Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Kemah, TX

  • Published 2021/09/09

Have you ever thought of treating yourself lately—like having a nice vacation, shopping, or dining in a beautiful restaurant?

If so, then Kemah perfectly suits you.

Kemah is a city in the U.S. state of Texas, southeast of Houston along west Galveston Bay.

Originally known as a small fishing town, the city has become a popular tourist destination in the U.S., boasting fine restaurants, attractions, and rides along the bay with a good sea view.

There is still much more to discover in this city.

Below are 20 things to do and places to visit in Kemah.

Visit the Century Wheel Ferris Wheel and Wonder Wheel

Century Wheel Ferris Wheel

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

Located in Kemah Boardwalk, this giant attraction should not be missed.

This can be a romantic place to date someone. Most people have dates in Ferris wheels because admitting your feelings to someone feels like you are on top of the world.

Since this place can also accommodate families, there are rides for the kids too.

This ride was specifically designed for children who want to experience a Ferris wheel but are too small to take on the ride.

Of course, we want our kids to have fun, so why not add this to your itinerary?

Take the Sailaway Clear Lake Charters Adventure

A sailing adventure aboard the Sailaway Clear Lake Charters is just what you need to get away from your current day-to-day routine.

Sailaway Cat is the catamaran yacht every sailor dreams of sailing.

Here, passengers can enjoy the shoreline’s views during the day or the lights at night, all while traveling at speeds over 12 knots.

Not only does this yacht tour provide you with a way to relax, but it also gives you an experience unlike anything else, thanks to their custom tours.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore the beautiful Clear Lake while listening to nature’s soothing sound.

The tour can last for up to four hours.

You can customize your sailing adventure based on any specifications you request.

Just let them know in advance!

Stroll Around Kemah Boardwalk

Shops at Kemah Boardwalk

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

The pride of this quiet small town is Kemah Boardwalk!

This 60-acre Texas-Gulf-Coast-themed park, owned by Landry’s Inc., houses more than 10 restaurants, rides, shops, midway games, and boutique hotels.

Here, you can visit the boardwalk for free, and it’s just the rides that need the tickets.

Be sure to check the weather for the best time to visit Kemah.

Kemah Boardwalk has all the activities that will save you from getting bored, especially for those thrill-seeking, independent wanderers, and so on.

Catch the Biggest Game Fish at Get The Net Fishing Charters

When you think of one of the best ways to spend your day, it’s hard not to consider the possibility of spending it on Galveston Bay!

When it involves fishing, there are plenty of exciting options available, no matter your style.

There are many locations where you can experience the thrill of reeling in the biggest catch around, including locations throughout Galveston Bay.

For example, Get The Net Fishing Charters wants to offer you the opportunity to take part in something that has become a favorite pastime for many locals – fishing!

Onboard here at this company, you can go after redfish, flounder, sheepshead, alligator gar, black drum, and speckled trout!

Why not try out this opportunity when you visit Kemah, TX?

Experience Seamless Luxury & Service On Board the Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charter!

If you like to be festive and party all night, The Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charter is the place for you.

They’re not your typical yacht charter; they’re a full-service establishment that promises to take your big event to the next level!

Located in Kemah, TX, the Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charter is a yacht that serves several areas, ranging from the Gulf Coast to long-drive sightseeing tours.

They have a great staff, incredible entertainment, and utterly exquisite cuisine, including significant private events, romantic dinners, and breathtaking weddings!

Some of the different passes offered include the conventional dinner cruise, day cruise, sunset or moonlight entertainment options, and more.

You will never want to go anywhere else after you treat yourself to one of their unforgettable events.

As soon as you step onboard, you will be tripping down memory lane with their incredible hospitality.

So if you’re looking for a thrill or an adventure, then look no further than The Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charter – you’ll never find anything else so extraordinary!

Dine at Al-Fresco

Dining at Al-fresco

Richard Peat, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The restaurant has wonderful open areas for that.

With you under the night sky having delicious food, and with the lovely view of the bay, what more could you ask for?

If you’re planning on proposing, take this as the sign you’re looking for.

Watch Live Music and Have a Feast at Jackie’s Brickhouse

Jackie’s Brickhouse was established in 2010 and continues to provide a quality dining and drinking experience to guests and locals.

If you want to unwind after hours and love live music, this spot is great for you.

From classic rock to country, you can find your head bopping to the music of live performances.

A hip way to get yourself into that bar-hopping mood.

Take a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride at Kemah Lighthouse District

Aerial View of Kemah Lighthouse District

Trong Nguyen / Shutterstock.com

Kemah’s one-of-a-kind lighthouse district is just waiting for you to explore it!

From antiques to fine art, the sights, sounds, and smells will indeed make you feel at home.

An essential thing to remember when visiting this beautiful lighthouse district in central Kemah is that the best way to truly immerse yourself into its unique flavor is to take a stroll down Kemah’s main street on one of your days off.

Here, you can check out what nature has created only after it’s been exposed for generations under the powerful Gulf sunlight.

Enjoy the characteristic historic buildings and distinctive shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars.

Also, don’t forget to enjoy one of the many concerts taking place throughout the weekend.

Beautifully constructed for your enjoyment are accommodations, marina and boating opportunities, as well as fine arts.

Kemah is a unique destination with so many exciting things to see and do.

