Downtown Galveston

Although going to the beach is an important part of the Galveston experience, it is definitely not the only component of it. The downtown area of Galveston has plenty of shops, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment to make your vacation one to remember! In just a half-mile radius, there is so much to see, do, and experience that we can’t list it all here. 

It is always a good idea to be prepared and have a list of things to do, either as back-up or as additions to your vacation to Galveston and the beach. Here are just some of the things in downtown to consider for your trip to Galveston. 

Attractions 

Just walking up and down the Historic Strand is a sight to see. However, there are things to spend a little more time at for a fun, memorable vacation. For example, why not hop on a horse-drawn carriage, play a big game of chess in Saengerfest Park, or see the Pirates and Ghosts haunted house? 

You could spend all day just at Pier 21 to take advantage of their attractions. The Pier 21 Theater is one location that shouldn’t be overlooked. 

Also on Pier 21 is the Ocean Star OffShore Drilling Museum. This is a fascinating museum, right off of Wharf Road near the historic Strand district. Learn about the exciting world of offshore drilling. The Texas Seaport Museum is nearby as well, home of the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa, an incredible, beautiful, seaworthy ship. 

Right in the middle of downtown is the Galveston Railroad Museum. This is a great family-friendly attraction that will keep you engaged while learning a little about the train systems that are so important to Galveston and its history. 

These are just some of the amazing attractions to consider in the Galveston downtown area. Cruise around a little bit and you’ll be sure to find something else that interests you. 

Shops 

You’ll feel like a kid in a candy store when you go into some of the downtown shops… especially the candy stores. There are so many great fudges, toffees, taffies, gummies, and hard candies to try from several different locations to satisfy that sweet tooth. 

If you need a souvenir t-shirt, we’ve got you covered (literally). There are plenty of stores with unique, Galveston-esque style. If you want a special token to remind you of your special trip, there are several jewelry stores with gorgeous pieces. 

Basically if you can think of it, there’s probably a store in this small area for it, and more importantly, the things you can’t even imagine you’ll find too. 

Restaurants 

All over the island you’ll find incredible restaurants, but even in just the downtown area there are so many great eateries to choose from. Mosquito Cafe, Black Pearl Oyster Bar, Yaga’s Cafe, Stuttgarden Tavern, just to name a few. Do you want seafood, Tex-Mex, American? Well, we have it. The difficult part is picking a place to eat! 

Bars are temporarily closed throughout Texas. They might be high-risk locations during this time, but in the future when things get closer to “normal” and how things used to be, they are another thing to enjoy on the island. Scout out locations to come back to! 

Lodging 

If you need a place to stay that’s conveniently located in or around the downtown area, The Strand, or any of these fine locations, Ryson Vacation Rentals has plenty of options to choose from.