Hey! I’m getting so excited for my upcoming weekend trip to Galveston. If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Galveston when you visit, you’ve come to the right place! As a Galveston enthusiast, I wanted to share a local guide to making the most out of your Galveston vacation on a gorgeous spring or summer weekend.
Immerse Yourself in the Charm of the Strand Historic District
First things first, I have to rave about the Strand Historic District. This area is basically the heart of downtown Galveston, with Victorian buildings housing cute boutiques, restaurants, museums, and more along a picturesque tree-lined street.
It’s one of my favorite things to do in Galveston to just take a stroll down the Strand, popping into the shops that catch my eye.
Some of my favorites include La King’s Confectionery, which has old-timey candy and ice cream, and Hendley Market, which has fun unique gifts and souvenirs showcasing works by local artisans.
If you visit the Strand on Saturday, make sure to check out the Farmer’s Market held in the morning at “The Bryan Museum”. You can browse fresh produce, and artisan goods like soaps and jams, and grab some tasty street food from vendors while taking in the lovely atmosphere. Get there early before vendors sell out!
Soak up the Sun and Surf at Galveston’s Beautiful Beaches
Of course, no trip to an island destination like Galveston would be complete without some quality beach time! Galveston Island State Park has some of the best beaches in my opinion, with the nicest stretches of sand and calmest waters that are perfect for swimming with kids. Pack a picnic, build sandcastles, and splash in the gentle waves – quintessential things to do in Galveston TX!
On the other hand, if you don’t mind larger crowds, Stewart Beach is the place to go for exciting things to do in Galveston this weekend. Here you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and toys from Beach Services, pick up snacks at the onsite concession stands, play a bit of beach volleyball, or take a ride on the thrilling rides at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park located right on the beach.
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Indulge in Fabulous Foods Fit For a Gulf Getaway
One can’t forget about the amazing food scene when talking about things to do in Galveston! Stop by legendary seafood restaurant Gaido’s for the freshest and most mouthwatering Gulf catches. Rudy & Paco has my pick for the best authentic Mexican fare on the island. And don’t you dare leave without trying the heavenly gelato, cannolis, or rum cake at “La King’s Confectionary”!
Once your bellies are full, burn off those calories with a bike ride along Galveston’s picturesque Seawall Boulevard. This over 10-mile long path stretches along the shoreline of Galveston Island, offering gorgeous vistas around every turn.
You can admire the ornate mansions facing the Gulf beaches, watch pelicans diving for their next meal, or simply breathe in the refreshing ocean breeze. Plenty of places nearby rent bikes, surreys, and inline skates if you don’t bring your own wheels.
Watch Dazzling Sunset Views from Rooftop Bars
As the sunset paints a pink and orange masterpiece in the sky at the end of your day, I’d suggest heading to “The Rooftop Bar at the Tremont Hotel” for unparalleled 360-degree views and a buzzy atmosphere.
Sip refreshing cocktails and toast to an awesome weekend getaway while watching the sun dip below the horizon over the Gulf’s sparkling waters. Pure magic!
Cram in Last Minute Sightseeing at Family-Friendly Attractions
Sundays are perfect for checking a few more items off your things to do in Galveston kids bucket list before sadly having to depart this island paradise.
Start your morning off strong with a hearty, stick-to-your-bones breakfast at Sunflower Bakery and Cafe, a quirky spot covered in bright murals serving up fantastic benedicts and pancakes.
Then make your way over to Moody Gardens, an educational complex housing an aquarium pyramid, rainforest pyramid, discovery museum, 4D Special FX theater, colonel paddlewheel boat, and more family-friendly things to do.
You’ll easily spend an entire afternoon exploring all this fabulous destination has to offer. The kids will be enthralled by the penguins, sharks, palm trees, and interactive science exhibits!
Before you leave the island, send a postcard to all your jealous friends back home at Galveston’s Victorian post office downtown. This historic building contains antique mailboxes where you can mail letters by raising the red flag for a unique old-fashioned experience. Don’t forget to peruse the neighboring establishments for any last-minute souvenirs too!
