The crisp and breezy days of fall in Galveston are finally here! The season brings a perfect blend of mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and endless outdoor opportunities. We encourage all of our fall visitors to get outside and see all that Galveston has to offer. From festivals and serene nature escapes to historic tours and seaside adventures, here’s your guide to the top outdoor activities in Galveston to soak up every moment of your autumnal allure.
Fall Festivals & Events That Live Outdoors
Local festivals and events are always a huge draw for both those on a staycation in Galveston or visitors coming from other states. You will find quite a few different fall events and festivals to check out this season.
The Galveston Pirate Festival taking place from September 19–21, 2025 is a thrilling, family-friendly event complete with a pirate invasion, treasure hunts, costume contests, pirate music, and activities across multiple locations. The festival is found all over The Strand and Seawolf Park and includes tours of the USS Cavalla and USS Stewart. Weekend passes are affordably priced, making it a great event on your wallet.
Get ready for the Shrimp Festival & Sandcastle Contest in late September, where you can indulge in coastal favorites such as shrimp. Head over to Saengerfest Park or East Beach to check out the AIA’s annual sandcastle competition.
ARToberFEST is returning once again during the middle of October. This is Downtown Galveston’s premier fine art festival that features well over 100 artists. Additional activities also include live music, food stalls, and hands-on workshops in the Historic Cultural Arts District.
Harvest Moon Regatta is a local favorite and is on the calendar for October 26th. Grab a front-row seat along the Seawall as this nautical race features dozens of sailboats. This is a thrilling and free spectacle for marina and is great for nautical enthusiasts.
Island Oktoberfest closes out the month of October for a free, festive gathering at the First Lutheran Church. Like any good Oktoberfest, this event will come with German fare, beer, music, dancing, and more. Island Oktoberfest is perfect for families and culture lovers alike.
Nature & Wildlife Adventures
One great way to encourage some outdoor play is by finding the local wildlife. You can combine kayaking and birdwatching for an incredible experience. You can explore through the Galveston Bay Estuary or marshlands on a guided eco-art kayak tour that is a great opportunity to see dolphins, herons, and fall bird migrations. like Lafitte’s Cove and Galveston Island State Park are great spots to see migratory birds in action as they nestle in the area. You will find over 2,000 acres of beaches, dunes, wetlands, and trails in the park to explore. Additional activities that are frequently enjoyed here include hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. There are also exciting guided programs to sign up for such as sunset kayaking, beach walks, sunrise fishing, and night hikes during fall. The park continues to be a national highlight for both its affordability and amount of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Historic & Cultural Outdoor Explorations
No stay in Galveston is complete without a little outdoor exploration over in the Strand Historic District. This is a charming, Victorian-era style street that is packed with shops, museums, and art galleries. Take a ride on the vintage trolley or stop by Pier 21 with its tall ship and maritime exhibits. Historic Galveston Ghost Tours will help you find the spooky side of fall with haunted walking tours. You will be taken through sites such as Sealy Mansion and Ashton Villa. Haunting stories will be woven through your expedition as you find a fun twist on Galveston’s spooky history. Seawolf Park is nestled on Pelican Island and offers a unique memorial park with plenty of outdoor activities. Relax with fishing or picnicking with close-up views of the historic USS Cavalla submarine and USS Stewart destroyer. This charming waterfront is the perfect spot for a little autumn sun.
Beachside Leisure & Active Enjoyment
It is time to hit the pier and a visit to Pleasure Pier Boardwalk is just what the family needs. This local pier is open year round and extends out into the Gulf. You will find thrilling rides aboard the roller coaster and Ferris wheel. You can also check out the games, snack stalls, and vibrant Gulf views for a fun mix of adrenaline and nostalgia. Galveston features over 32 miles of shoreline so you can find a beach for every vibe. Stewart Beach is family-friendly with amenities like playgrounds and snack bars, while quieter options like West End offer tranquil settings for fall relaxation.
Plenty of Outdoor Fall Fun in Galveston
As you can see, the outdoor fun is plentiful right here in Galveston. The only thing to make a fall day in the area even better is a stay in our luxury vacation rentals. Book your family stay today for the best family trip to Galveston yet!
