Galveston, TX is a gulf-front haven for relaxing time at the beach and family-friendly amusements. Whether you’re seeking a sandy shore, a day at a waterpark, or shopping and dining in a quaint, historic downtown setting, this vacation destination has something that will delight the whole family.
Once you’ve found your home base in a Galveston vacation rental, you’ll be set to explore this gem in the Lone Star State. Here are some top attractions you won’t want to miss.
Explore the 32 Miles of Galveston’s Beautiful Beaches
Known for stretching miles of sandy shores, Galveston is the perfect place for a beach trip. Grab a beach blanket, some sunscreen, and a good book for a day spent lounging near the Gulf of Mexico. Walk or jog the longest sidewalk in the United States, the Galveston Seawall, which runs parallel to the beach and boasts murals, shops, restaurants, and gorgeous views.
For more outdoor activities, spend the day at Galveston Island State Park. Explore the park while you cast a fishing line, mountain bike, bird watch, or even journey down a paddling trail in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard.
Find Thrills on the Historic Pleasure Pier
Family fun awaits at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Complete with thrilling attractions like the Iron Shark Rollercoaster, Texas Star Flyer, and the Cyclone, the pier is the perfect place to take a break from the beach. You won’t want to miss climbing aboard the Galaxy Ferris Wheel to view Galveston from new heights. Coasters aren’t the only activity to be found on the pier — you can also challenge a friend to play an arcade game, hop in the thrilling 5D Theater Rides, or pick up a souvenir from the Pelican’s Bag gift shop.
When you’re feeling hungry, head to Fish Tales to dig into some delicious seafood dishes and test your movie trivia knowledge while you’re at it. Top off the day by grabbing an ice cream cone at Sweet Scoops and watching the sunset.
Experience the Pyramids of Moody Gardens
Explore the depths of the sea and the canopy of the rainforest at Moody Gardens.
Inside the Aquarium Pyramid, find a 1.5-million-gallon tank filled with underwater marvels from stingrays, sharks, and schools of fish. Feeling adventurous? Book a Penguin and Seal experience to go behind the scenes with a biologist to learn more about a penguin’s diet, art skills (yes, art skills!), and even meet a seal.
Once you’ve fully explored ocean life, head to the Rainforest Pyramid. Listen to the sounds of birds that are native to the rainforests of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Catch sight of beautiful plants and other awe-inspiring creatures from sloths, monkeys, and river otters.
Outside, make a splash at Moody Garden’s waterpark, Palm Beach. Whether you want to float around the lazy river, lounge in a cabana, or ride down a waterslide, Palm Beach is a perfect hangout spot for the whole family. Other thrills can be found on the Zipline and Ropes Course or by spending the afternoon with a ride on the replica 1880s Colonel Paddlewheel Boat.
Step into the 4D Special FX Theater to experience a nature documentary or even a blockbuster film on the big screen with special added effects — or head into the Discovery Museum to stroll through the exhibits. Need even more fun? Book a tee time on the Moody Gardens Golf Course for a day hitting the links and enjoying the Lone Star State sunshine.
Make a Splash at Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Beat the heat with a trip to Schlitterbahn Waterpark. With waterslides that are perfect for thrill-seekers, a lazy river ideal for a relaxing float, a swim-up bar where you can cool down with a tropical drink, and a wave pool that invites the whole family to jump in, this Galveston attraction is the perfect way to spend a hot summer day in the Lone Star State.
Gather your courage to ride down the Cliffhanger waterslide, learn to surf on the Boogie Bahn, or grab an inner tube to travel through the twists, turns, and tunnels of the Dragon Blaster. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing time lounging poolside or a thrilling adventure on the water rides, this amusement park is sure to make for a remarkable summer day.
Explore Historic Downtown Galveston
End the day exploring Galveston’s Historic Downtown district. Take a stroll down the “Wall Street of the South,” also known as The Strand, where you can find gift shops, boutiques, antique stores, and local eateries. For waterfront views, head to Pier 21 for gulf-front dining options, rooftop bars, or even board a Dolphin Tour.
For beautiful Victorian-Era architecture, visit Postoffice Street. Along with being home to stunning, 19th-century architecture, Postoffice Street is also a hub for Galveston’s art scene where you’ll find art galleries, local pubs, and even catch a show at the Grand 1894 Opera House.
Request a Galveston Visitors Guide
Galveston is home to beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and a charming historic downtown area. You’re sure to have a trip filled with fun and excitement that will satisfy the whole family. For more information on the amusements and natural beauty of Galveston, request a visitors guide here: Request Information