Houston Is Family Friendly

Welcome to Houston Filled with Family Delights

Welcome, my friends, to Houston! Let me take you through our fast pace city, a place where families can create lasting memories together. Here in Houston, we pride ourselves on a wide range of activities for all ages. 

From the lush, expansive parks to interactive museums and fun-filled festivals, there’s something here to entertain every member of your family. Come explore and discover why so many families love calling Houston their home.

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Discover the Family-Friendly Attractions in Houston

Houston’s wide spectrum of family-friendly offerings makes it an ideal city for families to live, visit, and explore. From its dining and shopping establishments to its accommodations and public spaces, Houston goes above and beyond to make sure families feel welcome.

Houston’s approach to family friendliness could be considered holistic, including entertainment and leisure with education and community involvement. As the city grows, its truly is a family-friendly destination.  It promises a welcoming and fun environment for all families.

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Partial List of Houston & Surrounding Area Family Attractions

1. Explore the wonders of space and science with your family at the Houston Space Center, a must-see attraction for inspiring young astronauts.
2. Visit the Houston Zoo to see over 6,000 animals and enjoy daily animal encounters and feedings.
3. Cool off on hot summer days at the Typhoon Texas Waterpark, which features water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
4. Discover interactive educational exhibits at the Children’s Museum Houston, designed specifically for kids’ engagement and learning.
5. Stroll through the Houston Museum of Natural Science to check out dinosaur skeletons, precious gems, and a stunning butterfly center.
6. Take a family bike ride along the Buffalo Bayou Park, offering scenic views and plenty of open space for a picnic.
7. Enjoy theatrical performances tailored for young audiences at the Main Street Theater, which hosts a variety of children’s productions.
8. Experience the thrills of roller coasters and family rides at the Kemah Boardwalk, also home to seaside dining and shops.
9. Spend a day at Discovery Green, a downtown park that features playgrounds, a model boat pond, and seasonal ice skating.
10. Explore the health and environmental sciences in a fun way at the Health Museum, a part of the Houston Museum District.
11. Visit the Cockrell Butterfly Center, where you can walk through a living butterfly habitat and learn about different species.
12. Attend a family workshop or view the stars at the George Observatory located within Brazos Bend State Park.
13. Paddle along the bayou with one of the guided kayaking tours offered at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center.
14. Catch a Houston Astros baseball game at Minute Maid Park, where kids can also enjoy the Little Sluggers Kids Zone.
15. Take a train ride through Hermann Park, one of Houston’s most iconic green spaces, also featuring pedal boats and multiple playgrounds.
16. Explore the Houston Fire Museum, where kids can climb on a fire truck and learn about fire safety.
17. Visit the San Jacinto Museum of History and Monument to learn about Texas’ fight for independence.
18. Enjoy family-friendly festivals and events at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, which offers free outdoor performances.
19. Tour the Bayou Wildlife Zoo, an open-range zoo in Alvin, Texas, where you can feed animals from a tram ride.
20. Visit the Houston Police Museum, featuring police car exhibits and a memorial wall.
21. Walk through the Houston Tunnel System on a guided tour to explore the city from below.
22. Play mini-golf, go karting, or enjoy arcade games at the Track 21 Indoor Karting & More.
23. Visit the Art Car Museum to see whimsically decorated vehicles and contemporary art.
24. Spend a day at the Moody Gardens in Galveston, featuring an aquarium, rainforest, and 3D theater.
25. Explore the interactive and hands-on exhibits at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, a sister site of the Children’s Museum Houston.
26. Check out the Houston Maritime Museum and learn about the historical significance of sea travel and commerce for the region.
27. Participate in a family beach day at Galveston Island, just a short drive from Houston, offering sandy beaches and Gulf Coast fun.
28. Take a ghost tour through Old Town Spring, a quaint shopping village that claims to be one of the most haunted towns in Texas.
29. Visit Blessington Farms for fruit picking, farm fun, and to feed and interact with farm animals.
30. Explore the trails or paddle in the waters at Sheldon Lake State Park and Environmental Learning Center.
31. Learn about Texas history at the interactive exhibits of the Republic of Texas Plaza in Baytown.
32. Enjoy the day sliding and splashing at the Pirates Bay Water Park in Baytown.
33. Walk through history at the Battleship Texas State Historic Site, where you can tour a World War I and II naval ship.
34. Have fun learning about the Houston ship channel with a free boat tour offered by the Port of Houston Authority.
35. Check out the marine life at the Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson, a marine aquarium, fish hatchery, and education center.
36. Experience the outdoors at Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, offering guided nature walks, pioneer reenactments, and homesteading demonstrations.
37. Take in a show or concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, offering many family-friendly events throughout the year.
38. Learn about the early settlers and Native American history at the Alvin Historical Museum.
39. Visit the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum in Galveston to learn about the oil and gas industry in an interactive setting.
40. Play and learn at the Rosenberg Railroad Museum through their interactive exhibits and railfanning opportunities.
41. Enjoy the great outdoors at Brazos Bend State Park, a prime location for hiking, biking, fishing, and stargazing.
42. Take a day to explore Space Center Houston, where you can see historic spacecraft and NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
43. See a variety of species at the Downtown Aquarium, an underwater adventure featuring touch pools, shark tanks, and more.
