The city of Galveston is located on Galveston Island off the Texas Gulf Coast. Galveston is best known for its warm weather and beaches; tourists visit the island each year to get married or to vacation. There are many tours and attractions located in Galveston, from museums to historic mansions. Some are suitable for the whole family, and some cater to very special interests.
Schlitterbahn is one of the largest amusement parks in Texas, with two parks in addition to the one on Galveston Island. Texas is a hot place and an attraction that offers visitors a chance to cool down is most appreciated. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark has water slides, chutes and rides, but also features a hot tub and wave pool. The park encourages families to bring their own picnics, (although no alcohol or glass is allowed) and also has food courts, children’s playgrounds and private cabana rental. One- and two-day passes, afternoon passes and season passes can be purchased online.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
2026 Lockheed Road
Galveston, TX 77554
409-740-3003
schlitterbahn.com
Moody Gardens is a multithemed park that contains the Aquarium Pyramid, Discovery Museum, paddlewheel boat rides, IMAX theaters, golf course, hotel and spa. Moody Gardens also has kids’ camps, a rainforest area and its own beaches. The park features shows, parties, an annual Festival of Lights and live concerts by both national and local bands and entertainers. Educational programs include an outreach program, field trips, scouts and overnight adventures.
Moody Gardens
One Hope Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77554
800-582-4673
moodygardens.com
The Duck traveling bus is also an amphibious vehicle taking visitors along the city seawall, while tour guides point out attractions and places of interest. The Duck plunges right into the water and tours Offatt’s Bayou for a full 15 minutes before climbing aboard land again. Duck Tours then travels downtown into the Strand shopping area and the Silk Stockings historical district. The bus has regular tour times but is available for charter groups as well.
Galveston Island Duck Tours
25th and Seawall Boulevard
Galveston, TX 77550
409-621-4771
galvestonducks.com
This two-hour walking tour reveals interesting aspects of the city’s past. Led by the flamboyant Ghostman of Galveston, Dash Beardsley, Ghost Tours of Galveston takes visitors on a trip filled with the spirits, pirates and vampires who inhabited long-ago stories of love, revenge and tragedy. The Ghost Tour also features a history of Galveston Island in general and the tale of the local Karankawa tribe. Call the information Ghost Line to find out the next scheduled public tour times, or arrange for private tours.
Ghost Tours of Galveston
25th and Strand
Galveston, TX 77550
409-949-2027
ghosttoursofgalvestonisland.com
