30 Best Things To Do In Galveston, Texas, For Your Next Beach Trip

This beach town is full of fun, including historical tours, seafood dives, and plenty of beaches to go around.

While West Palm Beach, Florida, might have recently earned the nickname "Wall Street of the South," it's not the first city to hold this title. Over a century ago, Galveston, Texas, once the largest city in the state, proudly held the same distinction. Today, Galveston has transformed into a charming year-round beach town getaway, boasting a variety of oceanside attractions like the iconic amusement park "Pleasure Pier" and 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches. Close to these oceanside delights, visitors can explore museums and preserved Victorian houses, some of which boast ghost tours and other historical attractions.

While it's tempting to visit Galveston for a quick day of street-level fun, the real treasure lies in its rich culture, stories, festivals, and tight-knit community. There's so much to explore on your next visit to this well-preserved, historic coastal destination.

Here are 30 things to do in Galveston, Texas, on your trip.

Cultural And Historical Experiences

Hidden beneath Galveston’s contemporary facade lies a rich history that significantly contributed to Texas' growth and economic expansion. The city on the island gained its southern Wall Street reputation in the late 1800s alongside the construction of the port. The new shipyard led to a flourishing trade and commerce industry which initiated the development of opulent Victorian buildings, shops, multiple newspapers, cotton manufacturers, cigar traders, and more. The coastline is full of intriguing stories of piracy and resilience against devastating storms, with various sites and memorials offering visitors a glimpse into Galveston's rich culture and history. Today, Galveston ardently honors its role as the birthplace of Juneteenth, the national holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. 

Moody Gardens Complex

This vast 242-acre complex offers a blend of entertainment, education, and conservation. With three glass pyramids dominating the skyline, visitors can explore a tropical rainforest, an immersive aquarium, and rotating exhibits of flora and fauna. Additionally, Moody Gardens offers access to Palm Beach, a multisensory theater, a golf course, and seasonal events during the holiday season.

moodygardens.com, One Hope Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77554

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

This landmark attraction, situated along the iconic Galveston Seawall, offers a nostalgic amusement park, restaurants, and shopping that pays tribute to the original Pleasure Pier, which was destroyed by Hurricane Carla in 1961.

pleasurepier.com, 2501 Seawall Blvd., Galveston Island, TX 77550

1877 Tall Ship Elissa

This surviving relic of maritime history is a three-masted barque originally built in Scotland in the late 19th century. Now a floating museum and education vessel, Elissa offers visitors a glimpse into Galveston's maritime history and commerce.

galvestonhistory.org, Pier 22, Suite 8, Galveston, TX 77550

Juneteenth Exhibits

Galveston, known as the birthplace of Juneteenth, hosts an exhibition named "And Still We Rise... Galveston's Juneteenth Story" at the historic 1859 Ashton Villa's carriage house. Managed by the Galveston Historical Foundation's African American Heritage Committee, the exhibit combines interviews, historical documents, and interactive digital elements to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the context, rich history and impact surrounding the emancipation announcement on June 19, 1865.

Adding to Galveston's historical attractions is "Absolute Equality", a 5,000-square-foot mural created by Houston artist, Reginald C. Adams. Located on the side of the Old Galveston Square building in downtown Galveston at 22nd and Strand, the mural portrays the journey of Black Americans from slavery to freedom. Presented in congruence with the Juneteenth Legacy Project launched during Black History Month in 2021, “Absolute Equality” contributes to the city's celebration of Juneteenth and honoring the legacy of African Americans.

The Galveston Railroad Museum

Housed in the old restored railroad depot, this museum offers interactive exhibits and guided tours, allowing history enthusiasts to travel back in time to the economic landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries as they hop on and off vintage locomotives and passenger cars.

galvestonrrmuseum.org, 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550

Eco-Art Public Kayak Adventure By Artist Boat

Participants are taken into Galveston Island’s nature through guided kayak tours. Led by knowledgeable instructors, the tours provide opportunities for art and environmental education, allowing participants to learn about the local ecosystem while expressing their creativity through sketching, painting, or photography. Artist Boat offers both group and private options, with a mission of environmental stewardship and creative self-expression.

artistboat.org, 13330 Settegast Road, Galveston, TX 77554

Ghost Tours

Go ghost hunting through Sealy Mansion, the Normandy Inn and Ashton Villa along The Strand with Historic Galveston Ghost Tours or Ghost City Tours. Galveston's very own paranormal experts like author Kathleen Maca or median Dash Beardsley also offer guided walking tours through the most haunted sites in Galveston.

