With our annual Seaside sessions quickly approaching, I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite family friendly things to do in Galveston. Whether you’re making a day trip or a longer weekend stay for your family session this year, I hope you’ll find this helpful in creating even more memories with your family beyond the beach!

Favorite Activities in Galveston

Historic Harbor Tour – This is one of my kids’ favorite things to do in Galveston. Cruise the bay and your can usually see some dolphins chasing the shrimp boats. Kids 5 and under are free!

Become a Junior Ranger at Galveston Island State Park – You can pick up a Junior Ranger activity journal at the nature center and your kids can earn badges. They also have regular programs for kids and families to learn about sea turtles, keeping the beaches clean, and bird watching.

Visit Seawolf Park – Go aboard a WWII-era submarine and a destroyer ship. There is also a playground, picnic spot, and great fishing.

Get a Treat at LaKing’s on the Strand – It’s always busy, but for good reason! LaKing’s is an old school style candy store and ice cream parlor. Time your visit to their regular taffy demonstrations and watch them pull and pack taffy on their 100 year old machines. Afterwards, walk along the Strand and visit the shops.

Pirates of the Gulf Coast – After you get ice cream, walk to this pirate museum. It’s cheesy, but kids love it.

Places We Love to Eat in Galveston

Mosquito Cafe – You have to wait in line for a table, but if your family is early risers, definitely head here. The shrimp and grits is perfection!

Sunflower Bakery & Cafe – We come here for a late breakfast or lunch. Typically cafe food, but also some elevated options too.

Benno’s Cajun Seafood – On the seawall. My kids love the fried shrimp and I always get the blue crabs when they are in season.

Gypsy Jyont – Specialty burgers, hot dogs, and pizzas with lots of interesting healthy options thrown in. Very casual.

Queen’s BBQ – When you are tired of seafood, we love this bbq spot.

No beach post is complete without a beautiful family and sunset! I had so much fun with these three little ones and their parents and cannot wait to meet your family this summer!