Indoor Things to Do in Galveston
When the weather in Galveston turns unpredictable, don’t let it dampen your spirits — there are plenty of indoor things to do inside Galveston!
Dive into maritime history at the Galveston Naval Museum, where you can marvel at intricate ship models and naval artifacts. For a creative twist, head to the Galveston Art Center, which offers free admission to a dynamic array of contemporary art exhibitions. And for family fun, visit the Galveston Children’s Museum, where hands-on learning and interactive exhibits provide hours of engaging play.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for a fun activity for the kids, the list of indoor things to do in Galveston has something for everyone. Check out our comprehensive guide to help you stock up on ideas of things to do in Galveston on a rainy day.
Best Things To Do Inside in Galveston – Categorized by Specialties
Indoor Things to Do in Galveston
Indoor Things to Do In Galveston with Kids
Free Indoor Things to Do in Galveston
Quick Hit Summary of the Best Things to Do Inside in Galveston
If you’re seeking engaging indoor things to do in Galveston, Texas, you’ll find plenty of options to keep you entertained regardless of the weather. One standout is the Galveston Railroad Museum, which features intricate model train layouts and interactive elements that fascinate both kids and adults. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the world of model railroading and is perfect for train enthusiasts.
For those interested in a touch of local flavor, the Galveston Island Brewing provides a cozy indoor setting where you can sample a diverse range of craft beers brewed right on the island. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy live music or special events while savoring unique local brews.
Lastly, the Bryan Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Southwestern history through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. With a focus on the region’s rich past, this museum is an enriching experience for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring the cultural heritage of the area.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we come up with our recommendations.
Also, check out our post on Free Things to Do in Galveston, Fun Things to Do in Galveston, and Galveston Restaurants on the Water!
Indoor Things to Do in Galveston
The Grand 1894 Opera House
The Grand 1894 Opera House is a historic venue offering a range of indoor entertainment options, from Broadway shows to classical performances. The beautifully restored theater provides a charming and culturally rich experience, perfect for a night out or a rainy afternoon. Check their schedule for upcoming shows and enjoy a taste of local culture.
- Highlights: Historic theater, diverse performances
- Insider Tips: Purchase tickets in advance for popular shows.
- Location: 2020 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Varies by performance; check the website for details.
- How much: Ticket prices vary; check the website for details.
The Bryan Museum
The Bryan Museum houses an extensive collection of Southwestern artifacts and historical items. The indoor exhibits provide a rich, educational experience, with artifacts ranging from early Texas history to Native American culture. It’s a perfect way to delve into regional history while enjoying a comfortable indoor setting.
- Highlights: Southwestern artifacts, historical exhibits
- Insider Tips: Check their website for rotating exhibits and special events.
- Location: 1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
- How much: $15 for adults | $14 for seniors and military | $12 for students | $7 for kids 6 – 12 | Free for kids 5 and under
Galveston Island Brewing
Image Credit: Galveston Island Brewing
For foodie indoor things to do in Galveston, don’t miss Galveston Island Brewing. This iconic brewery offers an indoor tasting room where you can sample a variety of locally brewed beers. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a cold brew while escaping the weather. The brewery often hosts events and live music, providing a lively and enjoyable indoor experience.
- Highlights: Craft beers, tasting room, live music
- Insider Tips: Check their website for information on beer releases and events.
- Location: 8423 Stewart Rd, Galveston, TX 77554
- Hours: Monday – Thursday: 2 pm- 8 pm | Friday: 2 pm – 9 pm | Saturday: 12 pm- 9 pm | Sunday: 12 pm- 8 pm
- How much: Beer prices vary; check the website for details.
1892 Bishop’s Palace
Step back in time at Bishop’s Palace, a stunning Victorian mansion noted as one of America’s 100 most important buildings by the American Institute of Architects. The palace features ornate details, rare woods, stained glass windows, and luxurious materials, making it a fascinating place to explore for your indoor things to do in Galveston itinerary.
