21 Fun Family-Friendly Things to Do in Galveston with Kids
Galveston, a coastal city, named after Bernardo de Gálvez y Madrid, is located on the gulf coast of Texas. It is that city to bring your family to!
The people are friendly, and the atmosphere is exciting. There’s always something going on in this beach town. From water activities to historical sites such as Victorian-era buildings and panoramic views that will leave you speechless, you’ll never run out of things to do or places to see while visiting Galveston.
And if your kids want more than just sightseeing, they will be excited to know there are plenty of kid-friendly activities. So, why not organize a trip to this quaint coastal city? Here are some of the best family-friendly attractions Galveston has to offer!
- Port Bolivar Ferry
If you’re interested in an excellent way to get views of the city while on the water, visit Port Bolivar Ferry. It is just 18 minutes from Galveston’s entrance.
Why we recommend this activity
What better way to enjoy a beach day than a scenic boat ride? Galveston has no shortage of options if you’re looking for something free and kid-friendly. One such option would be taking advantage of its position by visiting Port Bolivar. In addition, the ferry ride is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Enjoy watching the beautiful dolphins as they jump following your ferry. Don’t forget to carry some snacks to feed the pelicans and seagulls.
During sunset, the views of the city are even more impressive, so make sure you go at least once during your golden hours’ ferry ride!
Recommended Ages
With such a scenic and enjoyable adventure, guests of all ages have a blast at the Port Bolivar Ferry.
- The Strand — Downtown Galveston
The Strand is a historic district established in the early 1830s. Moreover, a German immigrant opened a jewelry store during the early days of the district’s establishment.
This historic downtown area is best known for its lively nature influenced by two well-known festivals.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Strand — Downtown Galveston is great to bring the kids a fun day! It is one of the most popular attractions in Galveston, and for a good reason. It is full of shops, restaurants, and museums, making it the perfect place to explore for a day.
Kids will love visiting the Railroad Museum and riding the Harborside Trolley, while adults will appreciate the boutiques and art galleries. Not forgetting Christmas and the annual Mardi Gras festivals, the two most significant celebrations in Galveston!
Recommended Ages
If your family is made up of history buffs or shopaholics, this is the perfect activity for you! Everyone from the eldest to the youngest will find something to enjoy at the Strand.
- The Seawall
Galveston is well-known for its Seawall, built after the great hurricane of 1900. It was built as a way to protect the Island from future storms.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Seawall is a popular destination for families because it offers stunning views of the Gulf of Texas. It also provides an excellent chance to teach kids Seawall’s history and the importance of protecting our coastlines.
The Seawall is excellent for walking, running, riding bikes, or skating. You can also fish from the Seawall. There are many restaurants with outdoor seating where you can enjoy the view of the gulf. Whether you’re searching for a place to relax or an adventurous activity, the Seawall is sure to please.
- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier — Seawall
Located on Seawall Boulevard, Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a great way to spend a day in Galveston with the family! From its history, it was established purposefully for recreational activities.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a family-friendly attraction that offers something for everyone. With its midway games, rides, and retail shops, the Pier is the perfect place to spend a day with the kids. And, of course, no visit to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is complete without taking a ride on the historic carousel or enjoying a treat from one of the many food stands.
For those searching for a more exhilarating experience, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers several adrenaline-pumping rides, including the Texas twister and the Gulf Screamer. So, whether you’re looking for fun or excitement, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is sure to please.
Recommended Ages
There are no age limitations when enjoying the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. The Pier is perfect for a day out with the kids with its family-friendly rides and games.
- Tree Sculptures — East End
After a hurricane in 2008 that destroyed most of the trees on Galveston Island, artists were brought in to create sculptures from the remaining tree trunks as an act of beautification.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Tree Sculptures are a great way to teach kids about the importance of art and how it can be used to beautify our environment. The sculptures are also a beautiful sight and a great photo opportunity for the whole family. Not only are they a beautiful sight, but they are also a reminder of the Island’s resilience. In addition to the tree sculptures, the East End is also home to several excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops. So, this is the perfect spot to do it, whether you’re looking to take in some culture or grab a bite to eat.
Recommended Ages
The Tree Sculptures activity is best suited for kids aged seven and above, as they offer an excellent opportunity to learn about art and its ability to transform our environment.
- Galveston’s 61st Street Fishing Pier — 61st Street
Galveston’s 61st Street Fishing Pier is located along the Seawall on 61st Street. The Pier is an excellent place to fish, relax, and enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Texas.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The 61st Street Fishing Pier is an excellent activity for those looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With its beautiful views and ample fishing opportunity, the Pier is the perfect place to unwind.
In addition, the Pier is also a great place to teach kids about the importance of conservation. As a catch and release pier, the 61st Street Fishing Pier provides an excellent opportunity to show kids how we can all help to preserve our environment.
Recommended Ages
The 61st Street Fishing Pier is best for children aged five and above.
