Top Things to Do in Galveston Before a Cruise
Get ready to explore things to do in Galveston before a cruise. You can plan your perfect pre-cruise itinerary with family attractions, beaches, and more!
Let’s face it, when you are planning a cruise from Galveston, all you can think about is all things cruise-related.
Besides packing, you mostly think about transportation, where to stay, and where to eat, but not necessarily what to do before your cruise if you arrive early.
In this post, l’ll explore beaches, historic attractions, family-friendly things to do, and scenic sites that make Galveston unforgettable. And of course, we won’t forget to take a look at restaurants near the Galveston cruise port, some of the best hotels in Galveston before a cruise, and parking and transportation tips.
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Why Explore Galveston Before Your Cruise?
I’ve said it in other posts, and I’ll say it again: it’s best to arrive in Galveston at least a day before your cruise.
As you begin to take cruises regularly, or after your first cruise, you’ll see that coming into Galveston a day earlier will lessen travel stress like airports, flight delays, and Houston traffic!
You’ll also see that Galveston is more than a cruise departure port, and it gives you the added bonus of enjoying and exploring beaches, history, and island attractions.
If you’re traveling alone, as a couple, with other family members, or children, you’ll find that there are plenty of things to do in Galveston before a cruise.
👉 Insider Tip: Arrive at least the day before your cruise so that you can have an island getaway and a potentially less stressful pre-cruise travel experience.
Family Friendly Things to Do in Galveston
I mentioned traveling with children earlier, and I want to briefly mention it again because it is another great reason to arrive in Galveston at least a day before your cruise.
Because Galveston is a family-friendly cruise departure city, there are attractions for not only children, but also for travelers of any age in your family or group.
We’re talking about attractions that are unique, interesting, fun, and will definitely add excitement to your pre-cruise travel, whether you spend a few hours or a day.
First, we’ll explore Moody Gardens because this is one attraction you’ll want to include in your pre-cruise itinerary.
Moody Gardens and Aquarium
Again, Moody Gardens is a must-visit attraction before a cruise. Why?
Because just about everyone loves the Aquarium, Discovery, and Rainforest Pyramids!
If you enjoy marine, aquatic, and exotic habitats, you’ll want to make this your go-to spot so that you can take plenty of pictures and have plenty of time to walk around.
The Discovery Pyramid is a little different from the other two pyramids because it has rotating interactive exhibits throughout the year, so check which exhibit is available when planning your visit.
The grounds at Moody Gardens are beautiful as well. So even if you only went to Moody Gardens before your cruise, you’d be happy with having this visit as one of your top things to do in Galveston before a cruise. It might just become one of, if not your favorite, Galveston attractions.
If you have children or teenagers, or maybe you’re a movie lover yourself, you’ll want to go to the IMAX 3D and 4D theaters.
Depending on the time of year, you must see the Festival of Lights, Holiday in the Gardens, and ICE LAND!
👉 Insider Tip: Save money! Consider purchasing a combo ticket to visit two attractions (i.e., pyramid + theatre or aquarium pyramid + rainforest pyramid, etc.).
Historic and Cultural Attractions Near the Cruise Port
If you’ve never been to Galveston, it would be easy to categorize it with other cruise ports, but this couldn’t be further from the truth!
Galveston is unique in its own right. You can not only cruise from here, but you can also experience a history that is filled with resilience.
I’ve touched on Galveston’s history and resilience in other posts, but because of the events surrounding its history, it makes Galveston Island a coastal city with a story.
At the time of this post, Galveston recently celebrated 125 years since the great storm of the 1900s, which destroyed a great portion of Galveston on September 8, 1900.
Over the last hundred years, Galveston has faced additional storms (nothing like the storms of the 1900s) and has since rebuilt and restored much of the city, which you’ll see with historic markers throughout to celebrate and commemorate the city’s historic past that paved the way for its current vibrant future.
There are still many Victorian homes and buildings that maintain the architecture true to its original era, and you’ll love it as you spend time walking or riding through Galveston.
Now, since we’ve talked a little about Galveston’s history, let’s take a look at some of the historic and cultural things to do in Galveston before a cruise!
The Strand Historic District
You’ve noticed in a few of my posts, I’ve started with The Strand Historic District, and I usually do because The Strand is the spot for visitors and is only blocks away from the cruise terminals.
When you visit The Strand, it will somewhat remind you of New Orleans. I say that because of the buildings and because, as you walk the streets of The Strand, you’ll see lots of local boutique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops.
This is a great place to get souvenirs either before or after your cruise.
Look for these historic markers as you stroll The Strand. These markers are a beautiful reminder of how The Strand was the 19th-century trade center, giving Galveston the reputation as “The Wall Street of the South.”
You’ll also see plaques and designated water markers in Galveston from Hurricane Ike in 2008, signifying another storm that tested and proved Galveston’s strength and resilience.
👉 Insider Tip: As you walk The Strand, watch your step! The curbs are high, and some of the sidewalks are slightly slanted with the high end towards the buildings and the lower slope towards the street. Possibly to prevent flooding from entering the buildings if there are high waters.
Galveston Tree Sculptures Tour
Speaking of Hurricane Ike, among the devastating effects were destroyed oak trees. Local tree sculptors creatively sculpted mermaids, dogs, frogs, dolphins, and even the Tin Man and Toto from The Wizard of Oz!
The day before your cruise, you can tour the East End Historic District for either a self-guided walking or biking tour to see carvings that truly display how tragedy can be transformed into a beautiful reminder of how Galveston Island continues to thrive when faced with challenges.
Juneteenth History Sites
As you’ve seen so far, Galveston has a varied and unique past, and that past includes Juneteenth.
Considered the “birthplace of Juneteenth,” Galveston has taken its place in history as the last place that enslaved people in the United States were declared free.
Freedom for slaves was already declared in the United States and was enacted and implemented in other cities and states for 2 ½ years.
However, Galveston did not commemorate this freedom until June 19, 1865, when federal troops arrived to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation that was signed by Abraham Lincoln, January 1, 1863.
When you arrive in Galveston, you can visit Ashton Villa, the Galveston Historic Courthouse, or reserve a Juneteenth tour to experience a truly historic chapter in the history of America!
1894 Grand Opera House
The 1894 Grand Opera House, also known as “The Grand” and called “The Official Opera House of Texas,” was built in the year its name indicates, but premiered its first performance in January of 1895.
Its Romanesque Revival-style architecture is indeed “grand,” but the fly space above the stage, stage lighting, bilateral side wings on the stage, orchestra pit, and box office deemed the 1894 Grand Opera House “grand.”
Since that time, locals and tourists can experience Broadway shows, live performances from celebrities, and entertainment from local artists in Galveston.
If you have a scheduled cruise in December and arrive in Galveston a day or two before your cruise, you might be able to enjoy the Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol!
The Grand 1894 Opera House
2020 Postoffice Street
Galveston, TX 77550
Phone: 409-765-1894
Email: tickets@thegrand.com
👉 Click here for The Grand calendar and ticket information
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
You’ll experience plenty of fresh ocean air on your cruise, but why wait until then?
Galveston Island has beaches, parks, and if you’re feeling adventurous, yes, even aerial tours! Come visit Galveston before your cruise to see dolphins, walk in the sand, and maybe do some birdwatching.
Stewart Beach
It can be hard to decide where to go when you travel with children.
Well, if you’re looking for a place where the entire family can relax and have fun, Stewart Beach is just the answer.
It’s considered the family-friendlier beach when compared to East Beach. There are concessions like Beach Bites, where you can eat wings, hot dogs, burgers, fries, and onion rings.
To cool off in the Texas heat, you can try Shorecrest Sno or Sugar, Spice, and Everything Ice snow cones. How does a mango, blue raspberry, or strawberry snow cone sound?
There are also first-come, first-served umbrella and chair rentals from John’s Beach Service (accepts cash and card payments) so that you can relax with shade.
There are also lifeguards, beach supplies, restrooms, and showers. *Alcohol is not permitted*
Click here for a virtual tour of Stewart Beach.
Stewart Beach
Physical Address
401 Seawall Boulevard
Galveston, TX 77550
East Beach
East Beach is still family-friendly; it’s just that it is known for more of an entertainment atmosphere, and alcoholic beverages are allowed, as opposed to Stewart Beach.
You and your family can enjoy sand volleyball, a bird sanctuary, beach supplies, and there are lifeguards, showers, and restrooms available.
Just like Stewart Beach, there are concessions, like East Beach Cantina, which has food, umbrellas, and chair rentals, and there’s also shaved ice at Kona Ice, a shaved-ice food truck.
