Victorian Houses in Wealthy Neighborhood, Galveston, Texas

Galveston Historic District: 9 Things To Do While Traveling The Area

Best Things To Do On The Strand In Galveston

By Cynthia J. Drake | Published on May 9, 2023

In addition to being a busy port, Galveston is a Texas city with a fascinating history, and nowhere is that more pronounced than in the Galveston Historic District, or "The Strand," so-named for the waterfront street upon which its boundaries are loosely defined.

Founded in 1785, the seaport of Galveston was second only to Ellis Island throughout the 1800s for the large numbers of immigrants coming through the busy port, and it has been a beach vacation getaway for crowds of tourists dating back generations. It is also the site of the largest natural disaster in American history, the hurricane of 1900, which forever changed the city.

These two key historical details, combined with Galveston's geographical position on the Gulf Coast about 100 miles from the Louisiana border, give rise to a rich cultural and historical identity that sets Galveston apart from other Texas cities. Visiting for a Galveston vacation will bring in delicious meals rich with coastal southern and Creole flavors, tales of ghosts, triumph, heartbreak, and treasures that can only be found in the Queen City on the Gulf. Here are some of the top things to do on the Strand in Galveston.

1. Experience Life On A Historic Tall Ship

Parked at Pier 21 just next door to the theater, you'll find Tall Ship ELISSA, a square-rigged iron barque circa 1877 whose mast majestically rises 99 feet. Below deck, you can tour through the cabins of the captain, officers and crew and imagine what life at sea was like in the 19th century. Though it's one of only three ships of its kind to still sail, visitors are welcome to tour it while it's stationary in port. It's also a fantastic activity for families with kids.

2. Taste Texas Temptations: Best Foods In Galveston

Texas tourism on the Strand is not complete without a great meal. One of Galveston's signature foods is besitos (Spanish for little kisses), which you'll find on menus all around town. They are made of shrimp stuffed with pepper jack cheese and wrapped in bacon, and the preparation adds a little kick to traditional Gulf shrimp. If you're looking for an upscale dining recommendation, go for seafood and steak at Rudy & Paco — a local favorite for date night and special celebrations. Another great recommendation is Maceo Spice & Import Co., located a few blocks off the Strand on Market Street. Maceo's is a generations-old family-owned restaurant serving specialty sandwiches and pastas inside a small grocery. For dessert, head to La King's Confectionery for a malt or an ice cream in the 1920s-era soda fountain.

3. Walk In The Footsteps Of Immigrants

Galveston held great importance as an immigration port in the 1800s and early 1900s, lending it the nickname the "Ellis Island of the West." The Texas Seaport Museum explores the immigration story in a new interactive exhibit called "Ship to Shore," which allows visitors to answer questions and create a custom storyline to more intimately understand the journey to the shores of the United States.

4. Discover What It's Like Working On An Oil Rig

Texas is the largest oil-producing state by far in the U.S., though it's not always easy to learn about what it's like working in the industry. Enter: Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum, near the Galveston Historic District. This museum allows you to climb onboard an actual retired rig and go up three different levels of exhibits all focused on the history of offshore oil production.

5. Explore Galveston's Spooky Side ... If You Dare

Galveston's long history makes it a must-see for many paranormal enthusiasts. The late Texas journalist Bryan Woolley named Galveston a favorite city because of the ghosts that call it home. He once aptly wrote that he thought of it "as an old cemetery with a beach attached." There are numerous ghost tours you can take — on foot or by Segway — to haunted hotels, old schools, pubs and vacant buildings.

6. Travel Through Town On A Historic Trolley

The Galveston Island Trolley is a little connection to history, dating back to when trolleys pulled by mules were introduced here in the 1860s. Hop on board one of the streetcars to easily get around downtown, with several stops through the historic Strand district, or transfer to travel along Galveston's Seawall. Rides are just $1 for adults (cash only), and children can ride for free.

7. Celebrate The Holidays In A Big Way

If you happen to visit Galveston during a major holiday, you'll be treated to some spectacular celebrations on the Strand. One weekend in December, Dickens on the Strand transforms Galveston into a city out of 19th Century London. Participants dress in their best Victorian attire and nibble on specialty food. Galveston's Mardi Gras celebration in February is equally spectacular; parades, concerts, and lots of beads ensure that the good times roll. In June, celebrate Juneteenth right where it all began on June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans were given the news of their freedom following the Civil War by Major General Gordon Granger. The celebrations in Galveston include freedom tours, galas, reenactments and more each June.

8. Boutique Shops On The Strand In Galveston

Exploring the shops on the Strand in Galveston is a fun experience. Hendley Market is a whimsical collection of global oddities and curiosities, including French antique glass eyes, books, puzzles and artisan-made niches from Mexico. Some of the best boutiques in Galveston are located here. Head to Admiralty on the Strand for nautical gifts and decor, Tina's on the Strand for clothing, jewelry and accessories — and for kids, Play on the Strand is a must-visit for toys and souvenirs.

9. Book A Historic Galveston Hotel

Before your cruise from Galveston, treat yourself to a stay in one of the luxurious historical hotels. My favorite is The Tremont House, which dates to 1839 (and has a few ghost stories of its own). The elegant lobby, with its beautiful restored carved rosewood bar, feels like a sophisticated French bayou outpost. Glimpse the island skyline from the rooftop bar during happy hour. Rooms have high ceilings, large original wood-frame windows, and are decorated with unique historic touches. For larger families and people who like to spread out a bit, check out The Quarters at The Tremont House, with spacious one- and-two bedroom loft penthouses.

Enjoy this port city before and after your cruise out of Galveston.