Embark on a Lone Star State adventure as we dive into ‘What to Do in Houston with Kids’, showcasing a variety of attractions that cater to curious young minds and energetic spirits.
Top Family Attractions
Houston is packed with exhilarating destinations that cater to younger visitors, each with its unique blend of education and entertainment. Whether your kids are budding astronauts, animal enthusiasts, or underwater adventurers, the city’s top family attractions promise memorable experiences.
Space Center Houston
Your little astronauts will be over the moon at Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA Johnson Space Center. It’s not just a museum; it’s a gateway to the wonders of the universe. Here, you can see historic spacecraft, touch a real moon rock, and get a behind-the-scenes look at NASA’s ongoing missions.
Must-See Exhibits:
- Independence Plaza: Walk inside the massive space shuttle replica.
- Mission Mars: Discover what it will take to visit the red planet.
Downtown Aquarium
Immerse yourself in an underwater world at the Downtown Aquarium. With over 200 species of exotic sea life, an aquatic carousel, and interactive touch pools, it’s a splash hit with families. Come face-to-fin with the ocean’s most mesmerizing creatures.
Attractions Include:
- Aquarium Adventure Exhibit: A panoramic marine life journey.
- Stingray Reef: Feel the smooth glide of stingrays under your fingertips.
Houston Zoo
Take a walk on the wild side at the Houston Zoo, a lush tropical habitat in the heart of the city where over 6,000 animals await. You’ll be amazed at how close you can get to some of the planet’s most incredible wildlife.
Animal Encounters:
- African Forest: Encounter giraffes, rhinos, and chimpanzees.
- Children’s Zoo: Pet and feed friendly barnyard animals.
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Houston offers a plethora of outdoor and nature-related activities that are perfect for kids who love exploring new environments, observing wildlife, and enjoying beautiful landscapes. Your kids can experience the wonders of nature within the city’s outstanding parks and beyond into the wild Texas countryside.
Hermann Park and McGovern Centennial Gardens
Hermann Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of Houston, is a great place for you and your kids to enjoy a sunny day. With a variety of amenities including pedal boats on the McGovern Lake, the Houston Zoo, and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, there’s no end to the educational play you’ll find here. Within Hermann Park, the McGovern Centennial Gardens features a diverse display of plant life, a friendly family garden, and a Japanese Garden that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll.
- Activities for Kids:
- Explore the playgrounds
- Ride the Hermann Park Train
- Visit the Children’s Museum Houston
Buffalo Bayou Park
For a true outdoor adventure, Buffalo Bayou Park offers 160 acres of beautiful green spaces with scenic views and skyline shots of downtown Houston. This urban park provides a range of activities, including kayaking, biking, and a large playground for kids. Enjoy a leisurely picnic as you watch the wafting sails of boats on the bayou, or take a walk with your kids on the park’s numerous trails.
- Highlights:
- Skate park
- Hiking and biking trails
- Dog park
Brazos Bend State Park
Just a short drive from Houston awaits Brazos Bend State Park, a 5,000-acre paradise for nature enthusiasts. The park is known for its wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, which you may spot during your visit. Pack your hiking boots and take the family on numerous trails through forests, wetlands, and prairies. It offers an excellent escape to nature, where you can gaze at the stars from the George Observatory on a clear night.
- Key Features:
- Observation towers and trails
- Fishing and picnicking spots
- George Observatory for stargazing
Remember to always supervise children closely, especially around water and wildlife, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Indoor Fun and Educational Spots
When the weather in Houston isn’t outdoor-friendly, take heart in knowing there are a wealth of indoor places to explore where education meets fun head-on. These spots offer interactive exhibits and activities that engage and excite young minds.
Children’s Museum of Houston
Your kids can dive into adventure at the Children’s Museum of Houston, a playground for the brain. It’s brimming with interactive exhibits that cover topics from science to the fine arts. Make sure to check out the Kidtropolis where they can experience adult life in a city designed just for them, or the Invention Convention, a play area where young inventors create and learn.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
At the Houston Museum of Natural Science, adventure and discovery are around every corner. You’ll find the stunning Cockrell Butterfly Center, where you can walk amongst hundreds of live butterflies. Don’t miss the Hall of Ancient Egypt and the Discovery Center, where hands-on activities make learning about science a blast.
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Art lovers of all ages can appreciate the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District. Here, explore collections that span the globe and history. The museum boasts family-friendly programs and interactive games that help bring the artwork to life, ensuring a visit that’s both enlightening and entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Houston offers a plethora of activities that cater to families with children of all ages. Whether you’re looking for educational experiences, outdoor adventures, or cuisine to satisfy your little ones, you’ll find plenty of options in this vibrant city.
What are the top attractions for families in Houston?
Houston is home to the Space Center Houston, a must-visit for families interested in space and science. Additionally, the Houston Zoo and the Children’s Museum of Houston provide engaging experiences for kids of all ages.
Where can I find kid-friendly restaurants in Houston?
In Houston, you can find a variety of restaurants with kid-friendly menus and atmospheres. Places like The Downtown Aquarium not only offer a meal but also an up-close view of marine life.
What are some fun activities for teens to do in Houston?
Teens can enjoy the thrills of the Kemah Boardwalk or engage in active fun at one of Houston’s many escape rooms or trampoline parks.
Are there any budget-friendly family activities in Houston?
Certainly! For a cost-effective day out, explore the Buffalo Bayou Park, with its free outdoor activities including hiking trails and art installations, or visit museums during their free admission times.
Can you recommend some indoor spaces suitable for kids’ activities in Houston?
When the weather isn’t cooperating, head over to the interactive Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center or the playful Little Galleria Play Area at The Galleria, perfect for a day of indoor fun.
What are some unique weekend activities for kids in Houston?
On weekends, catch a family-friendly play at Main Street Theater or explore the educational exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which often has special weekend programs for kids.