Where To Eat

Gaido's

Recently celebrating its 112th anniversary this year, Gaido's prides itself as a classic Gulf Coast seafood destination that opened “in the same year the air conditioner was invented”. The menu features oysters, a shellfish tower, catch of the day mains, and Texas classics like the Famous Fried platter with seasonal seafood, fried catfish, hushpuppies, or Shrimp Peques - bacon-wrapped and stuffed with jalapeno and cheese. Be sure to check out the marquee for seasonal specials and their locally caught fresh catch - reservations recommended.

gaidos.com, 3828 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

Rudy & Paco

This restaurant brings Central American fare to Galveston's seafood and steak scene. Located next door to the 1894 opera house, it is the restaurant of choice for visitors who want to enjoy dinner and a show. Open for lunch and dinner, signature dishes include Ceviche Corinto from the Pacific coast of South America or the Filete De Pargo Simpatico—Plantain-Crusted Snapper.

rudyandpaco.com, 2028 Postoffice St., Galveston, TX 77550

Riondo's Ristorante

Satisfy an Italian craving at this bistro, which offers dishes like Chicken Parmesan, Osso Bucco, and thin-crust pizzas. Located in the Strand District, locals highly recommend this spot for happy hour.

riondos.com, 2328 Strand St., Galveston, TX 77550

Katie's Seafood House

This seafood joint sits above Katie's Seafood Market at Galveston's fishing port. The market offers freshly caught shrimp, crab, oysters, and fish for visitors who wish to take seafood back to their Airbnb and fire up the grill. The restaurant above, which opened in 2019, boasts a modern atmosphere and serves dishes like amberjack burnt ends, fried fish, shrimp and oysters, and snapper Vera Cruz.

katiesseafoodhouse.com, 2000 Wharf Road, Galveston, TX, 77550

Gumbo Diner

One of several spots owned by the Galveston Restaurant Group, Gumbo Diner is known for breakfast staples like chicken and waffles, big beach breakfast, country-fried steak and eggs, and beignets. This spot is a local favorite for a hearty morning meal or a post-surf brunch. For lunch and dinner, the gumbo, burgers, seafood platters, and jacked-up jalapeños are top of the list.

thegumbodiner.com, 3602 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, TX 77550

Mosquito Cafe

Boasting a dedicated local following, Mosquito Cafe offers a menu with something for everyone in an understated and approachable dining space. Favorites include hushpuppies and po'boys, and there's also a selection of lighter fare for those looking to avoid fried dishes.

mosquitocafe.com, 628 14th St., Galveston, TX 77550

Maceo Spice & Import Co.

This is a must visit for the famous muffaletta. Visitors can grab a sandwich and some pantry items from their nostalgic, kitschy storefront.

maceospice.com, 2706 Market St., Galveston, TX 77550

Where To Drink In Galveston

Daiquiri Time Out

Also known as DTO, as the locals call it, this spot is a craft cocktail lounge in Galveston that focuses on island flavors. The intimate space is demarcated by pink neon that feels like an 80s throwback to the film “Cocktail”. The summer menu features items like a mezcal cocktail with watermelon-berry cordial dubbed "Heat Wave,'' while the classic menu and happy hour offer items like the rum-forward Mai Tai or the refreshing and boozy cachaça-made Caipirinha.

dtogalveston.com, 2701 Market St., Galveston, TX 77550

The Rum Shack And Tiki Bar

Here, rum reigns supreme over tequila, mezcal, or whisky in Galveston. The Rum Shack is part of "The Spot," a 5-venue open-air, oceanside hangout. With over 50 rum selections, the menu offers cocktails like Mojitos, Pina Coladas, Hurricanes, and Mai Tais. Serving as a food and beverage amusement park, this venue is a post-beach happy hour destination.

islandfamous.com, 3204 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, TX 77550

Float Pool Bar

You get both ocean views and a swimming pool bar, along with food offerings like fish tacos, quesadillas, and nachos, at this bar. The umbrella-covered upper decks offer a beautiful lookout onto the ocean or pleasure pier, while at the pool level, guests can swim up to the bar and order another beverage.

floatpoolbar.com, 2828 Seawall Blvd., Galveston Island, TX 77550

Where To Beach

Galveston boasts more than 32 miles of white sand beaches. The island is home to some of the best surf in the state, with steady break waves and riptides that provide endless opportunities for water activities. Visitors are welcomed year-round to surf, boat, fish, parasail, and play beach volleyball, among other fun beach activities.

Stewart Beach

Find solace in this family-friendly stretch of sand on the eastern edge of the island where Broadway meets the Seawall. Lifeguards are on duty, and the sandy park offers restrooms, showers, beach volleyball courts, rental shops for equipment, and daily rentals of beach loungers and umbrellas.

