating exhibits, and videos about the history and process of oil drilling.
Great museum! Worth seeing. The kids really enjoyed getting to see the ins and outs of the rig. Very informative, reasonably priced. There is a gift shop in the entrance building with items for all ages. The rig is multiple stories with an open concept to explore the permitted areas at your own speed and leisure. Very cool! Highly recommend. The staff was very nice.
Melissa D — Google review
This museum was a welcome surprise. It has 3 floors, and 2 outdoor decks. Much larger than I thought it would be. It took me about 2 hours to read everything, etc.. It really brightened my day and has great views. This is a hidden gem in Galveston. They have a cute gift shop with a variety of items for adults and children. Including Christmas ornaments!
I went back last week again with some family. I'm not sure what happened to this place. Nobody to greet us on the rig when we arrived at the top of the ramp, nobody to give directions, movie just plays in a loop without a scheduled time. This place wasn't as fun and felt very disorganized. The brown haired girl selling tickets was the most professional and most informative. Everyone else ignored us. Please improve and be like you were before.
A great experience for anyone that wants to learn now about how petroleum is extracted out at sea.
My son read almost every single exhibit which is something he doesn't normally do in museums.
There is a scavenger hunt if you want a challenge. Be sure to ask for the paper when you first ever the rig. 👍
They request that you keep an eye on your children because there are some areas especially the catwalk on the third floor that young children should not be left alone on. It's not unsafe, but it is high up.
Check out the locker on the third floor for an experience of being a rig worker and grab some gear for dress up!
Last week I was actually thinking about how I know nothing of the offshore drilling process, and then we randomly came across this museum when getting off the cruise ship! Large enough to explain it all, displays are done right, very informational and exactly what I was looking for. Not boring. Good videos. Fascinating process.
A fascinating museum on the history of oil drilling. You can see first hand what life on a rig is like. See how the oil industry has progressed since the beginning. Weather permitting you can even walk out on to the oil rig itself! Fun for all ages and very interesting place to visit. Right in the wharf, so beautiful views are a bonus.
Really enjoyed this retired deep sea rig. My husband is a pipe welder and fabricator. He's worked on jobs for Exxon and 3M that eventually landed at ocean rigs. He had a great time. It was a nice way to end our anniversary weekend.
This is a must see museum! Make sure you pay $5 extra for the audio device. There aren't many people inside to ask questions.
Very detailed and thoughtful laid out exhibit to explain how we get oil out of the ground.
You get to see all the parts of the process. The scale models inside of all the platforms were amazing!
It's 3 levels with steep stairs but they have added an elevator
You get to go outside on top and feel what it's like to work on a rig.
We enjoyed the learning experience, and it was a little bonus that dolphins enjoy travelling right through the area. The staff was friendly.
Don't waste your money parking right by the building. They do not own the lot there. If you can walk from a block over, you can do metered street parking for much much cheaper.
2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
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Museum
Boat tour agency
Historical landmark
History museum
Specialty Museums
The Galveston Historic Seaport is home to the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, an iconic sailing vessel that offers visitors a glimpse into maritime history. Adjacent to the ship is a museum featuring exhibits on sea commerce and immigration. The seaport is located in the Strand Historical District, where visitors can also explore other attractions such as historical homes, the Railroad Museum, and the Seaport Museum.
This was such a beautifully restored ship! So much history and craftsmanship. The museum was so great too, I had family immigrate from Ireland and come in through Galveston. It was a glimpse into what their journey may have been like. I loved the fact that the ship was built in the Scotland ship yards too as other family members were Scottish as well.
Sarah M — Google review
Very informative and interactive. My 4 kids loved the boat We did the museum and the Elissa boat tour. Museum was interactive with videos of immigrants and Galveston esrly settlers.
The only issue was the prize on Galveston website said adults were $12 and kids $9 but upon arrival its now $18 adults and $12 kids. So instead of $48 that I budgeted for it came out to $66. I asked if online was cheaper and she said it was the same. Maybe it was a summer ticket increase ?? Just wish I was prepared for prize change.
It was great learning about the Elissa's past and it's significance to Galveston. While it wasn't available at the time you can go sail on the ship on certain days since it's still in service today. For an extra charge you can schedule a dolphin harbor tour which I would recommend which gives you admission to tour the Elissa before and/or after the tour.
We did the walk through of the old sail boat, which was cool. The best part was the dolphin tour which I’ll have to do a separate review for .
Was lucky enough to do one of the day sails they offer in the spring on the Elissa. A little spendy, but what an amazing experience!
There are very few operating historic tall ships in the world you can sail on, so if you get the chance, absolutely do this. The sail takes the better part of the day, and it's fascinating to see the dedicated volunteers crew heave on the ropes and scurry around the rigging. I went on a day they could set all 19 of the sails! Absolutely must for dad types and history needs (like me). Also everyone is incredibly nice.
This is our 2nd time here. Besides the food being good, the atmosphere is awesome. Sitting right by the water, the breeze, and an occasional dolphin 🐬 giving a little show. It's nice! We did get hair on a piece of fried food. I'm not one to make a big scene or overreact on something like that. We did let the nice waiter know, and he told the manager. He came right over and took care of the situation. They were very professional and nice about it. Will that deter us from going back? NEVER! Go have a great family outing. Try it for yourself and enjoy!
Great ride and a fun day! Make sure to go early for a cooler time if it is in the summer. They have restrooms and a gift shop with affordable drinks.
Second time we've been to see the Elissa. First time to visit the shore museum associated with it. Both an outstanding experience. Worth the entrance fee. Naturally, the ship is an experience in itself, but the museum is noteworthy in explaining the history of Galveston as an immigrant port of entry. As a history professor, I can say they did a great job with displays and audio narration. We did not buy tickets in advance and had no wait. There is paid parking out front in a separate lot and paid street parking on the Strand.
Pier 22 Suite, 8, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Park
Fishing pier
Seawolf Park, situated on Pelican Island in Galveston, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The park offers well-known fishing piers with great night lighting and 24-hour access, except during the winter months when it operates from 7 am until 11 pm Sun-Thurs.
What a great experience. It was fun for our kids and we got to learn. It was super affordable. We even got to see dolphins while ontop of the battleship! Great experience.
Heather B — Google review
Seawolf Park is interesting, nice walk, no crowds. Plenty of opportunity for you to fish.
Good museum displays of a WWII submarine (USS Cavalla) & its companion destroyer escort ship. [Hint]: it is not the “USS Seawolf SS197”
Wonderful place visit especially with friends and family, I went on a solo tour of the battle ship and submarine early morning hence was kind of eerie when I went inside with no literally no else. Side note, touring outside is fine, but once you are inside the ship and sub, just be careful as the spaces can become small. Overall, nothing beats getting first hand experience being next to two historic machines. Lastly, thank you to all the men and women for your services of this country!
This is a state park, so theres an entry fee. There is a playground that is included with the park entry fee. The pier is an extra cost - no worth it, the naval museum is an extra cost - its worth it, you can fish off the rocks for free, parking is free and the port-a-johns and the couple picnic tables are free. Its a very small park, not really worth seeing except the naval museum is inside the park gate
Watched three cruise ship launch on their journey. . . vendors of food, trinkets, clothing and more were scattered on the island and great performers were on the main stages and on the grounds. Shout out to Pride of Bedlam and Master Bones and the Voodoo Island Cannibals!
We went to check out the Pirates Festival. Parking is free if you are a Galveston resident and you have to show proof or it's 10.00 per vehicle to park.
We paid our ten dollars to park with the intention of looking at the park and then touring the naval ships. But mother nature had other plans when a storm came roaring in. We did see quite a few historical markers here and watched a cruise ship sail by.
One marker spoke of the old quarantine station that used to be located here: several as a matter of fact as hurricanes kept destroying them.
Another historical marker speaks to the importance of Galveston as the gateway to Texas and how it dominated the Gulf of Mexico from Vera Cruz to Pensacola with its natural harbor.
I failed to capture a photo of the SS Selma remains out in the water but did snap a photo of the historical marker speaking to this ill fated ship. The ship was made of concrete due to steel shortages in 1919 and enjoyed a very short life when it was damaged in 1920 and then sunk in 1922 right off Seawolf Park.
Then a storm came in and we all ran for shelter.
A very fun and interesting naval museum! Great spot to relax and enjoy some fishing too. Perfect mix of history and peaceful surroundings.
100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Beach pavillion
Outdoor Activities
Beach club
Park
Beaches
Stewart Beach is a delightful destination for families and sun-seekers alike, located at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Seawall Boulevard. This expansive beach boasts soft sands and a range of amenities that make it an ideal spot for a fun-filled day by the ocean. With lifeguards on duty ensuring safety, visitors can enjoy activities like beach volleyball or simply relax under rented umbrellas while savoring snacks from nearby concession stands.
I love this beach! $15 to get in, plenty of parking if you go early, clean beach, clean restrooms and rinse area, and food trucks available. Prices kinda high for rentals, but you can take your own chair and umbrellas. Enjoyed the day at the beach!
Coco A — Google review
We arrived before 10 and enjoyed the day on the beach. Parking cost $15 and we rented a pair of chairs and an umbrella for another $40; but we did not bring any of ours and it was very convenient stay.
As the day progressed there were more people but everyone was well mannered and we encountered no problems.
I went with a group of friends on a vedy slow day. There wasn't even anyone on the parking stand, we got in for free. There was a lifeguard there so it was safe, and there was very ample parking. They do have restrooms and areas for sports and recreation. I had a genuinely good time with friends.
We come at least once a year. It costs $15 during the summer, but off-season it is free. We always find parking here.
The beach is nice. The sand is fine. There's restrooms, showers, and changing areas. The Beach Bite Food Truck is nearby conveniently. There's also ice cream and other snacks sellers that walk around.
The water is warm in the summer, though the waves can be strong. You can rent a pair of beach chairs and an umbrella for $40.
Our kids enjoyed their time here, so Stewart Beach is worth the 1hr20mins drive.
It's been over a year since I've been. I was shocked to see the building and showers are gone. Now there's portable bathrooms and porta potties, outside showers and open air changing rooms. There's also a little shop in a portable and a food truck, but they aren't always open. Still my favorite place to enjoy some sea and sun.
Dirty water but there is a lot open space. When we went July 19th the waves were just right for little kids. There is a good sandbar which is good for kids. $15 day per vehicle got us in. Sand was finely packed and not loose. Easy to pull a wagon over. They don’t allow tents or cabanas past a certain point . You can rent an umbrella and two chairs for $40.00. They had vendors of snowcones and ice cream up and down the beach. They had active lifeguards I actually saw go up and down the beach and one even out in the water. Great work. Decent place for the price and good time.
Rental umbrellas are $40 and are taken up promptly at 5:30 pm. It's sunny until almost 8 pm in Spring/Summer. Invest in your own chairs and umbrellas. John's Rentals isn't trying to pay overtime.
Nice place to swim and have a rest!
From Friday through Sunday you can see rescuers, another days you have shower (everyday) and umbrellas with chairs for 40$
I really like it and I enjoyed time there 💖
P.s. seagulls are simply wonderful🤗😁
401 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Museum
The Texas Seaport Museum, located in Galveston Island on the Texas Gulf Coast, is a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts and history buffs. The museum is home to the iconic 1877 tall ship ELISSA, a floating National Historic Landmark that offers visitors the chance to experience high-seas adventure.
The tall ship Elissa is a must-see on our trips to Galveston. Tickets can be purchased at the adjacent Seaport Museum. Tickets are for both the museum and the Elissa. There is a cute little gift shop with gift ideas for most anyone. The Seaport Museum has been changed up since our last visit several years ago. The self guided tour guides you through the path of an immigrant coming to America. The exhibits reflect many of Galvestons landmarks. But the best part is boarding the Sailing Ship Elissa and exploring how people traveled back in the day. The crew berths and cabins seem ridiculously tiny to modern eyes. BONUS: the USS Texas is clearly visible across the harbor in dry dock being repaired and prepared for it new berth hopefully near the museum!
Jeff W — Google review
"The Ellis Island of the Southwest" exhibit is immersive, imaginative, and informative.
Love, love, loved learning about the history of the island! There were mannequins, screens, luggage, bunks, and signs, as well as audio throughout.
Definitely stop by.
