Kemah Boardwalk
A vibrant waterfront amusement park near Houston, offering thrilling rides, diverse dining, and scenic views for a perfect day out.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Kemah Boardwalk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront amusement park near Houston, offering thrilling rides, diverse dining, and scenic views for a perfect day out.
"Beautifully designed and located right by the sea, it offers a unique and relaxing atmosphere with plenty of fun for all ages."
🎯 Ride All Day Wristband
Consider an all-day wristband if you plan on riding multiple attractions. It can be more cost-effective than individual tickets.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be less than $20, but free spots are available if you're lucky. Arrive early for better options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boardwalk Bullet Roller Coaster
Amusement Rides
Experience thrilling drops and twists on this classic wooden roller coaster. A must-ride for thrill-seekers!
Boardwalk Fantasea Dinner Cruise
Waterfront
Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise with delicious food and beautiful waterfront views. Perfect for a romantic evening.
Kemah Boardwalk Carousel
Amusement Rides
A charming two-story carousel offering a whimsical ride for all ages. A classic boardwalk experience.
Pearl Oyster Experience
Various vendors
Pick your own oyster and discover a unique pearl for a memorable souvenir. A fun and interactive activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Tickets & Wristbands
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride All Day Wristband
Consider an all-day wristband if you plan on riding multiple attractions. It can be more cost-effective than individual tickets.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be less than $20, but free spots are available if you're lucky. Arrive early for better options.
🌊 Waterfront Views
Enjoy the beautiful waterfront scenery. Many restaurants offer great views of the water.
🐚 Unique Souvenir
Try the pearl oyster experience for a fun and personalized souvenir from your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride All Day Wristband
Consider an all-day wristband if you plan on riding multiple attractions. It can be more cost-effective than individual tickets.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be less than $20, but free spots are available if you're lucky. Arrive early for better options.
🌊 Waterfront Views
Enjoy the beautiful waterfront scenery. Many restaurants offer great views of the water.
🐚 Unique Souvenir
Try the pearl oyster experience for a fun and personalized souvenir from your visit.
🎢 Boardwalk Bullet Thrills
Don't miss the Boardwalk Bullet wooden roller coaster; it's fast, fun, and a great value.
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
Plenty of restaurants with varied food options, many offering fantastic views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kemah Boardwalk for its beautiful waterfront location, Spanish-inspired charm, and wide variety of well-maintained rides suitable for all ages. The abundance of dining options with great views and affordable prices are also frequently highlighted. While generally positive, some mention that ride tickets can add up quickly if not opting for a wristband.
"This amusement park is beautifully designed and located right by the sea, which gives it a unique and relaxing atmosphere. The whole park has a strong Spanish character, which adds to its charm and authenticity.
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, offering a variety of food options — and many with great views. The rides and attractions are a lot of fun, well-maintained, and offer something for all ages. Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or more relaxed experiences, there’s something here for everyone.
Prices are relatively affordable, especially considering the quality and variety the park offers. All in all, a fantastic day out — fun, scenic, and very Spanish in the best way!"
Michael Preiss
"This is one of my favorite places? specially when we have family visiting. We love walk in there, the area in general is very attractive. The facilities are pretty good and clean. People in many businesses are friendly. I like the fact, parking is covered and fairly priced for a full day.
Strongly suggest to get the wooden roller-coaster, it is fast, fun and noissy just for 8 bucks."
Ricardo Moreno
"I visited this place for the 4th of July. It was an unforgettable experience. My family and friends in the Philippines enjoyed the light show. It was beautiful. There were a lot of people that day, but they also had a lot of security, which made it possible to enjoy the night with confidence in a safe place. I loved it. My son enjoyed this place and they will love to return."
Rosario Garcia (Bel)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kemah Boardwalk is conveniently located about 30 minutes southeast of Houston. You can drive there via TX-146 S. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most common method.
Yes, there is parking available. While some spots can be free if you're lucky, paid parking is generally available and is usually under $20 for a full day.
