Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum

The Ocean Star is a retired 1969 jack-up drilling rig that operated across 175 ft water depths and drilled over 200 wells in the Gulf of Mexico until 1984. Converted into a three-level museum in 1997, it houses interactive exhibits, scale models, artifact displays, and multimedia presentations dedicated to offshore oil and gas exploration—from drilling technologies to safety systems and environmental impacts. Built originally in Beaumont, Texas, the rig preserves authentic equipment such as blowout preventers, drill floors, escape pods, and ROV models. Its preservation makes it a rare example of intact offshore infrastructure repurposed for public education. Housed in situ at Pierce 19, it allows visitors to walk on the pipe deck, explore living quarters, and view operational decks—providing a holistic view of rig structure, systems, and life aboard an offshore platform.

The museum operates Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (last ticket 16:00); closed Mondays and Tuesdays and major holidays. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors/military, $8 youth (6–18), and free for under‑6s; family tickets are available. Visits are self‑guided (~1.5 hours recommended), though audio tours and family‑day events (second Sunday monthly, 10:00–15:00) include hands‑on STEM programming with free child admission alongside paying adults . Group and school tours available with advance booking and enhanced educational content. The rig is accessible via ramp and elevator with basic mobility support; pipelines and tight spaces may not allow full access. Restrooms, a moderate gift shop, and outdoor deck areas are available onsite. Parking and admission are available on a first-come basis; nearby Galveston attractions make this a convenient stop.