Take a virtual tour of East Beach by clicking here.
R.A. Apffel Park (East Beach)
Physical Address
1923 Apffel Rd
Galveston, TX 77550
Vehicle Admission Fee: Both Stewart Beach and East Beach have a $15 vehicle one-time entryadmission (cash or credit), and re-entry is not allowed (unlimited entry is available with a year-long seasonal beach parking pass).
👉 Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs are also available at both beaches (first-come, first-served). Just ask the gate attendant, and be prepared to leave your driver’s license as security; it’ll be returned when you return the wheelchair.
Seawolf Park
There’s more of the great outdoors before you cruise out of Galveston at Pelican Island, the home of Seawolf Park.
Seawolf Park has picnic sites, fishing piers, playgrounds, and the Galveston Naval Museum, where you can see the World War II submarine USS Cavalla; the USS Stewart, a destroyer escort, and take a concrete tour of the remains of the World War I tanker, S.S. Selma.
Bait Daddy’s Bait and Fishing Gear sells a selection of bait and fishing gear if you get the urge to catch the big one.
You can also grab a shaved ice, a bite to eat, or a snack at Wolf Pack Shave Ice & More.
Fee: Non-resident parking is $10, but parking is free with the purchase of a fishing band.
Click here for a virtual tour of Seawolf Park
Seawolf Park
Physical Address
Seawolf Park
Galveston, TX 77550
East End Lagoon Nature Preserve
Why not have an adventure before your cruise adventure? Who says you can’t go hiking, kayaking, crabbing, fishing, birdwatching, or take some pictures before you set sail?
Come to Galveston a few days early, and you can visit the 684-acre East End Lagoon Nature Preserve and experience scenic views and relax surrounded by nature.
Click here to learn more about registering for free guided nature walks.
Scallywag Air Tours
See the Gulf Coast from an aerial view! Take a scenic flight above Galveston Island on a vintage-style biplane with Scallywag Air.
You and another guest can enjoy a birds-eye view of Galveston Island, the Historic Pleasure Pier, and the Historic Seaport (1877 Tall Ship ELISSA).
Scallywag Air provides goggles and a retro flying cap for the duration of the flight.
Book at least 15 days ahead.
*Price varies by chosen flight duration times (18 min – 60 min).
Where to Eat in Galveston Before a Cruise
One of the things to do in Galveston, if you arrive a couple of days before your cruise, is to eat at a few of the local restaurants.
Galveston has plenty of dining venues, so I know you’ll find your new local favorite in no time.
You can choose from fresh Gulf seafood, casual cafés with ocean views, or upscale restaurants.
We’ll look at a few restaurants here, but you can learn about more restaurants in my post, “Where to Eat in Galveston: 12 Best Restaurants in Town.”
Katie’s Seafood House
Katie’s Seafood House serves fresh-from-the-boat Gulf seafood that’s supplied from their very own Katie’s Seafood Market next door. You can eat with an ocean view overlooking the harbor!
Yaga’s Café
On The Strand, you’ll find Yaga’s Café for a more casual atmosphere and Caribbean cuisine.
Mario’s Seawall Italian & Pizzeria
There’s pizza at Mario’s Seawall Italian & Pizzeria. Just in case you’re craving something other than seafood and still want a relaxed atmosphere.
Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina
Maybe you’re craving Tex-Mex? If so, Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina can help with that. If you’re in the Strand District, try fajitas or some ceviche for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
PattyCakes Bakery
You’ve eaten seafood, but now you have a sweet tooth and you’re ready for dessert. PattyCakes Bakery has cupcakes, cookies, and other sweets to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Local Seafood Markets
Take a look at some of the local seafood markets, like Katie’s Seafood Market, in the area, so you can see how local restaurants are supplied with fresh catches of the day.
If you drove to Galveston and want fresh seafood to take home, think about stopping by one of the local seafood markets before you drive back home to buy shrimp, crab, and oysters directly from the docks to take home.
👉 Insider Tip: Restaurants can get pretty busy on The Strand and at Pier locations. If you’re dining near the cruise port and you’re eating before you embark, give yourself at least 90 minutes extra to allow for the crowds.
If it’s too crowded, some of the dining venues are open once you board cruise ships, and you can grab a bite to eat then.
