Location: Galveston
Top Things to do in Galveston
The 5 Best History Museums in Galveston, Texas (TX)
More than 30 miles of beaches plus a wealth of cultural and historic institutions make this island a Gulf of Mexico vacation hot spot. If you go, don't forget your walking shoes: With 14 museums and 20 art galleries, plus several historic homes and mansions, there's a lot of ground to cover. Armchair pilots will love the Lone Star Flight Museum and those with more of a nautical interest can check out the Texas Seaport Museum. Families will enjoy the many child-friendly attractions, including Moody Gardens, with its replica of a tropical rain forest. It's easy to get caught up in all the activities, but don't forget to spend some downtime in the sun and on the beach.
Restaurants in Galveston
1. Moody Mansion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 736 reviews
Restored to its turn of the century splendor, the 28,000 square-foot, four-story structure was completed in 1895. Today, our guests visit 20 rooms on a self-guided tour that depicts the home life of a powerful Texas family. The Moodys established one of the great American financial empires. Based on cotton, it grew to include banking, ranching, insurance and hotels. The mansion is one of the finest places to visit, a trip back in time. Touring the museum should definitely be on the top on the list for things to do on Historic Galveston Island. Tour Information: Self-guided Audio Tours: Children 6 & Under Free Self-guided audio tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last tickets sold at 4p.m.; house closes at 5 p.m.) Behind-the-scenes Tours: Exclusive docent-guided tours to areas not normally open to the public 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday | limited size tours | reservations highly recommended Group Tours: Moody Mansion tour descriptions: Self-guided audio tours: Two audio tours allow you to set your own pace through the house and grounds. • The Moody Family tour features six members of the Moody family telling stories about their ancestors. This tour is also translated into Spanish. • Mary’s tour, appropriate for children and adults, is narrated by an actress portraying the late Mary Moody Northen as if she were guiding you through her home. Guided 25th Anniversary Tour: Behind-the-scenes tours celebrate the 25th anniversary of Moody Mansion’s restoration. A knowledgeable docent guides guests through areas not normally open to the public, describing Mary Moody Northen’s vision for preserving her home and sharing her collections. These tours are conducted at 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tour size is limited; reservations are highly recommended.
Reviewed By ksufan88 - Wichita, United States
Tickets can be purchased online or at the gift shop (located at the back of the property along with some off-street parking) with credit or debit (no cash). We received an excellent explanation of what to expect during the tour from the lady at the gift shop who handed us the audio devices (sealed in plastic bags). There were three audio choices at each of the stations in each of the rooms open for tours on the first and second floors (regular information, personal diary snippets, and regular information in Spanish). There is also a short introductory video and three old cars to see in the garage. The home contains period furnishing and family photographs, and the audio tour is well done. We were able to see everything in 90 minutes.
2. Galveston Historic Seaport - Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 786 reviews
Galveston Historical Foundation brought ELISSA, an 1877 square-rigged iron barque, from a scrapyard in Piraeus Harbor, Greece to Galveston to begin restoration work in 1978. By 1982, GHF staff and volunteers completed restoration and transformed this rare, historic vessel into a floating museum that would actively sail. Today, the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA is one of only three ships of her kind in the world to still actively sail and welcomes over 40,000 visitors annually. She also serves as the Official Tall Ship of Texas, a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of the Gulf Coast’s historic beginnings as a seaport and active waterfront. The 1877 ELISSA welcomes visitors at the Texas Seaport Museum. Experiences Galveston’s maritime history daily.
Reviewed By Mgnorrell - Canton, United States
We love history and especially old ships. This one didn’t disappoint. Great self guided tour on main level and below deck. Also fun to see the docks with other ships.
3. 1892 Bishop's Palace
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,305 reviews
The Bishop's Palace (a.k.a. Gresham House) is a contributing building in the East End Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. The house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places at the national level of significance in the area of architecture. Architectural historians list the Bishop's Palace (Gresham House) as one of the most significant of Victorian residences in the country. It is owned and operated by Galveston Historical Foundation.
Reviewed By elchaco - Houston, United States
I've been to Galveston so many times and this was the first time visiting Bishop's Palace. The self guided tour allows you to enjoy the house at your own pace and really take in the details and experience what it was like to live in those times. I thought my kids (8 and 14) were going to be bored, but turns out they really liked it too!
4. The Bryan Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 319 reviews
Reviewed By 90kathrynk - Houston, United States
This is a fabulous museum featuring Southwest art and historical artifacts. It also has a lovely Gift Store and beautiful grounds.
5. Galveston County Historical Museum
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 10 reviews
