Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Galveston

"Completed in 1893, the Bishop's Palace, also known as Gresham's Castle, is a very ornate 19,082 square-feet Victorian-style house which survived the 1900 hurricane and is now part of Galveston's Historic Homes Tour. Architectural historians list the Bishop’s Palace as one of the most significant Victorian residences in the United States. The house was built from 1887 to 1892 for Colonel Walter Gresham and his family."

"Galveston's grandest and best-known building, the Bishop's Palace, is an ornate delight of colored stone, intricately carved ornaments, rare woods, stained-glass windows, bronze dragons and other sculptures, luxury materials and furnishings, and impressive fireplaces from around the world (including one lined with pure silver!)."

"Moody Gardens is a place where kids can learn about science and animal life through its many interactive exhibits. Featuring three visually-stunning pyramids, families can learn about marine life through the aquarium exhibits or learn about the tropical plants, insects, and animals that call the rainforest their home. The Discovery Pyramid features hands-on children’s activities for kids to learn about science through experience."

"Visitors crossing the causeway to Galveston will surely see the pyramids rising on the western side of the island. Those pyramids are just part of magnificent Moody Gardens. With attractions that include several aquariums, an IMAX theatre, and even a rainforest, Moody Gardens is a must-see for Galveston visitors."

"The Texas Seaport Museum is home to the tall ship Elissa, built in 1877 and considered one of the finest restored historical vessels in the US. This lovely old ship still puts to sea regularly, and her fascinating story - including her rescue from the scrapyard - is told in the museum on shore. Other highlights include a look at the history of the Port of Galveston, including the names of the more than 133,000 migrants who passed through."

"Explore the decks of this National Historic Landmark and imagine the days when daring sailors challenged the world’s oceans. In the adjacent museum and theater, witness the story of Elissa’s dramatic rescue from the scrap yard and her meticulous restoration by the Galveston Historical Foundation."

"Visit one of the oldest sailing vessels that is still in operation, ELISSA. This 1877 Tall Ship known as ELISSA, can be found at the Texas Seaport Museum. Visit the museum to climb aboard ELISSA and view her historic decks."

"Another of Galveston's fine old structures is the Grand 1894 Opera House, a splendidly restored Victorian theater that has withstood multiple hurricanes. It still hosts a full lineup of musical and theatrical performances, along with a selection of fun shows for kids of all ages. The Grand 1894 Opera House has been the official opera house for the state of Texas since 1993."

"This landmark serves as the "Official Opera House of the State of Texas." The site of several world premiere theatre productions, The Grand is a historical treasure of the Gulf Coast. It has an extraordinary place in the history of our community and many of our residents' lives."

"Seawolf Park is an amazing attraction in Galveston with lots of fun to offer for individuals of all ages, including children. Located in Galveston’s Pelican Island, the park is one of the few parks in Texas, creating an opportunity for visitors to have a submarine experience among many other exciting things to do. The park boast fishing, crabbing, designated picnic areas, lots of colorful history, and a playground for the kids."

"Seawolf Park, named for a US Navy submarine that sank in 1944, honors and remembers the men who engaged in underwater heroics during World War II. Although the USS Seawolf itself was never recovered, other pieces of history are waiting to be discovered. The park houses another WWII submarine, one of only three destroyer escorts in the world, and the remains of the largest concrete ship ever constructed, a WWI tanker called S.S."

"Located along Galveston’s eastern point is the East End Lagoon. You can only describe this area as a nature lovers paradise. From bird watching to kayaking, there is something to do here in nature for just about everyone."

"Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Hotel Galvez is the Balinese Room Pier. The Balinese Room was a famous nightclub that was built on a pier stretching 600-feet from the Seawall over the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It opened in 1929 and for decades it featured a dance hall and illegal casino for tourists and residents alike."

"Fresh baked goods plus an all-day menu of down-home American meals in a homey setting with a patio. Serves an AMAZING breakfast and brunch. They have great homemade waffles, whip cream, and real maple syrup!"

"Novice fisherman, or those who just want to experience a true Galveston tradition, will enjoy the 61st street fishing pier. It’s open 24/7 from March until December (although hours vary depending on weather conditions), and offers fully rigged rental rods at the rate of $8 per day, including bait. If rods, reels, and bait aren't your thing, you can grab a hot dog and a beer as you watch the fishing action or marvel at the beautiful sunset, but note that there’s a $10 entry fee to get on the two-level pier."

"2705 61st Street Suite D, Galveston, TX 77551 409-740-1229https://www.marbleslab.com/. Fresh-made gourmet ice cream mixed with your favorite toppings. Hours may vary seasonally."