Name: Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum
Telephone: (409) 766-7827

nteractive exhibits on offshore drilling and geology

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum

Step aboard a retired offshore drilling rig, and learn more about the history, technology, and pioneers in the energy industry!

The Ocean Star Museum introduces visitors to offshore oil and gas operations through interactive exhibits and preserved rig spaces. Displays explain drilling processes, marine geology, and safety systems while highlighting the role offshore energy has played in the Gulf of Mexico and Texas coastal communities.

Located on Pier 19, the Ocean Star Museum offers visitors the chance to explore what life can look like on an offshore oil rig. Through interactive exhibits and historical records, the museum showcases the science and technology behind drilling processes, safety systems, and the pioneers behind these energy innovations. The Ocean Star jack-up drilling rig operated in the Gulf of Mexico from 1969 to 1984 and drilled over 200 wells during that timeframe. Opened to the public as a museum in 1997, this one-of-a-kind experience is operated by the Energy Education Foundation. The museum is designed to be a self-guided facility with videos, information, interactive exhibits throughout, and takes most visitors about 1.5 hours to tour completely.

Experience Highlights

Interactive exhibits on offshore drilling and geology
Crew quarters and rig equipment
Outdoor deck with harbor and ship channel views
Monthly family days with free admission for kids

Located along Galveston’s historic working waterfront, the Ocean Star Museum connects the island’s port history with the offshore industries that continue to shape the Gulf Coast economy today.