Galveston Island Attractions

Discover the most popular museums in Galveston, TX and experience the rich history of Texas artifacts, documents, memorabilia, artwork, and more.

Explore the best museums in Galveston and experience a wide variety of breathtaking exhibits, including art, history, science & culture.

Galveston plays host to a number of museums and cultural destinations including The Bryan Museum, the Historic Seaport and 1877 Tall Ship, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum, the Galveston Railroad Museum, and the Galveston Arts Center.

The Strand District

Visit the heart of Galveston’s downtown by experiencing all that the Strand District has to offer. This historic area features the heart of Galveston’s shopping, restaurants, boutiques, and gifts shops. Once named the “Wall Street of the South” this unique district is made up of incredible architecture and early american style. Come and experience all that this district has to offer in the best of dining and entertainment.

The Postoffice District

Marked by its beautiful Victorian architecture and colorfully painted storefronts, the Postoffice Street area is full of charm, offering an enchanting blend of art galleries, boutiques, antique shops, and lively entertainment, including The Grand 1894 Opera House, which is the premier performing arts theater in the Gulf Coast region. This area is also famous for its chic eateries and cozy coffeehouses, including MOD, which has been brewing up fresh coffee for Galvestonians for the past 15 years.

This area’s artsy atmosphere has made it a fresh hangout for locals and the center of the island’s popular ArtWalk held every six weeks.

The West Market

This burgeoning area west of the downtown district boasts old-fashioned, fabled establishments with lots of room for new tenants. Area anchors include Maceo Spice and Import Company, where visitors can sit at a community table for an unforgettable meal; Daiquiri Time Out, which features fresh, classic cocktails in a sleek, urban setting; and much more!

Containing a world-class aquarium, a living rainforest, a Discovery Museum, and more, there is plenty to do and see at Moody Gardens.

Moody Gardens is a unique and immersive attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of fascinating exhibits, activities, and events. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a fun day out with your family, Moody Gardens has something to offer for everyone.

The iconic Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is one of the island’s premier attractions where thrills, entertainment, and nostalgia intertwine.

From exhilarating rides that make your heart race to delightful games that test your skills, and delectable dining options that satisfy your taste buds, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers a wealth of experiences for visitors of all ages. Get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement and discover why this pier holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and travelers alike.

Cool off and BLAST OFF this summer at our waterpark near Houston on beautiful Galveston Island. From mild to wild, there’s something for everyone at Schlitterbahn Galveston.

Rivers connect for a mile of fun through three distinct park sections at Schlitterbahn Galveston. The waterpark is a thrill seekers paradise with high thrill speed slides including Rohr!, MASSIV, and the immersive Screaming Serpents body slide. Each section has raft rides, pools and water coasters with great picnic pavilions and pint sized water playgrounds for kids of all ages. If you are looking for a way to cool off or fun things to do in Galveston, we have the hottest, coolest rides around.

Visit one of Galveston, TX beautiful beaches along the 32 miles of Gulf of Mexico coastline, including Stewart Beach, East Beach, Galveston Island State Park, and more.

Whether you are a family in search of gentle waves, a group of friends looking for a good time or an outdoor recreation enthusiast, Galveston has a beach for you.

Galveston features a number of incredible beach areas including the East Beach and Stewart Beach that include a ton of events and entertainment options. Check out incredible family events like the Galveston Sandcastle Festival, the Family Beach Challenge at Stewart Beach, and the Ohana Surf Dog Competition.

With so many miles of beach and events, Galveston makes the perfect beach front getaway.

Cruises Out Of Galveston

Galveston is the fourth busiest homeport in the country, with cruises departing throughout the year. Your vacation starts before you even board!

While millions of cruise passengers sail from Galveston’s bustling port each year, those in the know turn their cruise into a double adventure by discovering our island’s hidden treasures first.

Think historic mansions dripping with mystery, Gulf waves lapping at 32 miles of sandy shores, and a vintage downtown that feels like stepping into a living postcard. Whether you’re headed to Mexico or the Caribbean, Galveston isn’t just one of America’s top cruise ports – it’s your first taste of island time. Make your cruise countdown even sweeter by starting your vacation the moment you hit the island.

Just offshore from Galveston, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea becomes your playground. Visit exotic, sun-soaked destinations such as Mexico, Belize, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, the Bahamas, and the Honduran island of Roatan.

The following cruise lines offer departures from the Port of Galveston:

• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Royal Caribbean International
• Disney Cruise Line
• Princess Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Lines
• MSC Cruises