The 10 Best Things to do in Galveston Island, Texas (TX)

A lively strip in the heart of historic Galveston feautures pubs, delis and specialty shops.

Walk along this eight-mile seawall built to protect Galveston from the raging winds and waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Restored to its turn of the century splendor, the 28,000 square-foot, four-story structure was completed in 1895. Today, our guests visit 20 rooms on a self-guided tour that depicts the home life of a powerful Texas family. The Moodys established one of the great American financial empires. Based on cotton, it grew to include banking, ranching, insurance and hotels. The mansion is one of the finest places to visit, a trip back in time. Touring the museum should definitely be on the top on the list for things to do on Historic Galveston Island. Tour Information: Self-guided Audio Tours: Children 6 & Under Free Self-guided audio tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last tickets sold at 4p.m.; house closes at 5 p.m.) Behind-the-scenes Tours: Exclusive docent-guided tours to areas not normally open to the public 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday | limited size tours | reservations highly recommended Group Tours: Moody Mansion tour descriptions: Self-guided audio tours: Two audio tours allow you to set your own pace through the house and grounds. • The Moody Family tour features six members of the Moody family telling stories about their ancestors. This tour is also translated into Spanish. • Mary’s tour, appropriate for children and adults, is narrated by an actress portraying the late Mary Moody Northen as if she were guiding you through her home. Guided 25th Anniversary Tour: Behind-the-scenes tours celebrate the 25th anniversary of Moody Mansion’s restoration. A knowledgeable docent guides guests through areas not normally open to the public, describing Mary Moody Northen’s vision for preserving her home and sharing her collections. These tours are conducted at 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tour size is limited; reservations are highly recommended.

The Bishop's Palace (a.k.a. Gresham House) is a contributing building in the East End Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. The house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places at the national level of significance in the area of architecture. Architectural historians list the Bishop's Palace (Gresham House) as one of the most significant of Victorian residences in the country. It is owned and operated by Galveston Historical Foundation.

Welcome Aboard! Galveston Naval Museum is home to two Historic Naval Ships listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Touring both the USS Cavalla and the USS Stewart, you'll learn what sailors and submariners ate, where they slept and how they worked together as a fighting force during World War II. We are more than a WWII museum. We are an educational center and unique venue for Ship Sleepovers, private events and special occasions. Our Mission: To PRESERVE the historic integrity and authenticity of our ships. To REMEMBER and HONOR our Greatest Generation who sacrificed so much for our enduring freedom. To EDUCATE all generations about American history, U.S. Navy heritage and innovation, and the courage of our military heroes and their families.

The Ocean Star is a retired jackup drilling rig that offers a fun, hands on way to learn about the offshore oil and gas industry in a comfortable and accessible facility. The museum features three floors of models, exhibits, equipment and interactive displays illustrating the story of offshore exploration and production. This self guided museum offers visitors the unique opportunity to board an actual offshore rig. While ticket sales halt at 4:00 PM, visitors can remain until the site closes at 5:00. Welcome Aboard!

Surrounded by vivid colors and wildlife from across the globe, you're immediately engaged at the Rainforest and Aquarium Pyramids. Moments later, you're transported via state-of-the-art imagery and sound at the MG3D Theater with the world's first Giant Screen 6P Laser Projector on the largest screen in Texas. Then, the thrill of the Ropes Course and Zip Line, Speed Exhibition and Colonel Paddlewheel Boat awaits. And whether it's morning golf, a spa afternoon, a Palm Beach playdate, or a dreamy overnight hotel stay, take this moment and make it your own as you immerse yourself in some real quality time.