Planning the next family trip? Look to Galveston

Stretched along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico in Texas, Galveston is where maritime history, ornate Victorian mansions and a decidedly Floridian beach-town vibe seamlessly blend. A popular choice among late-19th century holidaying elites and investors looking for new prospects, this barrier island became the richest city in the state, packing Southern charm and wild decadence into its gilded mansion-lined streets. Today, it’s evolved into a year-round destination with things to do for all ages. It’s the variety on offer that’s especially appealing, from immersive museums and world-class animal education centres to attractions focusing on much more than just planet Earth. Plus, the relaxed Gulf-inspired dining scene is well-suited to kids, the city is manageable in size, and gentle Gulf breezes and occasional afternoon rains ensure temperatures stay comfortable. Here’s why under-the-radar Galveston should be your next family getaway.

1. Learn about animals at the Moody Gardens Pyramids

The three pyramids rising high from the coastline, their glass exteriors glistening in the sun, are impossible not to notice upon your approach to Galveston — and yet even more eye-catching exhibits await inside. The pyramids are at the heart of Moody Gardens, a wildlife, education and nature centre with a focus on rescue and rehabilitation and programmes to save endangered species from extinction. The Aquarium and Rainforest Pyramids offer a chance to learn about animals and their habitats, and feature exhibits to help kids (and adults) connect the dots between marine biology, animal conservation and human activity. In the Rainforest Pyramid, animals such as sloths and saki monkeys roam free, and tropical birds flit through the canopy. The Aquarium Pyramid’s Coral Reef Lab is dedicated to researching and helping to protect Florida’s coral reefs, which are facing a severe bleaching crisis. The third — Discovery Pyramid — features travelling exhibitions and immersive motion-simulator experiences.

2. Tour the historic harbour

Galveston’s maritime heritage takes centre stage at the Texas Seaport Museum and the tall ship Elissa. Visitors can climb aboard the fully restored 1877 vessel and imagine life at sea during the Age of Sail, plying gruelling trade routes around the world. On land, the Ship to Shore exhibit uses immersive technology — think motion platforms and multimedia storytelling — to bring to life Galveston’s seafaring history, from immigration to storm survival. Afterwards, take time to wander the adjacent harbour, where working fishing boats and occasional cruise ships pass by. There are also options to join harbour or dolphin-watching tours, or visit a retired jack-up oil rig to understand the science and impact of oil production.

3. Become an astronaut for a day

Just a 45-minute drive from Galveston, Space Center Houston is a must for any kids (or parents) interested in the universe. The official visitor centre for NASA’s Johnson Space Center — part museum, part training ground — is where astronauts prepare for their missions. Kids can touch Moon rocks, try out virtual reality spacewalk and space travel simulators, see a Saturn V rocket (used for the Apollo missions) and explore one of two original aircraft used to transport the iconic Space Shuttles. Daily tram tours take visitors to mission control and astronaut training facilities (VIP options grant even more behind-the-scenes access), while interactive exhibits make the science of space travel more accessible. There are also STEM-focused play areas and challenges to test young minds. And with special events, seasonal programming and visiting astronaut talks happening regularly, there’s always something new to learn. Plan a whole day to make the most of your time here.

4. Tour Galveston’s historic mansions

Galveston’s past isn’t just preserved — it’s celebrated. For history-loving families, a visit to The Bryan Museum is a fascinating dive into Texas and American West heritage. Housed in a former orphanage, the museum’s collection spans centuries and includes exhibits on cowboys, Native American culture and early settlers, all presented with striking visuals and thoughtful storytelling. Kids can marvel at historic weaponry, try on period clothing or follow a scavenger hunt through the galleries. Beyond the museum, Galveston’s East End Historic District is dotted with grand Victorian homes, many open for tours. Bishop’s Palace and Moody Mansion are standouts offering not only an architectural wow-factor but also a glimpse into Galveston’s gilded past. Walking tours of the district make for a gentle afternoon of exploring streets lined with trees and historic plaques. Finally, make time to stroll The Strand, once nicknamed the ‘Wall Street of the Southwest’ on account of it being a hub for bankers, brokers and cotton merchants.

5. Indulge in Gulf food

Gulf cuisine is rich in seafood, while Tex-Mex influences and casual dining make eating out with kids a breeze. Before exploring The Strand and the harbour area, start the day with breakfast at Star Drug Store. First opened in 1886 as Texas’s first drug store, it’s now a much-loved breakfast and lunch spot, serving hearty portions of fluffy pancakes and other classic plates, plus shakes and malts. For lunch near The Strand, kids and adults alike will love the Italian-influenced Riondo’s Ristorante, offering crowd-favourite pastas and pizzas. If you’re introducing the little ones to seafood, head to BLVD Seafood, which serves Gulf redfish, shrimp and soft-shell crab, all grilled or blackened, in a taco, wrap or bowl. Trendy Sugar & Rye is good for dinner, with a New Orleans-inspired menu of jambalaya, Cajun seafood pasta and gumbo (parents and adventurous young diners should try the Texas brisket onion soup). And if you get a chance for a parents-only evening, book at Rudy & Paco for impeccable service, a carefully curated wine list and an extensive menu of South and Central American-influenced steak and seafood. The grilled Gulf red snapper in Creole sauce is a standout.