Going on a vacation is all about family, and this time you need to bring the whole gang when you visit Galveston. Our Texas home is the perfect place for a multi-generational trip where everyone in the family from the children to the grandparents can have a bit of fun. Galveston is full of family friendly activities and can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Here is how to plan a trip to Galveston that everyone will love in your family this year:
Find the Perfect Vacation Rental
The first step to planning any trip is to find the perfect vacation rental, and we have the best properties in the area. You will find that our vacation rentals are more than ready to handle your whole family. If you have extended family traveling with you, such as grandparents, you will want a property with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. This allows everyone to stay together in a single home instead of multiple hotel rooms, but still have plenty of personal space. You can expect amenities including a full-size kitchen and more waiting for you inside. Pick out a property by the beach for easy access or stay in a more suburban part of town, the choice is yours.
Check Out All Age Attractions
Part of the charm of Galveston is that it is home to all kinds of attractions that are perfect for all ages. That means a visit to one of these attractions will provide fun for everyone and not have anyone feeling left out.
You cannot visit Galveston and not make a stop in the Moody Gardens. This incredible attraction will quickly get the attention of everyone in the family and more. You will easily find the attraction with the towering pyramids standing tall in Downtown Galveston. Each pyramid holds a new attraction, such as an aquarium, rainforest, and 3D theater. You will find educational exhibits along with loveable critters in expansive habitats. Kids and grandparents alike will love what they find here!
If the grandparents are not joining your upcoming visit, you can take the family to Schlitterbahn Waterpark. This is perfect for children of all ages and the adults too. Check out the fast water slides or hang out in the lazy river. The swim-up bars are perfect for the adults to enjoy a minute to themselves.
Take the family out with a day on the town with a visit to the Strand Historic District. You can enjoy a leisurely walk with the whole family or do some boutique shopping. The Victorian Charm of the neighborhood is sure to catch your eye.
Time at the Beach
Galveston is home to several beaches where the family can sit back and enjoy the sunshine. Some local favorite beaches include Stewart Beach and Galveston Beach. Both are long stretches of sandy shoreline that provides a fun day at the beach. Bring towels and any supplies you need to set up in the morning. The water is always a great temperature, making it easy to jump in and splash around. Bring the sandcastle equipment to let the family build a fascinating structure. The beaches have nearby amenities including outdoor showers, restrooms, and food vendors, making it easy to stay at the beach all day long.
Find Family Friendly Restaurants
One of the hardest things to do when traveling with the whole family is finding a place to eat. Everyone can be picky with what they like to eat, so the more people you bring, the harder it is. Luckily, Galveston is home to some incredible food spots that are sure to catch your attention.
The Spot is a local favorite that features casual beachside food. You will find easy to eat comfort food such as burgers and seafood all right by the beach. Shrimp N Stuff is another similar spot that is known for their fresh and fried seafood baskets. You will find everything from shrimp to a variety of fish to order up. If you prefer a fine meal with an upscale feel, head on down to Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant. This spot is perfect to celebrate a dinner out to commemorate the family trip. Of course, you can always prepare many meals back at your vacation rental too!
Pick the Time of Year
Last but not least is making sure you pick the right time of year to visit Galveston when traveling with the whole family. If you want to avoid the large crowds, make sure to visit another time outside of summer. The grandparents will sure love being able to navigate the city without dealing with the humidity and heat of the summer.
Choose Your Vacation Rental Today
Now that you have your trip planned out, you can pick out your vacation rental for the trip to Galveston. You cannot go wrong with any of our incredible properties here in the area.
If you want time on the coast without fighting giant crowds, you will want to make your way to Galveston. Our Texas shoreline continues to be a top travel destination and doesn’t feature the crazy beach crowds of other states. During your stay you may find yourself interested in the free activities in the area to help save on your total budget. Galveston has plenty to offer that is free for the whole family. Here are the top free things to do in Galveston all year round:
Hit the Beach
As we mentioned, you will find plenty of space to hang out at the beach here in Galveston. We are best known as a top Texas coastal city that offers miles of beaches to explore. Heading to the beach is always free in the area, but if you drive, you may need to pay for parking. Galveston features over 30 miles of beaches giving you more than enough to see. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Stewart Beach and East Beach with both beaches featuring plenty of amenities including picnic tables and restrooms. If you find yourself in a vacation rental close to these beaches, you can easily walk to the beach to save money on parking. Seeing the sunset from either beach is a highly recommended activity by the locals that is of course always free.
Sandcastle Building
One of our favorite activities that is always free can also be found at East Beach. Throughout the summer season you will find several weekends where you can join in on sandcastle building lessons. These are provided by local pros who offer free classes right on the beach each Saturday in the summer. This is a great way to let your kids’ imagination run wild as they get to construct an exciting sandcastle. Many of our vacation rentals have beach gear on hand such as sandcastle equipment so you can enjoy this activity during the other months of the year too.
