Galveston Cheap Thrills

Moore Sand-sational Things to Do on the Cheap in Galveston

Trying to find some fun things to do along the Texas shore that won’t have you shelling out a lot of money? Trav’s got some tips on what not to miss.

Shore Hits

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Get a shellfie along Galveston's Turtles About Town trail with the kids. There are more than 60 colorful Kemp's ridley sea turtle statues done by local artists that have popped up around the island since 2018 to heighten awareness of the critters' endangered status. Started as a community art project by the Turtle Island Restoration Network (TIRN) and Clay Cup Studios, its become a fun way for families to explore the island, learn about the turtles, and advocate for their protection. To get started, pick up a map at the Galveston Island Visitor Center or hop online and download a self-guided tour. Either way, don’t forget to tag your favorite shots with the hashtag #TurtlesAboutTown.  Exploring the trail is free.

Dig this—grab the kids and their sand pails and head to East Beach to make some memories in the sand. This year, in anticipation of the city’s annual AIA Sandcastle Competition, the park is hosting Sandcastle Saturdays to help beachgoers create spectacular sandcastles with building tips from an experienced pro. So, whether you’re looking to step up your game or just on the hunt for something to do with the kids that’s fun in the sun, you’ve found it. Sandcastle Saturdays take place every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. The event is free.

Looking for some thrills on deck? Go to the Texas Seaport Museum at Pier 22 and share a high-seas adventure with your kiddos. Home to the 1877 tall ship ELISSA, this extraordinary museum recreates every facet of life around Galveston’s port during its heyday in the 19th century. You can climb aboard the still-seaworthy vessel and walk the decks, imagining the days when sailors loaded local cotton into its hold for another voyage across the blue ocean. Head inside and you’ll learn about the area’s legacy of maritime commerce and immigration. Among the exhibits is a database that allows you to search the names of more than 133,000 immigrants who entered the country through Galveston, once known as the Ellis Island of the West. Admission is free for kids aged five and under and $9 for visitors aged 6-18.

Beach Bucket List

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Branch out and go see Galveston’s Tree Sculptures. Carved by local artists from the remains of the once-majestic oaks that lined neighborhood streets before Hurricane Ike, these whimsical sculptures make for a great adventure. The art created from the broken trees will blow you away. There are creatures from the sea, characters from movies, and everything in between. Any way you slice it, it’s sure to be a fun day out. So, grab your shoes, a bike, or even a golf cart and see how many you and the kids can spot. The best part? This activity is completely free. Download a walking guide to get started in the right direction.  

Looking for a sweet retreat? Head to the La King’s Confectionary and Ice Cream Parlor. This 1920s throwback on Galveston’s historic Strand is a Candyland fantasy come to life. Everywhere you look, every step you take, yummy fun is waiting. The candy counter seems to go on forever. More than 50 candies made from old-fashioned recipes by master candy makers will tempt you alongside dime-store penny candy. Specialties like peanut and pecan brittle, divinity candy, pecan pralines, hand-dipped chocolates, fudge, and their famous saltwater taffy are made right before your eyes on centuries-old equipment. The working soda fountain serves up all the classic hits: malts, shakes, sundaes, and splits with another Texas fav—old-world “Purity” ice cream (double scoops, please).

While you’re on the Strand, don’t miss Hendley Market. This eclectic emporium, a long-time favorite of locals and tourists, is full to the brim with the odd and unusual. Journals and oven mitts find their place among vintage postcards, antique doll dishes, and religious items. A glass case at the rear of the store houses a range of authentic vintage and Victorian items for sale. Among them are bloodletting instruments, snuff and tobacco boxes, cigar rugs, a jewelry casket, and even glass eyes from France. There’s stuff for you (bracelets, bags, and books), the kids (disappearing ink, racing roaches, and flying crows), and anyone else on the list.

A Little Nauti

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Head to the place where the locals love to eat, Shrimp 'N Stuff. Known for affordable and delicious seafood dinners, po' boys, gumbos, and salads, this casual downtown spot is just 10 blocks from the beach and open daily for lunch and dinner. Whether you're heading out on an adventure or on your way back home, you can call ahead and they'll have your order ready for picnicking or pickup. BTW, don’t forget to order the fried bread pudding.

Walk into Galveston Island Brewery, home to the city's declared official beer, Tiki Wheat, and feel the family vibe. The relaxed atmosphere, local feel, and games for kids makes this the perfect spot for you to take a break and enjoy some island brews. With 18 taps, St. Arnold's Root Beer, pub grub to snack on, food trucks, and music most weekends, this island attraction is not one to miss. FREE brewery tours are hosted every Saturday at 1 p.m.

Finally, get the kids and head to our Galveston Beach Resort Activity Center for some fun. Our staff will have all the materials waiting for your kiddos to design and build their own kites. And once they’re done, they can head outside and let them fly through the gorgeous sea air.

There you have it. Proof big fun doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. But make no mistake—this is only a start. There are plenty more ways to create priceLESS vacation memories in Galveston.

^{Any information provided is solely as a courtesy and is not due to compensation or business partnerships with Holiday Inn Club Vacations. Prices subject to change.}