things to do in galveston with family
Galveston Island is a popular family-friendly destination in Texas, offering a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. Here are some things to do in Galveston with your family:
- Moody Gardens: A must-visit attraction in Galveston, Moody Gardens features three pyramids: the Aquarium Pyramid, the Rainforest Pyramid, and the Discovery Museum.
- Galveston Island Beaches: Spend the day playing in the waves, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing on the beach. Stewart Beach and East Beach are popular spots.
- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: This amusement park offers thrilling rides, games, and attractions for kids of all ages.
- Texas Seaport Museum: Learn about Galveston’s rich maritime history and explore the Elissa, a historic tall ship.
- Galveston Island Railroad Museum: Take a train ride through the island’s historic neighborhoods and learn about the railroad’s impact on Galveston’s development.
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston: Cool off during the summer months at this popular waterpark, featuring water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
- Galveston Island Nature Center: Explore the island’s natural habitats, including coastal wetlands and beaches, and learn about the local wildlife.
- Strand District: This historic district offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the Grand 1894 Opera House.
- Galveston Island Ferries: Take a free ferry ride between Galveston Island and Bolivar Peninsula, offering stunning views of the Houston Ship Channel.
- Galveston Children’s Museum: A great place for younger kids to learn and play, with interactive exhibits and activities.
- Haunts and Legends Tour: Explore Galveston’s spooky side with a guided tour of haunted sites and legendary tales.
- Galveston Island Birding: Galveston is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 300 species of birds documented on the island.
- Galveston Island Surfing: Take a surf lesson or rent a board to catch some waves on the island’s beaches.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore Galveston’s waterways and coastal wetlands by kayak or paddleboard.
- The Grand 1894 Opera House: Attend a performance or take a tour of this historic theater, which hosts concerts, plays, and musicals throughout the year.
- Bishop’s Palace: Tour this stunning Victorian-era mansion, which features impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Galveston Island Museum of Natural History: Learn about the island’s natural history, including dinosaurs, marine life, and coastal ecosystems.
- Fort Defiance: Explore this historic fort, which played a role in the Texas Revolution and the Civil War.
- Galveston Island State Park: Hike, bike, or kayak through this 2,000-acre park, which features nature trails, wetlands, and beaches.
- Mardi Gras Museum: Learn about the history of Mardi Gras in Galveston, which dates back to the 1800s.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Galveston with your family. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone on this Texas island.