If you’re visiting Galveston Bay, stop at Kemah Boardwalk. This lively, 60-acre theme park is just a short drive from Houston. Located on the picturesque shores of Clear Lake and Galveston Bay, this vibrant destination is one of the top boardwalks in the U.S., run by Landry’s Inc. Whether you’re seeking thrilling rides, delectable dining, or a relaxing waterfront atmosphere, Kemah Boardwalk has it all. Learn more about this theme park here.
History of the Kemah Boardwalk
The Kemah Boardwalk, situated 20 miles from downtown Houston, has transformed from a small waterfront property to a bustling amusement park and entertainment complex. In 1997, Landry’s, Inc. acquired the land along the Kemah waterfront and unveiled the Kemah Boardwalk a year later, in 1998. This development brought a new wave of tourism and excitement to the Texas Gulf Coast, turning Kemah into a premier destination.
Initially, the boardwalk focused on offering a variety of dining and retail options, along with a few amusement rides. Over the years, the park expanded significantly. One of its most iconic attractions, the Boardwalk Bullet, a high-speed wooden roller coaster, debuted in 2007. Standing 96 feet tall and stretching 3,236 feet long, the Boardwalk Bullet is renowned for being one of the world’s most compact yet thrilling roller coasters.
In 2008, the Kemah Boardwalk was extensively damaged when Hurricane Ike hit the area, destroying nearly all the amusement rides except for the resilient Boardwalk Bullet. Despite this setback, the boardwalk quickly bounced back. By 2009, the damaged attractions were restored, and new rides like the Wipeout and the 140-foot Drop Zone were introduced, adding to the boardwalk’s allure.
Today, the Kemah Boardwalk continues to thrive, offering a mix of amusement rides, dining, shopping, and live entertainment. It hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as the Blessing of the Fleet, Crawfish and Camille Festival, and Christmas on the Boardwalk, making it a vibrant and dynamic location for visitors of all ages. The boardwalk not only provides fun and excitement but also serves as a symbol of resilience and community spirit on the Texas Gulf Coast.
Attractions and Restaurants
Kemah Boardwalk is packed with exciting rides and diverse dining options that promise fun for the whole family. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout attractions and places to eat:
Attractions:
- Aviator: Opened in 2004, this ride swings you high into the air and twirls you around, offering a thrilling experience with a bird’s-eye view.
- Boardwalk Beast: Launched in 2002, this speedboat ride takes you on a 25-minute high-speed cruise across Galveston Bay. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers who love a bit of adventure on the water.
- Boardwalk Express: Hop aboard this replica of the iconic 1863 C.P. Huntington Train for a scenic ride around the entire Kemah Boardwalk. It’s a charming way to see all the sights.
- Boardwalk Bullet: This custom wooden roller coaster, opened in 2007, is a must-ride. Designed by The Gravity Group and built by Martin & Vleminckx, it reaches speeds over 51 mph on a 3,236-foot-long track.
- Boardwalk Tower: For those who prefer a slower pace, this observation tower gently rises and rotates, offering panoramic views of the boardwalk and surrounding areas.
- Double Decker Carousel: This 28-foot tall double-decker carousel features beautifully crafted zoo animals and sea creatures to ride. It’s a hit with children and nostalgic adults alike.
- Drop Zone: Opened in 2009, this ride takes you up a 140-foot tower and then drops you in a free fall. It’s a gut-wrenching, adrenaline-pumping experience that’s not for the faint-hearted!
- Iron Eagle: This two-seat zip line soars over the Kemah Boardwalk, giving you a thrilling aerial perspective of the entire area.
Restaurants:
- Landry’s Seafood House: Known for its fresh seafood and waterfront views, this restaurant offers a great dining experience with various dishes.
- The Flying Dutchman: A local favorite, this restaurant serves up delicious seafood and steaks with a side of beautiful bay views.
- Saltgrass Steak House: This is the place to go if you’re in the mood for a hearty steak. It offers a robust menu with something for everyone.
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: Inspired by the movie Forrest Gump, this themed restaurant is fun for all ages. It offers a variety of shrimp dishes and American classics.
- Joe’s Crab Shack: Perfect for casual dining, Joe’s offers a fun atmosphere with a menu full of seafood favorites.
- The Pizza Oven: For those who prefer something quick and delicious, this spot serves hot, fresh pizza, perfect for a day at the boardwalk.
Visitor Information
Planning a trip to the Kemah Boardwalk? Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Best Times to Visit
The Kemah Boardwalk is open year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and fall. The weather is typically mild, making it more comfortable to enjoy the outdoor attractions. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, so if you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit from Monday to Thursday. The boardwalk also hosts various seasonal events and festivals, so checking their calendar can help you align your visit with special activities.
Ticket Prices
Admission to the Kemah Boardwalk is free, but tickets are required for individual rides and attractions. The boardwalk offers several ticket options:
- All-day ride pass: This pass provides unlimited access to all the rides for a single day. It’s a great value if you plan to experience multiple attractions.
- Individual ride tickets: If you only want to try a few rides, you can purchase tickets for individual attractions.
- Season pass: For frequent visitors, a season pass offers unlimited rides throughout the year and additional perks like discounts on dining and retail.
Transportation Options
Getting to Kemah Boardwalk is straightforward, whether you’re coming from Houston or beyond:
- By car: The boardwalk is about 20 miles southeast of downtown Houston. Parking is available on-site, with both free and paid options depending on your proximity to the boardwalk.
- Public transport: While there are no direct public transport routes to the boardwalk, you can take a bus to nearby locations and then use a ride-sharing service to complete your journey. Check the Houston Metro website for the latest routes and schedules.
- Ride-sharing services: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and can provide a convenient and hassle-free way to get to the boardwalk.
Additional Tips
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go. Texas weather can be unpredictable, and some attractions might be less enjoyable in extreme heat or rain.
- What to wear: Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to go on rides or walk around a lot. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
- Plan ahead: The boardwalk can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. To save time, consider purchasing ride tickets online in advance.
- Stay informed: Follow Kemah Boardwalk on social media or check their website for updates on events, special promotions, and any potential closures or changes in operating hours.
Conclusion
Kemah Boardwalk offers an unbeatable combination of thrilling rides, delicious dining, and picturesque views, making it the perfect destination for a day of family fun or a romantic outing. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, a day at Kemah Boardwalk is an experience you won’t want to miss.
