Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum

Texas is known for its big oil productions, but perhaps less is known about the rigs used to extract this incredibly valuable natural resource. A visit to Galveston provides the perfect opportunity to get an up-close look at an oil rig and learn firsthand how it functions. While the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig is no longer active, it has found new life as an educational center for visitors right in the heart of Galveston.

What You’ll Experience

Located on Pier 19, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is a unique stop that allows visitors an educational visit to a retired oil rig. Not only will guests get an authentic feel for the layout of an oil rig, but a fascinating mix of exhibits and videos help guide guests through topics such as drilling, oil production and geological impacts.

What You’ll See

Guests will have the opportunity to visit three floors of the Ocean Star rig and will take a hands-on approach to learning about oil extraction and off shore drilling equipment. Exhibits work to walk guests through the history of offshore oil production while moving towards exploring topics like seismic technology and how it affects the overall process. Originally built by Bethlehem Steel in 1969, the Ocean Star rig has housed a vast number of oil production workers over the course of its active years. Guests today have the chance to experience what life on an oil rig was like while learning the many interesting details that accompany the process of extracting resources from beneath the ocean.

What to Know Before You Go

With multiple floors to explore and time dedicated to videos and exhibits, guests to the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum will want to set aside approximately 2-3 hours in order to make the most of the visit. A great stop for children and adults alike, a trip to this locale is educational in that it provides insight into both a global and Texas-specific industry. Open 10:00am to 5:00 pm daily, guests are free to utilize self-guided tour information and should make sure to visit the gift shop on the way out. You’ll want to pick up a meaningful souvenir to remember an amazing time exploring drilling equipment, rig models and a large selection of intricate displays!

When You’re Planning on Staying

An insightful visit to the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum should be followed up by a stay in one of Galveston’s premier vacation rentals. The experts at Ryson Vacation Rentals are dedicated to making your trip to Galveston unforgettable. Start by booking a rental complete with customized amenities and a home away from home comfort and style. Contact us today to start planning your next getaway or check our real estate page and find a home for you and your family to stay year round!