Galveston, Texas Weekend With Kids

Galveston is like a tropical island getaway right in Texas. With great beaches, including the largest beach in the state, and warm, pleasant weather throughout most of the year, its a perfect spot for an ocean getaway. Even winters are temperate here. Typically, high temperatures during January stay above 60 degrees F and lows near 50 degrees F. The resort town is built on an island in the Gulf of Mexico Coast, providing a natural separation from the rest of Texas. This is also symbolic of the individuality that Galveston has come to be known for. It is even referred to sometimes as "The Republic of Galveston", implying jokingly that it is an independent nation.

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Galveston Duck Tours
Galveston Duck Tours offer a different way to view the attractions here; amphibious. That's right; the tour bus covers more than 15 miles of territory on both land and water. Starting on land, you drive through the streets of downtown Galveston. The tour bus then moves right into the water, turning into a tour boat, for a look at th... More >
Galveston Duck Tours offer a different way to view the attractions here; amphibious. That's right; the tour bus covers more than 15 miles of territory on both land and water. Starting on land, you drive through the streets of downtown Galveston. The tour bus then moves right into the water, turning into a tour boat, for a look at the bayou. After that, it returns to land for a look at some of the areas historic mansions. The tour guides are funny, too, adding to the fun. Duck Tours are open year round, usually running 2-3 tours per day. Make sure you call ahead to verify, however, because the tour times can change periodically.
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Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens is a resort and convention center. It has great beaches with blue lagoons and white sand. However, what grabbed my attention were the pyramids. The Rainforest Pyramid is a zoo with over 1,000 species of plants and animals, while the Discovery Pyramid is filled with science-related exhibits. There is also a replica of ... More >
Moody Gardens is a resort and convention center. It has great beaches with blue lagoons and white sand. However, what grabbed my attention were the pyramids. The Rainforest Pyramid is a zoo with over 1,000 species of plants and animals, while the Discovery Pyramid is filled with science-related exhibits. There is also a replica of an old paddle-wheel boat that you can ride into the bay.
There is a great wooden deck with tables for outdoor dining practically on the sand.
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Schlitterbahn Water Park
Schlitterbahn Waterpark is the world's first and most visited convertible water park, making it enjoyable throughout the whole year. It is outside during the summer season, and heated indoors during the winter. Be sure to check the park hours in advance of your visit, because winter hours are limited to weekends and select holidays. ... More >
Schlitterbahn Waterpark is the world's first and most visited convertible water park, making it enjoyable throughout the whole year. It is outside during the summer season, and heated indoors during the winter. Be sure to check the park hours in advance of your visit, because winter hours are limited to weekends and select holidays. The park rides include uphill water coasters, kids playgrounds, and whitewater rapids, among others. But, don't worry if you are too grown-up for excitement like that. There are also hot tubs to just sit and relax in.
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East Beach
East Beach is a hip party place, not only for Galveston, but for all of Texas. It is the largest beach in the state and also well known for the major outdoor concerts that are frequently held here. Make sure to bring plenty of cash with you, as they do not accept credit or debit cards at the park. If you want to be close to the water, I also recommend bringing your own umbrella and chairs, if you are able. The rental fees for these items can be kind of steep.
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Quality Inn & Suites Galveston
Quality Inn and Suites in Galveston is the perfect place to stay with the kids. The rates are very reasonable and the rooms are always very clean. The continental breakfast is better than many others that I have had, including things that the kids loved. It is very conveniently located for getting to the beach and in our room, we had a great view of the water. For a backup plan, in case the weather isnt beach worthy, they have an indoor pool. We were thankful for this on one day of our visit in particular when it rained all day and the kids wanted to play in the water.
Be sure to check the park hours in advance of your visit, because winter hours are limited to weekends and select holidays.
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The Spot
The Spot is my favorite place to grab a burger on the beach in Galveston. There is a great wooden deck with tables for outdoor dining practically on the sand. It has an adjoining tiki bar that is known for a lively night life and music scene, and the restaurant is family friendly. I recommend getting an order of the crab-stuffed jalapenos for an appetizer. All of the Homelyke Burgers are delicious, but my favorite is th... More
The Spot is my favorite place to grab a burger on the beach in Galveston. There is a great wooden deck with tables for outdoor dining practically on the sand. It has an adjoining tiki bar that is known for a lively night life and music scene, and the restaurant is family friendly. I recommend getting an order of the crab-stuffed jalapenos for an appetizer. All of the Homelyke Burgers are delicious, but my favorite is the Kingburger, with Swiss cheese, mushrooms and sauted onions. It is delicious. The service has always been good, too. I went when it was really busy once, and still had to wait a short 10 minutes.
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About the Author

Ross Pincock
Ross Pincock
I love music! I have spent most of my life either playing and writing music or listening to a live performance. I also love the outdoors, particularly camping, hiking, bicycling and sitting around the campfire. I am a father and I love spending time with my kids.
Websitemyspace.com/rosspincock
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