Kemah Boardwalk Day Trip: Your Complete Guide from Pasadena, TX

If you're staying at an RV park in Pasadena or Southeast Houston, Kemah Boardwalk should be near the top of your day trip list. It's one of the most popular waterfront destinations on the Texas Gulf Coast — and from Jus Passn Thru RV Park, you're just about 20 minutes away.

Here's everything you need to plan a great visit.

From the park at 3214 Federal Road, Kemah Boardwalk is a straightforward drive south on TX-146. The route takes you through La Marque and down to the Galveston Bay waterfront — no highway maze required.

Distance: Approximately 18–20 miles
Drive time: 20–25 minutes depending on traffic
Parking: Paid parking is available in the boardwalk's main lot; arrive early on weekends to get a spot close to the entrance

Kemah Boardwalk is a 60-acre waterfront entertainment complex operated by Landry's, Inc. It sits right on the edge of Galveston Bay and combines amusement rides, waterfront dining, shops, and live entertainment in one walkable destination.

The boardwalk has a solid lineup of rides that appeal to both kids and adults:

• Boardwalk Beast — a high-speed boat ride on Galveston Bay (one of the most popular attractions)
• Boardwalk Bullet — a wooden roller coaster with a 96-foot drop
• Ferris Wheel — great views of the bay and the Houston Ship Channel
• Carousel — a classic ride that's been a boardwalk staple for years
• Stingray Reef — an interactive stingray touch tank, popular with kids
• Midway games — classic carnival games along the boardwalk

A ride wristband gives you unlimited access to most attractions for the day, which is the best value if you're planning to ride multiple times.

The dining options at Kemah are a big draw, especially for fresh Gulf seafood. A few highlights:

• Landry's Seafood — the flagship restaurant with waterfront views and a broad seafood menu
• Saltgrass Steak House — Texas-style steaks and comfort food
• The Flying Dutchman — casual waterfront dining with a great happy hour
• Aquarium Restaurant — a unique dining experience inside a 50,000-gallon aquarium
• Cadillac Bar — Tex-Mex and margaritas with a lively atmosphere

For a quick bite, there are also several casual counter-service spots along the boardwalk for burgers, ice cream, and snacks.

Beyond rides and food, the boardwalk has a collection of shops selling Texas souvenirs, beach gear, and gifts. Live music is a regular feature on weekends, typically on the outdoor stage near the water.

Weekday mornings are the best time to visit if you want shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere. The boardwalk opens at 11 AM most days.

Weekends are busier, especially during summer and holidays. If you're visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, arrive early and expect crowds by early afternoon.

Evenings are magical at Kemah — the lights on the boardwalk and the view across the bay at sunset make for a memorable experience even if you're not riding anything.

Weather note: Houston summers are hot and humid. Bring sunscreen, wear light clothing, and plan to take breaks in air-conditioned restaurants during the hottest part of the afternoon (typically 1–4 PM).

• Height requirements: Check the Kemah Boardwalk website for current height requirements on each ride before you go — some rides have minimum height restrictions
• Stroller-friendly: The boardwalk is flat and paved, making it easy to navigate with a stroller
• Stingray Reef is a highlight for younger kids — they can touch and feed stingrays in a supervised setting
• Bring cash for midway games; some game booths don't accept cards

• Happy hour at several boardwalk restaurants runs from 3–7 PM on weekdays — a great time to grab a drink and watch the boats on the bay
• Sunset views from the Ferris wheel or any waterfront restaurant are worth timing your visit around
• Boat tours depart from the marina adjacent to the boardwalk for bay cruises

Kemah is about 30 minutes north of Galveston Island, making it easy to combine both destinations in a single day. A popular itinerary:

1. Morning at Kemah Boardwalk (rides and lunch)
2. Afternoon drive to Galveston (beach, Seawall Boulevard, or The Strand)
3. Dinner back in Pasadena or at a waterfront spot along the way

It's a full day, but very doable from our park.

Kemah Boardwalk is one of those places that's genuinely fun whether you're 8 or 80. If you're planning a stay at Jus Passn Thru RV Park and want more local recommendations, just ask at the front office — we're happy to help you make the most of your time in Southeast Houston.

Call us at 713-941-3737 to book your site.