Take a Walk Along the Seawall
Galveston’s most famous structure continues to be the Galveston Seawall. This is the longest continuous sidewalk found in the country that stretches out over 10 miles. The path will take you along the coast so you can have views of both the city and the water. The Seawall is a popular spot for walking, jogging, running, and biking with many locals using it as their path for a morning workout. As you explore the path you will find plenty of historic architecture and art installations along the way. You will even come across different food vendors for when you are hungry.
Peek Around the Strand Historic District
Galveston is home to our very own historic downtown neighborhood that you need to explore. Walking around the city is always free, of course, and the Strand is where you want to check out. The area features well-preserved 19th century buildings that are now home to different art galleries and restaurants. During busier weekends of the year you can even find street performers and seasonal decorations in the area. This is a great spot to check out around the holiday season!
See the Port of Galveston
If you have anyone in the family who loves looking at ships and boats, you will need to take them over to the Port of Galveston. This is a busy side of Galveston that is home to Harborside Drive. Along here you can see the different cargo and cruise ships come in and out of the harbor. Shrimp boats will also pass by with huge catches of your favorite seafood meal. Pier 21 has several benches where you can take a seat and simply enjoy the view.
Find the Tree Sculptures
Back in 2008, Galveston was hit hard by Hurricane Ike that brought down several beautiful trees that have stood tall for decades. Local artists knew just what to do and turned the damaged trees into sculpted works of art. You will find these tree sculptures scattered around the East End Historic District. You can create your own scavenger hunt that will have you see sculptures of mermaids, whimsical figures, and different animals. There is even a free map online that you can download during your or visit the visitor center for a hard copy to help your exploration.
Get Ready for Galveston
These free activities will be around all year long here in Galveston to help you make the most memorable stay yet. Our vacation rentals are sure to keep the whole family comfortable with luxury amenities and plenty of space. All you have to do is find your favorite vacation rental in our listing and hit that book now button!
There is nothing better during the summer season than enjoying your favorite outdoor activities before you eventually get hungry for something delicious. During your summer visit to Galveston you will find that the area has plenty of local food vendors and restaurants serving up tasty eats. Take a look at some of our favorite spots to grab food at during the Galveston summer:
Fisherman’s Wharf
When dining out in the summer season you probably want to keep things casual so the whole family can enjoy their meal. Galveston features all kinds of local restaurants that include waterfront views. This includes local favorite Fisherman’s Wharf where you can find all kinds of locally caught seafood inside their welcoming space. When you arrive you will have the option for indoor or outdoor seating depending on your preference; we truly love a spot outdoors around happy hour so you can see the ships in the harbor and feel the cooler weather kick in. The menu at Fisherman’s Wharf is perfect for those who want to enjoy the local seafood of Galveston. You will find that the seafood selection is caught daily and offers some tasty specialty dishes. Local favorites include the crab stuffed tilapia, crab cakes, stuffed flounder, red snapper, mahi mahi, and so much more. You will also find a grill selection complete with your favorite steaks made to order. The kids will also have plenty to pick from even if they do not like seafood, including options such as chicken strips and burgers. Stop by during happy hour to grab a great deal on appetizers and drinks. The full service bar is able to whip up any of your favorite adult beverages. You won’t regret dining with Fisherman’s Wharf this summer in Galveston.
Doc Holliday’s Roadhouse
If you are looking for a relaxing evening at the local watering hole that also offers a spot to eat come on down to Doc Holliday’s Roadhouse. This saloon-style restaurant and bar is the best spot to find a pint of beer that is paired with an entrée of choice. Doc Holliday’s Roadhouse is designed to serve up your favorite bar food that will not disappoint. Their sandwich saloon selection will easily fill you up at lunch before you continue with your exciting summer day. Try out their buffalo crispy chicken sandwich or Deadwood prime rib. Just because it is a saloon does not mean you cannot enjoy a full service dinner too. Stop by in the evening for one of their main dishes that do not skimp on flavor. These meals feature fish n chips, blackened mahi mahi, pork chops, BBQ ribs, and of course plenty of burgers and steaks. Kids are more than welcome here at Doc Holliday’s and there is a lengthy kids’ menu to pick from; have them pick out from alfredo pasta, pizza, chicken tenders, and more. You can’t stop by Doc Holliday’s without trying one of their world famous margaritas; try out the margarita flight to sample a few of them! Don’t miss out on happy hour and daily specials too all found at Doc Holliday’s Roadhouse.