We took the immigration tour today and thought it was really well done. I enjoyed their stories quite a bit and the interactive details. I'm glad there was a mention of Juneteenth as it was pretty well centered on European immigration. Unfortunately we couldn't get on the sailing ship as it was it was sailing the harbor but it's cool that it is still seaworthy and this service is offered.
We did the Harbor Tour with Captain Lauren and Jason!
It was absolutely amazing! We got to see so many dolphins while learning about Galveston's history and port in a fun and inviting manner!
Family Friendly!
Captain Lauren was very personable and friendly and Jason was very knowledgeable.
10/10 recommend!
We got the whole package with the museum and harbor tour $28 per adult, definitely worth the price ☺️
Sad to see how the Elissa is being neglected these days.
(Translated by Google) I liked it a lot
(Original)
Me gusto mucho
Totally worth it 👌.
Great place to learn about our history and Galveston! Boat tour was super fun and informative. Also saw lots of dolphins!
2200 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Association / Organization
Recreation center
The Historic Downtown Strand Seaport Partnership is a vibrant area in Galveston, Texas, known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage. It's home to a mix of shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums. The district is located just minutes from attractions like the Seawall, the beach, UTMB and Galveston's cruise port.
Finally! Visiting The Strand in Galveston and its downtown is very colorful and pleasant outing. I was pleasantly surprised how this old town resembles now. Whether you want to shop some trinkets, dine, or just roam about this place, everything works. And you can also jump on cruise ship, if you feel like so. (Although I can't get it why people are berserk for that!)
Kveto H — Google review
Nice stroll and fun things to buy and see 👀
Beautiful Galveston it is always nice to come back
Great food at Yaga’s and good coffee at Mod
Beautiful & Quaint! Unique shopping and lots if choices for eating!
I enjoyed walking around and taking in the beautiful historic scenery.
Wonderful experience! Cool stores for food prices! Went to the candy store and boy was it delicious. Saw cool sights and saw people performing. The candy store people were very friendly and even handed out free taffy!
Decent parking on a week day. Fun shops, some cheesy and some nice
A nice touristic strip. But the soroundings ...
502 20th St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
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Historical place museum
Museums
Memorial park
Military Museums
The Galveston Naval Museum offers an immersive experience in national heritage, featuring guided tours of historic World War II vessels such as the USS Stewart and the USS Cavalla. Visitors can explore torpedo rooms and weather-worn decks while learning about the sacrifices and history of the crews. The museum provides a unique opportunity to walk the decks of a destroyer and descend into a submarine from that era.
Interesting place to come and visit. $14 entry per person plus an additional $10 to get into Seawolf park. You can walk around, on and inside both the submarine and ship. Certainly worth visiting if you haven’t been before. About 1.5 hours is another to visit. The park has a fishing peer and various places to picnic and even some grills to use. Was quiet at the weekend but bear in mind it was a hot June day.
Russel H — Google review
I wish I could rate this higher. This is a beautiful site, with incredibly well preserved and well taken care of artifacts. Being able to go below decks on a submarine is nothing less than incredible. And it’s authentic, there’s no jazz, just steel and rivets.
I arrived later in the day, and they were gracious enough to accommodate me. Had an absolutely tremendous time walking along the lengths of both the ship and the sub. This is a childhood dream of mine come true, and I truly appreciate the efforts that go on to keep this place operational.
Great piece of history! The staff was amazing. They were all passionate about their jobs and very willing to answer questions and share their experiences. Bill was especially amazing! Definitely would recommend.
I gave it 5-stars bc I enjoy naval museums. It costs to get into the state park and you have to pay an entry fee at the gate of the museum. It would have been nice to see more of the innerds of the ship but they had most of the ship blocked off. You could see more of the sub. My wife finally understands some of what I was telling her about the ship I was on during Desert Storm.
This is a good stop if you’re into naval history—one ship and one submarine to explore. Our teen liked being able to sit on the AAA guns, and another enjoyed walking through the sub. We didn’t visit the gift shop and only had minimal interaction with staff, who weren’t particularly helpful, but overall it was a fun and interesting way to fill the afternoon
I really enjoyed the chance to visit such a historical sub in the Cavalla.. I've been out of the Navy for many years but lately I've developed a strong love of history, especially military history. The layout on the self guided tour was nice on the sub but the escort ship has many sections closed for restoration or just not to be toured. Besides the ship & sub are several different guns and a landing craft. I really enjoyed the museum and hats off to the people behind it.
Great place to visit. I would go early in the morning before it gets hot as you are inside the vessels for the tours. Great pieces of WW2 history. It will take you about 2 hours to walk through both the s submarine and destroyer. If you are very claustrophobic, the submarine may not be one to tour.
Super cute and fun to learn about the ships. Also had a cute little shop. Kids loved it but not as much as their dad did.
100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
Arts organization
Museums
Art gallery
Non-profit organization
Art Museums
The Galveston Arts Center is a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking the latest contemporary works from Galveston and neighboring areas like Houston, Corpus Christi, and Beaumont. The center hosts regular events and exhibitions in collaboration with local art studios, galleries, nonprofits, and businesses. Visitors can enjoy free public art walks showcasing local talent every 6 to 8 weeks. The diverse collections feature American paintings, European masterpieces, contemporary installations, and interactive exhibits.
I like the mission of the Galveston Arts Center and its exhibits feature local artists from around the Texas Gulf Coast region. They host the Galveston Art Walk from March to October annually and organize a lot of educational events for kids and adults at the arts center as well as in the community. Whenever a new exhibit launches, the artist would present a talk about their work and art pieces. There is a main exhibition hall on the first floor and a wine vendor, Florino, in the left corner. There are stairs on the left or in the back of the building that will take you to the second floor where there are two smaller exhibition spaces and a classroom. Admission is free and donations are welcome. I volunteer at the arts center from time to time and I love it! This building also has an interesting history, so it's a plus for anyone who might be interested in Galveston's history.
Cherie D — Google review
Very friendly staff and the art collections were very beautiful & showcased very well. A nice place to take a break from the heat and see cool art.
Never knew this art museum was here until
I stumbled in one day! All exhibitions are free, including a downstairs and upstairs exhibit! Art rotates out periodically. Will be back in the future!
This is the place to go for quality contemporary art exhibitions in Galveston. I try to stop by whenever I’m on the island. The front desk person is friendly and helpful for info on the exhibits.
So friendly and welcoming of my children. Shared wonderful info with us.
Beautiful experience to explore art and in the heart of downtown Galveston!
We stopped by to cool off and saw some amazing are. Where we visited there were a few exhibits involving mixed media that were stunning and really kept the interest of the whole family. The staff are very nice and welcoming. At the time there was also a wine tasting going on. The gallery is very clean, multi story and has bathrooms available. Highly recommend stopping by and checking out the latest exhibits.
This is a top notch art gallery with world class exhibitions.
2127 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Notable street
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Walking Areas
The Strand, also known as Galveston's Historic Strand District, is a significant historical center on the island. It was once referred to as the Wall Street of the Southwest and is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The area features century-old Victorian buildings that used to house various establishments and now host boutique stores, gift shops, antique shops, eateries, museums, and candy stores.
Brings so many memories back. Me and my sister have nothing but great memories of the strand. Going back as an adult just brings them all back.
Robert H — Google review
First time visiting just moved here from California we really enjoyed it had a great time
Loved it here! Beautiful area to just enjoy an easy stroll or have a great time with family. Shops, restaurants to choose from.
Every monthe they have a Galveston art walk. Its a great experience and free. Everyone should visit for it.
Been coming here for the last 40 years it’s changed a lot but has always been fun. This is where Juneteenth was first celebrated. They have the Grand theater that’s over a hundred years old ( 1894) where you can get private box and watch a play and restaurants, museums and even the Tremont has a rooftop bar, so many great places to go can’t mention them all. They also have La kings where you can get an old fashion Sunday and trolley cars.
One of historical spot in galveston. Many giftstores, restaurants, cantinas
I adore it ! Everyone is so nice and welcoming you must experience it.
I loved this area. So many historic buildings! It was beautiful. There’s also a few bars and restaurants. I definitely recommend visiting. Parallel parking was inexpensive and you pay by plate online.
Non-profit organization
Neighborhoods
If you're looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of Galveston, the East End Historical District Association is your perfect guide. This enchanting neighborhood boasts one of the largest collections of Victorian architecture in the nation, with beautifully restored homes lining its tree-shaded streets. As you wander through this 50-block area, you'll be transported back to Galveston's Gilded Age, where horse-drawn carriages once roamed and ornate details adorned every building.
This is an eclectic and lovely part of town. There are great museums and beautiful homes literally almost anywhere you look. We spent a couple of hours just walking around and snapping pictures of a few that caught our eye. This small sampling may give some idea, but there is so much more to see. A really fun area.
Louis E — Google review
Very quiet and clean area with a lot of history.
Stop by the visitor center for self guided walking tour of the historic homes and tree stump carvings.
The neighborhood was gorgeous and the tree sculptures were awesome! We were taking the self-guided tree sculpture tour, and my only complaint was that it doesn't seem to be up to date. There were a few tree sculptures we couldn't find because they seem to have been removed or damaged.
Beautiful here! Alot of history!
Great area to stay
Beautiful homes
Love the old Victorian houses. I enjoy looking at all the detail and different colors. It's fun to just drive around and check out these beautiful old homes.
great walking area. good food, drinks , snacks, museums. good package for harbor boat tour and elissa tall ship tour and boat ride. very enjoyable. saw dolphins
1501 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Galveston, a charming island city on the Gulf Coast of Texas, offers a diverse range of attractions. Moody Gardens is home to fascinating wildlife housed in giant glass pyramids, while Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier boasts amusement rides and dining options. Nature enthusiasts can explore the bird-rich Galveston Island State Park with its trails and fishing spots. The island's eastern end features Stewart Beach and East Beach for those seeking sun and sand.
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Beach
East Beach is located on the far eastern tip of Galveston Island and is a popular spot for LGBTQIA+ sunworshippers. The beach hosts the annual Galveston Pride Beach Bash & Block Party, which has now been moved to late summer. The area also offers a lively beach party atmosphere with various festivals, live concerts, and events throughout the summer.
Excellent place , big flat sand area . Very fine sand . Open space . Ocean , big moon . Sunset !
Spring B — Google review
The 2024 Galveston Sandcastle Festival was place on September 21-22 at East Beach. The celebration included not only the popular sandcastle competition, but also live music, food trucks, and a vendor market. There are also some enjoyable activities for kids, such as face painting, sandcastle building lessons, and games. What a fantastic way for the whole family to spend a relaxed weekend at the beach.
$15 to park. Restrooms, Bar and Grill. Clean great atmosphere. They did have Tent and chair rental. Pet Friendly
For the best shell area, park as far east as you can and keep waking east past the base of the sea wall around the bend. Walk along the high tide line where the sea weed and driftwood get pushed up by high tide. There are thousands of hermit crabs but there's also plenty of good empty shells
Very cool place to see the gulf. Lots and lots of space along the beach. Easy parking and plenty of room to explore. Enjoyed the weather there before heading home back up north. Highly recommended place if you love to explore and relax.
This is a really great family beach! I think it's my favorite out of all the ones in Galveston we've been to so far! Much less crowded than the others further up the shoreline, ample parking, a concession stand with food instead of just snacks, playground, bathrooms, beach chair and umbrella rentals, a lined walkway, and more. Yes, you pay for parking, but it's an all day pass, so if you leave then come back, just show them your parking pass.
Beautiful area of the island!
East Beach is an incredible venue! I attended the AIA Sandcastle Competition here and had an amazing time. The beach itself is well-manicured with gorgeous views of the passing ships, and it’s close to great hotels and amenities. The event space was laid out perfectly; great stage, music, vendors, food, beer, and entertainment all around. It was such a fun and well-organized experience. I can’t wait to come back next year!
Really pretty beach, nice light tan sand, the water is relatively clear if not for the sand it would be clear. Overall very pretty beach. Tons of crabs for hunting at night
193-199 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Children's museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Galveston Children's Museum, located on the ground floor of the 1895 Moody Mansion, offers interactive themed rooms and a variety of hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young children. From a kiddie town with a fishing boat to a building zone featuring a Lego wall, kids can explore and play while learning about science and arts. The museum also hosts entertaining and educational programs throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for families with children aged 2-10.
