Fun for Littles

To make memories, follow these top 10 Island experiences for kids under 10.

Galveston, lovable penguins await; trains showcase local railroad history; and an old-fashioned candy shop/ice cream parlor satisfies everyone’s sweet tooth. Sprinkle on a few pirate tales and these top experiences will provide an unforgettable Galveston getaway for the kids—and parents too!

10. Explore Galveston’s Historic Harbor on the Seagull II

Treat the kids to an adventure on a historic harbor tour aboard the Seagull II. The top deck of this two-hulled catamaran affords panoramic views while the lower level provides shade from the sun. As the kids scan the horizon for dolphins, Captain Brian Leadingham regales them with tales of Galveston’s notorious pirate, Jean Lafitte.

8. Eco-Kayaking Plus Art With Artist Boat

Paddle through Galveston’s wetlands while making memories along the way and leave with your own plein art painting. Discover the tiny sea creatures living in the coastal habitat with an Artist Boat eco-kayaking adventure. Ages 5 and up will enjoy the two-hour paddling experience learning how to navigate through the calm water. On three-to-four-hour experiences (ages 7 and up), the tour stops in the wetlands, where everyone learns how to make a plein art painting.

9. Step into History Aboard the ELISSA

Step aboard ELISSA—an 1877 tall ship. This eye-catching vessel now serves as a museum documenting the Island’s storied immigration history. The kids won’t realize they’re walking through a history lesson as they follow the footsteps of early immigrants and get an up-close look at what it was like to travel the seas in the 1800s.

/ 1877--------

7. Build a Castle With Sandy Feet Sand Castle

Choose your beach—anywhere from East Beach to Pointe West—and schedule a sandcastle building experience with Emerson Schreiner. Not your average sandcastle, everyone in the family will stretch their creative muscles, get a little sweat going and learn how to carve a sandy masterpiece.

4. Sweeten the Day at La King’s Confectionery

Featuring a 1920s soda fountain serving floats, ice cream sodas, malts, splits and sundaes, over 50 candies made from old-time recipes, and antique arcade games, La King’s Confectionery is an instant hit with sugar-loving kids of all ages. To add to the fun, this Galveston treasure has saltwater taffy-pulling demonstrations for more delicious entertainment.

3. Become a Junior Ranger at Galveston Island State Park

Embrace nature at Galveston Island State Park, where recreational activities include birdwatching, camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking and swimming. Make the experience special with a visit to the Nature Center, where kids can pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Journal and Explorer Pack. Completing the activity journal’s tasks earns them a Junior Ranger designation.

2. Ride the Rails at the Galveston Railroad Museum

6. Catch a Wave With Southern Spears Surf Shop & Rentals

Founded with the goal of providing a retail experience for the customer that embodies the surfing spirit, Southern Spears embraces the surfing lifestyle and culture, and is committed to passing on the “stoke” to the customer. Owned and operated by surfers, Southern Spears offers customers the world’s highest quality surf clothing, equipment and surfboards.

5. Pet a Stingray at Moody Gardens

Hidden behind the doors of Moody Gardens’ Aquarium

Pyramid awaits an awe-inspiring underwater experience that includes Humboldt Penguin Habitat, a Mangrove Lagoon touch tank home to stingrays and a multi-level 30,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico Rig Exhibit.

Fun for all ages, the art deco-designed Galveston Railroad Museum showcases approximately 40 rail cars, model trains and a restored 1932 train depot. Explore the collection before you hop aboard the Harborside Express for a train ride in an open-air caboose traveling one mile up Harborside Drive before returning to the museum.

1. Experience Old-Fashioned Fun at Galveston Pleasure Pier

Originally built as a military recreational facility during World War II, today the Galveston Pleasure Pier delights kids and their grown-ups with thrill-inducing rides and iconic midway games. Get into a Pier Pileup with old-fashioned bumper cars or twist down the flume in the Pirate Plunge.

Whether you’re planning a heart-pounding adventure or a leisurely weekend getaway, Galveston delivers unforgettable experiences that will give you and your brood reasons to return.