- Highlights: Victorian architecture, stained glass, guided tours
- Insider Tips: Book a private tour for a more personalized experience; check for seasonal events.
- Location: 1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily
- How much: $15 for adults | $12 for kids 6 – 18 | Free for kids 5 and under
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
This unique museum, housed on an actual retired drilling rig, offers interactive exhibits on offshore drilling and ocean science. Visitors can explore various levels of the rig, learning about the technology and techniques used in oil and gas exploration. It’s a fascinating look at a critical industry, perfect for curious minds and rainy days.
- Highlights: Interactive exhibits, drilling platform tours
- Insider Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the rig; great for family visits.
- Location: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily
- How much: $12 for adults | $10 for seniors/ military | $8 for kids 7 – 18 | Free for kids 6 and under
Haunted Mayfield Manor
Experience the eerie side of Galveston at Haunted Mayfield Manor, a year-round haunted house located in the historic Strand District. Featuring creepy props, spooky actors, and haunted tales, it’s a thrilling activity for those who enjoy a good scare—perfect for a rainy or hot day.
- Highlights: Haunted house experience, historical narratives
- Insider Tips: Not suitable for very young children; best visited at night for added spookiness.
- Location: 2313 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12 pm – 7 pm | Friday – Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm | Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
- How much: $15 per person
Escape the Island
For those looking for fun and challenging indoor things to do in Galveston, Escape the Island is the perfect thing to do. This is a fun, indoor escape room experience that challenges players to solve puzzles and riddles to “escape” themed rooms. Perfect for groups, families, or team-building exercises, it offers a variety of themed adventures that provide a thrilling, interactive experience.
- Highlights: Themed escape rooms, teamwork challenges
- Insider Tips: Book in advance; great for groups or family fun.
- Location: 910 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 4 pm – 10 pm | Friday: 12 pm – 10 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm | Sunday: 2 pm – 10 pm
- How much: Starts at $25
Clay Cup Studios
Image credit: Clay Cup Studios
Clay Cup Studios is a creative haven where visitors can paint pottery, make crafts, or take art classes. A perfect spot for families, friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing and fun indoor activity, it offers a chance to make a unique keepsake or gift.
- Highlights: Pottery painting, art classes, creative workshops
- Insider Tips: Check for daily specials or themed events; great for all ages.
- Location: 2219 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Wednesday: 12 pm – 7 pm | Thursday – Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm | Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm
- How much: Varies by activity, starting from $15
Moody Mansion Museum
Explore one of Galveston’s most beautiful historic homes at the Moody Mansion Museum. This 28,000-square-foot mansion, built in 1895, offers guided tours showcasing exquisite architecture, antique furnishings, and the story of one of Texas’s most prominent families. Perfect for history buffs and those seeking a glimpse into the past.
- Highlights: Guided mansion tours, historic architecture, period furnishings
- Insider Tips: Photography is allowed, so bring your camera; plan for a 60-90 minute tour.
- Location: 2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily
- How much: $15 for adults | $7 for kids 6 – 17 | Free for kids 5 and under
Indoor Things to Do In Galveston with Kids
Galveston Children’s Museum
The Galveston Children’s Museum provides a hands-on learning experience designed for younger visitors. With a range of interactive exhibits and activities, it’s a perfect spot for kids to explore and engage in creative play. Whether it’s building structures or engaging in art projects, the museum offers a fun and educational indoor escape from the weather.
- Highlights: Interactive exhibits, creative play areas
- Insider Tips: Check their website for special programs and events tailored for kids.
- Location: 2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:30 am – 5 pm | Sunday: 12 pm- 5 pm
- How much: $10 | $8 for military and seniors
Galveston Railroad Museum
Image credit: Galveston Railroad Museum
For the kids, don’t miss the Galveston Railroad Museum in your indoor things to do in Galveston list. The museum showcases detailed model train layouts and exhibits. This indoor attraction provides a captivating look at model railroading and offers interactive elements for visitors to enjoy. It’s an engaging way to explore the hobby and see impressive miniature railroads in action.