- Moody Gardens — 61st Street
Made up of 242 acres of land, Moody Gardens is a large complex featuring several different attractions. The Moody Gardens began in the 1980s with a riding arena and horse barn and has since grown to include an aquarium, a rainforest pyramid, a discovery museum, a hotel, and much more
Why We Recommend This Activity
Moody Gardens is a must-see for any family visiting Galveston. The Moody Gardens complex features a rainforest Pyramid, an Aquarium Pyramid, a Discovery Pyramid, a Ridefilm Theatre, and more. Visitors can walk through the rainforest, meet exotic animals worldwide, watch a 3D movie, and much more.
In addition, Moody Gardens is home to Palm Beach, a beautiful white sand beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Families can also enjoy the Seasonal Moody Gardens PyroSphere show or go on a Discovery Tour to learn about the birds and plants that call Moody Gardens home.
Recommended Ages
With so much to see and do, Moody Gardens will surely be a hit with kids of all ages!
- The Bryan Museum — East End
The Bryan Museum is a great dwelling to take the kids when you’re looking for something fun and educational to do in Galveston. Located on the East End, the museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Texas and the American West.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Bryan Museum is an excellent activity for families looking to learn about the history of Texas and the American West. The museum features several permanent and temporary exhibitions, a research library, and a museum store. Kids will love learning about the fascinating history of the Lone Star State, and adults will appreciate the opportunity to explore the museum’s vast collection.
Recommended Ages
The Bryan Museum is best for kids aged ten and above.
- Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum — Downtown Galveston
Ocean Star was established in 1967, and the rig opened as a museum in 1997. The Ocean Star is known to be the home to the only offshore drilling simulator in the world
Why We Recommend This Activity
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum is a family-friendly activity in Galveston that provides an educational and interactive experience. The museum is located on an actual offshore drilling rig and exhibits the history of offshore drilling, the science of oil and gas exploration, and the dangers of oil spills.
Visitors can also tour the drilling rig, sit in a lifeboat, and learn about the safety procedures used by offshore workers. Ocean Star is a great activity for families with kids of all ages, and it’s sure to provide an enlightening and fun experience.
Recommended Ages
Ocean Star is a great activity for families with kids of all ages, and it’s sure to provide an enlightening and fun experience. But, a visit to the museum is more meaningful to visitors aged seven and above.
- Galveston Naval Museum — Pelican Island
Located on Galveston Island, Galveston Naval Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the area with kids. The museum is home to many historical naval vessels and has been restoring and maintaining the USS Stewart and the USS Cavalla since 1999.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Galveston Naval Museum is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun and learning. The museum offers exhibits and activities that are sure to be enjoyable. Exhibitions include an overview of the history of the U.S. Navy and Galveston’s role in the development of the Navy.
The museum also features several interactive displays, including hands-on opportunities to learn about naval science and engineering. In addition, the museum offers various educational programs for kids, such as classes on shipbuilding and navigation. With so plentiful to see and do, Galveston Naval Museum will surely be a hit with the whole family!
Recommended Ages
From adults to kids, the Galveston Naval Museum is an excellent place for all ages!
- Galveston Island State Park — West End
The Galveston Island Park was opened to the public in 1970. Moreover, the park could withstand the 2008 hurricane and still attract visitors.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The park offers family activities, including picnicking, hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. In addition, the park has a playground and a variety of educational programs. Galveston Island State Park — West End is also home to various wildlife, making it an excellent dwelling for kids to learn about nature. With so much to do, the whole family will have a blast!
Recommended Ages
From kids as little as two years old to adults, everyone can find something to enjoy at Galveston Island State Park — West End!
- Schlitterbahn — 61st Street
The Schlitterbahn is a waterpark located in Galveston that first opened in 2006 and is known for breaking the Guinness World Records as the Tallest Water Coaster.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Schlitterbahn features various family-friendly activities. There are several slides, attractions, a wave pool, and a lazy river. The park also has a seating area for picnics; visitors can bring food or purchase items from the concession stands. There are also many cabanas and lounge chairs to soak up the sun. In addition, there is a large sand volleyball court and various arcade games for those who want to stay on dry land.
Recommended Ages
Despite the Tallest Water Coaster title, the Schlitterbahn is still an excellent place for families with young kids.
- Galveston Railroad Museum — Downtown Galveston
The Railroad museum holds the history of the Island’s railroad, which was first launched in 1983. The Railroad Museum is famous for being one of the few places where kids can take a ride on a real steam engine.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Galveston Railroad Museum is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun and learning. The museum offers several exhibits and activities that are sure to be enjoyable for all. Exhibitions include an overview of the history of the railroad and Galveston’s role in the development of the railroad.
The museum also features various interactive displays, including hands-on opportunities to learn about railroad science and engineering. In addition, the museum offers several educational programs for kids, such as classes on train building and railroad safety. With so plentiful to see and do, Galveston Railroad Museum will surely be a hit with the whole family!
Recommended Ages
From adults to kids, the Galveston Railroad Museum is an excellent place for all ages! But, the train ride is best suited for kids aged three and above.
