Things to do in Galveston This Weekend of September 29 Include Gatsby at the Inn, GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament, & more!

Things to do in Galveston This Weekend of September 29 Include Gatsby at the Inn, GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament, & more!

Things to do in Galveston This Weekend of September 29 Include Gatsby at the Inn, GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament, & more!

Our top things to do in Galveston this weekend of September 29 include the Gatsby at the InnGCVA Beach Volleyball TournamentSock Hop 50’s Party, and lots more!

The Galveston Calendar of Events 2023 is full of exciting activities, and this month is no different!


Remember to also check out our other Houston posts: Polish Restaurants Houston, Ethiopian Restaurants Houston, Rooftop Restaurants Houston, and Best Wing Places in Houston!


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Deal Alert – Sand Castle Lesson in Galveston

Things to do in Galveston This Weekend of September 29 Include Gatsby at the Inn, GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament, & more!

Building sandcastles might seem like child’s play but there are several tips and tricks to creating grandiose sand sculptures. Grab your friends and family, head to the beach of your choice in Galveston, and meet with a sandcastle professional. Learn several methods of turning sand into works of art and enjoy a fun day on the beach.

Get more information and check out the Sand Castle Lesson in Galveston TODAY!!!


Best Things to do in Galveston this Weekend of September 29, 2023 – Friday

Thunder and Blood Walking Tour: History of Crime and Death on The Strand

Thunder and Blood Walking Tour: History of Crime and Death on The Strand

Image credit: My Galveston Adventures of a Local Tourist

What: This tour recounts the many famous and infamous crimes and murders from the island’s past on The Strand. It will last approximately an hour and a half and will be limited to 24 people. 

When: Friday, September 29, 2023, 7 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: Saengerfest Park, 2302 The Strand #000, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: $14 – $25


Moonlit Mingle: A Spooky Singles Social

What: Welcome spooky season with a fantastic social singles night this weekend at the Moonlit Mingle! Meet and socialize with fellow singles in an atmosphere filled with mystique and enchantment. 

Some fun event highlights to look out for are the costume contest, tarot readings, witch’s brew mixology, haunted trivia, and more. 

Come in your most spooktacular attire and get ready to mingle.

When: Friday, September 29, 2023, 7 pm – 9 pm
Where: MarMo Plaza, 2121 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: $20


Get the lowest price on Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Galveston with a Guide!

Things to do in Galveston This Weekend of September 29 Include Gatsby at the Inn, GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament, & more!

The island of Galveston, Texas sits right on the Gulf of Mexico, a body of water teeming with dolphins. Set sail from the harbor and spend time searching for these playful creatures with a tour guide. Board a covered vessel, perfect for keeping you cool under the Texan sun, and learn about the ecology of the area while you sail.

Book your Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Galveston TODAY!!!


Things to do in Galveston this weekend of September 29, 2023 – Events in Galveston on Saturday

Sunrise Yoga on the Beach

What: Unwind after a long work week by stretching your muscles and working your body into relaxation and meditation mode with yoga in the morning for free at the East Beach.

When: Saturday, September 30, 2023, 7 am – 8 am
Where: 2900 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: Free


Dinner Cruises Aboard Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

Dinner Cruises Aboard Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

Image credit: Moody Gardens

What: Want something different for your dinner this weekend? Head on over to the docks and climb aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat! Enjoy beautiful views of Offatts Bayou while enjoying delicious food at their buffet and cash bar. If the weather does not permit the boat to sail, dinner will be served dockside. 

When: Saturday, September 30 , 2023, 6 pm – 9 pm
Where: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
How much: $90 for adults | $75 for children aged 12 and under and seniors 65 and older


Sock Hop 50’s Party

What: Dive into your closet and grab your best poodle skirt and 1950s outfit for a night of 50s fun at the Albatross Bar. There will be prizes for the best costumes. DJ El Rey will also be playing the best hits of the era to energize the night. 

When: Saturday, September 30, 2023, 7 pm – 11 pm
Where: Albatross Bar, 815 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: No cover


Gatsby at the Inn

Things to do in Galveston this weekend of September 29 | Gatsby at the Inn

Image credit: Virginia Point Inn

What: Enjoy an unforgettable night of glamour with your friends at the Virginia Point Inn’s Gatsby celebration.