I absolutely loved it here! First time really checking it out I went along on a class trip for my daughter's class & we adored the adventure! They have it obviously in Moody Mansion first off which is so very very very cool to have the kids museum in such a historic, beautiful & historically rich building! The aesthetics alone for the kiddos is really really unique & special bc there's so many things about the property & building right away to them that's gonna be different or new or surprising just simply because of progress & living in such different looking homes now with such different capabilities & materials & such than the time period of it being built. Such a wonderful way to not only preserve history in that building, but to teach with it & use it & repurpose it to encourage the learning of history itself. The charming use of this old mansion made the atmosphere right away feel conducive to the kids being able to be curious & inquisitive & interested... It's like a tour of the building & of history but at the same time encountering different learning activities & concepts & tasks during it for them to explore & enjoy & solve. The stations were all very hands on, creative & educational as well as fun, cute & often crafty. The kids had a blast & as an adult I still found a lot of information, facts & pieces of history along the way to keep my attention & interest as well. There's plenty of space here too being a mansion & all lol... So there's plenty of room for kids to play & kinda run around & explore on their own a little within the marked off areas like... The outside area is massive for the little ones & they really can get a feel for exploring the grounds a bit on the outside area of the place. The whole thing overall wasn't too long for a kid but wasn't too short to not be worth the time or money to attend & experience the place. It was an overall very positive experience & quite memorable to her even at that young of an age... She can still recall the event fairly well to this day & she is 11 years old now. For being a school trip I feel like the management or whatever handled it well, I didn't feel like it was just chaotic or aimless or a free for all or anything... Which happens when going to any establishment with a large group of kids all too easily I'm sure, lololol. I think the walk & tour kinda thing through the activities & building seemed to be fairly well set up & executed. I would like to go back now with her a little older & us going on our own & separate from an entity this time to check it out a little differently & more in depth, so I've only gone with an organized group but this far all I've experienced & read & known of the place has been overwhelmingly positive. Def recommend a trip if you have smaller children or if you're an adult I know the Moody Mansion tour side is a great place to learn some history about the island & that building itself as it's got quite a history of it's own. The preserved older buildings & architecture here are very prideful points of interest & history here for Galveston & it's locals... We love the rich history preserved in these locations & keeping it alive through education & experiences is important... It's lovely to see Galveston & the community here make such an effort to preserve, remember & share it's history! Highly recommend checking the place out, great experience! Great way to learn about the actual island a little bit too, as an adult or a child! Five stars!
Mercedes J — Google review
We brought our 4 year old and we were here for 5 hours no joke ! So many fun things for kids and adults. Not crowded and everyone who was there was very nice. Helpful workers and all engaging activities . We were allowed all day access and were able to get lunch and return
We had a birthday party for my daughters here last weekend and it was a hit. The space was perfect, and the young lady who helped was amazing. I wish I could remember her name. She helped me with decorations, gathering everyone for cake, and clean up. Everyone who came loved the whole experience. It’s also priced incredibly fairly compared to other places I looked at. The museum itself is not too big, not too small- lots of kiddos to engage with without it feeling overwhelming. Would totally recommend!
Good for kiddos, younger Kiddos.. just confused on why they are targeting such a thing to toddlers ? Let them be kids.
regular rainbows are just as pretty.
Doesn’t seem age appropriate.
Came to a party for my nephew and this was absolutely awesome sauce! Not only for the kids but the adults as well! The staff Abbey & One-ya were delightful, sweet and amazing! They were so great at making sure everybody was having a good time, safe and also helped serve the food as well!!! This is a great place to visit w your kiddos & have their birthday party as well!!!! Highly recommend!!!
AWESOME place to take little ones and even big kids. Way less intimidating than the children’s museum downtown. And it’s so affordable
My children love a trip to a museum, and Children’s Museum, Galveston did not disappoint! Very hands-on and interactive, the perfect combination of learning and playing.
We have been visiting Moody Mansion for 3 years now, from ages 2 to 9 everyone always has a blast so many activities and the employees are super kind and always helpful. Such a beautiful mansion to visit and play in the outdoor areas also.
2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
History museum
Museums
The Galveston County Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone eager to delve into the rich past of Galveston. The museum showcases a wide array of artifacts and exhibits that span from prehistoric times to the midcentury era, offering an immersive experience in the region's history. Visitors can explore Native American artifacts, learn about coastal ecology, understand the impact of the 1900 Storm, and trace the evolution of military history in the area.
This is a great museum in the courthouse. Start outside looking at the places in the circle area in front of the building. The head inside to the museum in the back. Lots of interesting Galveston photos information. And it is free. (Donation only). We are not from the area and enjoyed learning the Galveston history.
Check hours. Not open every day.
Cindy P — Google review
Lots of history, very well laid out spent about 2 hours seeing 👀 and reading the history even has a small lunch room with vending machines that are not over priced, highly recommend 👍
Great place to visit when you are in Galveston.
I highly recommend going to see this museum.
Not to mention all the employees there were very nice
Nice museum to learn about Galvanston covering a diverse range of cultural history. Made Galvanston even more charming to learn its rich history. Plus the museum was feee and helped us pass time productively!
Really neat and loads of history about Galveston. Totally free and worth going(:
Great attention to detail. Knowledgeable docent. Soup to nuts: prehistoric fossils through heyday of Galveston! Go see.
Free and nice exhibits.
Great free museum ( donations accepted). Lots of local history and amazing fossils and everything from the normal to the odd. The coverage 1900 storm is impressive.
722 Moody, 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Historical landmark
Public beach
The Galveston Seawall, a 10-mile-long gulf coast sea wall constructed in 1902, offers a picturesque sidewalk with street art and stunning beach views. This historical landmark was built after the devastating Galveston hurricane of 1900 to provide protection from future hurricanes. It is a popular attraction in Galveston, Texas, offering visitors an opportunity to stroll along the coast while enjoying the beautiful scenery and historical significance.
It was a nice weekend. It was about 87° the entire weekend. It did rain for like ten minutes on saturday. But other than that, it's a nice spot to take your family. Lots of restaurants, souvenir, shops and entertainment for all your needs...
Erica N — Google review
A great place to walk for exercise or stroll.
You can feed seagulls and it was so much fun! You can go down the jetty and see the waves splash against it!
I grew up in Houston and after being away for three years, I came back and decided to stroll along the pier. To my surprise, it was so much cleaner than I remembered! They’ve even added paid street parking, which I honestly didn’t mind—it felt like a small sign of growth. It made me proud to see Galveston looking fresh and on the rise.
Fantastic I joined the great seawall world record for the remembrance of 1900 loosing 8000 people in the hurricane. The wall was built abd protected us all to today. Love this.
I recently took a trip from Houston to the Galveston Seawall, and it was such a great way to unwind! We arrived just in time for sunset and spent about an hour there—watching the sky light up with those gorgeous colors over the water was absolutely beautiful.
There’s plenty of street-side paid parking, so finding a spot wasn’t a hassle. The beach stretches for miles, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll or just soaking in the views.
If you’re looking for a laid-back evening by the coast, I’d definitely recommend swinging by!
I found a good place. I believe to bring my family over there in summer because we all are missing the sea beach. Everywhere the beach was really arranged and beautiful. We overstayed one night and enjoyed the sunrise in the morning.
It was clean, and some areas had blue water. Found shells and coral. Little crabs. Just fun. We stayed at the Mariner Inn. $70 w/ tax online. It is comfortable and clean. Comfy beds, too. The pool was exceptionally clean.The lady at the front desk was sweet and accommodating. Little muffin and Folgers coffee. My sister and I stayed, and it felt safe. Seawall just a walk across the road. Ride the Ferry, it's amazing. We even saw some dolphins.Ride the trolley, and it cost $1.00. Every time you get on it. The Mariner Inn had maps of the seawall. Like the one you'll get at an amusement park. Saltgrass ,Wendys, and Ihop are good places to eat. Did yall know 3 hotels on the seawall have swim up bars? Double tree, and I can't remember the other 2 hotels' names. Look it up. Wear swim shoes. The cheapest will be at 5 below $5.99. It's by the Dollar Tree and Ross. Shopping here, it's really picked through,but fun! We had an amazing 3 days and 2 nights.
Amazing place for a perfect weekend gateway. 👍
1402 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Notable street
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
E Beach Dr is a picturesque stretch of natural shoreline that perfectly blends the beauty of nature with modern amenities. Lined with impressive high-rise condos and inviting hotels, this area offers a delightful array of beachside restaurants where you can savor delicious meals while soaking in stunning views. Families will find it to be an ideal spot for relaxation and fun, especially as the sun sets over the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues.
Very nice family beach
Latoria L — Google review
Cool spot, but parking is expensive at 15 dollars.
Great place but in September bring mosquito repellent other than that great
Beautiful sunset. Boats
Great!!!
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Nature preserve
Park
The East End Lagoon Nature Preserve is a family-friendly attraction with beautiful natural scenery. It covers 700 acres of land and showcases the diversity of Galveston's rich ecosystems, including birds, flowers, and butterflies. Sunrise is particularly stunning here, so make sure to visit if you're an early riser!
There were many ponds along the beach and Boddeker Road, we enjoyed crabbing there 🦀🦀🦀🦀
Quyen N — Google review
This nature preserve is at the far north end of Galveston Beach. I was surprised that there was almost no one there. It was a bit strange and deserted. At the time, the wind was blowing fairly intensely, which may have been part of the issue. Lots of seabirds. The water was too rough for swimming and there were many signs indicating that no swimming should be done. I could see quite a few folks fishing. There were marshy grasslands and wetlands In the vicinity. I think it is worth a visit if you are in Galveston. It is one of the few natural places that I could see on the island.
Stunning place to watch the sunset and hunt for beach creatures. A quiet beach with only a few people throughout.
We went for the Sandcastle building contest. Parking was a mess and we had to walk about a 1/4 of a mile to get there. We've been to this many years ago and it was so much easier to enjoy. Take mosquito spray!!! When it starts to get dark your get attacked!!!
We enjoyed it better when you didn't have to by tickets and you could just park closer.
Great Sandcastles!!!
About 700 acres with most of that being wetlands. Not much hiking, there is a half mile ada trail which leads through some palm trees and a coastal brush area near the lagoon. Nice interpretative signage along the trail. It's a good area if your looking to fish, kayak, or birdwatch. The access road needs improvement.
Great trails, great bird watching. Best time to visit is early morning, or late afternoon, otherwise pretty warm. Some benches along the trails, otherwise no place to sit, and no shady areas. Don't forget drinking water. And be a decent human and leave no trace behind.
Great place, not super crowded, even though it’s “busier than usual.” I would say even off peak times are awesome! Empty beaches are the best.
Great place to see the ships coming and going to and from Houston. Or the ferry boat over to Port Bolivar. The people on the road are polite and make way because there is water over the road in places. It isn’t deep so any car can make it just fine.
But nice place in Galveston to escape the crowds.
It looked like a well preserved part of the island focused on nature. It features some short nature paths with plenty of benches interspersed to just sit and enjoy the view. Across the way is a deep channel where many large boats enter and leave the bay. There were still some wildflowers in December and I can imagine the fields were amazing during the spring and summer.
Boddeker Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Ferry service
The Galveston Ferry Terminal offers a free and scenic 2.7-mile trip between Galveston Island and Port Bolivar, providing stunning views of the Gulf and opportunities to spot playful dolphins swimming alongside the ferry. Visitors can bring their cars on board, but it's advised to consider potential wait times for vehicles. The leisurely journey allows passengers to relax and enjoy the picturesque coastline of Galveston while observing other ships in the area.
The entire staff was extremely friendly, both on land and on the ferry. There was a short line to board and the transfer was super quiet. We had the opportunity to see pods of dolphins. An excellent experience.
Michael G — Google review
This was a very neat way to learn about the public transportation going from the Bolivar Peninsula over to Galveston. You drive to the end of the pier and drive your car right onto the ferry and park and take a 10 minute trip across the water and then drive off and go enjoy Galveston. It runs 24 hours a day so you can take your time and it is completely free. It is run by the DOT. It is very easy. There are plenty of people driving traffic on how to get on and off with ease. You can park your car and walk up to the upper deck or stay at the front of the boat, which is what we did to watch the Dolphins jump in and out of the water.
What a wonderful free activity to do with kids! The ferry allows you to walk on and ride back and forth. If you have kids, make sure to take a loaf of bread to feed the sea gulls from the ferry back. Looking for dolphin pods and spotting them brings extra joy to their hearts!
