9 things to do in galveston with kids

Located just an hour southeast of Houston, there are countless things to do in Galveston with kids, making it a seaside destination chock-full of family-friendly fun and beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for family fun in Galveston, TX, you’ll discover endless ways to keep everyone entertained, from visiting local kid-friendly attractions to strolling through historic districts. Turn your Galveston trip dreams into reality, with options like relaxing at Stewart Beach or discovering hidden treasures around the island's park areas.

My family of four (which includes two young children) has enjoyed exploring this city over the years. Here are my top nine Galveston, Texas, attractions for families.

What To Do With Kids in Galveston, TX

Top Sites in Galveston

• Pier 21.
• Pirate-themed activities.
• Pleasure Pier.
• Ghost tours.
• Moody Gardens Museum.
• Beaches.
• Biking.
• Schlitterbahn.
• Holiday festivals.

Tickets and Tours

You can buy tickets and tours to various attractions like Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens Museum. While you can generally buy these tickets upon arrival, getting them online ahead of time can save you time — and potentially money.

1. Have Fun — With A Side Of History — At Pier 21

Pier 21 is a wonderful destination for families wanting to explore the history of Galveston Island. A visit to the Galveston Historic Seaport is where you'll find:

• Harbor tours.
• Tall ship ELISSA.
• The Ocean Star Offshore Energy Center.
• Pier 21 Theater.

These attractions help bring Galveston Island's historic tales to life. My family has enjoyed each of these experiences tremendously, as museum organizers have done a fantastic job of sharing captivating and personal historical stories. While you’re in the area, consider checking out the historic district nearby for a walking tour that includes local landmarks like the Bishop Palace and the Grand Opera House — great additions to your list of Galveston, Texas, attractions for families.

2. Get Chummy With The Pirates

Not too many kids (or adults, for that matter) can resist the allure of a good pirate tale, and there are plenty to be found when you visit Galveston for family-fun activities. The area was once prime stomping grounds for privateers, bootleggers, smugglers, and other colorful characters, making this one of the most iconic Galveston attractions for kids. 

One pirate in particular, Jean Lafitte, made his home here in the early 1800s. You can still glimpse the remains of his house — known as Maison Rouge — on Harborside Drive, where a small historical marker denotes his time in Galveston. Learn the tales of vanished villages and hidden treasure, then head to attractions like “Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast” for an immersive look into a pirate’s life.

3. Ride The Rides At Pleasure Pier

Originally built for military use during World War II, the historic Pleasure Pier in Galveston has drawn large crowds of vacationers since the 1940s. Today, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier stands out as one of the top things to do in Galveston with kids, boasting thrilling roller coasters and a giant Ferris wheel from which you can see for miles around.

How Much Does It Cost To Go to the Historic Pleasure Pier in Galveston?

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers several ticket options for admission and rides.

A Pier Walk-On Pass is:

• $12.00 for those 48" and over.
• $11.00 for those under 48".
• $10.00 for seniors 65 and older.

Alternatively, an All Day Ride Pass which grants unlimited rides costs:

• $29.99 for those 48" and over
• $23.99 for those under 48".
• Individual ride tickets start at $6.00 per ticket.

4. Take A Spooky Ghost Tour

5. Explore Moody Gardens

Museum

You’ll know you’ve arrived at Moody Gardens when you see three glass pyramids. Each one holds so many family-friendly activities that Galveston is known for, from an indoor rainforest to an aquarium and a Discovery Museum. 

 Moody Gardens Museum attractions, including a paddle wheel boat for day cruises and dinner cruises, are great for the whole family. Seasonal highlights, like the small water park and the ropes course with zip line, keep you active, while winter visitors can enjoy festive events like ICE LAND. If you stay at an onsite resort, you could spend an entire week exploring these different sites.

Does Galveston Have a Zoo?

While there isn't a Galveston zoo, you can still view a wide variety of animals here. For a special treat, book an animal encounter to get up close and personal with penguins or giant river otters — truly one of the can’t-miss Galveston, Texas, attractions for families.

6. Is Galveston Beach Good For Kids?

Most people equate Galveston with the beach — and for good reason. There are 32 miles of beaches here, ranging from lively to relaxing. A day on the beach is one of many free things to do in galveston for families and a perfect way to unwind before or after your cruise from Texas.

If your family is into camping on the beach, head to Galveston Island State Park, where you can enjoy unspoiled stretches of shoreline. You could also visit: 

• Stewart Beach.
• East Beach.
• Seawolf Park

No matter which spot you choose, you’ll quickly find out that spending time on these beautiful beaches is among the top things to do in Galveston, TX, with kids.

7. Bike Along The Galveston Seawall

8. Go Wild At Schlitterbahn

On the list of family-friendly activities, you can’t forget water parks!. One of America’s original water parks, Schlitterbahn, has an outpost here in Galveston.

If you’ve never experienced one of these epic parks, you’re in for a treat!

Legendary waterslides, such as Dragon Blaster, are like slippery roller coasters — you’ll be laughing all the way down. There are also plenty of tamer water park options for little ones and those who prefer a more relaxing float or pool day.

9. Add Some Cheer With Holiday Festivals

If you visit Galveston during a holiday season, the city will make your experience special. Top examples include:

• Christmas: Beginning in November, families can book tickets on the Polar Express train leaving from the Galveston Railroad Museum or join the merriment during Dickens on the Strand.
• in the nearby Strand Historic District.
• Mardi Gras: Mardi Gras injects some Creole flavor into this coastal town, complete with parades and parties that welcome all ages.
• Explore local events like the Galveston Island Beach Revue, inspired by vintage bathing beauty contests.
• Aattend Juneteenth celebrations in the area where history resonates deeply. Visit the Bryan Museum or catch a performance at the Grand Opera House.

Plan Your Galveston Family Vacation Today

Family fun starts now when you book a cruise from Galveston. With a bustling Galveston cruise terminal near Port Galveston, you can easily hop on a cruise and continue your adventures. Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a longer holiday, you’ll find that Galveston, Texas, abounds with memorable experiences. No matter which route you choose, each new discovery adds another layer of enjoyment to your Galveston trip, ensuring that your entire family finds genuine joy in exploring this lively coastal destination.

Ready to take a Galveston family vacation? Start by exploring Royal Caribbean’s cruises from Galveston. Every person on your trip will find something they love, whether it be exploring Moody Gardens Museum or catching a thrilling ride at Pleasure Pier.