There will be food, drinks, music, entertainment, a costume contest, and a dancing contest.

When: Saturday, September 30, 2023, 7 pm – 11 pm
Where: Virginia Point INN, 2327 Avenue K, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: Not stated


Buffalo Trace Dinner

What: Experience a wonderful 5-course dinner paired with the most sought-after and award-winning whiskies in the world this weekend with the Legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery. 

The menu includes scallops, a crisp apple walnut salad, Osso Buco with Saffron Risotto, Gremolata, Peche Melba with Raspberry Coulis, and more. 

When: Saturday, September 30, 2023, 7 pm
Where: Hilton Galveston Island Resort, 5400 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551
How much: $250


Get the lowest price on Historic Galveston Ghost Tour!

Things to do in Galveston This Weekend of September 29 Include Gatsby at the Inn, GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament, & more!

Discover the darker side of Galveston on a ghost tour. Pass by mansions and other historical sights where spooky and mysterious things are said to have happened, and hear about the island’s secrets, paranormal events, and haunted history that dates back 150 years. This tour is a fun way to learn a bit about Galveston’s history.

Book your Historic Galveston Ghost Tour TODAY!!!


Things to do in Galveston this Weekend of September 29, 2023 – Sunday

Galveston Railroad Museum Train Rides

What: All aboard the Harborside Express! Get to ride trains all weekend at the Galveston Railroad Museum and experience what it’s like to ride their magnificent trains. Kids would definitely love it too!

When: Sunday, October 1, 2023, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: $6 for children | $9 for seniors | $12 for adults | Free for infants and under


Hispanic Heritage Celebration at GOFM

Hispanic Heritage Celebration at GOFM

Image credit: Galveston’s Own Farmers Market

What: In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Galveston’s Own Farmers Market will be hosting free and fun activities this weekend. 

There will be salsa lessons, traditional Hispanic dance performances from Burnet Ballet Folloriko Dance Team, tasty samples of Hispanic food, sugar skull decorating activities, and more. 

When: Sunday, October 1, 2023, 9 am – 1 pm
Where: Galveston’s Own Farmers Market, 3304 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: Free


GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament

Things to do in Galveston this weekend of October 1 | Beach Volleyball Clubs of America (BCVA) Challenge

Image credit: GCVA

What: Get yourself or your team ready and head on over to East Beach this weekend for some fun volleyball tournaments by the GCVA. There will be various tournaments for a wide range of ages and skill sets. 

When: Sunday, October 1, 2023, 9 am – 5 pm
Where: East Beach, 193-199 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
How much: Free

Do you know of any other fun things to do in Galveston this weekend September 8? Share them with us in the comments!


There are always lots of fun events going on in Houston. Check out our weekly updates to Things to Do in Houston this Week, Things to Do in Houston this Weekend, and Things to Do in Houston this Weekend with Kids to stay up to date! 

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Things to do in Galveston this Weekend of September 29, 2023

things to do in galveston this weekend

Things to do in Galveston this Weekend | Moody Gardens | Image Credit: Moody Gardens

Less than an hour from Houston, Galveston is a popular vacation spot all year round for Texans and visitors due to its stunning beaches and historic downtown.

What’s going on in Galveston this weekend, you ask? Galveston provides a multitude of other activities, from sightseeing on the Galveston Trolley, bird watching, fishing, and water sports, to exploring museums and delighting in fine dining, even though many visitors, especially in the summer, come primarily to laze on the beaches.

See our list of the top attractions and things to do in Galveston Texas for more suggestions on how to fill your free time.


Events and Activities in Galveston – Museums

Galveston is beautiful coastal town with rich history and some of the top museums in the country.
Galveston is one of the most well-known historic communities on the Gulf Coast thanks to its resilience and heart for preservation. Numerous museums on the Island have preserved the tenacity, innovation, and advancement of Galvestonians in the wake of The Great 1900 Storm.

Galveston Arts Center

Galveston Arts Center Building

Discover the Galveston Arts Center, a nonprofit organization and autonomous museum on Galveston’s Strand that presents contemporary modern art in a historic structure. Through exhibitions and educational activities, the Galveston Arts Center seeks to support and promote modern visual art.