Shark Shack
When you dine out in Galveston you want to find the top restaurants in the area. The summer season is the perfect time to try out Galveston’s top rated seafood restaurant, Shark Shack! The fun name helps exemplify the feeling you will get when you stop by for lunch or dinner at Shark Shack. This local favorite is found over at The Strand district just a few steps away from the harbor. The casual eatery is a great spot to take the whole family as their menu has everything you could want to order. Of course seafood is the name of the game here at Shark Shack. The best way to order is one of their baskets and combos that come with a side. Choose from baskets such as fish bites, fried shrimp, fried oysters, buffalo shrimp, and more. You can also order a variety of tacos and wraps too. There are a few burger and hot dog options for those who do not prefer seafood. There is even a special menu for members of the fire department, police department, EMS, and lifeguards to get a well-deserved discount. Make sure to grab a seat on their patio so you can enjoy the beautiful summer weather of Galveston as you enjoy your meal.
Book Today for Summer Fun in Galveston
Dining out is always more fun in the summer and Galveston has plenty of options for you to choose from. Make sure to reserve one of our vacation rentals here in the area for the most comfortable stay in all of Galveston this summer.
The summer season is hotter than ever so you know that means it is time to visit the beaches here at Galveston. One of the best times to visit Galveston over the summer season is around Labor Day Weekend. You will find that the city is host to a variety of holiday events and summer activities that the whole family will love. Take a look at what you can expect from Labor Day Weekend in Galveston:
Galveston Island Wine Festival
Labor Day Weekend is the perfect way to end the summer season here in Galveston. The weather is still warm and the sun is still shining. The area will host a variety of events with none bigger than the annual Galveston Island Wine Festival. This is our yearly wine festival where your taste buds will awaken to award winning wines. The festival is hosted over at Moody Gardens so you can expect a party that gets bigger each year. Locals and visitors alike look forward to the return of the Galveston Island Wine Festival so wine lovers, coastal culture, and culinary creatives can all get together for three incredible days. The festival features a variety of events to partake in including curated tasting and signature events that will be hosted by celebrity chef David Cordua. Some of the region’s most cherished chefs and sommeliers will be on hand to ensure that the very best wine and culinary creations are enjoyed. A favorite event, the Penguins & Pinot: Grand Tasting at the Aquarium, will be back where you can enjoy wine and spirit tastings along with food bites from the Texas coast all inside the wonderful Moody Gardens Aquarium Pyramid. This year’s Galveston Island Wine Festival will take place August 29th through the 31st for a full weekend of wine loving fun.
Galveston Island Labor Day Fireworks
Fireworks are harder to come by in recent years with many communities electing to not host fireworks due to the fear of wildfires. Luckily, Galveston Island is right here off the coast where we can enjoy fireworks right over the bay. Each Labor Day Weekend the city will host our annual fireworks showcase right on the beach along Seawall Boulevard. Fireworks are even better when shot off over the sea where the dazzling lights reflect clearly off the water’s surface. The annual fireworks typically take place the evening of Labor Day. This year’s event details are not yet available so continue to look forward to the Galveston Island Labor Day Fireworks.
Drone Show in Downtown Galveston
While Seawall Blvd and the Galveston coast get to enjoy the Labor Day fireworks you will find that Downtown Galveston will have a celebration as well. Labor Day Weekend will also play host to a lively drone show right over the downtown district. Hundreds of drones will take to the night sky to create dazzling displays of lights that fireworks are unable to do. You will see unique formations that will be a treat on the eyes. The official watch party takes place over at Saengerfest Park beginning at 7:30 PM. You will find this spot to have one of the best viewing areas for the drone show! This year’s drone show is expected to begin at dusk around 8:30 PM on Labor Day.
Free Sand Castle Lessons
Part of the fun in the summer season here in Galveston is going to the beach. You will find countless beaches in the area that are each more beautiful than the last. One of our favorite beaches is a local hot spot and is none other than East Beach. This is always Galveston’s most popular beach in the summer time with its clean sand and cool water that is refreshing to dip in. During the summer season you will find Sandcastle Days taking place at East Beach. This is a summer long event that offers free sand castle lessons with professional builders right here from the area. Registration is not needed at all so all you need to do is show up on participating days (usually Saturdays) and enjoy yourself! Equipment is offered on a limited basis so having your own is always recommended in case there is not enough to go around. The free sandcastle building lessons will continue throughout Labor Day Weekend offering family fun for everyone!
