If you’re headed to Galveston for a weekend or an extended vacation, then try some of these Galveston attractions. Here’s a list of Texas Outside’s Top Ten Fun Things To See & Do in Galveston, Texas. You’ll also find these 10 things to do and see, and more, on our interactive Galveston Map.
Go Camping
One of our favorite things to do in Galveston is camping at Galveston Island State Park, which was destroyed by Hurricane Ike in 2008. In 2011, renovations began. Read the review of Galvestion Island State Park to learn more.
Play Some Golf
Moody Gardens Golf Course is a fun 18-hole course. Read our review of the Moody Gardens Golf Course.
Enjoy the Sand & Surf
Hit the beach for a little swimming, fishing, biking, flying kites, paddle ball, bocce ball, or just chilling out.
Visit the Strand
You can’t leave Galveston without checking out The Strand for quaint shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Pedal a Bike
Bike on the beach or along the seawall, which is a long paved trail along the seawall. There are also some unique and interesting housing developments to ride through near Galveston Island State Park as well as 4 miles of multi-use trails across the highway from the state park. These can be used for hiking and mountain biking around the bayou. Our favorite thing is to bike along the seawall and make frequent stops at the bars and restaurants facing the ocean.
Visit NASA Space Center
Located in Houston, the NASA Space Center is the most popular attraction in the area for international travelers. Just a short 40-minute drive from Galveston, your entire family will enjoy the interactive exhibits. The center has a food lab, a gift shop, and a spectacular Mission Mars exhibit. Our favorite thing at the space center is Independence Plaza, which features a replica of the space shuttle Independence.
Go Boating, Kayaking, Fishing, or Parasailing
Launch your own kayak or rent one, and explore the bay and bayous across the street from the state park. You can also charter a fishing boat, or rent a kayak, jet ski, pontoon boat, or ski boat. Or you might just go parasailing.
Tour the Historical District
Ride your bike through the Galveston Historical District and see the beautiful restored homes dating from the 1800’s.
Check out the Tourist Attractions
Visit Lone Star Flight Museum if you like aviation. Moody Gardens has an aquarium, pool, Imax theater, and more. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark has lots of fun and thrilling water-related things to do. Check out the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum, or visit the Texas Seaport Museum and board the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa. If you really like museums, visit the Galveston Railroad Museum, and make sure you ride the Galveston Island Trolley.
Explore the Houston Bay Area
About 20 minutes from Galveston is the Houston Bay Area, which has lots to see and do. Check out Kemah for rides, waterfront dining, and entertainment. Read the Exploring Southeast Texas Thank God For Weekends to find out what to see and do in Kemah.
Author: Mike Sharp
I have a passion for travel and outdoor activities, and now I'm enjoying retired life. I will continue my traveling, golfing, boating, and enjoying life all across the great state of Texas.