Galveston Ferry Terminal: A Scenic Ride Through the Twilight Zone of Logistics
Look, I’m not here to bash the concept of the Galveston ferry. It’s free. It floats. It moves cars from one land mass to another while seagulls scream overhead like it’s a Hitchcock reboot. What’s not to love?
Well… the process, for one.
We arrived at the terminal with plenty of time, following all the rules like good, responsible, line-respecting citizens of society. We pulled into line, shut off the car, cracked the windows, and waited patiently in our self-righteous bubble of punctuality.
And then… the loading began.
Or should I say: the selective, mystifying vehicular lottery began.
Cars that arrived well after us, including a suspiciously cocky minivan that pulled in sideways like it owned the Gulf, got waved on first. Meanwhile, we sat—watching, blinking, and slowly coming to terms with the fact that ferry boarding is apparently governed by a top-secret algorithm only understood by sea captains, rogue pelicans, and possibly Neptune himself.
Is there a rhyme or reason? A pattern? A sacred ritual involving salt and traffic cones that we missed? No clue. But from where I was sitting (in the car, still… waiting), it seemed to be part Hunger Games, part Wheel of Fortune.
To their credit, the staff is polite and the ride itself is scenic and peaceful. Dolphins might make a cameo if you’re lucky, which helps dull the sting of being the 43rd car loaded even though you were the 17th to arrive. Still, there’s a fine line between whimsical randomness and logistical purgatory, and this place walks it like a tightrope over Galveston Bay.
Three stars: one for being free, one for the actual ride, and one because I eventually did make it on the ferry—though not before questioning the very nature of fairness and the illusion of control.
Pro tip: Bring snacks, sunscreen, and perhaps a deck of tarot cards to divine your boarding fate. Godspeed.
Really enjoyed my trip on the Galveston Ferry. The views were peaceful, the ride was smooth, and I even spotted a few dolphins. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area.
No hassle and very easy. They're doing work on the road leading up to the terminal. You can feed the birds at the back of the ferry and there's so many dolphins.
What the option to drive on or walk on my family chose to walk on and be up top to view everything. We were able to see dolphins! A great recommendation if you're looking for something free to do while in Galveston
Long waits during the night but nothing to worry about. I'm glad they have a roof now. The wait is under the shade and not the sun rays like we used to in the past so it makes a little better.
1000 Ferry Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Beach
Stewart Beach is a popular destination in Galveston, offering a range of amenities for visitors. The beach has undergone significant improvements, including a flood mitigation initiative to enhance parking facilities. It boasts lifeguards, restrooms, showers, concession stands, and rentals for chairs and umbrellas. Families can enjoy the added convenience of a playground for kids. Situated near the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Stewart Beach is known for its cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere.
Very nice and clean Beech you pay $12 for parking which is very close to the beach itself. The area is very clean and well-kept kids have a lot of fun. There’s also a lot of showers so you can wash after you finish and there’s also a lot of trash cans to collect after you are done we had a lot of fun. Watar was great and then we end we went back home at 6 PM.
Atheer A — Google review
We went on a Tuesday and it wasn’t too busy. We rented chairs and umbrellas for the day that cost us $80 for all. They have nearby restrooms, showers to get the sand off. The parking was close and the sand was soft, clean, and white. We enjoyed this beach very much!
This beach is free and spacious. You can bring your own chairs/ tents if you want to enjoy more. There were lots of seagulls just chilling by the beach. Also a lot of free parking spaces nearby. Overall very accessible. Always enjoy a nice sea breeze
You can drive up on the beach if handicapped or walk from the parking lot if not. They had showers and beach wheelchairs that float. The chair pictured is the beach wheelchair free to handicapped with a valid ID.
Beautiful beach wasn’t ALOT. Went a summer ago. We brought all of our own stuff. Definitely did enjoy my time. Do wish that the area around their showers wouldn’t get so muddy after so many uses. Bathroom area did some help.
Clean family beach with trailer restrooms which are really nice, changing rooms, outdoor rinse off, trash receptacles, life guard towers. You will have to pay parking 10-15 bucks, 50 bucks seasons pass.
Came here on Christmas Day. It’s ok, the beach is dirty, as in people leaving trash. Why???? Some families were BBQing, some were just enjoying the mild temps and sunshine.
It’s a nice place to come and park close to the beach Galveston wants to nickel and dime everyone to death. There is very limited free parking spaces around town. And lots of places were it’s parking for residents only. Gee thanks Galveston…
So here at Stewart Beach they want to charge you for parking. It was free today though, since it’s Christmas and all
Bathrooms are a sauna. The fresh water showers are a nice amenity. The issue is if you bring your own pop up shade they relegate you to an area 100 yards from the water. They do this to force people to rent chairs and umbrellas from them at $40 a pop. We’ll stick to sea wall from now on.
201 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550•
affordable
Confectionery store
Ice cream shop
La King's Confectionery is a nostalgic candy store and soda fountain that takes you back to the 1920s. It was founded by a family with almost a century of experience in Texas candy-making. The shop offers handmade chocolates, Salt Water Taffy, novelty candies, Duncan Coffee Beans, and Purity Ice Cream. You can watch them make saltwater taffy in real-time while sipping on an old-fashioned soda fountain drink.
I’ve been going here since I was a child. It’s one of my fondest memories. Hand made saltwater taffy😁 So good. Its decor is set as a Victorian style saloon. Authentic nostalgic for great photo op. A wide verity of candy and chocolate. Service is top notch. Even while very busy, servers try and help you. Needed to find a restaurant nearby that had vegetarian options and one of the servers looked it up for us. He was awesome and very sweet. I always have a great time here. It can be very busy, and customers can be annoying. But very worth going in and experiencing the candy making process.
Sam — Google review
If you have a sweet tooth, sorry dentist, this is the place to be. They have almost every kind of candy you could imagine, from candy corn, fudges to some of the best chocolates anywhere, and you get to watch the confectioner make taffy and stretch it out by hand before the taffy machine makes the final cut and wrap, but look out, he will throw everyone a sample. If ice cream is your thing, no worries, have it your way scoops, shakes or splits, or just sit down with your favorite coffee, a must stop on the Strand.
Walking into La King’s Confectionery in Galveston is like stepping into a time machine—one that runs on sugar, smiles, and pure childhood joy. From the moment you hear the clink of old-fashioned soda shop glasses and smell that warm cloud of freshly made saltwater taffy, you know you’re in for something special.
I’ve been coming to La King’s for years, and every visit feels like a sweet reunion. The place is brimming with vintage charm—glass jars full of colorful candy, antique signs, and that magical sound of taffy being pulled and cut right in front of your eyes. It’s part candy shop, part nostalgia museum, and part theater.
Whether you're grabbing a handmade root beer float, picking out classic candies you forgot even existed, or watching the candy-makers whip up batches of fudge and taffy like edible magic, there’s something for everyone. Kids run around wide-eyed, and let’s be honest, the adults do too—we just hide it better.
It’s not just a treat shop, it’s a Galveston tradition. So if you haven’t been in a while, do yourself a favor and stop by. Let the sugar rush and sweet memories carry you away. La King’s isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling.
A must visit when you are in galveston! It was so fun looking at everything. The customer service was top notch. Every employee was pleasant and engaging. I got fresh taffy that was made on the spot! Prices are decent as well!
My husband had a scoop of the strawberry yogurt and I had a scoop of the banana walnut. Both were delicious. In fact it was so good, we will be stopping in again tomorrow when we are in town.
In addition, the atmosphere is very welcoming, as are their employees.
Heartbroken after years of loyalty and hundreds of recommendations…
La King’s has been a personal favorite of mine for many years. Every time I bring friends or partners into Galveston, it’s at the top of my recommendation list. I work closely with the cruise industry, and I’ve personally recommended hundreds of my business partners and clients to visit La King’s while they’re in town. It’s always been a nostalgic, feel-good experience that I was proud to share.
But today was different—and deeply disappointing.
While one kind woman at the soda fountain gave me the kind of amazing service I’ve always appreciated here (I even gave her a heartfelt compliment), the man standing next to her at the coffee area rolled his eyes as I did. That moment honestly shattered the warmth I’ve always associated with this place.
I’ve never felt so unwelcome here, and it truly broke my heart. I’m someone who respects and uplifts people in the service industry, because I understand how hard the job is. To feel brushed off and disrespected—especially somewhere I’ve supported for years and promoted constantly—was incredibly disheartening.
We still got a fun mystery box, and the candy is as good as ever, but the experience left a bitter taste. Maybe everyone was having a bad day—but for someone who’s poured so much word-of-mouth love into this business, it felt like a slap in the face.
I’m honestly not sure I’ll be returning. And sadly, I won’t be recommending it to my business partners anymore. I hate leaving a negative review, especially for a place that’s been a long-time staple in my life—but today’s experience truly hurt.
Tasty treats and a blast from the past. We dropped by after the beach. This place has ice cream, espresso, chocolate, taffy… you name it. The ice cream portions are huge. There isn’t a kid’s size. The kids menu is extensive. There’s something for everyone here. There’s also a few tables so you can enjoy your desserts there. Highly recommend for the whole family.
We love to watch the taffy being made and make sure to visit on every trip. Today we purchased several filled milk chocolates and a pecan cluster with white chocolate. This is always a favorite past time. I have been bringing the kids here since they were little and we love to bring family to visit. We look forward to many more visits in the future. We would love to try the fountain sodas and ice cream next time!
2323 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Brewery
Food & Drink
Bar
Beer store
Galveston Island Brewing, known as GIB, is a local favorite on the island. Their 13-tap wall features a variety of on-site brewed beers, including the popular Tiki Wheat, which captures the essence of the island with its American-style wheat beer infused with German hops and a hint of coriander. Over the years, GIB has evolved from a small brewery to become Galveston's largest brewing facility.
Damn, great beer selection great service and one of the best po boy sandwiches I ever had. Don’t let the front appearance and small cozy space fool you.This place has ice cold beer, great food and one hell of a great atmosphere. I highly recommend this place. Don’t forget to buy yourself a souvenir from their gift shop to remember this place for years to come.
Michael N — Google review
We stopped here and had a couple beers and a pizza. You can watch the guys working on brewing the beer--it looked like they were filling kegs when we were there, The Citra Haze IPA is their hazy IPA and loved it. Great atmosphere, super service, and great pizza. Thanks for a super time. Absolutely will be back when we are in Galveston again. Cheers!
Fun place to try the local brew recipes.
They have nightly events that sounded fun.
I came to try the Tiki Colada and loved it!!
Hubs tried the Octoberfest but didn’t like it, tasted like perm solution. And then had their light beer, the Low Tide - I think, and he liked that.
The kitchen was backed up and we had dinner plans so didn’t try food this visit.
Galveston island brewing is very much the ideal beach brewing experience. The bartender was very knowledgeable of all the beers and very patient as I sampled and chose my favorite brews. Their merch burned a hole in my wallet with their wide variety of options. My favorite part was the seating which puts you directly next to their brewing equipment when dining. There is just so much to love about this place do yourself a favor and check it out when you’re in the area.
Great energy and vibe at this brewery. Fun staff, chill tunes while in line for a pint or two.
Nice selection to cover most everyone’s tastes - we loved the Causeway Koelsch, the “Beach Please” Mexican lager ( try it, it’s fantastic) the IPAs and marzen.
First stop arriving in Galveston! Tasty beer and with a good munchie menu ! Chill staff and loved how roomy this brewery was !
☀️🍻🍕
Ethan is the man! Go in Tuesdays, discounts on 6 packs to go & pint glasses. See ya Tuesday.
Great laid back spot, excellent Tiki Colada wheat, marzen oktoberfest & vienna lagers. May have to growler the latter 2.
Their Tiki Colada is the definitive "island beer"
Great beer. Great spot. Quiet and just off the sea wall. Super friendly people
8423 Stewart Rd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
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Event venue
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Wedding venue
Historic Sites
Ashton Villa, a historic landmark in Galveston, is a restored brick home built in 1859 and owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation. It was the first mansion on Broadway Boulevard and one of the first brick residences in Galveston. The three-story Victorian Italianate style home features ornate verandas with cast iron accents.