Labor Day Weekend is Heating Up
Labor Day Weekend will be here before you know it so get ready for your upcoming stay. Our vacation rentals will keep you comfortable all stay long so you can relax. Most properties are found right down the street from most of these Labor Day activities. Simply find your favorite property on our online listing and hit that reserve button. You have never seen fun quite like this.
Whenever it comes to traveling to a new destination you will find it incredibly easy to plan out an itinerary. Popular destinations often have popular attractions and activities that the area is known for. While these popular activities make it easy to plan out your trip you will also be doing exactly what other travelers are doing too. During your next trip to Galveston, step off the well beaten path and find some of the activities that you didn’t know you could do in the area. Here are the top five things to do around Galveston, Texas, you didn’t know you could find here:
Bolivar Peninsula Ferry
Galveston encompasses a spacious area that is just waiting for it to be explored. Whenever you are on the coast around East Beach you can look across the water and make out what is known as Bolivar Peninsula. This exciting area is easily reached from Galveston whenever you take the Bolivar Peninsula Ferry. This absolutely free ferry service only takes 18 minutes for you to reach the shore on the other side. The ferry ride itself is exciting as you take a look around from the observation deck. You will get in great views of the Bolivar Lighthouse and Fort Travis. Dolphins are often swimming around giant tankers as the enter and leave the port. Feel free to walk on or bring your vehicle with you. The Bolivar Peninsula is home to beautiful beaches such as Crystal Beach and Jamaica Beach. This is a great way for some less expected fun here in Galveston.
Take a Ghost Tour
When you think of ghost tours you often picture historic cities that have been home to historical events. Galveston may not be a destination you would expect to book a ghost tour at but they are here in the city! US Ghost Adventures is the top rated ghost tour in Galveston and is sure to be a unique experience. These walking tours are available on a nightly basis and last for approximately one hour. You will walk down through The Strand in Downtown Galveston learning about the history of the city. Each tour guide is knowledgeable and fun making this tour one you do not want to miss here in Galveston.
Book a Private Beach Bonfire
Open fires are not allowed in Galveston unless you book through a local concierge service that will set one up for you. Prepare for a luxurious experience where an expertly set bonfire is created at one of the local beaches for you and your family. Above & Beyond Concierge can set up customizes private bonfires. These two hour bonfires start an hour before sunset and can come with additional features such as a bongo drummer, guitarist, hula dancers, and photographers. Add on additional features such as s’mores charcuterie, hot dog roasting, or extra equipment and time. These bonfires are a great way to celebrate a special occasion during your visit to Galveston. Contact them today for additional details on this unique activity!
Find the Tree Sculptures
Over 15 years ago, Hurricane Ike devastated the Gulf Coast here along Galveston leaving destruction through its path. This historic storm uprooted and destroyed thousands of trees. While it is sad to see so much canopy destroyed many broken trees were turned into whimsical tree sculptures throughout the East End Historical District. Local artists took what was left behind of the tree trunks and shaped them into these beautiful sculptures. Now you can go on a self-guided tour to find as many of the tree sculptures as you can find. Most of the sculptures are on private property so you are not able to get close to them but can create a fun scavenger hunt for you and your family.
Peanut Butter Warehouse
Galveston is home to a spacious historic district right along the Strand where you can find beautiful, older buildings on display. The Peanut Butter Warehouse is a repurposed factory that now houses local lofts to lease. What is so special about the warehouse though is its boutique center where you can find tons of local artists and pop up boutiques on the weekends. You can enjoy homemade goods such as jewelry, artwork, décor, and more. Grab a drink at 3 Doors Down Bar, where you can find live music on the weekend. This spot is popular for locals who know about it so check out Peanut Butter Warehouse to feel like a local during your trip.
More Unique Finds in Galveston
These hidden activities will make your stay in Galveston one you will never forget. You can enjoy a stay in one of our vacation rentals to keep you close to all of the fun. Simply reserve your favorite property and come see for yourself.
Whenever you make the trip somewhere new, you hope it is not a quick in and out stop. Instead, you want time to fully explore this new destination to enjoy all that is has to offer. You can enjoy a longer trip right here in Galveston, especially if you visit in the summer over the Fourth of July weekend. This annual holiday brings out some fun activities and events for the whole family to enjoy along with summer activities. Take a look at what can be planned for your long Galveston 4th of July weekend:
4th of July Parade
Stick with the classics to start out your holiday weekend with the annual 4th of July Parade that will march on through Galveston. The event is sponsored by the City of Galveston and Marine Corps League. This is a classic event that will bring out all of Galveston to see uniquely decorated floats. Each float will be covered in patriotic displays as they march down Seawall Blvd. The parade typically starts over at 19th St and Seawall and will eventually end around 45th Street. The parade kicks off on July 4th at 6:00 PM for the whole city to see as the sun starts to set in the backdrop. As the sun finally sets, you can get ready for the next event on the Fourth of July.
