Photo: Jyotirmay Jena
Photo: Lewis Markhill
Photo: Lewis Markhill
Kemah Boardwalk
★4.5(39,443 reviews)$$Amusement Park
🕑 3-5 hours👶 Best for ages 3-14. Toddlers and preschoolers will love the carousel and kiddie rides, while elementary-aged kids can tackle the roller coaster and Boardwalk Bullet. Teens enjoy the arcade games and more thrilling rides, though younger kids have the most age-appropriate options.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
Kemah Boardwalk is a vibrant waterfront destination that combines classic amusement park thrills with scenic bay views, offering families everything from carnival rides and arcade games to waterfront dining and shopping. This Texas Gulf Coast gem provides a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation, where kids can enjoy rides while parents take in beautiful water views and fresh sea breezes.
Highlights
- ✓Boardwalk Bullet wooden roller coaster with bay views
- ✓Classic carousel and kiddie rides perfect for younger children
- ✓Arcade games and midway attractions with prize redemption
- ✓Stingray Reef interactive touch tank experience
- ✓Train ride that circles the boardwalk with scenic waterfront views
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive during weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday, 12-3 PM) for the shortest lines and easiest parking in the free lots along Kipp Avenue
- 2.Purchase an all-day ride wristband if your kids plan to ride more than 5 attractions - it pays for itself quickly compared to per-ride tickets
- 3.Bring a light jacket even in summer as the bay breeze can get cool in the evening, especially if kids get wet on water rides
- 4.The boardwalk itself is free to walk and explore, so you can enjoy the atmosphere, street performers, and bay views without spending on rides
- 5.Park near the Aquarium entrance for quickest access to restrooms and the main concentration of kid-friendly rides
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday afternoons (Monday-Thursday, 12-4 PM) for minimal crowds and comfortable temperatures. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather, avoiding the intense Texas summer heat and humidity. Weekends extend hours but bring larger crowds.
What to Know
Admission to the boardwalk is free; you pay per ride ($4-8 each) or purchase all-day wristbands (around $30-35). Parking is free in designated lots. Multiple restaurants and snack stands line the boardwalk, from casual seafood to pizza and ice cream, with high chairs and kids' menus widely available.
Seasonal Notes
The boardwalk hosts special events throughout the year including Mardi Gras celebrations in February, Fourth of July fireworks, and Halloween festivities in October. Summer (June-August) brings the longest hours but also extreme heat and largest crowds. Some outdoor attractions may close during inclement weather or winter months.
Nearby Eats
The boardwalk features several family-friendly restaurants including Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. with interactive movie trivia and kids' menus, and Landry's Seafood with waterfront views and high chairs. For a quick bite, try the Boardwalk Beast Grill for burgers and chicken tenders that satisfy picky eaters.
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