Beautiful historic home built in 1859. Can be rented out by the historic foundation for formal events. Has a large ballroom that can sit at least 200 guests, bar room, etc. House has original details and is something you have to see for yourself. Absolutely beautiful home that has been taken really good care of.
Amy S — Google review
What a great place for an event! Beautiful and vintage. You feel like you stepped back in time but with all the modern conveniences you need to host a lovely wedding.
The food was beautifully catered and delicious. Service was excellent.
The bartending staff was professional, super friendly, and fast. The cocktails were so delicious and pretty!
In 1865, General Gordon Granger, a Union officer, issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, Texas, on June 19th. This order informed the people of Texas that, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation, all enslaved people were free. This event is now commemorated as Juneteenth.
I got to see Jim Heath (Reverend Horton Heat) play here this weekend. I wasn't sure how that would go at a place like Ashton Villa but it was perfect. Intimate setting, great atmosphere, easy parking, beautiful home, and extremely nice and attentive employees. Might be my favorite Reverend show yet.
Only had access to the first floor but it was amazing inside! Wish I could see the whole place.
It was storming while we were in the area and no sign of life at the Villa. Maybe next time we are in town we can tour the site.
Such a fun experience. The actors were great and the atmosphere was super spooky!
I didn't get to go in but I thought it was absolutely amazing to capture this important moment In Time
2328 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Farmers' market
Food & Drink
Farmers Markets
Galveston's Own Farmers Market is a must-visit for those looking to experience the local flavors of Texas. At this market, you can find an array of products such as craft tea blends from Angies Garden, hand-roasted coffee from Local Roast Co., and delicious baked goods from Muffin Tops Catering. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, visitors can also enjoy cooking classes and live entertainment.
Definetly a place to go and be with the people, to experience the local culture and help small businesses. Go and enjoy a coffee from Corduroy after eating a donut from Melat's. Or get some herbal tea, tamales, get some kambucha, natural drincks, or local honey. Sit with your family or friends to listen to local singers and have a nice time.
Ricardo G — Google review
We love going to Galveston's Own Farmers Market as a family. Always has numerous vendors selling their wares. Love the Microgreens, Honey and sauces. Kids had free face painting the last time we went. Something for everyone. Free parking too.
My daughter volunteers here. The staff is very friendly. Alot of variety of things to buy at affordable prices. We love it here!
We go here every time we are in town. It is a great place for local food and products.
I only discovered this market because of my friends volunteering there! It’s right down the street from where I live, which is so convenient for it to be within the community!
All the vendors are amazing, I’ve tried many things from fresh produce, pickles, desserts, cookies, and the CBD vendors! They all have great personalities and I truly look forward to Sunday mornings just to come here!
Great selection of local produce and artisanal goods. Been going for close to 10 years and it's only getting better.
A great mix from a man who roasts coffee beans on a barbeque grill to. Organic Urban farmers. Food trucks a nice way to spend part of your afternoon, on the island. very dog-friendly.
It's a nice effort but it desperately needs more participation. Only 2 vendors with actual produce and greens only at that. No fruits. No vegetables.
3304 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Public beach
Galveston Beach is a long stretch of sandy shoreline with a promenade flanked by restaurants and condos. The island city attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a mix of vibrant characters, art, architecture, and history. It provides various tours catering to foodies, history enthusiasts, and animal lovers. While it may not compare to some other beaches for cruise travelers, it's worth exploring during an extended stay in Galveston.
We had a wonderful time visiting Galveston TX. The locals were friendly & there are lots of things to do, restaurants & attractions. There are miles of nice clean beach front to visit. The entire beach is dog friendly. We loved visiting! 🐾💕
Misty D — Google review
Went to the State park, lots of debris and seaweed on the beach it was a windy day so a little difficult setting canopies up but a fun time for everyone, park rangers were friendly and helpful wee will definitely be back, kids had a Great time
Bring plenty of sunscreen and water. showers, changing rooms, bathrooms all great
We went down on a last minute getaway with the kids. We had a great time. Kids enjoyed the beach as always (we travel to different beaches a lot). Only reason I gave it a 4 star is the Galveston beach isn’t as well maintained / cleaned as other areas (trash, seaweed, etc) . Not much of a “sandy” beach, but still a great family area to visit. A lot of folks will complain about the color of the water - but who cares about that, it’s all saltwater at the end of the day 😂. Would Recommend it, live life and have fun!
I’m from Michigan and we have the most pristine beaches around. They are not the sea but ..they are gorgeous. To compare this beach though is tough. It was very HOT. You have to walk over the Seawall to get to the beach and you have to pay to park along the street.
If you don’t bring anything with you they have umbrellas and chairs to rent by the hour. Also they have icee’s and other beverage carts walking along the beach. This is NOT A wheelchair accessible beach. It would be very difficult at best.
Water here is green and murky and it is like tepid bath water …at least in July.
It is also dirty. Lots of trash along the walkway which finds its way to the beach. We only encountered seagulls and no other wildlife along this beach. Not even good for shelling.
Absolutely love sunsets and sunrises at the beach. The sounds of the water so tranquil. The same pictures that look like nothing in one person's eyes ,can be everything to someone else. Peace.💕
Lots to say about Galveston. Really enjoyed the family beach atmosphere. Weather was wondering. Water was clean and I enjoyed every moment. I will definitely be returning. Highly recommend!!!
We always love Galveston when we visit for vacation! We love the beach, whether we go during the day or during the night. The sound of the waves crashing and hitting the shore is nothing more but peaceful. If you don’t mind the salt water taste or burning in your eyes, then this beach is perfect! Trying to find a spot can be tricky as there are a lot of people to go, but once you can dig your feet into the sand and find some seashells, it’s a perfect time! It does get windy, so beware of that. You can take your own coolers, drinks, food, etc. always a great time to get that killer tan here!
Water is much much better now compared to 2 years back.. I heard from one of my friends saying that a recent hurricane cleared off all the oil /greeze from the shore. A perfect spot for a relaxed mode.
6285 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551, USA•
Aquarium
Theme park
Moody Gardens is a sprawling complex offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including the renowned Aquarium Pyramid. This impressive pyramid showcases marine life from diverse water systems such as the Pacific, Antarctic, Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, and Caribbean. Visitors can explore the oceans' depths at one of the largest aquariums in the Southwest, featuring penguins, seals, sharks, jellyfish, and tropical fish in a 1.5 million-gallon tank.
Very nice aquarium. Staff are friendly and very knowledgeable. They have a good assortment of fish, sharks, Jellyfish, starfish, and even have penguins. Price is a little high for aquariums but still worth it. Good place to get out of the heat and see and learn some cool stuff.
Josh J — Google review
I had been to this aquarium a couple of times, and it's a fun little outing. Some of the exhibits are cooler than others, but it's a fun place to stop on your way to Galveston or if you're there for the water park
The aquarium is located in one of the Moody Garden pyramids, and an aquarium ticket will get you access to all the exhibits in the aquarium
There is an interactive stingray exhibit where you can touch sting rays in a shallow pool of water. My personal favorite exhibit is the jelly fish area
There is plenty of parking, but this aquarium is a bit out of the way. I might be jaded after visiting the ATL aquarium and other aquariums abroad, but this aquarium does seem small. You can probably knock it out in under 2 hours
Cheers!!
This place is always amazing. This was the first time bringing all my kids together. I bought my tickets online and I checked the hours for sunday were until 7pm. I got there and found out they close at 4 so we only got to do one pyramid. Wish I could get a credit or something.
The aquarium was so much fun! Our toddler absolutely loved it! Well worth the money. The pyramid was a flop compared to the aquarium mostly due to the high price and the crazy amount of people. Hardly and animals were out and about.
It's a great place to bring the family and enjoy the different things it has to offer. I recommend getting the pass that lets you into all the attractions and going in on a weekday when there are less crowds. If you go during the hot season I would recommend wearing a mosquito repellent.
Came for a pretty cruise fun day! Spent the whole day, just hanging out, great time, plan to bring the kids back later this year. A great day was had.
We went through the aquarium, rain forest and the 20000 leagues under the sea experience. Had a blast. The leagues was a shorter than I was expecting but neat.
We loved this place! It’s not as big as others well known aquariums but it is very clean and entertaining! Penguin and seals surprised everyone in our family. Tickets were expensive but comparing to other places we visited in Texas it was worth it.
Big thanks for keeping it aquarium only.
1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
Boat tour agency
Sightseeing tour agency
Baywatch Dolphin Tours is a family-owned business located near Galveston's Historic Strand District, departing from Pier 21. Their dolphin-safe boat offers informative and up-close experiences with the bay's resident dolphins. The 45-minute tour operates daily from 10 am to 5 pm, providing guests with the opportunity to observe these playful mammals in their natural habitat. The covered interior of the 34-foot boat ensures a comfortable experience for visitors as they enjoy this unique adventure.
Visiting from NW Ohio… Great tour! Captain Ben was entertaining and very informative. We saw lots of dolphins and some jellyfish as well! Seeing all the old boats and hearing the history behind them was an added bonus! Would definitely do it again.
Justin F — Google review
We had a great time with Capt Adam & Wilson! We saw dolphins as soon as we left the dock (captured on video). They are dog friendly, which was a great experience as well. There are moments that you will get hit with ocean spray, but nothing extreme. Capt Adam was informative and great entertainment. I would do the tour again.
We took the sunset harbor tour with Captain Adam. He was entertaining and knowledgeable. It was a beautiful sunset despite a few clouds, and the dolphins were active. Overall a great time and we will definitely do it again in the future.
What a wonderful experience! Captain Ben was the highlight. He was so funny with his jokes and banter and had a great playlist, too. Moreover, he made me feel very welcome, as I was the only one riding solo, just me and my dog. He talked to me for sometime, shared about his doggo while lovin on my Velma, it was very kind of him to spend that extra time with me. We saw lots dolphins jumping and swimming together. We saw a mom and her baby. Capt. Ben told us all about dolphins and I learned alot about them and the history of Galveston Harbor. I want to share dolphin photos and videos, but I'm going to refrain. I don't want to spoil it for you. A definite must do when visiting Galveston. Thank you Captain Ben!
Kasy & Velma
My friend and I had a great time looking for dolphins and learning information about the Galveston area and the waterways. Captain Ben was entertaining, and we did see dolphins as promised. We just could not get capture proof with our phones because they were too fast for us. I consider the trip very enjoyable.
Went with family for the tour. So much fun!! It was so cool to see the dolphins jumping from the water and near the ships. Captain Adam was amazing! Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!!
Capt Adam was awesome! Our family had a blast on the Dolphin Tour. My 9yr old daughter loved “petting” a jellyfish with Capt Adam before the boat took off. And he even let her drive the boat for a few minutes. Great family experience!! Lots of fun!
One of the coolest things you can do in Galveston Texas is go on the Baywatch Dolphin tour. This is a family friendly fun tour and you will definitely see dolphins. You will also hear some good music and learn some cool history about the area and get a little bit of humor thrown in from Captain Adam. A very nice and funny guy who before the tour caught a moon jellyfish by hand and let my granddaughters have a look at it and they loved it. He also let both of them have a turn driving the boat. Something they will always remember.
2100 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
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Fishing pier
Galveston Fishing Pier is a must-visit for anglers, offering beachfront, pier, surf, inshore, offshore and bluewater fishing. To fish in Texas waters here, you'll need a TEXAS fishing license and possibly a three-day salt water sport fishing license. The pier charges admission fees based on age and offers live cam views of current conditions on its official website.
My son and I had dinner in Galveston, giving Mom the weekend to herself. We found this and we were not disappointed. The seafood was fresh and good. He had the kids grilled fish and french fries, while I had the catfish and fried shrimp and fries. Everything was perfectly seasoned and fried. Not to mention the view from the pier was beautiful.
Jarrett G — Google review
I’m not quite sure how to rate fishing piers, but as far as they go, this one is fairly large and offers a great view of the water. The pier extends far into the bay and is built high above the water, creating a scenic and spacious fishing spot.
There’s a restaurant on-site, but it’s nothing special—the only thing notable about it is its location on the pier, which provides a nice view. The food itself is forgettable.
As for the fishing experience, we personally didn’t have much luck, but plenty of others seemed to be catching fish. My son enjoyed it and felt it was a good spot, though I think the experience could have been better. There’s a water supply on the pier, but for some reason, the faucets weren’t working, which was inconvenient.