Just ask anyone who’s been here about what fun things they did while visiting us – you won’t be disappointed!

And don’t forget to enjoy the serene beauty of a horse-drawn carriage ride as a regular part of their romantic evening!

Grab a Cup of Coffee From Art of Coffee

Finally, this one’s a bonus because this little café has it all.

If you’re planning to visit in the summer, especially in May to September, you can enjoy your iced brew any time of the day.

They have a nice cozy interior, an outdoor courtyard, and an art gallery.

This doubles as a breakfast place, so if your taste buds want something new for the first meal of the day, be sure to head out to this place.

Get Those Hands Greasy at T-Bone Tom’s

Not in the mood for seafood? There’s always the famous T-Bone Tom’s.

They are best known for their barbecues and steaks.

This place is not that hard to find; since it’s already famous, you won’t have a hard time looking for T-Bone Toms.

Here, you can enjoy your steak with an ice-cold beer and music.

Get an Adrenaline Rush at the Boardwalk Bullet

Boardwalk Bullet

Brian Gallegos / Shutterstock.com

You can’t just finish a trip without indulging in fun-filled activities.

Here in Boardwalk Bullet, you can try its roller coaster.

This is also a part of Boardwalk’s history, as it was built in 2007, and it still stands strong and is popular for tourists.

Boardwalk Bullet

JSvideos / Shutterstock.com

Once on top of the peaks of this coaster, you will get a quick glimpse of Texas.

Unless the ride gets you all pumped up and distracts you, you would definitely marvel at this astonishing view.

Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings at Snowflake Donuts

For those who have a sweet tooth, donuts aren’t just for coffee.

Don’t forget to drop by Snowflake Donuts.

Not only do they serve donuts, but they also serve pastries.

They have a wide range of options, from muffins to cupcakes to scones and waffles.

So if you’re also looking for places to snack, this is just the perfect spot for you.

Since this shop offers fresh hot beverages, try visiting them from December all the way up to February.

Get a Nice View of Kemah at the Boardwalk Tower

Boardwalk Tower

Shannon Beineke / Shutterstock.com

Want to see everything in a bird’s eye view?

If so, this observation tower is for you, as it gives you a full view of Kemah.

This tower gives the audience a 5-minute air-conditioned scenic view of Kemah, Galveston Bay, and Clear Lake.

It has a 32-passenger rotating gondola that allows guests to marvel at the landscape of the ocean and of the city.

Enjoying the View at the Aquarium Restaurant

Dining with fish? That’s not impossible if you dine at the Aquarium restaurant.

Enjoy your meal as you are seated around a fifty-thousand-gallon aquarium tank where you can see different types of fish, sharks, stingrays, and more!

This restaurant is perfect for kids and kids at heart and will definitely take care of your seafood craving taste buds and entertain you with the aquatic display!

They also serve steak, chicken, and a wide range of desserts.

Get to know exotic marine life and aquatic friends as you munch on seafood delicacies.

The best part about them is they also cater special events, such birthdays, graduation parties, and so forth.

Let Your Kids Play at the Jungle Bounce

Jungle Bounce is popular with children because this is the kid version of Drop Zone.

It means there are no age restrictions and height requirements.

You’d be surprised at how many kids have braved through this ride.

Where to Stay in Kemah, TX

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

If that doesn’t work well for you, how about Holiday Inn Express & Suites?

This also has Wi-Fi, parking, a pool, and a free breakfast.

This is just within walking distance from the boardwalk.

Do you notice how all these hotels have pools?

Well, it is one way to combat the hot Texan weather in the summer.

Captain Inn Suites

Wondering where to stay since you are on a tight budget?

Worry not! Captain Inn Suites has got you covered!

The price range is nothing above 80 bucks.

This has all the basic amenities for all travelers!

Aside from the warm beds, they have a pool, Wi-Fi, free parking, and even free breakfast.

This place is just a few minutes or walking distance away from the boardwalk!

It’s definitely a hotel ideal for an intimate bond with your loved ones.

Boardwalk Inn

Boardwalk Inn

Dean Dyess / Shutterstock.com

Speaking of backups, you can check out Boardwalk Inn.

This has rooms with balconies that give you access to magnificent views of the seaside, a pool, and a rooftop hot tub.

Also, they offer complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and free parking for their hotel guests.

And just like the previous hotel mentioned, this is also a premier place to stay and enjoy all the extravagance of the amenities this place gives you.

What’s more, the place is just a walking distance from the amusement park. How cool is that?

Palace Inn Blue Kemah or Comfort Inn & Suites

This one is ideal for families since guests rated this place as family-friendly.

But if you like something modern, you can check out Comfort Inn & Suites.

All these lovely hotels have the following amenities: Wi-Fi, indoor pools, and free parking.

Imagine: with just $70 – $80 you get every penny’s worth.

Holiday Inn Kemah

This place is a little lavish but great for those who want to spoil themselves with the luxury a place has to offer.

With its fancy interior and world-class service, you’ll feel like royalty.

This place is always fully booked, so it’s good to always have a backup.

Final thoughts

The Boardwalk has a lot of places to offer. It has rides, parks, and plenty of restaurants to dine at.

So if you’re thinking about your next travel destination, visit Kemah and make wonderful memories with your loved ones.

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