Location: 2127 Strand St, Galveston, TX 77550

Gavleston Naval Museum

Galveston Naval Museum

See and experience these real-life, historical treasures — the USS Cavalla, a WWII submarine, and the USS Stewart, a WWII destroyer escort. The goal of the museum is to protect the ships’ originality and historical integrity. to commemorate and celebrate the sacrifices made to attain freedom, to teach all generations about this part of the great American history, and share about the creativity and tradition of the Navy, as well as the bravery of the military heroes and their families.

Location: 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum

Take a leisurely, self-guided tour through the retired Ocean Star jack-up rig which now serves as a museum and educational facility. From geological exploration to drilling, to oil and gas production, you will see offshore drilling equipment, exhibits, and videos on three levels of this refurbished offshore drilling rig.

Location: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550

For additional museums in Galveston check out our article on Galveston Museum Day


Events and Activities in Galveston – Beaches & Parks

Seawall Urban Park

galveston beach - Seawall Urban Park

Image Credit: Great Runs Website

This Galveston Seawall beach is close to various beachfront restaurants and tourist attractions, including Pleasure Pier. It has more than 10 miles of coastline and is the nation’s longest continuous promenade. With the water serving as the ideal backdrop, this is a well-liked location for bicycling and running. Parking is available between 6th and 69th Streets, 81st to 103rd Streets, and other nearby streets.

Location: 801 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

Stewart Beach Park

beaches galveston tx - Stewart Beach

Image Credit: Stewart Beach Facebook Page

One of the most well-liked destinations for tourists in Galveston is Stewart Beach. It also features volleyball courts, a playground, concessions, an umbrella, and chair rentals in addition to lovely beaches. Showers and locker rooms are also available.

Located At: 201 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

Galveston State Island Park

Galveston Island State Park

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Galveston Island State Park is the ideal location. This beautiful and peaceful area offers a variety of family-friendly activities for every kind of nature enthusiast at Galveston Island State Park, including swimming, fishing, bird watching, hiking, paddling, and more.

Located At: 14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554

Looking for more Galveston Beaches? Check out our article on 10 Best Beaches in Galveston


Events and Activities in Galveston – Theaters and Performing Arts

Galveston Island’s natural beauty is enhanced by the vibrant arts community, which presents both visual and performing arts. There are many opportunities for entertainment and inspiration, including theatrical performances, historical movies, and art exhibits.

NIA Cultural Center

Nia Cultural Center

On the outside of the building at the Juneteenth Legacy Project Headquarters art gallery, you can see the magnificent, 5,000-square-foot artwork symbolizing the independence of Black people in Galveston. Visitors are taken on a journey through African American history from the 1800s to the present day inside the gallery. The gallery features sculptures and paintings by local Black artists as well as a space for introspection. The Juneteenth Legacy Headquarters are at 22nd and Strand Street.

Location: 2211 Strand St Galveston, Texas 77550

Grand Opera House

The Grand 1894 Opera House

Tour the official opera house of Texas, which is one of the few remaining theaters of its era and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Location: 2020 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550

East End Theater Company

Island ETC (the east-end theatre company)

Island ETC is Galveston County’s only professional repertory theatre company and stages 5 to 6 productions a year. What once was called the Strand Street Theatre, is now operating as Island ETC — the East End Theatre Company. Through the generosity of local patrons, the theatre reopened in July 2009 after being devasted by Hurricane Ike. The re-opening stage was the production of Cabaret, and this performance skyrocketed the theatre company into becoming a household name in Galveston.

Location: 2317 Mechanic St, Galveston, TX 77550


Events and Activities in Galveston – Theme Parks

Visiting theme parks is always a welcoming idea for everybody. The rides, sights, and the many IG-worthy areas will surely make anybody want to visit one when possible. Luckily, Galveston has plenty of big and fun theme parks for locals and tourists to enjoy.

Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens Pyramids

Since its founding in 1983 and the approval of an eight-phase master plan in 1985, Moody Gardens® has showcased several inventive and creative programs through its diverse attractions, making it a favorite go-to place for both locals and visitors alike. This theme park is best known for its three pyramids: Discovery Pyramid, which focuses on science-related exhibits and activities; Rainforest Pyramid, which houses tropical plants and different species of forest animals; and Aquarium Pyramid, which is one of the largest in the area and holds many species of fish and other marine animals.