East Beach

The largest beach in Texas, East Beach attracts droves of locals and tourists with its vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Most weekends feature live music, concerts, festivals, and events like the annual Sandcastle Competition hosted by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). You'll find it on the far eastern tip of the island.

Pocket Parks

These are smaller, more secluded beaches nestled along the seawall. Some popular pockets include Dellanera RV Park, Seawall Urban Park, and Beach Pocket Park 1.

West End Beaches

This area offers visitors a quieter, nature-forward stretch of the island. Jamaica Beach, Pirates Beach, and Galveston Island State Park are destinations for visitors looking to birdwatch, fish, camp, and enjoy more quiet, less crowded areas of the coast.

Beachtown

For a more exclusive experience, visitors can explore Beachtown on the far east side of Galveston Island. This area is only accessible to residents and guests, providing a tranquil stretch of sand. However, public boardwalks do offer views of this exclusive area.

Where To Stay

The Grand Galvez

This escape sits oceanside, just minutes away from the pleasure pier. If grandeur is what you're looking for, look no further. This destination puts the hotel at the center of the Galveston experience with an opulent bar, coastal art deco design, and full amenities. Dallas residents Mark and Lorenda Wyant purchased the historical building and began a multi-million dollar renovation of the 220-room resort years ago. The hotel was recently finished with new white marble flooring, crystal chandeliers throughout, and royal burgundy carpets and accent draperies. The couple also renewed the original Peacock Alley, a grand walkway leading from the lobby to the spa and ballroom while restoring the original moldings and ceilings from 1962. A new bar occupies the west loggia, providing views of Peacock Alley and the Gulf of Mexico.

grandgalvez.com, 2024 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, TX 77550

Hotel Lucine

Slated to open soon, this new retro 61-room boutique hotel will be a retro oceanside retreat across from a private stretch of Porretto Beach, featuring snack bars and rental shops. The hotel occupies the oldest remaining mid-century motel from the 1960s, Treasure Isle. Austin-based firm Kartwheel Studio brings a fresh look and luxury to the vintage roadside accommodation with white brick, bleached white oak, native greenery, and minimal mid-century interior design.

hotellucine.com, 1002 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

Carr Mansion

Formerly the Mermaid and Dolphin Inn, this B&B reopened in 2018 after extensive renovations. The building offers 8 unique bedrooms in the middle of Galveston's Historic District. Shannon Eddings chose a white backdrop with minimal details of classic furnishings and modern design to bring elegance and simplicity to this Greek Revival mansion. Each room has a different feel, and it’s an adults-only hotel for guests 21 and over. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a craft cocktail before making their way to a one-of-a-kind suite.

carrmansion.com, 1103 33rd St., Galveston, TX 77550

Bonnie Brook & Silver Foot Rail Cars

You can find overnight accommodations at Galveston Railroad Museum. Bonnie Brook dates back to 1949 and offers 2.5 bedrooms that can be converted into one large suite. Silver Foot offers a mahogany-lined living and dining space for a trip back in time. This "hotel" is a genuine opportunity to spend a night at the museum with access to the historical heart of the city.

galvestonrrmuseum.org, 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550

The Tremont House

Built in 1839, The Tremont House offers timeless luxury in a building constructed the same year modern Galveston was officially founded. With calming grays and whites against exposed brick, the building's restoration stays true to the original Italianate architecture, featuring 14-foot ceilings, ironwork bridges and balconies, and a four-story atrium that was once a dry goods warehouse in the city. The hotel is steps away from the historic strand and offers easy access to Galveston's historic landmarks, museums, and tours.

thetremonthouse.com, 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St., Galveston, TX 77550

The Kettle House

This property was renovated by Michael and Ashley Cordray before it was featured on the HGTV/DIY show "Big Texas Fix." It has quickly grown to be an Airbnb favorite, and the spaceship-shaped accommodation has become a landmark in Galveston's West End. The frame is a steel storage tank, adorned with a large wrap-around deck on the outside and thoughtful details on the inside, making The Kettle House a home away from home. The hosts are responsive and very helpful in curating a stay in Galveston and making the most of the West End.

The Oleander

This boutique hotel is located in downtown Galveston, near The Strand, the city's historical walkway featuring shops and restaurants. For a truly unique eclectic design and a more urban beachtown getaway, guests can book one of the six rooms at the Oleander Hotel or its sister sites such as Sugar's Inn.

theoleanderhotelgalveston.com, 520 20th St., Galveston, TX 77550

Family-Friendly Resorts

For families, large parties, and reunions, Moody Gardens Hotel and Spa and The San Luis Resort are the best options. These large resorts offer amenities, beach access, and poolside, beachside, and pyramid activities at Moody Gardens.

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