Access to the pier is through a souvenir shop, and the entrance fee is $5. The shop sells frozen bait and various fishing gear in case you need anything. Many experienced anglers come well-prepared with multiple rods, so I imagine with the right knowledge and equipment, the fishing results could be much better than ours.
Overall, it’s a decent pier—good views, plenty of space, and a solid spot for those who know what they’re doing when it comes to fishing.
Beautiful view from the restaurant level! Plus some tasty food to enjoy with the view. I ordered the southern chicken sandwich with a very refreshing sweet tea. Our server was attentive and kind. The gift shop below had many intriguing souvenirs, including the the shark keychain bottle opener that I attached a picture of. Great experience overall!
Had a great time here. This was my first time on the pier, and I'll definitely come back. Shop was very nice and the coffee was right on time with the cold weather. Staff was very friendly. Was here two days in a row and both days were the same experience....perfect.
I went there last weekend. The pier is long, so there's not much issue with crossing lines with others. They have a gift shop where they also sell fishing gear and bait. I can't comment on the bait since I brought my own, not sure if it's fresh or frozen. As for the fish, I don't have much experience ocean fishing, so I haven't caught a big one yet. However, I've seen others catch sharks and large fish (still don't know how they do it). It's a great spot, though. I was there all night from 8 pm to 4 am, and we caught catfish, croakers and seaweed🫢🤣. *Edited*, “i went there next weekend after this post and I caught two hammerhead sharks and my wife caught one”
I remembered Galveston being a grimy, nasty little place. It’s beautiful. The people are nice. The beach is clean. There’s a ton of great food options. I just fell in love with it.
They charge me 30 bucks for one rod , two people , what about we just get in separately ?, wife was not gonna fishing , it is just one rod ! The staff was rude and ask me if you want get in here , that is 30 bucks , doesn’t matter you wanna fishing or not . And just saw other people probably he knows been charge with only 5 bucks , what the hell was that. Will never be back again , the whole place also looks like lack of maintenance, the wood pier floor are worn out , some of the parts need to be replace ! If you guys charge that Mach , at least maintain it !
I showed up for the redfish tournament, and it turned out to be a complete scam. The people running it allowed their friends to arrive in large groups two days early to reserve all the best fishing spots. They left dozens of fishing rods in the water with only one or two people watching multiple lines at once, making it impossible for anyone else to fish there. I counted over 40 rods at the end of the T-section of the pier, being watched by just five people.
If someone leaves, they should have to reel in their rods and give others a fair chance to fish. Instead, the organizers clearly let this happen to boost the number of entrants and increase the prize pot, while ensuring their friends had the advantage and could take home most of the winnings.
9001 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
Permanently Closed
Haunted house
Entertainer
Step into the spooky world of Haunted Mayfield Manor, a year-round haunted house attraction that promises a thrilling experience for visitors aged 11 and older. Recognized as one of USA Today's Best Spooky Houses in the USA, this eerie mansion invites you to explore its chilling corridors and encounter talented actors portraying ghouls and ghosts. Delve into the fictional residence of Dr. Mayfield, where skeletons, demons, and other supernatural entities await in every nerve-wracking nook.
I wanted to share my positive review of Galveston's Haunted Harbor tour, a unique 90-minute evening cruise through Galveston Harbor. This attraction, suitable for all ages, offers a one-of-a-kind experience. My 7-year-old and 11-year-old enjoyed it so much that they begged to return the next night, and we did!
The Boat Captains, with their great sense of humor and years of experience, and the equally incredible guide, who provided accurate accounts of Galveston's haunted history and general history, made the tour entertaining for young children, parents, and grandparents. Their expertise and knowledge added a layer of trust to the tour's quality. The tour was fun and comfortable, and it was held after sunset, so we didn't have to worry about the Texas heat.
The tour included sightings of abandoned ships, the face of William Wallace, and well-known accounts dating back over a hundred years. The kids were entertained the whole time, and as a bonus, the boat had a restroom. The tour was well worth the price and very affordable for the experience. I highly recommend this attraction and suggest checking out the Baywatch Dolphin Tours. The customer service and employees exceeded our expectations. We celebrated my son's birthday on the Dolphin Tour Boat last summer, and now our daughter wants her birthday there, too!
Robin P — Google review
We had some time to kill before lunch and saw a haunted tour and a pirate tour. We did not realize they were at the same place.
The decorations were cute. Definitely aimed at a younger audience. The staff was very nice. They have headphones so you can listen to the history. There are souvenirs for kids and adults to buy.
They also had an escape room for both sides. We chose the haunted one. The staff was nice and let us look ahead of time to see if it was something we wanted to do. We picked the haunted escape room.
The clues were easy to solve and we were done in 11 minutes but you knew it was not going to be anything spectacular. It was fun though.
Also, the more activities you buy to get a price break so that is nice.
Overall it is a cute place with several things to do to keep you entertained.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Baywatch Haunted Harbor Tours was a perfect way to spend my Tuesday night in Galveston! We even spotted late-night dolphins swimming, which was a delightful surprise. The tour was both fun and spooky, and we learned so much about the history of Galveston along the way. I would definitely do this again! Our boat captain and tour guide were amazing, making the experience even more enjoyable.
We did the Haunted Harbour Tour on a beautiful night in October. The boat was very comfortable and the crew was really knowledgeable and fun. There was some really cool history and sights seen- and some honest to goodness spookiness too. Highly recommend this tour!!
Had such an incredible time! We did the escape room ……. Not easy but we made it out:) the haunted house had more than its share of surprises! I didn’t see them coming. Great people run it and highly recommend! Much larger and longer than you think😍👻👻
This was such a fun experience!! We were in Gavelston waiting for our cruise and needed something to do to kill some time. We stumbled upon this location. They were so nice and accommodating for our large family! Highly recommend!
The escape rooms are awesome! We completed the haunted house in less than 25 minutes and they let us do the pirate one for free! The employees are really helpful and nice. The puzzles were fun and engaging. Definitely recommend for rookie room escapees!
The two escape rooms were really fun! Especially the pirate escape room! Although, not 5 stars because there were a few things that didn’t work. The customer service was great too. There’s a secret prize if you complete one.
2313 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Public golf course
Golf club
Golf course
Golf driving range
Located on Galveston Island, Moody Gardens Golf Course is an exquisite 18-hole public course that offers a unique tropical ambiance with stunning views of the sea, native areas, wetlands, and palm trees. Designed by renowned architect Peter Jacobsen, this challenging yet picturesque course is a favorite among both locals and visitors. Golf enthusiasts can book tee times to enjoy the breathtaking seaside setting and then relax at the Pelican Grille restaurant or browse the pro shop for golf gear.
We played this course twice while on vacation. Beautiful golf course! Very well maintained. Coastal links style. Fun track! Highly recommend playing here!
Brad G — Google review
BEAUTIFUL golf course! I'd recommend it again and again. The lady in the pro shop was the sweetest person ever. The course is very well taken care with lots and lots of surroundings water. Everyone is helpful and nice around the course. If you get a chance to go I wouldn't hesitate to book a tee time.
Clubhouse staff was very nice. Cart lady was wonderful. Starters/rangers were some of the biggest jerks I have ever interacted with on a golf course. We were treated like children and monitored like prisoners on house arrest for 18 holes.
We had two tee times back to back and we wanted to play with the 6 golfers in our group to keep our group together because there weren't any tee times after us for 20 minutes and we didn't see anyone ahead of us for at least 4 holes. We were playing a best ball scramble so we figured it would help speed things up, and we promised to keep pace of play and even offered to leave after 4 hours if we didn't finish our round. The starter's response to that was to yell at us, park his cart right behind us, and refuse to let 2 of us play our tee shots until the rest of our group was off the green- on a +500 yard par 5, mind you. His exact words were "There isn't a golf course in the country that will let you play 6 people!" And "You'd better not go play that tee shot!" Ridiculous and, frankly, embarrassing behavior from a man who appeared to be at least in his 70s.
This course itself is fine, but it is nothing special and nowhere near nice enough (multiple unplayable tee boxes and over-aerated greens to the point where sand clouds kicked up on all of our approach shots) to have workers on this much of a power trip. We listened to what the workers said on the first tee and despite our best efforts to follow their rules, keep our groups separate, keep pace of play, fix our divots, respect the course, and tip the cart lady well, we STILL had rangers pull up to us multiple times while we were playing to tell us that "the clubhouse is watching you guys like hawks." That is not a fun way to be treated, nor was it enjoyable to see rangers and starters trying to hide behind trees/bushes in their carts clearly watching us on dang near every other hole. We were also stopped on 18 after teeing off to be told, "You'd better not have 6 guys on the 18th green!" What a nauseating way to end a round of golf. The behavior of these workers made what would have been an enjoyable round with friends legitimately unpleasant.
One of our players was also forced to buy a collared shirt in the pro shop, which was fine, but then we saw multiple players on the course wearing t shirts and sleeveless shirts. Maybe locals? Whatever the case, this was a laughable and blatant double standard.
There was no answer when we tried call call ahead to order our food at the turn and when we got there, the worker straight up refused to make a burger for one of our players. The hot dogs, however, were delicious. Credit where credit is due, but when the hot dogs at the turn are the highlight of the whole day, that's not a good sign for a golf course.
the course is absolutely beautifull!! i am posting this on oct 16 2025 for reference to the time of year.
i dont think you can find a finer public course in the houston/ galveston area. they really do a great job of being consistant on the green speeds and all the greens look and feel great. i have been a member at bay oaks country club of houston and can honestly say that moody’s greens compete with them. AGAIN moody is public and not private so i want to emphasize that. All of the tee boxes, fairways, and bunkers were all very well maintained as well. the nice lady working at the pro shop was so proffesional and very nice. the range was mats only for long clubs but very clean. the chipping and putting green are bar none. they have a full size bunker and wedge green ( i shot it in at 50 yds from divot to green) very long for a wedge area, well maintainted just like the course! my only complaint has nothing to do with the course or staff but it is with the mosquitos. its not just a bite every now and then but constantly and in large groups. there are also these little black knats that bite you as well. all i can say is BRING INSECT REPELLENT!! the course is on the island so this is to be expected but just a heads up for first timers.
This has always been my favorite course, even though it gets windy I feel like that makes it more exciting. I drove down from Houston to practice before my round here tomorrow, thinking I’d just practice and head to the hotel room. Found out the range was closed which was no big deal but the guy at front said I could chip and putt. He asked if I need a few golf balls and I said heck yea. I thought he was going to give me a few range balls, instead he pulled out 3 titleist and handed them to me. I think he got them out of his own bag. Told me to keep them not to worry about it.
I will forever love this place but this added the cherry on top. To the young man I appreciate you for the kind gesture.
I’ll probably end up leaving them on the course tomorrow 😆
Played twice this weekend on Fr/Sa. The cart guys and bartender and staff inside the clubhouse were very courteous and helpful. The tee boxes were pretty beat up and the greens were dry, but overall the course was decent and fairways played well. Landscaping and overall attention to detail was lacking, for the price point of this public course. There are par 3’s near my home I play weekly that have neater and more thoughtful landscaping for 2/3rds the price including cart, with just as challenging of layouts and greens.
The real kicker was the petty shit the course rangers and starter tried to pull, and how condescending they were. We were a group of 6 with no groups after us or ahead of us, on track for 4:10 pace for 18 holes, and overall were playing very quick, neat golf. The rangers were literally harassing us, nit-picking cart distances and made one of our guys buy a shirt when at least 2-3 other guys on the course on holes 3-8 had no collared shirts on. Maybe they were locals.
Lots of bugs, no shade, but water coolers around the course were cold and full. Like I said, great staff at the clubhouse and snacks and drinks were reasonable for public course pricing.
Will look for a better-maintained and managed course next trip to Galveston. Crabby old men who want their egos stroked have no place on courses where the goal is to educate, aid, and encourage capable, paying golfers who are being playing on-pace, respectful rounds and coming back multiple times in the same week to your course on our trip to your market.
Definitely a recommend in Houston area.
Fairways, greens and even the bunkers are very well maintained and pace of play was nice. Staff were all very friendly and helpful. The only down side I can think of was the mosquitos so you need that bug repellent with you - though did not help that much in my case. The greens could be faster but given the heat I guess this is somewhat inevitable. Not saying its slow but just saying.
I am new to the area and am visiting courses in random order, this course is on top of the list so far.
