Any time of year is good for planning a fun Gulf getaway when you include Galveston attractions for kids on the itinerary. This island is known for family fun with its 32 miles of beaches, entertainment during all seasons, and rich history. With rows of Victorian-style houses and many hotels featuring period furnishings, you may just feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Here are a few fun things to do on your family trip to jump-start your itinerary.
Start your trip off right by booking a room at one of the many kid-friendly hotels in Galveston. Stay in luxury at a fine resort or seek out a simpler room that will act as your vacation headquarters. The Tremont House Hotel, located in the Strand Historic District, is a Galveston tourist attraction in its own right. The European decor makes an attractive backdrop to a family photo.
This and other hotels in the area offer Galveston tourist attractions where you and the family can learn about the local history, including pirates. Located harbor side and in close proximity to the cruise ports, Pier 21 Theater regularly shows “The Pirate Island of Jean Lafitte.” Next door is the Seaside Museum and plenty of other things to do with kids in Galveston that teach about the exciting history of this little island.
If you’re headed here during the cooler months, there are many family-oriented events during this time of year. Before your trip, make sure to see what Galveston activities local venues are hosting. During this time of year, you can plan trips around conventions, the famous art walk, or one of the many operas and shows that are ongoing. Round out a winter trip with sightseeing. The city’s light displays are one of the top things to do in Galveston with kids. Shops and hotels illuminate one of America’s largest collections of Victorian architecture. The lights create an other-worldly feel to the whole island.
Are you planning a vacation in springtime? The island’s Mardi Gras celebration is the reason for many Galveston family vacations. The city lives large at this big celebration, the largest Mardi Gras event in all of Texas. If you make it out during this time of year, you’ll get to see the famous parade which usually includes children in costumes, ornately decorated floats and lots of trinkets being thrown into the crowd. The Galvestonian Resort is a fun place to stay downtown because they decorate their grounds in spectacular fashion for the festivities. Plus, it’s near many other Galveston tourist attractions.
Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens, located across the street from Schlitterbahn Water Park in Galveston, Texas has everything you need for your trip to Galveston including lodging at the Moody Gardens Hotel, great dining, and fun and educational entertainment.
Moody Gardens features three attractions: the Aquarium; the Rainforest Pyramid, which contains tropical animals and plants; and the Discovery Pyramid, which focuses on science-oriented exhibits and activities. Another major attraction is Palm Beach, a landscaped sandy area with freshwater lagoons offering children’s activities. Moody Gardens also has a RideFilm Theater with motion-based pod seating, a 3-D IMAX theater, a paddlewheel cruise boat, a hotel, and a convention center.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island
During the summer season, late April to mid-September, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark features more than 30 attractions, including high-speed body slides, rivers, uphill coasters, tube chutes, family raft slides, children’s playgrounds, and a man-made surfing wave. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark has one indoor section that has limited operation during fall and winter.
Final Word
For family fun of all ages, Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Waterpark both offer a full day of entertainment. Moody Gardens is home to the aquarium where you can touch stingrays and learn about a variety of fish species. It is near the Schlitterbahn Waterpark, one of the top things to do in Galveston with kids during the summer months. They have over 30 attractions including water slides, roller coasters, a playground, a lazy river, and more. There are a couple of hotels in the area that are just a short walk to these Galveston attractions for kids. Springville Suites is a convenient, low-key choice, while Hotel Galvez Galveston offers famous brunches and beautiful, period furnishings.