Looking for something different and interesting to do? Why not visit Pier 21, located on Galveston’s Historic Harbor in the Strand Seaport Area. With the endless amount of dining, attractions, and logging, the fun never ends at Pier 21.
Today we will discuss all the fun activities, attractions and dining options that you can explore during your visit to Pier 21.
Museums/ Attractions
Ocean Star
Visiting the Ocean Star gives you the chance to see a retired jack-up oil drilling rig. This museum features three floors of rig models and interactive displays which illustrate the story of offshore oil and gas from seismic technology to exploration and production. You will also get to see scale- models of actual drilling equipment as well as remotely operated vehicles.
Texas Seaport Museum
The Texas Seaport Museum tells the rich history of immigration and commerce by way of the ocean. You may also enter your name into the database at the museum which tells you if any of your ancestors immigrated to the United States through Galveston. There are over 133,000 immigrants on the computer database, so enter you name and give it a go! My favorite attraction is 1877 Tall Ship Elissa, which just so happens to be one of the oldest ships still set to sail today.
Pier 21 Theater
The Pier 21 Theater offers three family friendly movies based on different aspects of Galveston’s history. The Great Storm, a short film, tells the true story from survivors themselves about the devastating impact the 1900 storm had on their city. The Pirate Island of Jean Lafitte tells the story of a misunderstood man who had shady business in Galveston. Was he guilty or innocent? Watch the film to find out. The last film, Gateway on the Gulf, tells the story of those who immigrated to Galveston during the 1800s and how they shaped Galveston to be the thriving city it is today.
Restaurants
Fisherman’s Wharf
This Texas-sized restaurant (it’s HUGE), is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge for your next adventure. It is located right next to the Historic Strand, the Galveston Cruise Terminal, and Tall Ship Elissa. My favorite dish on the menu would have to be the Shrimp Kisses, which is a bacon-wrap stuffed with jalapeno jack cheese. A few other entrees they are known for are:
- signature seafood combination platters
- exquisite chicken dishes
- pastas
- Steaks
Willie G’s Seafood An Steaks
This restaurant, which provides an excellent view of the Tall Ship Elissa, is located right on Pier 1 and has some excellent seafood options. My favorite would have to be the Redfish Louisianne, which is blackened with crabmeat, mushroom beurre blanc, and crawfish.
Boat Tours
Baywatch Dolphin Tours
You are invited to ride on a 34-feet boat to take a 45-minute tour that allows you to view dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s a once in a life-time experience, so you don’t want to miss it! Also, if you’re concerned, the boat is dolphin-safe, so you don’t have to worry about that!
Galveston Water Adventures –Jet Boat
How would you like to take a thrill ride through the water? This jetboat, known as the “Hamilton Spin,” is a ride you won’t want to miss. With the exhilarating sharp turns and the fast speed, this is a boat ride you will never soon forget!
For more information about Pier 21 and everything it has to offer, please visit this link.