4th of July Fireworks
The 4th of July is never complete without a dazzling display of fireworks that will light up the night sky. Come enjoy a splendor of colors with the 4th of July Fireworks that is part of the Galveston 4th of July Parade event. After everyone has had a chance to enjoy the parade you can get ready for the fireworks that will be shot over the Gulf of Mexico. The fireworks show typically starts around 9:15 PM when the sun has fully set. The fireworks will be shot off near 37th St so the closer you are to the area the better. The fireworks show is expected to be approximately 20 minutes long where near countless clusters of fireworks will reflect off the ocean’s surface. You will find plenty of viewing areas all along Seawall Blvd but make sure to get to your spot early as most of Galveston will be looking for spots.
It’s Island Time
Throughout your extended weekend on Galveston make sure you make the most of your time and see what makes this locale so special. With Galveston being a barrier island you will find that it is completely surrounded by sandy beaches you will want to see. Come enjoy a relaxing day at the beach where you can soak up the sunshine or splash around in the water. One of the most popular beaches in Galveston is East Beach where you will find plenty of local events taking place at. The beach is always clean and the perfect spot for sand castle building; free sand castle lessons are offered throughout the summer at East Beach on certain Saturdays for your kids to enjoy. Swimming is allowed at East Beach and has calmer waters perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Local rental shops can let you rent out a Jet Ski for the day for the thrill seekers in your family. Local amenities at East Beach also include multiple picnic areas, playgrounds, and local food vendors. Life is always better when it is at the beach.
See the Local Attractions
Galveston is home to many local attractions that are great to see over the summer season. The Moody Gardens will be easy to find with their giant pyramids standing tall in the city. You will find the Moody Gardens to feature a variety of entertainment for the family. Their aquarium pyramid is an indoor attraction with a full size aquarium. Come see many of your favorite underwater animals such as sharks, penguins, jellyfish, rays, and much more in interact habitats. You can also check out the Rainforest Pyramid that is a miniature rainforest complete with unique animals that call it home. Both pyramids offer interactive exhibits with friendly animals you can sign up for. Also check out their Discovery Pyramid with unique attractions such as The Art of Music. Or check out the 3D and 4D theaters where you will be immersed in the screen. There is no bad way to enjoy a visit to Galveston’s most popular attraction!
The Fourth of July Is Almost Here
There is no wrong time to start planning for your long term stay over the 4th of July in Galveston. Your long weekend lets you easily access all of these events and activities. Book your favorite vacation rental with us today!
There is something about the summer season that speaks to our adventurous souls. If you are feeling the itch to try something adventurous this summer, consider making your way to Galveston. Our Texas home has plenty of exciting activities that will ensure a thrilling vacation getaway. Take a look at the summer fun things to do in Galveston, TX, that are sure to spark that adventurous self:
Jet Ski Around the Coast
Whenever you visit Galveston in the summer, you will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beach. The area features over 32 miles of gorgeous beaches that will simply be calling out your name. Sure, we can all enjoy a moment of peace and relaxation as we lay back on the warm sand. Make sure to also find the calling for your adventurous self by jetting around the water during your visit. Of course, we mean pick up a jet ski rental from one of the local rental shops where you can enjoy high speeds on top of the Gulf waves. Jet skis are the perfect way to find a little adventure as you take in the wonderful coastal views and cool weather. You will find quite a few different shops nearby our vacation rentals that offer jet skis by the hour or day. Check out shops such as Galveston Jet Skis, Beach Service LLC, or Celebrate Jet Ski Tours and Rentals. Each shop lets you pick out the rental period that works best for your schedule and will have you fueled up and ready to go. Jet skis are great for individuals of all ages where older teenagers may prefer to go out on their own and have younger children ride with you. Keep an eye out for designated areas along the coast to make sure you stay safe while having a blast. Make sure to take a look at the opening dates for the rental shops if you end up reserving your rental online in advance.