- Galveston Children’s Museum Learning Center — Midtown
The idea of having a children’s museum was first introduced by educator Nancy Schultz. The idea materialized, and the museum was launched in 2014.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Galveston Children’s Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that are sure to be enjoyable for all. Exhibits include an overview of the history of the Island and Galveston’s role in the development of the museum.
The museum also features diverse interactive displays, including hands-on opportunities to learn about science and art. Additionally, the museum offers several educational programs for kids, such as classes on painting and sculpture.
Recommended Ages
From toddlers to preschoolers, the Galveston Children’s Museum is an excellent place for all ages!
- Porch Café — East End
If you’re searching for a delightful place to take the kids in Galveston, look no further than Porch Café! This café is located in the East End of town and is the perfect spot for a family breakfast or lunch. The menu features all your favorite breakfast and lunch items, and there’s something for everyone.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Not only does Porch Café have great food, but it also has a fun and family-friendly atmosphere. The café is decorated with colorful paintings and a play area for kids. Porch Café also offers a variety of events and activities for families, such as story time and sing-alongs.
Recommended Ages
Porch Café is a great place for families with kids of all ages.
- Clay Cup Studios
Clay Cup Studios is a great place to take the kids to Galveston! This studio offers a variety of pottery painting and clay classes for kids, and it’s the perfect place to spend a rainy day.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Clay Cup Studios is a great place to take the kids because it’s both educational and fun. In addition to learning about art and pottery, kids will also have a blast painting and creating their masterpieces. Clay Cup Studios also offers a variety of special events, such as birthday parties and field trips.
Recommended Ages
Clay Cup Studios is best suited for kids aged ten and above. However, younger children are welcome with adult supervision.
- The Spot
The Spot, a restaurant on the seaside in Galveston, is the perfect place to take the kids for a casual lunch or dinner. The menu has a set of choices from all your favorite American classics, and there’s something for everyone.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Spot is a great place to take the kids because it has a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. In addition, the restaurant is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy beautiful views while you eat. And, if the kids get restless, they can burn off some energy by playing in the sand.
Recommended Ages
The Spot is an excellent place for families with kids of all ages.
- La King’s Confectionery
La King’s Confectionery is a must-visit for anyone visiting Galveston with kids. La King’s is a family-owned business that’s been making homemade candy.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The confectionery offers a variety of sweet treats, including saltwater taffy, fudge, pralines, and toffee. But the show’s real star is the candy kitchen, where kids can watch candy made right before their eyes. La King’s also offers several kid-friendly activities, including face painting, balloon animals, and plenty of photo opportunities. And best of all, the confectionery is located right in Galveston’s historic Strand District. So when you’re finished with your sugar high, you can explore all that the Strand offers, including shopping, dining, and live entertainment.
Recommended Ages
La King’s Confectionery is an excellent place for families with kids of all ages.
- Seawolf Park
Seawolf Park is a great place to take the kids to Galveston! It is home to the Seawolf Pier, which offers fishing, birdwatching, and crabbing. The Seawolf Museum is also located at Seawolf Park and contains many interesting maritime exhibits.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Seawolf Park is a great place to take the kids to Galveston! It features a playground, picnic areas, a fishing pier, and a walking trail and is also home to the Seawolf submarine, open for tours. The Seawolf submarine was launched in World War II and served in the Pacific Theatre.
Today, it is docked at Seawolf Park and serves as a memorial to the submarine’s brave crew. Visitors can tour the Seawolfsubmarine and see what life was like for the sailors who served on it. Seawolf Park is great to learn about the history and have fun too!
Recommended Ages
This activity is great for any age group to get involved and have fun.
- Galveston Historic Seaport – Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA
Galveston Historic Seaport is a must-see for any family visiting Galveston with kids! Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, the Galveston Historic Seaport offers a variety of family-friendly activities surefire to please everyone in the family.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Galveston Historic Seaport is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun and adventure. This unique attraction is home to the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, one of only three tall ships in the world still in sailing condition.
Visitors can take a tour of the ship and even go for a ride on the vessel if they’re feeling adventurous. The Seaport also has several interactive exhibits focusing on Galveston’s rich maritime history. Kids will love exploring the various displays and learning about the city’s role in the American Revolution.
Recommended Ages
Galveston Historic Seaport is a great place for families with kids of all ages.
- Galveston Baywatch
Galveston Baywatch is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun in the sun. The presence of Baywatch Dolphin Tours provides an educational and fun experience for tourists of all ages in a natural setting.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The highlight of the Baywatch experience is undoubtedly the dolphin tour. Visitors can watch dolphins up close as they swim and play in their natural habitat. The Baywatch staff is very knowledgeable about dolphins and is happy to answer any questions you may have. They also offer several other tours, including boat tours, kayak rentals, and fishing trips.
Recommended Ages
Galveston Baywatch activity is suitable for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents, and if you have a pet, they can come too!