Best Hotels in Galveston Before a Cruise: Hotels Near Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal
Deciding where to stay in Galveston before a cruise?
It can be tough because there are a lot of hotels to choose from, and depending on your budget, preferences, and travel needs, choosing the wrong hotel could affect your pre-cruise experience.
The good news is that because there are so many hotels, you can choose from a wide variety that can be family-friendly, child-friendly, budget-friendly, historic and elegant, or a combination of any.
Let’s look at a few.
Hotels with Historic Charm
The Tremont House
You’ll enjoy staying at the Tremont House before your cruise. It’s a boutique-style hotel, meaning it’s a smaller hotel compared to hotel brands, with personalized service.
The Tremont House is a big plus because it’s located in The Strand Historic District, it’s close to restaurants and shopping, and there’s a Stay, Park, and Sail package that includes cruise parking for up to seven days, and drop-off and pick-up at the cruise terminal.
In order to take advantage of the cruise package, you must book 21 days in advance.
The Mansard House
Now that you’re more familiar with boutique hotels, you’ll appreciate the recently restored historic Mansard House.
The Mansard House showcases 12 rooms and is an adult-only (must be at least 25) boutique hotel.
There are complimentary bikes so that you can ride and enjoy Galveston, a light daily breakfast, heated pools and cabanas, a fire pit, and gated guest parking, among other amenities.
No cruise shuttle, but cruise parking is available as an add-on with an added perk of one free parking night for each booked night, but you must call to book parking dates.
Galveston Beachfront Resorts
Moody Gardens Hotel
I’ve mentioned Moody Gardens in previous posts, and for good reasons!
While staying at Moody Gardens, there is so much to do. You can enjoy glass pyramids, a golf course, exotic and marine exhibits, and the beautiful grounds.
As of October 13, 2025, I received notification from Moody Gardens that the cruise shuttle is now offered in their cruise package.
If you choose to stay at Moody Gardens Hotel, the cruise package includes a room, valet parking for one car for the length of your cruise, and the option add round-trip cruise shuttle transportation to the terminal.
Hilton Galveston Island Resort
The great part about the Hilton Galveston Island Resort is that there is a cruise shuttle included in their Park, Stay, and Go package when you stay at least one night. You can park for up to seven days (one vehicle).
There is an on-site restaurant for dining for a fee, but if you have Hilton rewards, check and see if your loyalty status offers food credit.
When I stay at the Hilton, there is a $15 food and beverage credit. So, make sure if the same applies to you while you’re choosing where to stay.
Budget Hotels in Galveston
Red Roof Plus Galveston – Beachfront
As you’ve noticed for some time now, there have been fewer hotels offering microwaves in the room. Well, the Red Roof Plus Galveston – Beachfront has a microwave and mini-refrigerator in each room.
This is a huge plus, especially if you’re traveling with children. You could order take-out, delivery, or make a quick grocery run or grocery delivery for perishable items and place them in the refrigerator or microwave to stay within your travel budget.
Even though there’s not a cruise shuttle, the Red Roof Plus Galveston is close to the cruise port, downtown Galveston (activities, things to do, food, and attractions), and has free parking.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott
This budget-friendly hotel is near the Seawall and is close to attractions.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott offers “The Perfect Cruise Experience”, a cruise package that includes a seasonal daily food and beverage credit to their on-site restaurant, cruise parking for one vehicle, and round-trip cruise shuttle transportation for up to two guests.
👉 Insider Tip: Some cruise packages have valet parking as an option. If you’re hotel offers valet parking, make sure to ask if the valet service has in/out privileges to prevent being charged for valet re-entry.
👉 Compare Galveston hotel prices here
Parking and Transportation Tips for Cruisers
No one, literally no one likes to deal with finding parking spots or having transportation issues; yet these are two of the most important details when planning travel (even cruise travel).
Questions like: where do I park my car when I go on a cruise? Do I need a rental car in Galveston? Does the hotel have cruise parking, and for how long? How much is cruise parking? Etc., etc., etc.
Well, these are things that you need to consider while maintaining your travel budget.
Fortunately, as we’ve discussed so far, hotels with cruise parking are often the better option, but you can also consider other options that may be just as suited for your travel needs.
Let’s take a look at a few so that you can make an informed decision and ease your travel concerns.