Kemah Boardwalk is located north of Galveston, making it a popular stop for those visiting the Galveston area. It's about a 30-40 minute drive from Galveston. 
The primary route to Kemah Boardwalk is via TX-146 S. Depending on your starting point in Houston, you might take I-45 S or TX-225 E to connect to TX-146 S.
If you stay at hotels like the Kemah Boardwalk Inn, you can easily walk to the boardwalk attractions and restaurants.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Kemah Boardwalk. You only pay for rides, games, and food.
Rides can be paid for individually with tickets or by purchasing an all-day wristband. Prices vary, but individual ride tickets are available if you don't plan on riding extensively.
The all-day pass, often called a wristband, allows unlimited rides for the entire day. It's a good option if you plan to ride many attractions.
While admission is free, ride tickets and wristbands can typically be purchased at the boardwalk. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on purchasing options.
Discounts may be available for groups or during special promotions. Checking the official Kemah Boardwalk website or local deal sites is recommended.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The Boardwalk Bullet wooden roller coaster is a major thrill. Other popular rides include the Ferris wheel, the drop tower, and the classic carousel.
Absolutely! Kemah Boardwalk offers rides and attractions suitable for all ages, making it a great family destination.
You'll find a variety of classic boardwalk carnival games where you can try your luck to win prizes.
Yes, you can experience a pearl oyster opening for a unique souvenir or enjoy a dinner cruise on the Boardwalk Fantasea. +1
The boardwalk has a vibrant, festive atmosphere with waterfront views, live entertainment, and a Spanish-inspired charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are many dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. Many offer great views of the water.
Yes, the Kemah area is known for its seafood. While some are on the boardwalk, local favorites like Tookie's are also highly recommended.
Most restaurants on the boardwalk offer kid-friendly menus, ensuring there's something for even the pickiest eaters.
You can find a wide variety of food, including seafood, burgers, pizza, and international cuisine, catering to diverse tastes.
Several restaurants are located directly on the waterfront, offering dining with scenic views of the marina and Galveston Bay.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots along the waterfront, with the rides as a backdrop, or during sunset for beautiful lighting. The carousel and Ferris wheel are also iconic photo opportunities.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas for safety and privacy. It's best to check with boardwalk management before flying a drone.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Evenings with the lights on also create a magical atmosphere.
Photography on most rides is generally not permitted for safety reasons. However, you can capture plenty of great shots from the ground.
The pearl oyster experience offers a fun, interactive photo opportunity. The Boardwalk Fantasea Dinner Cruise also provides scenic backdrops. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing an all-day ride wristband for unlimited fun, allowing kids to ride their favorites over and over. Pro-tip: Visiting on a weekday can help avoid long lines, making the experience more enjoyable for younger children.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
Consider a Boardwalk Fantasea Dinner Cruise for a memorable date night, complete with delicious food and beautiful sunset vistas. 💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Rides and Attractions for Everyone
There are also numerous other attractions, including thrill rides and family-friendly options, ensuring that everyone from young children to adults can find something to enjoy. Beyond the rides, the boardwalk offers a lively atmosphere with arcade games and interactive experiences. The pearl oyster opening is a unique activity where visitors can select their own oyster and discover a hidden pearl, making for a memorable souvenir.
When planning your visit, consider purchasing an all-day wristband if you intend to ride multiple attractions, as this can be more economical than buying individual tickets.
Dining with a View
Whether you're craving fresh seafood, classic American fare, or international flavors, the boardwalk has you covered. For those seeking specific recommendations, Redditors often highlight Tookie's as a classic local spot for burgers, even though it's slightly off the main boardwalk.
When deciding where to eat, consider the ambiance you're looking for. Some spots are perfect for a quick bite between rides, while others are ideal for a leisurely dinner while watching the sunset over the water. The variety ensures that you can enjoy a different culinary experience each time you visit.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
Parking is available and generally priced reasonably, often under $20 for a full day, though finding free spots can be a lucky find.
The Kemah Boardwalk Inn offers convenient on-site accommodation, allowing for easy access to all the attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit