Kemp TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kemp, Texas.
1. Kemp Railroad Museum
HISTORIC RAILROAD HERITAGE
The Kemp Railroad Museum immerses visitors in the city's rich railroad history, showcasing artifacts from when Kemp was established as a vital stop along the Texas and Pacific Railway. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing how the railroad shaped the development of the community after the mid-1880s when tracks were completed through the town. The museum stands as a tribute to Kemp's origins as a transportation hub that facilitated trade and commerce in the region.
2. Kings Creek Country Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Kings Creek Country Club offers a refined golfing experience for enthusiasts visiting Kemp. The well-maintained course provides challenging play for golfers of all skill levels with scenic views of the East Texas landscape. Beyond golf, the club serves as a social hub for the community with dining options and special events throughout the year.
3. Heritage Market & Bakery
LOCAL FLAVORS & TREATS
Heritage Market & Bakery delights visitors with freshly baked goods and locally sourced products in the heart of Kemp. The charming establishment offers everything from artisanal breads to sweet pastries, along with a selection of regional specialties and handcrafted items. Visitors appreciate the warm, welcoming atmosphere that showcases the culinary traditions of the area.
4. Tip Top Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING FUN
Tip Top Lanes provides a classic bowling experience for families and friends looking for entertainment in Kemp. The venue features well-maintained lanes, rental shoes, and a variety of bowling balls suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. Beyond bowling, visitors can enjoy arcade games and concessions for a complete entertainment outing.
5. Racks Billiards Sports Bar & Grill
GAMES, SPORTS & DINING
Racks Billiards Sports Bar & Grill combines entertainment and dining in a lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy billiards and other games. Sports enthusiasts appreciate the multiple screens broadcasting live games while enjoying a menu of classic American fare and beverages. The establishment has become a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists seeking a casual night out in Kemp.
6. Slap N' Good BBQ & Catering
TEXAS BARBECUE TRADITION
Slap N' Good BBQ & Catering serves authentic Texas-style barbecue that draws food enthusiasts from throughout the region. Their slow-smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, and sausage, are prepared using traditional methods and secret family recipes. The casual eatery offers generous portions and homestyle sides that exemplify the best of Texas barbecue culture.
7. Yellow Rose Cafe
HOMESTYLE COMFORT FOOD
Yellow Rose Cafe welcomes diners with a menu of classic American comfort food served in a cozy, unpretentious setting. The local favorite is known for hearty breakfasts, homemade pies, and daily specials that reflect regional flavors and traditions. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and reasonable prices that make this cafe a staple in the Kemp dining scene.
8. El Jacalito
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
El Jacalito brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Kemp with a menu of authentic regional dishes prepared with traditional recipes. Diners can enjoy everything from sizzling fajitas to handmade tamales in a colorful, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's popularity stems from its commitment to fresh ingredients and generous portions that satisfy both locals and visitors.
9. V's Steakhouse
PREMIUM STEAKS & DINING
V's Steakhouse offers an elevated dining experience featuring premium cuts of beef and classic steakhouse fare in Kemp. The restaurant creates a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere where diners can enjoy expertly prepared steaks alongside fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and fine wines. Special touches like tableside preparations and attentive service make this establishment a destination for celebrations and special occasions.
10. Kemp Academy of Learning Historical Site
EDUCATIONAL HERITAGE LANDMARK
The Kemp Academy of Learning Historical Site preserves the legacy of one of the area's earliest educational institutions, which began operation in 1867. Visitors can explore the restored structures and exhibits that document the development of education in rural Texas during the post-Civil War era. The site offers insight into how the academy contributed to the intellectual and social growth of the community during a formative period in Kemp's history.
11. Cedar Creek Reservoir
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Cedar Creek Reservoir provides a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities just minutes from Kemp. The expansive lake offers excellent fishing, boating, and water sports, with multiple access points and marinas serving visitors year-round. Surrounding parklands provide additional options for camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing in a scenic East Texas setting.
12. Historic Downtown Kemp
SMALL TOWN CHARM
Historic Downtown Kemp invites visitors to experience the authentic character of a traditional Texas small town. The district features preserved buildings dating back to the late 19th century when the railroad brought prosperity to the community. Visitors can browse local shops, enjoy casual dining options, and appreciate architectural details that reflect Kemp's evolution from a railroad stop to the charming community it is today.
13. Purtis Creek State Park
FISHING AND NATURE RETREAT
Purtis Creek State Park, located near Kemp, offers a tranquil retreat for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers with its 355-acre lake known for excellent bass fishing. The park provides camping facilities, hiking trails, and paddling opportunities in a peaceful woodland setting. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with white-tailed deer, raccoons, and various bird species frequently spotted throughout the park's nearly 1,600 acres.
14. Kaufman County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Kaufman County Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts and documents chronicling the development of the entire region, including Kemp's role in local history. Exhibits trace the area's evolution from Native American settlements through early pioneer days to the modern era. The museum serves as an educational resource where visitors can connect with the rich cultural heritage that shaped communities throughout Kaufman County.
15. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
AQUATIC EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, a short drive from Kemp, combines entertainment and education with its aquariums, hatchery, and fishing facilities. Visitors can observe native Texas fish species up close, learn about conservation efforts, and even try their hand at catching fish in the stocked casting pond. Interactive exhibits, dive shows, and special programs make this a favorite destination for families looking to understand and appreciate Texas' aquatic ecosystems.