How to See the Best of Galveston in 3 Days
How to See the Best of Galveston in 3 Days
When you’re looking for a vacation destination that transports you far from the hustle and bustle of a busy life, Galveston is calling your name. This Texas island city is a mere 50-miles from the high-energy urban centre of Houston. But feels like another world entirely with its tropical ambience and laid-back approach to everyday life. Galveston Island is a beach community that encourages travellers to participate in a variety of fun-filled activities. Or absolutely nothing at all and that’s fine too. Visitors come to make the most of their time on the shoreline before indulging in the area’s finest flavours. The in-between hours can be filled with endless trips to amazing museums, gardens and amusement parks.
There’s truly something for everyone, making Galveston a versatile destination that’s perfect for travellers of all interests and passions. While it would be ideal to have days on end to discover and explore. It’s possible to maximize three days of your time with a great plan in place. When you’re crafting that three-day itinerary, be sure to include these stops along the way and book your accommodation in one of Galveston’s many neighbourhoods that best suits your preferences.
Day 1: Gardens and Gateways to History
Plan on getting out early and ahead of the crowds with a day one stop at Moody Gardens. This tri-purpose destination is a family-fun itinerary highlight that boasts an amusement park, theatre, and aquarium. The unmistakable pyramids hold the aquarium that’s home to an impressive collection of sharks, penguins, seals and more. Moody Gardens is meant to be an educational and engaging stop in Galveston. That provides the thrills of zip lines right next to insightful encounters with some of the world’s most amazing creatures!
Keep the fun going by heading over to the crossroads of Broadway and 14th street. For a look at one of the most impressive and historic homes in Galveston. Bishop’s Palace is a beautiful Victorian mansion that sprawls over 19,000 square feet of ornate space in the city. Integrated into the Historic East End District, this house is also a National Historic Landmark, making it the ideal location for those travelling history buffs in your group. Guided tours or self-guided audio tours are available. When you’re eager to see the elaborate interior of this monument to the wealth of 1892.
Finish up day one on a delicious note at Landry’s Seafood House. Galveston is famous for its amazing seafood and Landry’s incorporates an unsurpassed view into the experience. Located on Seawall Boulevard, Landry’s serves up fresh shrimp, crab, fish and much more. With the benefit of the beach only steps away from your table. Make the most of this waterfront establishment with outdoor seating options as well.
Day 2: Historic Piers and International Cuisine
Start the day in a fun way with an early trip to Historic Pleasure Pier. Stretching out on the water, this is the ideal place to wander through a variety of souvenir shops, stores, restaurants, arcades, and games. A roller coaster tops it all off in amusement park style. Whether you’re more inclined to hop on the Pirate’s Plunge or Gulf Glider. Pleasure Pier is a place that promises heart-pounding adventure.
Slow things down for a brief look back in time with a stop at the Galveston Railroad Museum. Located on Santa Fe Place, this non-profit establishment highlights the many feats of engineering and transportation in this interactive and engaging city museum. Wander the railyard and browse the many exhibits showing the complex designs that carried goods across the United States in the golden age of the railroad. When you’re done, hop aboard the Harborside Express for a 15-minute experience on a historic locomotive!
While Galveston may be known for its delicious local dining, the island is full of international flavours. Some of those are best discovered at Yamato Japanese Restaurant. Sitting on 61st street, this savoury stop provides guests with options ranging from sushi, maki rolls and hibachi upon request. The ambience is laid back and the staff is notoriously friendly. Making this an excellent stop after a long day of exploring.
Day 3: Waterparks and Mouth-watering Stops
Your last day in Galveston begins with a waterpark adventure quite unlike any other at Schlitterbahn. One of the most renowned waterparks in all of Texas. This stop is one that shouldn’t be missed. A massive collection of water slides, coasters, pools, and lazy rivers makes this a place that can accommodate travellers of all ages. Body slide, raft or wade your way through a morning at this high-energy and thrilling water park.
Once you’ve experienced the best of man-made adventures in Galveston. It’s time to head over and see some of nature’s best work at the Big Reef Nature Park. This is the ultimate birding area in Galveston as it is home to a variety of Egrets, Herons, Terns, Waders, and Ibis just to name a few. The protected marsh environment can be safely travelled using the East Lagoon Nature Trail. Which provides unsurpassed views of many animals thriving in their beautiful and natural environment.
A trip to Texas wouldn’t be complete without some homecooked BBQ. There’s no better place to savour your Galveston experience than at Leon’s World Finest Bar-B-Que. Located on Broadway Avenue, Leon’s is loved by locals and visitors alike. It has long graced Galveston with some of the most delicious menu items around. Smoked meat sandwiches doused in special sauce have been tantalizing guests for 25-years. When you’re hoping for a true taste of Texas during your time in Galveston, make this the last meal on your itinerary.
