Galveston, TX

Travel Guide
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Enjoy the quaint old downtown architecture, explore historic mansions, and visit the museums and galleries of Texas’s foremost port city. 

Galveston charms with its glimpse into the colorful history of Texas through architecture and museums. The city sits on an island 32 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. 

Walk the Strand and gaze at beautiful historic buildings preserved by local authorities for well over a century. Here you can browse souvenir shops, dine in excellent restaurants, or ride in a horse-drawn carriage. Continue exploring architectural treasures with a tour through the East End District. You’ll see classic Victorian buildings from the city’s days as a leading cotton exporter and extravagant old homes such as the Moody Mansion or Bishop’s Palace.

Galveston was officially incorporated in the 1830s. It soon grew into one of the most successful and prosperous cities in the region and even served as the capital of the Republic of Texas. Its economy was devastated by a hurricane in 1900, but throughout the 20th century it evolved into a historical and cultural vacation destination. It boasts some of the best old architecture in the country and is home to dozens of museums and art galleries.

Soak up some more history at the Texas Seaport Museum, where you’ll find the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa. Visit a real offshore oil rig and learn about the industry at the Ocean Star Drilling Rig and Museum. Aircraft lovers will want to explore the Lone Star Flight Museum. It has dozens of restored aircraft from World War II you can even organize to have a ride in one.

History buffs will also love the story behind the Pleasure Pier, built during World War II as a recreational facility for the U.S. military. Nowadays families flock here to ride the roller coasters and enjoy the games. For more fun, hit the Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Water Park. Check out the Moody Gardens to explore the aquarium, zoo, and 3-D theater. Beachgoers won’t find sparkling waters and white sand at Galveston, but for a relaxing morning or evening stroll, drop by the Seawall or East Beach.

Galveston is a historic island destination with plenty to offer history buffs and leisure seekers alike. It’s 50 miles southeast of Houston.

Where to stay in Galveston

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Pirates Beach

5/5(1 area review)

While visiting Pirates Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Pirates Beach and Pirate's Beach.

Pirates Beach
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Sea Isle

If you're spending some time in Sea Isle, Terramar Beach and Sea Isle Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Sea Isle
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Kempner Park

If you're spending some time in Kempner Park, Seawall Beach and Kempner Park are top sights worth seeing.

Kempner Park
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The Preserve

If you're spending some time in The Preserve, Bermuda Beach and Pirate's Beach are top sights worth seeing.

The Preserve
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San Jacinto

While visiting San Jacinto, you might make a stop by sights like Seawall Beach and San Jacinto.

San Jacinto
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Pointe West

When in Pointe West, you can plan a visit to San Luis Beach and San Luis Pass, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Pointe West
Galveston Beach Hotel
Galveston Beach Hotel
2.5 out of 5
8710 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
The price is ¥10,284 per night from Mar 20 to Mar 21
¥10,284
per night
Mar 20 - Mar 21
Stay at this beach hotel in Galveston. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
7.4/10 Good! (2,035 reviews)
"Very good"

Reviewed on Mar 16, 2024

Galveston Beach Hotel
Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center
Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center
4 out of 5
7 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX
The price is ¥31,151 per night from Mar 28 to Mar 29
¥31,151
per night
Mar 28 - Mar 29
Stay at this 4-star spa resort in Galveston. Enjoy free WiFi, 4 restaurants, and a marina. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,888 reviews)
A Wondrous Way to Spend Spring Break
"The Spring Break trip was highlighted by the cozy, plush room. We enjoyed staying in the room and swimming in the pool. The dinner buffet was exquisite."

Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024

Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center
Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
2.5 out of 5
2300 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ¥11,774 per night from Mar 20 to Mar 21
¥11,774
per night
Mar 20 - Mar 21
Stay at this beach hotel in Galveston. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
7/10 Good! (1,468 reviews)
"Good location"

Reviewed on Mar 16, 2024

Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Beach house with large deck and patio just steps from the beach
Beach house with large deck and patio just steps from the beach
Galveston
Stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Galveston. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a water park. Popular attractions Terramar Beach and Half Moon Beach ...
9/10 Wonderful! (51 reviews)
great place don't miss out !!!!!!!!!
"great space.no complaints.its right across from the beach. loved having 2 living rooms so no arguing over the tv . plenty of comfortable beds. just bring your clothes and have a great time. they have furnished kitchen so no worries. plenty of parking. would rent again. the management is very nice ..."

Reviewed on Jan 18, 2024

Beach house with large deck and patio just steps from the beach
Casa Del Mar Beachfront Suites Onsite Team
Casa Del Mar Beachfront Suites Onsite Team
3 out of 5
6102 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
Stay at this 3-star beach condo in Galveston. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and onsite parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,824 reviews)
"All around comfortable."

Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024

Casa Del Mar Beachfront Suites Onsite Team
AT The BEACH: OCEAN VIEW Condo,  remodeled,  HEATED  Pools, Hot Tub and more..
AT The BEACH: OCEAN VIEW Condo, remodeled, HEATED Pools, Hot Tub and more..
Galveston
Stay at this condo in Galveston. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (182 reviews)
Spring Break Trip
"Took a quick trip with my wife and 2 kids. The condo is close to everything and could walk to the beach and several food options in minutes. Everything you could need is provided by the host in this cozy condo, perfect for my small family. It was a great time and would book again!!"

Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024

AT The BEACH: OCEAN VIEW Condo, remodeled, HEATED Pools, Hot Tub and more..
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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