44. Experience the historical charm of the 1892 Bishop’s Palace in Galveston, a site of architectural wonder.
45. Enjoy the annual Children’s Festival at The Woodlands, offering interactive games, educational exhibits, and live entertainment.
46. Discover ancient Egyptian artifacts and a Fabergé exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
47. Experience the outdoor art installations and serene walking paths at the Rice University Art Trail.
48. Participate in toddler times and family festivals at the Houston Public Library, offering educational and fun programs for all ages.
49. Go bird watching or take a photography class at the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary.
50. Have fun with hands-on agricultural experiences and corn mazes at Dewberry Farm.
51. Take a relaxing boat tour of the Port of Houston, one of the world’s busiest ports.
52. Enjoy an educational and fun day out at the Lone Star Flight Museum, where history takes flight with vintage aircraft and flight simulators.
53. Experience a taste of Germany at the annual Tomball German Fest, offering music, food, and themed activities.
54. Spend an afternoon at the Houston Police Department’s Mounted Patrol Barn, where you can meet police horses and learn about their role in law enforcement.
55. Take the family for a fun and informative day out at the Texas City Museum, showcasing the city’s industrial history.
56. Explore the unique ecosystems of the Armand Bayou Nature Center on guided hikes or canoe tours.
57. Discover the history of space exploration with a tram tour of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, including the historic Mission Control.
58. Enjoy a day of educational workshops and technology demonstrations at the annual Houston Maker Faire.
59. Experience the thrill of live horse racing at Sam Houston Race Park.
60. Visit the Spring Historical Museum to learn about the history of the Texas frontier and railroad expansion.
61. Join a family-friendly workshop or art class at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston.
62. Experience a slice of outdoor Texas at George Ranch Historical Park, featuring historical homes and a working ranch.
63. Explore the local marine life and ecosystems at Galveston’s East End Lagoon Nature Preserve.
64. Visit Old MacDonald’s Farm in Humble for a day of fun with petting zoos, pony rides, and swimming pools.
65. Enjoy the scenic views and wildlife on a family hike through Memorial Park’s nature trails.
66. Visit the Waugh Drive Bat Colony to witness hundreds of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at dusk.
67. Explore the unique and interactive exhibits at the Woodlands Children’s Museum.
68. Experience the interactive and educational exhibits at the John P. McGovern Museum of Health & Medical Science.
69. Visit the historic Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, featuring American decorative arts and beautiful gardens.
70. Take a family day trip to Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, ideal for bird watching and nature photography.
71. Explore the Houston Graffiti Building to see street art and murals by local artists.
72. Spend an afternoon kayaking on Kinder Lake at Discovery Green in downtown Houston.
73. Discover local wildlife and natural beauty on a guided nature tour at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center.
74. Experience farm life and learn about sustainable agriculture at Froberg’s Farm, offering fruit picking and family activities.
75. Take a historical tour of the 1940 Air Terminal Museum at Hobby Airport, showcasing the history of aviation in Houston.
76. Explore the galaxies at the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Burke Baker Planetarium.
77. Enjoy a family outing at Sheldon Lake State Park, where you can go fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
78. Experience the excitement of the annual Art Car Parade, where cars are transformed into mobile artworks.
79. Visit the Blue Bell Creameries in Brenham for a tour and a taste of Texas’ favorite ice cream.
80. Take a family adventure through the Treetop Adventure Course at the Houston Zoo.
81. Learn about maritime history and take a boat ride at the Seaport Museum in Galveston.
82. Enjoy a performance at the Express Children’s Theatre, specializing in plays for young audiences.
83. Participate in a family beach cleanup day at Galveston Island to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
84. Take a sunset cruise on Clear Lake or Galveston Bay for a memorable family evening.
85. Enjoy the interactive and historical exhibits dedicated to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at the NRG Center.
86. Learn about Houston’s railway history with a visit to the historic Southern Pacific Steam Engine #982 in Memorial Park.
87. Participate in the annual Kite Festival at Hermann Park, a colorful and fun event for all ages.
88. Explore nature and wildlife at the Katy Prairie Conservancy, offering guided tours and bird watching.
89. Take the family for a day of fun and learning at the Houston Museum of African American Culture.
90. Visit the Czech Center Museum Houston to learn about Czech heritage through art, music, and historical artifacts.
91. Enjoy a round of family golf at the Topgolf Houston, offering climate-controlled hitting bays and a fun atmosphere.
92. Learn about local ecosystems and conservation at the Nature Discovery Center in Bellaire.
93. Take a tour of Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Texas’ oldest craft brewery, offering root beer tours for kids.
94. Explore the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, where you can see artists in action and participate in craft-making workshops.
95. Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFly Houston, suitable for families and first-timers.
96. Explore the interactive science exhibits and activities at the Science Spectrum, including a dinosaur dig pit and a space exhibit.
97. Visit the Moody Mansion in Galveston to explore a restored mansion and learn about the life of one of Texas’ wealthiest early 20th-century families.
98. Explore Houston from the water with a kayak tour along Buffalo Bayou, offering a unique perspective of the city.
99. Experience the interactive exhibits at the Heritage Society Museum, showcasing Houston’s history through restored historic homes.
100. Enjoy a family outing at the annual Houston Children’s Festival, the largest children’s