Hit the Water Slides at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston
You will find plenty of reasons to cool off during your summer vacation getaway to Galveston. The city is home to our very own Schlitterbahn Waterpark where you can take on a little adventure in the water. If you have yet to visit a Schlitterbahn Waterpark you will be in for quite the treat. They are huge water parks found all over the country with plenty of fun and excitement to find. This local water park has been known as a thrill seekers paradise. Each of their rides and slides are rated on a Thrill Level so you can know exactly what you are getting into when standing in line. Try out the more adventurous slides including the AquaVeyer, Dragon Blaster, or Boogie Bahn. These thrill seeking rides include high-speed water slides, uphill water coasters, and surfing experiences. You will find over 20 different ride experiences here at Schlitterbahn Galveston.
If you have any members of the family such as parents who prefer a milder experience, there is something for them too. Let them float around in the Lazy River soaking up the sun or hang out in Wave Lagoon. Reserve a cabana where you can have a space to relax and hide from the sun in between your time on the slides and rides. You can upgrade your experience with fast lane passes that will get you flying down the slides without waiting in longer lines. Onsite food and drinks will keep your hunger at bay too. Take a look at the summer season pass that will get you unlimited access to Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston all for one low price!
Sky Trail at Moody Gardens
You can enjoy an adventurous outing high up in the tree tops when you make a visit to Moody Gardens. You have seen their pyramids stand tall around Downtown Galveston. Included in their near countless activities you will find the Sky Trail Ropes Course. This is the tallest steel ropes course located on the Gulf Coast! The five-tier course is an adventurous way to see Galveston from a whole new level. You can make your visit even better by jumping onto the zip line for a round-trip course which slings you through the air at high speeds. The zip line and ropes course will offer daily hours in the summer season, making it even easier to enjoy during your visit.
Get Ready for Adventure in Galveston
As you can see, Galveston is the home to many thrilling activities that will fuel your adventurous soul. Keep comfortable throughout your stay by reserving one of our vacation rentals here in the area. You will find most of our properties are nearby these incredible activities, providing convenience and comfort in one great destination.
We have been loving the warmer temps here in Galveston and everyone is looking ahead to the summer season. The fun really kicks off here in Galveston for the summer when Memorial Day Weekend comes around. This is the time of year when kids are finally done for school for the season and parents get to have some time away from work. Galveston hosts a variety of events here in the area for Galveston. Enjoys these local events or summer activities for a memorable stay. Take a look at what is waiting for your Memorial Day weekend in Galveston:
Galveston Navy Museum Memorial Day Celebration
Memorial Day Weekend is now used as a great time to travel and visit new places with the family. However, we should never forget for what the holiday stands for in honoring our brave armed forces. Galveston hosts our very own Memorial Day event with the annual Navy Museum Memorial Day Celebration. The Galveston Navy Museum is located right along the Seawolf Parkway where you can find a moment to commemorate our military member’s legacies. From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM you can enjoy free admission and parking for the museum along with live music, cupcakes, and more. This is a great way to check out the Galveston Navy Museum for the first time while honoring our fallen heroes. Don’t miss out on this local event taking place on May 26th here at the Galveston Navy Museum.
Time at the Beach
One of the best ways to enjoy your stay here in Galveston is by hanging out at the beach. You will find our Texas shoreline to be stunning with the water always inviting. Galveston has miles upon miles of beaches that you can set up at. Bring some towels and lay back while you soak up the sunshine. Take a dip into the water that will be cool and refreshing especially on a warm summer day. Many of the beaches are local favorites and continue to host a variety of activities starting Memorial Day Weekend. East Beach hosts tons of exciting activities starting with the holiday including sandcastle building lessons. This is one of the most sought after activities along the beach. Professional sandcastle builders will be on hand every Saturday over the summer starting with May 24th right before Memorial Day. You will find three different times to choose from including 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. The lessons take place right by the water over at East Beach Pavilion and are free to attend without prior registration. A local pro will show you how to create sandy masterpieces. They encourage participants to bring their own equipment as they can only provide so much at once. If you happen to miss these free lessons you can always book time with Galveston Sandcastles for more individual lessons.
Check Out the Moody Gardens
Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to see some of our local attractions right here in Galveston. There is no attraction more noticeable than the Moody Gardens. This entertainment venue stands tall with pyramid buildings right by the water. The Moody Gardens features attractions including a full size aquarium, jungle setting, and more when you visit. The aquarium building will have you seeing thousands of underwater critters swimming around huge habitats. You will see favorites such as sharks, sea turtles, penguins, jellyfish, and so much more. The jungle pyramid will have you explore the treetop bridges as you see incredible jungle wildlife live in the complex. Memorial Day Weekend is a time of year when the Moody Gardens will introduce new exhibits. Last year they opened up their Body Worlds RX that showcased the intricacy of the human body. Expect more fascinating exhibits to open up this year for Memorial Day Weekend.