Its about an hours drive from the Heights area but definitely worth the drive.
Course is nice, but there is no discount after they've aerated the greens. Sand all over them so basically unplayable. Disappointing for $100
1700 Sydnor Ln, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
Tour agency
Restaurant
Tour operator
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with the Taste of the Strand Food Tour in Galveston, where you'll explore the vibrant flavors of the Strand District. This original foodie tour invites you to savor mouthwatering southern dishes while a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating tales about the city's rich history and its beloved eateries. As you stroll through this charming area, which boasts beautifully restored 19th-century buildings that survived The Great Storm, you'll discover an array of shops, galleries, and museums all within walking distance.
I took this tour with some friends and was very surprised at how interesting it was, and even though I had been to a few of the restaurants, the things that we tried were things I had never tried there before and was very happy with it. I would gladly recommend it to people, both new to the island and People who have been here many times before.
Our guide was spectacular. She really cared about the city and the history of the city and connecting with
Craig C — Google review
Rachel was an excellent tour guide! She kept us entertained as we went from food experience to food experience and as she shared her personal knowledge and impressions regarding the food and history of Galveston. It was great her sharing the time with us! We can highly recommend the tour. Food was great too! We ended up pretty stuffed!
My husband and I did the Tapas on the Strand Food & Drink Tour, and it was the highlight of our trip to Galveston! Our tour guide, Special Kay, was very friendly and knowledgeable. We learned a lot about the history of Galveston and enjoyed plenty of different food and cocktails throughout the night. We also heard about the best places to go in town, which we would not have visited otherwise. I highly recommend their tours! Thanks for a great time, Special Kay!
Rachel was great! She is friendly, provided a lot of information about Galveston. All the food tasting were fantastic! Highly recommend.
This was our first time visiting Galveston. So glad we chose this tour. Rachel was very informative and fun We had a great time, enjoyed all of the stops as well as the company!
This was my husband and I's favorite thing we did while visiting Galveston!! Our guide was so sweet and fun. She not only took us to the most amazing restaurants, she also shared a lot of history about Galveston while we walked. This food and drink tour is a great way to try the best local restaurants and food. We were visiting Galveston for our anniversary and our guide even surprised us with flowers and a dessert to celebrate! We highly recommend this tour to everyone visiting Galveston!
Rachel was great! We loved our food tour with her. All the food was delicious with generous portions.
My wife and I celebrated our Anniversary in Galveston and did the Taste of the Strand Food Tour. Our tour guide, Rachel, was energetic, super sweet, and very informative! Every dish we had was delicious and we learned so much about Galveston! We had so much fun and are already planning our next tour with Rachel!
102 20th St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
expensive
Latin American restaurant
Bar
Fine dining restaurant
Rudy & Paco Restaurant and Bar is a sophisticated dining spot in Galveston, offering a blend of Central and South American flavors with an Italian touch. The restaurant has a dress code and is popular among the upper class. It features an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a night out. The menu includes creatively prepared Latin American steaks and seafood dishes like plantain-encrusted Gulf red snapper topped with lump crab meat and raspberry-chipotle sauce.
Rudy and Paco's will forever be ingrained in our hearts as our favorite Anniversary restaurant.
From immaculate plates of food to flawless service this place is beyond amazing. Every single bite of food is made to make you just melt into your seat. Adding perfectly crafted cocktails along with a huge selection of alcoho fantastically compliments an outstanding evening with my Wife.
If I had to summarize Rudy and Paco's in one word, it would be: Phenomenal. As close to perfect as I have ever had.
David L — Google review
Outstanding restaurant for special occasions. The service here is well above most other restaurants. The attention to detail is everywhere. The food is fine dining yet the portions are large which is awesome because my wife and I like to eat! All of the food we had was outstanding: avocado salad, empanadas, vuelve a la vida, plantain crusted redfish with scalloped potatoes and vegetables, chocolate delicioso and bread pudding. On the bread pudding: I never thought I would ever find a a bread pudding even close to that of Parrain's in Baton Rouge; this matched it!!
Rob, Jose, and the rest of the servers were magnificent! Thanks for a wonderful dining experience! (I enjoyed red snapper and cake!)
Samantha was our server who did an amazing job of being attentive to any needs without being overbearing. It was my wife’s birthday and the meal was nothing less than phenominal! I had the red snapper and my wife had a meat free pasta dish. I have eaten fish in many countries and cannot say I have had a better prepared fish anywhere. We will go back.
My husband and I celebrated our 20th anniversary here recently. They start off by bringing plantain chips and two salsas that are deliciously savory. We ordered the crab cake for an appetizer, and it was possibly the best crab cake we've ever eaten. Our main course was the filet mignon which they happily split for us. It was cooked perfectly. Dessert was chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream which was heavenly. They have a nice selection of wines and spirits and the ambiance was subdued and romantic. Our waiter was friendly. If I have one complaint, it was the taste of the iced tea. Overall, this is one of the best meals we've ever had, and we plan to go back for another special occasion.
Oscar was so attentive and kind. He made my birthday celebration so special. The pork chop special on Tuesday is delicious and the cuatro leches cake is amazing. Would definitely recommend this spot for lunch since the dress code is a little more lenient. Smart casual will do the trick.
We came here on our honeymoon- it was a referral from the B&B we stayed at and stayed the night in Galveston before we went on a cruise. It was a great ambiance in there, was nice to dress up (they have a dress code) and the food was great. I got a spicy seafood pasta. They even threw in a complimentary dessert as a congratulations!
Hands down one of the best experiences I’ve had dining out in a very long time. Reservations, dress code, no kids, perfect ambience, seamless service, and quality food. We were served their plantain chips with two sauces after sitting down. My husband and I shared two plates, the vuelva a la vida, and the Ojo de Castillo. The calamari, shrimp, crab claws incorporated in the linguini pasta was spot on, with a good spiced heat complimenting the entire dish. The steak was cooked a little more than our medium rare preference, however the taste was great and still manageable to chew. The sourdough bread served is absolutely delicious, perfectly crusted on the outside and soft on the inside. The service was extremely attentive; water glasses never hit the bottom, our silverware was updates based on what we were eating, and very tall man dressed more than the servers approached us for our experience. One of the most wonderful surprises were the synchronized serving done when serving our meals. I felt like I was on a private yacht and it was just the two of us. The interior is tastefully done, the lighting is not offensive, and had we not eaten a larger meal earlier we would have probably enjoyed the crab cake and some cocktails. Such a magical treat on this island.
Side note: adhere to the dress code. Most negative reviews are ladies that dress think they look cute in a jumper, but when your knee caps show, it’s a no-go.
2028 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
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affordable
Fishing pier
Sights & Landmarks
Bait shop
Located on Seawall Boulevard, the 61st Street Fishing Pier in Galveston is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Open seasonally from March through December, this family-friendly pier offers rental fishing gear and sells bait, drinks, and snacks. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of purchasing everything they need at the pier without having to bring their own supplies. The upper observation deck provides stunning views while visitors can fish all night long. Additionally, there are discounted tickets available after 2 a.m.
I’m a beach lover, so whenever I visit a new state, I always make time to see the shore. The front area of the 61st Street Fishing Pier is very beautiful and relaxing. I stayed at a hotel right across from the pier, which made it so easy to walk over and enjoy both the early mornings and evenings by the water. It turned into one of the most memorable parts of my trip. Just a tip — don’t forget sunscreen, even in the early morning, because you can get tanned here quickly. A lovely spot in Galveston to enjoy the beach and ocean views. 🌊☀️
Asha T — Google review
Minus one star because I have to say I wish the pier was fixed at the bottom farthest out of it where water meets. Staff is nice and my son enjoyed it there. Lots of room to maneuver and affordable price for day along with bag of bait. Bathrooms available. They have food there upstairs as well great if you don’t want to fish and just hang out and still be able to watch your kids fish below. This is definitely our new spot.
First fishing trip for my 9-year-old and first time going to Galveston to fish. We ended up doing early night fishing, got there right before sunset about 7:30 on Saturday. Not a whole lot of people so we were able to get in and find a spot. We were closer to the building and not far out at the end of the pier because it was a little more crowded down there. We were able to get in and pay our fees and get the bait as well. caught about 16 catfish. We threw them back. We were just fishing for fun and to spend time. They were mostly little babies. overall, great experience. People were friendly. It was just a nice experience overall.
I came here on a Saturday night and had buffalo shrimp tacos and they were very tasty. The live entertainment was good, he was very engaging and pleasant to listen to. It was lovely to be able to sit on the dock and stare out at the ocean, listening to music, eating a nice dinner, with a margarita.
This little bar is super fun! Perfect place for a bar. And you can fish right off it down below the bar. Great service as well!
My family and I loved visiting here! They have the best view of the sunrise!
Was good location but the pier is small and didn't have gold luck catching fish. The staff are nice though
Small and nice place to enjoy fishing. A very cozy and family-friendly place
6101 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551, USA•
Public library
Museum
Libraries
Rosenberg Library, the oldest continuously operating public library in Texas, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1871. The main building was dedicated in 1904 and expanded with the Moody Memorial Wing in 1971. This expansion doubled the floor space and added a history center, children's library, galleries for museum collections, and a computer lab.
Beautiful old library. Great place to visit even if you can’t check books out. They do have a cute little book store. Lots of art and history to see.
Mindy L — Google review
This is a great place to go with any age level. Especially i love 1st floor children book section and 4th floor exhibition of 1900 storm in Galveston.
Good place to come on a rainy day in Galveston. Fourth floor has a free exhibit about Juneteenth and another smaller exhibit with pictures from the 1900 storm. Not a place that you "must" visit, but it is an option if you need to kill time.
I am new to the area and just recently retired. I am 62 years old. I’ve been using the Rosenberg library services to check out books since the beginning of the year. I’ve never been late with return and have always taken good care of the books. Today I went to check out some books with the automated service and was told I needed to speak to someone at the desk. I did so I was told I had a fine, I was very confused as I had not returned anything late. she told me there was water damage in one of the books I had returned sometime in the last few months. She went to get the book. She opened the book to the middle of the page and there was a few rumpled marks in the page. Nothing dramatic or bad at all. She then told me I had to pay $18 or could not use the services of the library any longer. I said I would never damage a book and how can you guarantee that it happened during my check out versus a check out of someone before me, she said they just knew. Also, this was a new author for me. John Marr and I didn’t care for him so I never finished the book. The ““ water marks were in the middle of the book. I paid the fine. I checked out my books. I left. I reached out to the admin support super freaked out that I just had to pay $18 for a couple of pages that were slightly damaged, which I do not believe I caused in any way shape or form. Very concerned with this process. I’m now scared to check out any books with the fear that if one tiny mark is on the book I will be charged another $18. I’m retired and on Social Security.
Wonderful I was born in Galveston Texas moved to Fort Worth in 99. I came to the Library to find and archive of my dad’s obituary and the librarian was wonderful nice and helpful and also gave me the 10 cents to make the copy. I attended this library as and adolescent and I always loved going there. Mrs.Diana was wonderful and friendly as well as the officer. Thank you for always creating a nice peaceful place to assist all. There was always thing’s to do and the staff always nice. It was good to come back and be help and assisted. Thank you keep up the good work. God bless Rosenberg. A Galvestionan til I die Syeeda Brewster 💙😍
I was born in Galveston and the library was one of my favorite places; I haven't been there for years, but I loved their book sales event. The last day of the book sale you could buy a paper bag for $5 and fill it with as many books as you could carry. The Rosenberg Library will always have a special place in my heart.
The Rosenberg Library is really a hidden gem in Galveston. My family loves coming here. It’s never crowded (because tourists come for the beach), but it is PERFECT for families. Their selections of books for children and Young Adult are really outstanding. My young son loves to read and play downstairs in the children’s section, and they always have an engaging display or reading program going on. My dad loves the architecture. You’ll hear my son often say, “I love this library”!
My family and I finally got to visit the Rosenberg Library. The staff is friendly, from helping us to set up our library cards to providing information about the library and events. The process to check out books is very effortless after our library cards are set up. The website is also full of info and is consistently updated. I'm most looking forward to bringing my kids here for storytime. There are also exhibits and special archives on the history of Galveston.