- Highlights: Detailed model trains, interactive displays
- Insider Tips: Visit during special events for larger displays and demonstrations.
- Location: 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
- How much: $12 | $9 for seniors | $6 for kids aged 3 – 12 | Free for members and kids 2 and under
Moody Gardens
Image credit: Moody Gardens
Dive into an underwater adventure at the Moody Gardens Aquarium Pyramid, where you can explore a wide variety of marine life from around the world. Perfect for rainy or hot days, this is one of the indoor things to do in Galveston that you don’t want to miss. The place offers a climate-controlled environment where you can wander through tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and vibrant fish. It’s a family-friendly destination with interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and even live feeding shows.
- Highlights: Underwater tunnels, interactive touch tanks, live animal shows
- Insider Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds; check their schedule for feeding times.
- Location: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
- Hours: Sunday – Friday: 10 am – 5 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 7 pm
- How much: Ticket prices vary per attraction and pass type
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Escape the weather by visiting the Pleasure Pier Arcade, filled with classic and modern arcade games. From air hockey to racing games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a fun spot for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to spend a few hours having a blast indoors.
- Highlights: Wide variety of arcade games, prizes
- Insider Tips: Purchase a play card for discounts on game credits; suitable for all ages.
- Location: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Friday: 2 pm – 10 pm | Saturday – Sunday: 11 am – 10 pm | Monday: 11 am – 9 pm
- How much: Ticket prices vary depending on pass
Galveston Naval Museum
The Galveston Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into the maritime history of Galveston and the Gulf Coast. With exhibits featuring ship models, nautical artifacts, and historical documents, it’s a captivating indoor destination for anyone interested in naval history and maritime heritage.
- Highlights: Ship models, nautical artifacts, historical documents
- Insider Tips: Explore the museum’s collection of rare maritime artifacts for a unique experience.
- Location: 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
- Hours: Daily: 9 am – 6 pm
- How much: $13 | $9 for kids, seniors, and veterans | $7 for group admissions per person (minimum of 15) | Free for military and first responders
Pirates – Legend of the Gulf Coast
Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast offers a thrilling indoor adventure that dives into the swashbuckling history of pirates in the region. This interactive museum features pirate-themed exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays. It’s an exciting and educational way to spend a rainy day, with plenty of hands-on activities and intriguing stories to explore.
- Highlights: Pirate artifacts, interactive exhibits
- Insider Tips: Look for special events and pirate reenactments on their website.
- Location: 2313 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12 pm- 7 pm | Friday – Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm | Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
- How much: $15 | Free for kids under 5
Free Indoor Things to Do in Galveston
Galveston Arts Center
Image credit: Galveston Arts Center
The Galveston Art Center is a vibrant indoor venue showcasing contemporary art by local and national artists. The center features rotating exhibitions, artist talks, and special events, making it a dynamic place to explore the art scene. It’s a perfect indoor destination for art lovers seeking to experience creative works and engage with the local art community.
- Highlights: Contemporary art exhibitions, artist talks
- Insider Tips: Attend during ArtWalk events for a more immersive experience.
- Location: 2127 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 12 pm- 5 pm
- How much: Free admission; donations welcome.
Rosenberg Library
For a quiet adventure, add the Rosenberg Library to your list of indoor things to do in Galveston. As the oldest public library in Texas, Rosenberg Library offers more than just books. It houses a free museum showcasing artifacts from Galveston’s history, including paintings, rare books, and cultural icons. It’s a great spot for a quiet, educational indoor experience.
- Highlights: Museum collection, rare book room, historical exhibits
- Insider Tips: Explore the Fox Rare Book Room for unique finds; check for special exhibitions.
- Location: 2310 Sealy Ave, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Monday, Friday – Saturday: 9 am – 6 pm | Tuesday – Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
- How much: Free
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