Strand Summer Series
Enjoy a night out with friends and family with the Strand Summer Series continuing over Memorial Day Weekend. This season long series of free music performances will take place on May 31st just days after Memorial Day. You will be able to enjoy a performance from the Grey Hounds who will be rocking the stage that evening. The event is free to attend and you will find onsite vendors for beer and wine. You can also purchase a VIP pass that will provide you with reserved seating, meet and greet with the artists, and complimentary drinks. Don’t miss out on this exciting event taking place around Memorial Day!
Get Ready for the Start of Your Summer Fun
As you can see, Memorial Day Weekend is gearing up to be quite a time to visit Galveston. Make sure to reserve one of our vacation rentals right here in the area for a comfortable stay. There is nowhere better for summer than Galveston.
The summer season sure is looking sweet right now with sunny skies and some time off work. If you are on the lookout for an incredible summer destination, look no further than Galveston. Our Texas home features many great ways to spend your summer vacation from seasonal activities to local events. Take a look at what you can be planning for with a Galveston summer getaway this year:
Expect Time at the Beach
Galveston is a top destination here in the state of Texas for time at the beach. Galveston is a barrier island community that is surrounded by sandy beaches. Many families make their way here just to feel the warm sand beneath their toes and to take a dip into the Gulf of Mexico. When you visit Galveston this summer you will find that our vacation rentals are close to the most popular beaches in the area. You will find that public beaches including Galveston Beach and Sunny Beach are just a quick drive away. In fact, there is a total of 32 miles of beach terrain that makes up our shoreline. Many of the local beaches feature public amenities such as outdoor showers, restrooms, picnic areas. Local food vendors nearby, and more. One of the best ways to spend your time at the beach this summer in Galveston is by attending a free sandcastle building workshop. Over at East Beach there will be a free weekly class offered every Saturday during the summer. The lessons will take place at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:0 PM right by the water’s edge near East Beach Pavilion. Registration is not needed for the classes but having your own sandcastle building equipment will help as only so much is provided. This is a great way for your children to learn how to build their own majestic structures in the sand from a professional. Don’t miss out on a little beach time this summer in Galveston.
Galveston Island Market
The weather in Galveston is always beautiful making the city be a travel destination all times of year and not just the summer. You can enjoy our annual Galveston Island Market as it continues into the summer months this year. This once a month market is full of creativity and culture. The Galveston Island Market hosts various local vendors and artisans as they put on their wares for sale. You can browse goods including pottery, jewelry, paintings, sweet treats, clothing and apparel, textiles, and much more. Local food vendors will also be on hand to keep your hunger at bay. You can also enjoy interactive demonstrations and craft workshops for all ages. You can support the local art community here in Galveston while having an exciting time with the family. Don’t miss the Galveston Island Market taking place the first Saturday of every month this summer over at St. Patrick’s Church parking lot.
Galveston Art Walk
Saturdays really are the days to get out and explore Galveston this summer season. You will find the Galveston Art Walk taking place every second Saturday of the month this season. This is our monthly showcase of local artists right here from the area. Visitors can enjoy pop up exhibits along with galleries and shop in a lively downtown atmosphere. You will be able to meet the creative artists along with purchasing unique pieces of art. The Galveston Art Walk is a great opportunity to just get out and feel like a local in Galveston.
Strand Movie Nights
The summer season is a great time to kick back and relax while watching one of your favorite films. Each summer season the Galveston Historical Foundation presents the Strand Movie Nights. This much appreciated event returns to Hendley Green Park this year with a monthly movie series that will appease the whole family. Families are encouraged to show up with blankets and chairs so they can get comfy on the park lawn. You are encouraged to bring snacks and the event is BYOB so feel free to bring any canned beverages to enjoy with the movie. Local vendors and food trucks will also be on hand throughout each showing so you can purchase food and drink too. The summer movie series will include Soul on June 13th, Jaws on July 26th, Back to the Future on August 16th, and The Goonies on September 20th. This is an absolutely free event so bring the whole family with you!
Galveston Has More to Offer in the Summer
These summer activities are just the beginning of what you can plan for this summer season. Book a stay at one of our vacation rentals and come see for yourself. Our Galveston homes will keep you close to the excitement and offer plenty of amenities.