Free music, free food, free movies, free time…vacations on Galveston are the best! You’ll love the variety of free things to do in Galveston during your next visit. Read on for some of our 2021 staff favorites.
Galveston Beach Band Concerts
When: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.
The Galveston Beach Band performs at the historic Eugenia & George Sealy Pavilion at Mary Moody Northern Plaza. In it’s 92nd year, this free Galveston concert series entertains audiences of all ages. Bring your chair and enjoy a diverse mix of tunes and the special “Children’s Parade” at each concert!
Concerts run through August 3, with a special 4th of July performance on Saturday, July 3.
Summer Movies on the Lawn
When: Thursdays at 7:15 p.m.
A new addition to the long list of free things to do in Galveston this summer, The Bryan Museum’s “Summer Movies on the Lawn” series is fun for the whole family. This fun scene is the place to be every other Thursday night. Museum tour begins at 6 p.m. and film screenings begin at 7:15 p.m.
Concessions and drinks will be available for purchase. Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets and/or chairs. Arrive early to get a prime viewing location!
Thursday, June 17 – Ruby Bridges
Thursday, July 1 – National Treasure
Thursday, July 15 – Big Bend: The Wild Frontier of Texas
Thursday, July 29 – High Noon
ArtWalk
When: July 17, August 28, October 9, November 27 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Shower off the surf & sand, then head to Historic Downtown Galveston. Artwalk is one of local’s favorite free things to do in Galveston. Stop by the island’s unique art galleries, coffee houses and “other walls” that showcase some of the region’s best talent. Check out the interactive map to see who’s participating each month.
Interpretive Beach Tours
Where: Pirates Beach (West End)
When: Saturdays (through September 4) – 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.
Where: Midtown, Seawall Blvd, #56 Lifeguard Station
When: Fridays (through September 3) – 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.
Where: Stewart Beach
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (through September 5) –
11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.
Hosted by local conservationists at Artist Boat, beach walkers of all ages will love the Bucket Brigade tours! These 45-minute tours of tune you into the flora and fauna you can find along Galveston’s 32 miles of beaches. All ages are welcome at this free Galveston event. Group sizes are limited. Register online or contact Artist Boat to schedule a private tour for your larger group.
Galveston Tree Sculpture Tour
When: 24/7, year-round
Take a walking tour and see all of the beautiful sculptures made from oak trees that fell victim to Hurricane Ike in 2008. The combination of extended saltwater exposure and hurricane-force winds uprooted or killed a large number of the majestic oaks that lined the roads of Historic Downtown Galveston. A group of private residents and artists came together after the devastating storm and created works of art to commemorate these beautiful trees. Sculptures are dotted around the East End and create an exciting opportunity to talk about the ecology of trees, impacts of storms, and art. Download the map before you set out!
Ride the Galveston Ferry
When: 24/7, year-round
Drive aboard or park & walk onto the free ferry that runs from the East End of Galveston to the Bolivar Peninsula. The 2.7-mile trip usually lasts about 20 minutes and it’s a great chance to see the pod of dolphins that call the bay & ship channel home. Watch the cargo ships come in from the Gulf along the Houston Ship Channel. Check wait times to plan your ride.
What else is there to do in Galveston?
Wondering what else there is besides free things to do in Galveston? This slice of Gulf Coast paradise offers a full events calendar, and great, family-friendly attractions & activities to enjoy all year long!
Book your choice of 150+ of the best West End vacation rentals on Galveston with Sand `N Sea Properties. Local & trusted since 1974, a beach or bay vacation rental is the perfect place to pick as home base during your exploration of this Gulf Coast barrier island!
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