Moody Gardens unveils dinosaur exhibit, summer upgrades in Galveston

Moody Gardens on Galveston Island is launching a new summer lineup featuring a life-size dinosaur exhibit, upgrades to its Palm Beach attraction, live music, and extended hours, offering families a nearby seasonal getaway.

Joshua Hopkins

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Joshua Hopkins

Published 

May 20, 2026

Moody Gardens unveils dinosaur exhibit, summer upgrades in Galveston

Galveston has unveiled an impressive dinosaur attraction that showcases nearly 30 life-size animatronic figures. Among the highlights are a colossal Tyrannosaurus rex and a Brontosaurus that stands over 30 feet tall. The exhibit features various species, including Velociraptors, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus.

The exhibit, crafted as an interactive attraction, immerses visitors in a storyline in which children take on the role of rescuers, aiding a stranded plane crew as they navigate the grounds. The experience includes a fossil dig site.

“Children are consistently amazed when they encounter these dinosaurs in person,” stated Jared Schaller, public relations manager for Moody Gardens.

Schaller noted that the island's coastal climate enhances its appeal amid the peak summer heat throughout Southeast Texas.

“When temperatures reach 100 degrees in Houston and Beaumont, the island enjoys a more temperate climate, typically around 80 degrees, thanks to the refreshing coastal breeze,” he stated.

Moody Gardens has unveiled a refreshed Palm Beach outdoor attraction alongside its dinosaur exhibit. The park has officially reopened its gates following the addition of approximately 1,000 pounds of fresh sand. The facility boasts a wave pool, a lazy river, water slides, and splash features designed specifically for younger guests.

A new concert series, Beats on the Beach, is set to launch at the attraction on June 13. The upcoming series is set to take place over 10 consecutive Saturdays, showcasing live music performances alongside fireworks displays that are expected to commence around 9:15 p.m. “You have the opportunity to unwind and appreciate the pleasant weather as the sun sets, accompanied by live music,” Schaller stated.

Moody Gardens has announced that it will extend its summer hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the property until as late as 9:15 p.m. on certain days. Children's camps lasting a week will be offered, providing participants with the opportunity to discover the site's attractions, including its pyramids and educational exhibits.

The complex boasts various attractions, including a rainforest pyramid, an aquarium pyramid that is home to marine life such as penguins and jellyfish, interactive discovery exhibits, theaters, a golf course, a ropes course, and a zip line.

Officials announced that the newly expanded offerings aim to create a convenient, nearby destination for families seeking summer activities.

The attraction's official website provides a comprehensive schedule of events, ticket details, and live animal webcams for visitors to explore.

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