Have fun in Galveston without breaking the bank
There’s nothing like soaking up the summer sun, and even better when it’s for free. Here are the Top 10 things to do in Galveston this season.
1. World Oceans Day: From 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on June 8, join a global movement to celebrate the world’s oceans at Stewart Beach. Activities include mural painting, sandcastle building, kayak paddling demos, yoga, drum circles, and ukulele performances. (artistboat.org/world-oceans-day-festival)
2. Giant chess at Saengerfest Park: At 23rd Street and The Strand in Galveston’s historic district, there’s a huge chess set waiting to be played. As one the park’s claims to fame, this spot provides interactive play, photo opportunities and fun for visitors of all ages. (galveston.com/saengerfestpark/)
3. Victorian architecture in the East End: In the 19th century, the East End is where Galveston’s 19th-century elite built their homes. With a drive or stroll through the area, visitors can get a glimpse of many Victorian homes that have been meticulously restored. (eastendgalveston.org)
4. Birding and Photo Safari: Galveston’s diverse habitat makes it one of the top places in the country to observe and photograph numerous feathered species that visit seasonally or year round. Download the Great Birding Guide from the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council to find the area’s top birding locations. (galvestonnaturetourism.org/galveston-birding/)
5. Turtles about Town: Established to raise awareness about the Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle, this series of art installations can be found all over the island. Take a fun photo with each turtle in more than a dozen spots across Galveston, including City Hall, Seawolf Park, Kempner Park, Bryan Museum and Clay Cup Studios. (claycupstudios.com/ turtles-about-town)
6. Bucket Brigade: These 45-minute interpretive adventures are held at Stewart Beach. With hands-on activities, participants of all ages will learn about many aspects that make Galveston beaches unique. Tours are available multiple times throughout the week in June and July, and on the weekends in August. (www.artistboat.org/bucket-brigade/2627)
7. Sandcastle Days: On July 29 and Aug. 5, amateur sandcastle builders can learn to step up their skills from the pros. The event begins with an instructor demo from 8-11 a.m., followed by lessons at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. near the pavilion. (galveston.com/ blog/598/free-sandcastle-building-lessons-at-stewart-beach/)
8. Family Beach Challenge: Off 6th Street and Seawall Boulevard, this annual challenge transforms a portion of Stewart Beach into a gigantic obstacle course, with 14 stations featuring life-size versions of classic games. Teams of at least four can register online for free. There are multiple dates throughout the summer. (galvestonchallenge.com)
9. Movie & Music Nites at The Strand: From March through October, movies (first Saturdays) and live music (second Saturdays) will take over Saengerfest Park from 6-9
p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Check out @SaengerfestPark on Twitter for the events schedule. (galveston.com/saengerfestpark/)
10. Galveston tree sculptures: After Hurricane Ike destroyed hundreds of trees in 2008, area artists gave them new life by creating dozens of whimsical sculptures for the public to enjoy. Start at Sealy and 20th Street in Galveston’s historic East End for this self-guided tour. (www.galveston.com/uploads/files/treesculpture.pdf)