Location: One Hope Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77554

Schlitterbahn

Schlitterbahn Galveston Family

Image Courtesy: Schlitterbahn Galveston

Three distinct park sections join for a mile of fun at Schlitterbahn Galveston. Using swift slides like Rohr! The waterpark is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise with attractions including MASSIV, Screaming Serpents, and more! Each sector has pools, water coasters, raft rides, wonderful picnic areas, and small water playgrounds for kids of all ages.

Location: 2109 Gene Lucas Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

An attraction that is absolutely unique is Pleasure Pier, an amusement park that is located over water. It offers a variety of fun and recreational activities within its wide-ranging restrictions with the goal of providing enjoyment for the entire family.

This amusement park is also significant historically. Despite being extremely popular during their heyday, pleasure piers are a thing of the past. Galveston’s own is one of the few locations that continue to honor this vintage style over a century later.

Location: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550


Things to do in Galveston at Night

In Galveston, the fun does not end when the sun sets! Once the tab for dinner has been paid, there remains plenty of things to do in Galveston at night, as the island provides a wide variety of nighttime activities. There are a lot of undiscovered attractions along this section of the barrier island that will keep you and your group amused all night long, frequently taking advantage of the breathtaking coastal views and comfortable weather that south Texas is so fortunate to have.
Are you prepared to unwind with drink in your hand while enjoying live music from renowned bands? Or do you feel like putting on your dance shoes and hitting the clubs? How about doing something adventurous and extraordinary? The island’s flourishing, energetic nightlife is ready and waiting for you to find it.

You and your friends can head to the Galveston Seawall and grab a few drinks from the many resto-bars in the area. The sea breeze, the night sky, and the cityscape’s night lights will make this a beautiful and memorable night.

If thrill is what you want, then you can also try the various tours that offer paranormal and ghost tours.


Free Things to do in Galveston

In Galveston, there is an almost endless list of enjoyable, cost-free, and inexpensive things to do. Galveston has something for everyone, whether you’re a college student, a family, or a couple seeking a brief getaway.

For starters, plenty of the museums in Galveston have cheap admission rates and offer discounts for children and seniors. Plus, they also offer FREE admissions on certain days or events.

You can also shop and explore the many restaurants and stores on the island. Lots of these places offer not just great food and products, but also have aesthetically pleasing designs that you can enjoy touring.

Do you like fishing? Then Galveston is the perfect place for you to visit, considering that this haven is located right on the Gulf of Mexico. Visit the 61st Street Pier or the Galveston Fishing Pier if you want to try fishing on the island. Of course, you can also ask for professional help by booking a fishing guide that can help you.

Plus, if you get a Galveston Island Pass, then you can get even more discounts and freebies when you visit the island and enjoy the many things you can do in this beautiful island county.


Things to do with Kids in Galveston

Galveston Children’s Museum at Moody Mansion

Children's Museum in Galveston

The Galveston Children’s Museum offers engaging hands-on activities and interactive displays for children ages 2 to 10. Children’s Clinic, Building Zone, Tinker Workshop, and many other exhibits are available. The museum can also cater to personal events like birthday celebrations.

Location: 2618 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550

Galveston Railroad Museum

Galveston Railroad Museum

You really must see the Galveston Railroad Museum on your next visit to Galveston! Explore 5 acres of trains and railroad history, including the restored 1932 art deco Depot. Located at the start of the historic Strand District. Experience history firsthand by exploring the museum’s permanent displays, which include locomotives, a gallery, model train layouts, and more. There is always something fresh to see at the museum because it also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year. The museum is committed to the preservation, study, and reuse of its vintage furnishings and apparatus.

Location: 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550

Bryan Museum

Bryan Museum in Galveston

Come see the state’s longest continuously operating public library. On the second level, the historic Grand Hallway features special displays on early Galveston and Galveston artists. Due to renovations, the 4th-floor gallery is closed.

Location: 1315 21St St Galveston, Texas 77550
Galveston Museum Day 2022 Offer: Free Admission (Closed on Sunday)

What are some other things to do in Galveston this weekend? Leave a comment and let us know.


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