2310 Sealy Ave, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Permanently Closed
Antique store
Shopping
Nautical Antiques & Tropical Decor is a great place to find antique maritime items and collectibles. The store features a wide range of antiques, including furniture, art, and even vintage clothing. The owners travel the world in search of new ship pieces to add to their collection.
They really have some of the absolute coolest things here! I’ve never purchased anything, just because it’s not my decor aesthetic, but I just love the history in their pieces!
The shop owners are very friendly!
Definitely a great place to visit!
Summer T — Google review
Sad they are closing but happy for their retirement
This store is amazingly incredible in a fantastic way. The items very from $20/50 to $5000. Alot of new crafty driftwood home decor art. Tons of salvage nautical items! I could spend hours just browsing the cool items available. We were very happy with our experience and purchases.
Hands down, this is my favorite store in Texas. There is a mix of new and salvaged items, which I found fascinating. I'm one of those people that thinks everything tells a story, so as I walked through this store I was overwhelmed with the possibilities. I was very happy to hear they had a website--I can't wait to follow the store owners' journey as they travel the world to find more ship pieces to put in this shop.
Knowledgeable staff and really awesome REAL merchandise. You can feel the history behind each item. Its wonderful. You never know what your gonna see around the next corner. This place is full of nautical delights for everyone. The prices are commensurate to the value of the items so it's not cheap, but very reasonable.
Great place to shop, Great place to get nautical and tiki stuff. Always go here to get stuff to add to our tiki bar. Great customer service. Love the people.
I love this place. Their prices are quite good. Shop around online and they're nearly 50% less in most cases. It's like a little museum. I bought two nautical lights for a table lamp I'm building. The staff are nice and very helpful. I'll be back with my daughter soon as she'd love it.
Really cool stuff, things you rarely see anywhere else. If you’re into ships and nautical stuff, it’s for you. Very helpful staff, and great location.
2202 Mechanic St, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
affordable
Bar
Art gallery
Coffee shop
The Proletariat Gallery & Public House is a unique hangout spot located in a beautifully restored 1890s loft. It serves as both an art gallery and a bar, offering visitors the chance to enjoy craft brews, local art exhibitions, and board games. The space hosts open mic poetry events and features a rotating selection of works by local and visiting artists.
This is an amazing spot with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for studying or getting together with friends. The music is relaxing and creates a great ambiance, while the menu offers a variety of food, drinks, coffee, and teas to enjoy. Open until midnight, it’s an ideal place for night owls or anyone looking for a cozy, productive environment. Whether you’re catching up with friends, working on a project, or studying for exams, this spot provides everything you need to stay comfortable! :)
Lara K — Google review
Was there as the guest band for Sidewalk Sessions. Second year doing this and we love the Proletariat Gallery & Pub for hosting and promoting live music. The staff is extremely friendly and the atmosphere is really cool. If your plans take you to Galveston the Proletariat needs to be on your list of places to go. And don't forget about the live music at Sidewalk Sessions on Wednesday nights from 8:30 to 9:30.
I haven’t eaten the food here but I love getting the Earl grey tea with a shot of almond milk on the side since it is loose leaf. The tea is delicious and I love the artistic atmosphere especially the bound notebooks on the counter with people’s art in it. The bartender is wonderful and nice. I highly recommend visiting if you want to relax with a nice drink and enjoy the atmosphere.
We come for the vibes, and it does not disappoint! Such kind people with such delicious drinks. I loved their new reeces latte. Get it iced, and you'll love it too. My boyfriend claims their cold brew is superior to all others. Nothing beats it. We also like to get a snack there by ordering pizza. I think its a separate business that they collab with. Either way, so good. One thing I love about coffee shops and The proletariat in general is their board games and, especially, their bar journal. We love writing in the bar journal, expressing what we think in that moment, seeing what others have said. Its a pretty great experience. We also like opening a tab there, which is super accommodating.
She Electra She remembered you told Electra to leave because you said that THE AIDEN THE GREAT GENIUS speaking was bothering a bitter old man and that is why Sean is NOT a star because She Electra she says that Sean got burnedddd😝
Sean not SOL because only she has the accounting book and DIOS gave her the sword that she has and she can not die.
So, Esther says that when you try hard is when you die hard!!!!
🗡️🔥🗡️🔥
Because remember when he said “SHE Electra IS HOT…and you are not” 😌
Because she is just a girl baby…👼
So much to say! It's a family and pet friendly pub with craft beer, wine and coffee, an art gallery, and a showplace for art activities. Also sponsors a street concert every Wednesday night (originally started during the COVID lockdown, so musicians could safely perform and building residents could attend via their surrounding windows). There's more but I just suggest every visitor to Galveston experience this unique place themselves.
Loved the vibe! Friendly staff and good drinks. Bonus points for the board games.
Been coming here since I moved to Galveston in 2019. It's a fantastic place that is really a big part of my Galveston experience. I frequent the place as a place to study. They have both coffee and lots of alcoholic drinks. It's especially a nice place to study on a weekend night when all I want to do is hang with my friends instead. So to keep things spicy, I usually will get a draft deer on a slow Saturday night.
The only reason I take a star is because their wifi isn’t always the most reliable.
This place is also perfect for a hang out with friends or when family come into town. Pro has art exhibits year round that changes about once a month from amazing local artists. They have a large selection of board games as well. Check them out!
2221 Market St #100, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Bicycle Shop
Bicycle rental service
Canoe & kayak rental service
Surf shop
Island Bicycle Company is a laid-back bicycle shop located on Seawall Boulevard in Galveston, TX. The shop offers bikes of all styles for rent or sale, along with parts and repairs available. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the East End Historical District via bicycles, enjoying lovely views of Galveston Beach along the way.
The shop is very kind, he fixed my bike for free because the bolts were loose and I couldn't ride the bike, he is my lifesaver. Please everyone come and support this shop!!
Nonthikarn D — Google review
5 stars my bike needed minor service (air in the tires and a brake adjustment) the mechanic there stopped what he was doing and got the problem fixed right away, tested the bike, and did it all for free. Super nice store as well and friendly staff if you need a to buy, rent, or need service done I highly recommend.
Joey was so kind and SO helpful! I brought my bike in for a weird gear shift problem that had been "fixed" previously and he figured out what was actually wrong & had it back in working condition in just a few minutes! Haven't had a problem with it since :)
This place definitely understands how to treat customers. Went in to fix 2 flats and turns out all i needed waz some air. The man filled up my tires and loaded my bike back up for me. They were very professional and knowledgeable. Well definitely be going back for any more needs i come across.
My son’s bike seat was too low and we needed a tool to lift it up. Stopped by on our bike ride and they were able to lift it up in just a couple of minutes. So helpful!
I had my bike tuned up after a few years of neglect. The service was affordable, timely and my bike has never been better!
How is it you say you can do something but yet broken promises. Don't say take your word that you can put defeatable tires on and give you some days. Yet 2 days past and we call you say be fixed 3rd day and you don't call us to say you can't you wait for us to call and you had our information and number."VERY VERY UNPROFESSIONAL LIKE WILL NEVER COME BACK OR REFER YOU TO ANYONE ELSE! Have a great day but never order anything online if you gone lie get your life straight
Island Bicycle Company made our Galveston seawall adventure unforgettable! Nephews and I pedaled away on a surrey bike, laughing, exploring, and creating cherished memories. Friendly staff, easy rentals.
1808 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
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Antique store
Hendley Market is a must-visit spot in Galveston, offering a diverse range of fun and eclectic finds for almost everyone. The market gained popularity for selling the outrageously delicious cider beetle, which has a rich history dating back over 35 years. Originally created as holiday gifts by two women from Katy, the cider beetle quickly became a hit at Houston's Nutcracker Market before making its way to Hendley Market in 2005.
Loved browsing these whimsical finds with an exciting mix of new and old, and handmade gifts. The nativities collection was beautiful! Found a treasure for my preteen crafty artsy bookworm! The owners were reassuring, helpful with recommendations, and very upbeat just like their store! Such a fun place to explore wish I had hours more to check it out!
Kat L — Google review
We had a incredibly good experience with Mike, the store’s owner
We had an issue with our car when we were back from Ossoyos to Vancouver on January first when every thing was closed! They helped us and also offered a coffee to us. They were extremely friendly and happy to help us
We bought a sausage beef pastry and it was just delicious
Thank you so so much for your warm welcome and your big beautiful heart 💓
There were so many unique finds inside Hendley Market and aisles were wide for our limited mobility grandparents. I loved the unique blend of modern "retro" items mixed with true vintage finds. It is a good mix between gifts, new books, antiques, old books, textiles and so many other things. We got an old mirror, new French soap and some other items. Check it out for yourself. Friendly associates also!
Such an amazing and wondrous place! A must for your "to go" list! So many cool vintage and artisan pieces. Books, bags, scarves, jewelry, collectibles....oddities!!! Lots of fun! Great staff too! 👍
This store is a delightful blend of vintage and new items. The collection of old books was particularly captivating, and I found the collection of old silverware with its origin and date to be truly unique.
Had the cutest rings there and staff was super nice! I will certainly be returning.
Loved this little store! Eclectic collection of old and new items for sale. Impressive collection of nativity scenes from more than 20 countries. Not a repeat of the other souvenir shops. We visited during the first weekend in December, Dickens on the Strand Event.
My favorite store in G town!! I need more stuff lol
2010 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550, USA•
Beach
East Beach, located on the far eastern tip of Galveston Island, is a lively and vibrant destination known for its beach party atmosphere. It is the largest beach in Texas and offers a range of amenities including showers, restrooms, concessions, umbrella rentals, and volleyball courts. The beach also features a boardwalk, concert stage, outdoor bar, and allows alcohol consumption.
Easy to get on and off. Beach rentals employees were extremely polite and helpful. Just a fantastic place to visit.
Jon J — Google review
Love the beach. It’s our go to place. We rent umbrella with 2 chairs. Parking is $15.
I don’t like the changing area. Doors aren’t locking. Floors are flooded and green. But beach was great.
We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!!! The beach was cleaned, maybe too clean because there were no sea shells bigger than my pinky nail we could bring home, but it was fun for a few hours. Nice white sand walking to the water then the Gulf hits it.
Clean, and uncrowded. There was a lot of parking available at the beach but also saw many public access parking lots on the way to the beach.
Nice beach area, but it's all the same as the other beaches that don't charge for parking. Yes, there's a restaurant and volleyball and other things, but 15 bucks for parking is silly. There's so many better locations, many with food.
Had a great time here for Sandcastle Festival!
Mostly clean (only saw a bit of trash along the beach). Free, ample, and close parking. Beautiful beach!
Beach was clean. Water was clean as well with calm waves. Nothing compared to Egyptian beaches tho(dahab, gouna, north coast, sharm el sheikh). The water isn’t blue even though it’s clean and everything. I think it’s because of the dark sand. Also I wished there were any showers or toilets. It’s a public beach with free parking
Non-profit organization
Canoe & kayak tour agency
Education center
Artist Boat offers guided kayak tours in Galveston Island's nature, led by knowledgeable instructors who provide art and environmental education. Participants can express their creativity through sketching, painting, or photography while learning about the local ecosystem. The tours are available in both group and private options with a focus on environmental stewardship and creative self-expression.
I went as part of a class trip and really enjoyed my experience. We paddled for 2 hours in the East End Lagoon and got to see wildlife. My favorite was the Magnificent Frigatebird.
By far the best part was taking out the paper and painting something with watercolors. Even if you've never painted before, you can do this! They make it very easy for you to emulate your surroundings on the canvas. It made me pay attention to nature and look more closely at things I might not normally see.
The tour guides taught us about Saltwort, which is apparently an edible succulent that grows in the marsh and (!) is for sale at Central Market for you to put on your salad. But picking the plant right out of the marsh and getting to taste it right from the source was a really unique experience.
It was hot, so please prepare accordingly. Bring a hat, water, and more sunscreen than you think you need if you burn easily like me.
Emma A — Google review
This was one of the best kayaking tours ever!! It was the highlight of our anniversary weekend and we will definitely revisit with our kids one day!! Our tour guide was VERY welcoming, passionate and knowledgeable! I totally recommend this place for a family, couple or even a field trip tour!
Best in everything they do. Most importantly, they educate kids to CEOs. And they are constantly growing.
Awesome small non-profit with a big heart for kids, the coast, and art!
Awful, ruining the wetlands for profit.
Nature is beautiful.
13330 Settegast Rd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA•
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