Your Ultimate Guide to a
Galveston Family Getaway
Explore the Outdoors
SPONSORED BY Visit Galveston
One big advantage of staying overnight in Galveston is being able to just wake up and hit the beach early, avoiding crowds and even getting to watch a jaw-dropping sunrise on the horizon. As for which beach to choose, Galveston’s coastline boasts a variety of beaches, each offering its own unique atmosphere. First, there’s the bustling energy of East Beach, known for its expansive space and numerous amenities that include chair and umbrella rentals, along with volleyball courts everyone is free to use. Equally beautiful is Stewart Beach, perfect for families due to its calm waters, lifeguards, and public showers. Plus, both of these beaches are ADA-friendly, offering beach wheelchairs and mobility mats at no cost based on availability.
By the way, if you’ve ever wondered why the water in Galveston is always changing colors and sometimes results in blue water days, we have the answer! Several factors play a role, including consecutive days of light winds. For example, a persistent south wind in the Western Gulf of Mexico directs saline water northward along the Texas Coast, blocking less salty water with higher sediment loads from Louisiana. Since calmer water also allows sediment to settle, a seasonal pattern in late summer and autumn creates a contrast between blue water moving north and browner water to the south, resulting in clearer water.
Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Texas less than an hour’s drive from Houston, Galveston offers the perfect setting for families seeking a memorable getaway. From its sun-kissed beaches and historic charm to its ocean-fresh restaurant scene and endless array of activities, Galveston promises fun for all ages.
However, there is one major mistake most families make. While day trips to this coastal gem are common, staying overnight unlocks far more possibilities, allowing families to immerse themselves fully in all the island has to offer. Let’s explore why spending a night or two in Galveston is the ultimate recipe for an adventure-filled family excursion!
Whether the water is blue or not, most families are looking to explore beyond the shore too. Kayaking through Galveston Island State Park offers a chance to paddle through scenic marshes and observe diverse wildlife along the way. Alternatively, joining Artist Boat’s tours through the Coastal Heritage Preserve provides an educational adventure where parents and kids can delve into important discussions about preserving our favorite marine environments.
Moody Gardens: No matter how young or old your kids are, the pyramids at Moody Gardens are a must-visit. At the Aquarium, kids can see dozens of penguins interacting above and under water, as well as sharks swimming overhead in magnificent tunnels. There’s even an opportunity to pet real live stingrays! The Rain Forest pyramid also offers a recreated natural environment with tons of unique birds, animals, and insects that children will get to see with their own eyes.
Tall Ship Elissa: Built in 1877, the tall ship Elissa once served as a cargo carrier transporting goods across trade routes. Purchased by the Galveston Historical Foundation in the 1970s, visitors can now tour the Elissa and experience maritime history firsthand. Once seen, you’ll know why this iconic ship serves as a testament to the island’s legacy of seafaring.
If staying on land is more your style,
families can rent bikes and surreys from Island Bicycle Company and pedal along the scenic Seawall Boulevard – even making their way through the island’s charming neighborhoods at their own pace.
Galveston Railroad Museum: Housed in the historic 1932 Union Depot, the Galveston Railroad Museum showcases the region’s railroad heritage with a vast collection of artifacts and equipment. Kids can have an unforgettable time playing with vintage locomotives and exploring passenger and freight cars while learning about the pivotal role railroads had in the island’s development.
The Bryan Museum: Dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the American Southwest, the Bryan Museum is located in the former Galveston Orphans Home and features an extensive collection of artwork, documents, and rare books spanning thousands of years. With mainstay exhibits and guided tours, visitors can get a feel for the diverse heritage of the region, checking out Native American and Spanish colonial artifacts, cowboy and ranching memorabilia, and items related to the Texas Revolution.
Part of the beauty of Galveston Island – especially for Houstonians who live nearby – is that there is way too much to see and do in a single trip. All the fun will make you want to return again and again. Here are a few more favorite ideas to keep the family entertained!
Always an enticing way to spend an afternoon, families can stroll along the various shops and restaurants on The Strand, a historic strip with gorgeous architecture. One of those beloved storefronts is La King’s Confectionery. Watch candy makers pull old-fashioned saltwater taffy and then select some delicious treats of your own.
If a waterpark is something your little ones would enjoy in addition to the ocean, plan a few hours or an entire day at Schlitterbahn, famous for its massive water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Also a huge hit with families, the Pleasure Pier was built on stilts over the water right on the seawall and is loaded with carnival rides and games year-round.
More Fun Activities Kids Will Love
Families visiting Galveston have an array of accommodation and dining options tailored to their needs and preferences. For a family-friendly stay, lodging like the Moody Gardens Hotel, San Luis Resort, and the Hilton Galveston Island Resort all offer spacious rooms and convenient locations. Alternatively, home rentals and beachfront condos through sites like Airbnb and Vrbo provide flexibility that mimic the comforts of home.
When it comes to dining, Galveston definitely caters to families, with most restaurants offering kid-friendly menus and relaxed atmospheres. Favorites include the family-owned Gypsy Joynt, known for its eclectic decor and tasty comfort food, and the Rainforest Café, where diners can enjoy a jungle-themed meal. For those craving seafood, Shrimp ‘N Stuff Downtown offers mouthwatering Gulf Coast specialties in a casual setting, while the iconic Joe’s Crab Shack provides a lively atmosphere perfect for families.
Stay + Dine
While there is a great deal of value in taking the entire family on an overnight trip to Galveston, all of these back-to-back attractions can add up. You’re in luck though! Visitors can save up to 40% on Island Attractions with the Galveston Island Pass. There’s no better time to start planning your next family getaway, so be sure to head over to www.visitgalveston.com for more insider details on how to spend your island time.
How to Save Money on Attractions
Save up to 40%
Hitting up the beach is always a blast, but day trippers usually forget to take advantage of educational attractions – which aren’t boring in the least! Staying on the island overnight is a cleve way to divide up days, opting for the outdoors one day, following by indoor activities the next. Here is a handful of ideas to consider adding to your to-do list.
Educational Fun
For a memorable maritime experience, don’t forget about the Galveston Harbor Tour and Dolphin Watch either, where panoramic views and sightings await visitors of all ages. Similarly, Baywatch Dolphin Tours at the Galveston Historic Seaport also take families out on the water, and kids are always up for seeing these friendly, intelligent animals frolick in their natural habitat!
