Houston’s Hidden Gem: Lakeside Leisure & Family Fun in League City

Creek, Lake, or Bay? Have it Your Way!
Paddle Clear Creek
The lush waterway of Clear Creek, which borders League City to the north, is surrounded by so much greenery that during spring and summer it could be mistaken for the jungles of Costa Rica. Bring your kayak (or rent one from Clear Creek Kayaks) and launch onto the Clear Creek Paddle Trail for an experience that will have you feeling worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy scenic views along your journey and keep your eye out for resident wildlife, including wading birds, alligators, and deer on the shorelines.
Explore Clear Lake
If lakeside leisure is more your style, Clear Lake is the place to be. The lake is the heart of Bay Area Houston and a hub for water recreation of all kinds. Fishing is a popular activity in this area, so bring your tackle box and fishing pole along. If you’re new to the sport or simply want some local insight, you can book a fishing charter and receive guidance from an experienced fisherman. For the romantics, sunset cruises are a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the water at dusk. Adventure seekers can try their hand at sailing or a heart-pumping ride on a jet ski.
Sail Away on Galveston Bay
A visit to Galveston Bay offers thrill rides—like the Boardwalk Beast speed boat—sailing lessons, and pirate-y adventures on the 55-foot Captain Kidd schooner, with its trademark Jolly Roger flying high above billowing red sails. You may even spot some playful bottlenose dolphins during your time on the water. Those who want to cast their lines into the bay can reel in everything from catfish and bass to flounder, redfish, and black drum.
Stellar Site Seeing
Launch into Space
Space Center Houston welcomes you into an interactive history of human space exploration and is just a short 10-minute drive north of League City. Check out the newly restored Historic Mission Control, walk beneath the flown SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, step inside a shuttle carrier aircraft and the space shuttle mounted on top, see the behemoth Saturn V rocket, and get up close to historic space exploration artifacts.
Stop by the Boardwalk
With amusements for every age, Kemah Boardwalk, just minutes outside League City, is the place to be for a day of thrills and fun. Ride the Boardwalk Bullet wooden rollercoaster, take in panoramic views of Galveston Bay atop the Ferris wheel, pet stingrays at the Stingray Reef touch tank, then dine among the fish at the Aquarium Restaurant. A splash pad will keep kids cool in the heat while parents sip their favorite frozen cocktails.
Step into History
The League City Historic District is brimming with charm, from its sprawling oaks to its historic homes, shops, and museums. Stop by League Park and experience a Hallmark movie come-to-life. This picturesque park features a gazebo, beautiful mini mural, and expansive playground for kids of all abilities. The Historic District is also home to the Butler Longhorn Museum, where you can learn how League City’s founders played an important role in preserving the iconic Texas Longhorn from extinction. Take a self-guided walking or driving tour of historic homes, stop by Helen’s Garden for picture-perfect scenery, and finish your day with a delectable meal from local-favorite, Main St. Bistro.
Swoon-Worthy Shopping
Explore League City’s outstanding collection of popular boutiques and shops sprinkled throughout town. (Download this shopping guide and boutique map to plan your route.) Glass Mermaids offers a trove of nautical-themed home décor and gifts, while boutiques like Adelaide’s, Ivory Boutique, Brave Boutique, Barefoot Bohemian, and The Salted Hippie are stocked with gorgeous clothing and other fantastic finds. Stop by Niche for a hands-on jewelry making experience you’ll love. Pick out your own beads and baubles from among hundreds of different colors, styles, and designs and create a custom piece of jewelry. Shop in beautiful historic homes when you visit the Shoppes at Founder's Square in the Historic District and discover a little bit of everything at Texas Artisan, including home décor and Texas-made items. Not far from League City is Baybrook Mall, an all-inclusive shopping destination with restaurants and a Star Cinema Grill movie theater where you can order cocktails and dinner during the film.
Ready to plan your League City getaway?
With accommodations for every budget—from the lakefront South Shore Harbour Resort to the stylish Fairfield Inn & Suites—staying in League City places you at the gateway to the best of Bay Area Houston. Book your stay today.