Port of Galveston Parking
Maybe you’ve already booked your hotel, and they did not have a cruise parking package. Rest assured, you can park at the cruise terminal.
Parking might be a little pricier than having a hotel package. Be sure to book early online because there are cruise travelers who drive in the same day to take advantage of parking spots close to the terminal.
Private Parking Lots
Even if you can’t secure a parking spot at the cruise terminal, and you prefer a parking lot that is close to the terminal, there are private parking lots that offer cruise parking with a cruise shuttle to the terminal.
Sometimes the rates are lower, and the cruise shuttle is complimentary. Just consider arriving at least 1-2 hours before your scheduled embarkation time.
You can find a list of private parking lots here.
Hotels with Cruise Parking
We’ve discussed a few hotels with cruise parking, but if you’d like to review some additional hotels, please read my previous posts, “Galveston Cruise Parking Hotel Guide” and “Where to Stay in Galveston (Top Picks for Every Traveler!)” to find hotels with cruise parking packages.
Houston to Galveston Transfers
If you’re flying to Houston a day or two (or more) before your cruise, you can secure an airport transfer for a shuttle from either Hobby (HOU) or Intercontinental (IAH).
👉 Reserve a private transfer with GetTransfer, Welcome Pickups, Viator (HOU), or Viator (IAH).
1 Day Itinerary in Galveston Before a Cruise
There’s a lot you can do days before your cruise and the day of your cruise, before you embark, while being aware of your embarkation schedule. Here are some things you can do the day before your cruise.
Morning: The Strand is the place. Start by strolling The Strand. If you’re going to visit anywhere in Galveston, make one of those anywhere’s The Strand. After strolling The Strand, visit the Texas Seaport Museum and the Tall Ship ELISSA.
Afternoon: If you’re feeling beachy, visit Stewart Beach for family-friendly fun or Moody Gardens to visit the Rainforest, Aquarium, and Discovery Pyramids.
Evening: Sunsets are beautiful in Galveston, and you can see them best while walking along the Seawall before or after you have dinner at Katie’s Seafood House.
FAQs: About Things to Do in Galveston Before a Cruise
Phew…we’ve covered quite a few things about pre-cruise travel, but you may still have some questions.
I’ve listed a few of the most common and frequently asked questions so that you can better prepare for your Galveston itinerary before your cruise.
Can you walk to attractions from the Port of Galveston?
Absolutely, because Galveston Island is about 27-32 miles, just about everything is relatively close to each other. This is especially true when you are on or near The Strand and want to visit museums.
Now, if you want to visit beaches or Moody Gardens, you will need transportation.
You can take the Galveston Island Trolley to designated areas. Click here for a map and schedule for the Seawall Trolley.
Is Galveston worth visiting before a cruise?
Yes, there’s so much to do besides going to the cruise port for your cruise. Come before your cruise to take advantage of Galveston’s rich history, culture, food, and unique island attractions.
I gave details in my previous post, “10 Reasons Why Galveston is Worth Visiting (+Why It’s Not)” so that you can decide if you want to visit Galveston on vacation in addition to cruising from Galveston.
What’s the best family activity before a cruise?
That depends on your family’s preferences. Most often, Moody Gardens or Pleasure Pier will meet expectations for family-friendly attractions.
Do I need to book hotels far in advance?
Yes, definitely. Around travel peaks and seasonal festivals, Galveston hotels will fill rather quickly.
This is especially true around cruise days and weekends because of festivals. When hotels begin to fill quickly, the rates rise quickly. Consider reserving in advance for the best availability and rates.
How far is Houston airport from Galveston?
There are two airports in Houston: the Hobby Airport (HOU), which is about 45-60 minutes away, and the Intercontinental Airport (IAH), which is about 70-90 minutes away.
Keep in mind, these are approximate times, which can be greatly influenced by traffic and fluctuate. There are transportation options and you can reserve pickups from GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups for rides from the airport to Galveston.
Final Thoughts
I hope that you’ve seen that there are a number of things to do in Galveston before a cruise, and that you consider coming to Galveston for a visit instead of just rushing to the cruise ship.
As I mentioned earlier in the post, you can have an adventure before your cruise adventure, and why not make Galveston a part of your pre-cruise travel?
While planning your cruise from Galveston, plan to visit the historic sites, beaches, family-friendly attractions, and global cuisine from an island that is for every travel budget and for every traveler.
