Nassau Bay TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nassau Bay, Texas.
1. Space Center Houston
GATEWAY TO NASA
Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center, offering an immersive journey into space exploration. Visitors can tour historic mission control, see real spacecraft, and even meet astronauts during special events. The center features over 400 space artifacts, numerous interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours of NASA facilities.
2. Kemah Boardwalk
WATERFRONT ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
The Kemah Boardwalk is a popular waterfront entertainment destination located on Galveston Bay near Nassau Bay. This family-friendly attraction features amusement park thrill rides, arcade games, restaurants, shops, and regular live music performances. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Clear Lake while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this Gulf Coast landmark.
3. David Braun Park at Lake Nassau
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE RECREATION
David Braun Park at Lake Nassau offers serene lakeside recreation at the southern end of Upper Bay Road. The park provides scenic views, walking paths, and opportunities for fishing in Lake Nassau. Visitors can enjoy picnic facilities, playground equipment, and organized community events throughout the year.
4. Armand Bayou Nature Center
WILDLIFE AND WILDERNESS PRESERVE
Armand Bayou Nature Center is a nationally recognized 2,500-acre wilderness preserve featuring diverse ecosystems including forests, prairies, and marshlands. The center is home to abundant wildlife including numerous bird species, making it a premier destination on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Visitors can explore miles of trails, participate in guided tours, or enjoy educational programs about the region's natural history.
5. Nassau Bay Peninsula Wildlife Park
WETLAND BIRD SANCTUARY
Nassau Bay Peninsula Wildlife Park is a 76-acre lush wetland featuring strategic viewing platforms for wildlife observation. The park serves as an important habitat for various waterfowl and songbirds, making it popular among birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors can spot numerous native and migratory bird species while enjoying the peaceful natural setting.
6. Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Nature Center
ENDANGERED SPECIES HABITAT
The Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Nature Center spans 148 acres of protected habitat where visitors might spot endangered whooping cranes and other rare birds. The center features paved trails and bird blinds designed for optimal wildlife viewing of sandhill cranes, herons, egrets, and ibises. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the center's conservation efforts and educational opportunities focused on local ecosystems.
7. Challenger 7 Memorial Park
HISTORIC WOODLAND TRAILS
Challenger 7 Memorial Park offers scenic forested trails along the shores of Clear Creek, commemorating the crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger. The park is recognized as an excellent location for spotting eastern woodland birds in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks while reflecting on the park's meaningful connection to America's space program history.
8. Howard L. Ward Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Howard L. Ward Park serves as a beloved community gathering space for Nassau Bay residents and visitors. The park offers recreational facilities, green spaces, and areas for family outings and picnics. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the park's convenient location within the city.
9. Clear Lake Recreation Area
PREMIER BOATING DESTINATION
The Clear Lake Recreation Area stands as the third largest boating center in the United States, providing extensive water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing, and other water sports in this spacious aquatic playground. The area's marinas, boat rentals, and waterfront amenities make it a central attraction for both locals and tourists.
10. Nassau Bay Town Square
MODERN MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT
Nassau Bay Town Square is a 31-acre mixed-use development located directly across from Johnson Space Center. The area features Silver LEED office buildings, upscale residential units, a Marriott Hotel, retail space, and a conference center. Visitors can enjoy the pedestrian-friendly promenade with charming landscaping, sidewalks, and benches designed for a pleasant shopping and dining experience.
11. Annual Ballunar Festival
HOT AIR BALLOON SPECTACLE
The Annual Ballunar Festival is a spectacular event where spectators witness more than 100 hot air balloons take flight over NASA's Rocket Park. This colorful celebration combines the excitement of ballooning with Nassau Bay's deep connection to space exploration. Visitors enjoy not only the balloon displays but also additional entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the festival grounds.
12. Wings Over Houston Airshow
AERIAL PERFORMANCE SPECTACULAR
The Wings Over Houston Airshow delivers breathtaking aerial performances that draw aviation enthusiasts from across the region. Spectators can witness precision flying demonstrations, vintage aircraft displays, and military flight formations. The event celebrates aviation history while showcasing modern aeronautical achievements in an exciting, family-friendly atmosphere.
13. San Jacinto Monument
HISTORIC TEXAS LANDMARK
The San Jacinto Monument commemorates the decisive 1836 Battle of San Jacinto that secured Texas independence from Mexico. Standing 567.31 feet tall, the monument is the world's tallest masonry column and features a star that weighs 220 tons at its summit. Visitors can ride to the observation deck for panoramic views of the Houston Ship Channel and surrounding historic battleground.
14. Battleship Texas
HISTORIC NAVAL VESSEL
Battleship Texas is the last surviving dreadnought that served in both World Wars and now stands as a museum ship near the San Jacinto Monument. Visitors can explore multiple decks of this historic vessel, view the massive guns, and learn about naval warfare and life at sea during the early 20th century. The battleship represents an important piece of American military history and offers educational experiences for all ages.
15. Mediterraneo Market & Cafe
AUTHENTIC MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE
Mediterraneo Market & Cafe offers authentic Mediterranean dishes in a casual, welcoming atmosphere near NASA's Johnson Space Center. The restaurant serves freshly prepared specialties including hummus, falafel, shawarma, and other traditional favorites. Visitors appreciate both the dining experience and the adjacent market featuring imported goods and specialty ingredients.