Houston’s Beautiful Parks and Recreational Spaces

Hermann Park: Houston’s Example of Relaxation
Hermann Park is more than a park, it is a community focal point where families gather to relax and play. Here, you can enjoy the Houston Zoo, pedal boats on McGovern Lake, and the beautiful Japanese Garden. The park also hosts free performances at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, perfect for a family picnic and a show. For the little explorers, the Buddy Carruth Playground for All Children offers inclusive fun for kids of all abilities.

Discovery Green Is a Downtown’s Playful Oasis
In the heart of downtown Houston, Discovery Green stands as an symbol of family fun set against the city skyline. This park offers a range of activities from kayaking on Kinder Lake to ice skating in the winter months. The John P. McGovern Playground is a wonderland for children, with innovative and safe equipment. Regularly, the park transforms for art installations and cultural events celebrating the vast differences of our community.

Buffalo Bayou Park: Adventure Awaits
Buffalo Bayou Park is where adventure and natural beauty meet right in the urban center. Families can bike or hike trails offering breathtaking views of the skyline, or participate in guided tours to learn about the local ecosystem. The park features large green spaces ideal for kite flying or soccer games. Don’t miss the Waugh Drive Bat Colony at dusk, an extraordinary natural spectacle right in our city.

Exciting Museums and Educational Experiences

Something for All Families

Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a treasure for curious minds. With exhibits ranging from dinosaur halls to an extensive butterfly center and a captivating planetarium, the museum provides educational fun for the entire family. Their hands-on approach in the Kid’s Discovery Zone allows children to touch and interact with displays, building a love of learning from an early age.

Kids Rule at the Children’s Museum of Houston
Voted as one of the top children’s museums in the country, this place is crafted to spark the imagination of young minds through interactive exhibits. From science and technology to cultural arts, the museum’s activities are designed to be inclusive and engaging. Their “Maker Annex” lets kids create their own inventions, turning ideas into reality.

Space Center Houston
Space Center Houston brings the wonder of space closer to Earth. This leading science and space learning center is one of Houston’s top attractions. It offers educational programs and exhibits sharing the wonders of space exploration. Witness actual spacecraft, meet an astronaut, and experience the thrill of a simulated space voyage.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Exploration

The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Nestled on the western edge of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center offers families a serene escape from city life. Here, you can explore more than five miles of nature trails winding through forest, meadow, and wetland habitats. The Discovery Room inside the Nature Center features interactive exhibits teaching children about local wildlife and ecosystems. Regularly scheduled family walks and workshops encourage young naturalists to get hands-on experience.

Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center
Just a short drive from downtown Houston, Sheldon Lake is open for families to fish, hike, and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. The park’s Environmental Learning Center provides educational programs on sustainability and ecology. This makes it a great spot for kids to learn about conservation practices while enjoying the great outdoors. The park also features a reconstructed prairie, wetlands, and a pond perfect for wildlife watching and photography.

Bayou Biking and Paddling Trails
For active families, Houston’s extensive network of bayou trails offers miles of scenic biking and paddling routes. Buffalo Bayou, in particular, features kayak rentals where families can paddle along the waterway and view the city from a different perspective. These trails are also great for bird watching and spotting other wildlife, especially during the cooler months.

Seasonal Festivities and Year-Round Fun

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
As one of the largest annual events in Houston, the Livestock Show and Rodeo is a must-see for families visiting in late winter or early spring. It combines rodeo action, livestock competitions, concerts, carnival rides, and delicious food, providing entertainment for all ages. The event is also educational, with many opportunities for kids to learn about agriculture and animal husbandry.

The Children’s Festival in The Woodlands
This annual event in nearby The Woodlands is one of North America’s largest children’s festivals. It features a weekend full of performances, hands-on activities, games, and exhibits. The festival’s focus on educational and interactive experiences makes it an ideal outing for families looking to have fun and learn together.

Holiday Lights and Winter Celebrations
Houston comes alive during the holiday season with numerous light displays and festive events. The Houston Zoo’s Zoo Lights is a family favorite, transforming the zoo into a winter wonderland of brilliant light displays. Other activities like ice skating at Discovery Green and the festive trains at Hermann Park offer delightful ways to celebrate the season.

Interactive and Educational Attractions

Health Museum
Explore the wonders of the human body at the Health Museum, a part of Houston’s renowned Museum District. This interactive museum offers families a chance to learn about health, medical science, and the human body in an engaging way. Exhibits like the “Amazing Body Pavilion” provide a walk-through of giant human organs, enhancing learning with a experience kids will adore.

Downtown Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium mixes family fun with education, housing over 200 species of aquatic life from around the world. The aquarium is a marine observation, but it also offers educational programs and rides like the Shark Voyage train. The trains takes families on a thrilling journey through a shark tank.

Houston Museum of Natural Science
This museum is a treasure for curious minds, featuring extensive collections and exhibits ranging from paleontology to astronomy. The Cockrell Butterfly Center and the Burke Baker Planetarium offer experiences both fun and educational, making science accessible to learners of all ages.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Memorial Park
One of Houston’s largest parks, Memorial Park, offers a variety of outdoor activities including trails for hiking and biking, playgrounds, and tennis courts. It’s a perfect spot for families to enjoy a day out in nature, have a picnic, or simply take a leisurely walk amidst the scenic surroundings.

Terry Hershey Park
Known for its beautiful bike trails and picturesque settings, Terry Hershey Park is ideal for families who enjoy cycling and outdoor adventures. The park features multiple playgrounds and plenty of open space for kids to explore safely.

George Bush Park
Offering one of the city’s best kite-flying spots, George Bush Park is vast and versatile with sports fields, extensive bike trails, and model airplane flying areas. It’s a fantastic place for families to spend a day full of different activities.

Unique Learning Experiences

Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol Barn
Visit the Mounted Patrol Barn to learn about the role of horses in modern policing. Kids can interact with the horses and learn about equine care, offering a unique educational experience combining law enforcement history with animal science.

Space Center Houston
As the visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, this is where families can learn about space and the adventures of astronauts. The center provides educational tours, exhibits, and the chance to see spacecraft up close, inspiring the next generation of explorers and scientists.

Houston's Art and Culture for Families

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Museum of Fine Arts offers family programs introduce children to art through interactive activities and storytelling. These programs are designed to make art enjoyable and accessible to young audiences, fostering early appreciation and understanding.

Miller Outdoor Theatre
Located in Hermann Park, the Miller Outdoor Theatre provides free cultural performances, including music, dance, and theater. It’s a great way for families to experience the arts in an informal, open-air setting, perfect for picnics under the stars.

Come and Discover Family-Friendly Houston

Our website city guide has only scratched the surface of what Houston has to offer for families looking for fun, education, and adventure. Every corner of our city has something special bringing the community together and makes Houston a wonderful place for families to grow and learn. We invite you to explore, participate, and enjoy all the incredible experiences our city provides. Let Houston surprise you with its endless possibilities for family fun!

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