The Best Things to do in Houston with kids

While traveling full-time, we spent about a month calling Houston home. We spent Christmas with family, we enjoyed the warm winter weather, and we found so many great family-friendly activities. Looking for things to see, places to visit, and restaurants to dine at with little ones? Here are the best things to do in Houston with kids!

Space Center Houston

Looking back at the 3.5 years we spent traveling the US, visiting the Space Center Houston was one of the coolest experiences our family had. Ignite your child’s curiosity about space exploration with a visit to Space Center Houston. See real spacecraft, touch a moon rock, and learn about NASA’s ongoing missions. The tram tour to the Johnson Space Center is a must, offering a behind-the-scenes look at mission control and astronaut training facilities. The interactive exhibits ensure kids stay engaged and inspired.

For families with older kids, the Space Center provides a deeper dive into the technology and science behind space travel. Kids can try out simulators, explore a replica of the Space Shuttle, and even learn about upcoming space missions. It’s a place where imaginations can soar as high as the stars.

Children's Museum of Houston

We love a good children’s museum, and the Children’s Museum of Houston is one of the best of the dozens we have visited. Designed specifically for kids, this museum provides hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, history, and culture. Highlights include the “Kidtropolis” cityscape, where children can role-play as adults, and the outdoor “FlowWorks” water exhibit. It's a perfect destination for combining fun with education.

Parents will appreciate the museum’s commitment to interactive learning, which makes it enjoyable for all ages. Special events and seasonal activities keep the experience fresh for repeat visits. The museum’s layout ensures that even the youngest visitors can engage safely and meaningfully.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

From dinosaur skeletons to gems and minerals, this museum captivates young minds. Don’t forget to check out the Butterfly Center and the planetarium for additional awe-inspiring experiences. The hands-on exhibits and impressive IMAX theater make it a family favorite.

Younger kids will be mesmerized by the life-sized dioramas, while older ones can dive into detailed exhibits about ancient civilizations and the natural world. The variety of exhibits ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a must-visit for families exploring Houston.

Sam Houston Boat Tour

Looking for a fun, unique, and FREE activity?! Experience Houston from the water with a free tour aboard the M/V Sam Houston. This 90-minute tour takes you through the Houston Ship Channel, offering a unique perspective on the city’s bustling port and maritime operations. Kids will love spotting ships and learning about Houston’s industrial side.

The guided tour provides fascinating insights into the city’s history and its role as a major port. Families can relax and enjoy the ride while taking in views of the waterways and giant cargo ships. It’s both educational and entertaining for children and adults alike.

Color Factory

This immersive art experience is a feast for the senses. With colorful installations, interactive exhibits, and plenty of photo opportunities, kids and parents alike will be enchanted. Each room offers a unique theme, from a confetti-filled wonderland to vibrant ball pits.

The experience is designed to spark creativity and joy, with activities that encourage play and exploration. Families can take home lasting memories (and stunning photos) from this vibrant space, making it a standout destination in Houston.

Houston Toy Museum

Step back in time at the Houston Toy Museum, where vintage toys from decades past come to life. Kids will delight in seeing classic toys, while parents can enjoy a nostalgic journey through their own childhoods. The interactive play areas ensure everyone has a great time.

The museum’s collection showcases how toys have evolved over the years, offering a fascinating perspective on childhood through the decades. It’s a charming stop for families looking to mix playtime with a touch of history.

Discovery Green

This 12-acre urban park in downtown Houston features playgrounds, splash pads, and wide-open spaces for picnics. Seasonal activities like ice skating in winter and outdoor movie nights in summer make it a year-round favorite. It’s the perfect spot to relax and let kids burn off some energy.

Families will appreciate the park’s variety of events, from live music to art installations. With plenty of space to run around and shaded spots for parents to unwind, Discovery Green is a hub of activity and a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Trampoline and Bounce House Parks

For high-energy fun, trampoline and bounce house parks like Jumping World and Altitude are ideal. These indoor venues offer wall-to-wall trampolines, obstacle courses, and foam pits. Many locations also have dedicated toddler areas, ensuring safe play for the little ones.

Older kids can challenge themselves with ninja courses and climbing walls, while parents can enjoy a break at the on-site cafés. These parks are perfect for rainy days or simply burning off extra energy.

Bowling

Bowling alleys like Emerald Bowl and 300 Bowl offer family-friendly environments with bumpers and lighter balls for kids. Many venues include arcades and snack bars, making it a full afternoon of entertainment.

Some locations even host glow-in-the-dark bowling nights, adding an extra layer of fun. It’s a classic family activity that combines friendly competition with great memories

Movies

Catch the latest family-friendly film at Moonstruck Drive-in or traditional theaters like AMC Houston. Some theaters offer special kids’ showings with reduced noise levels and brighter lights, ensuring a comfortable experience for young viewers.

Luxury theaters with reclining seats and dine-in options make movie-going a treat for the whole family. From animated hits to blockbuster adventures, there’s always something to enjoy on the big screen.

Take a Tour

Houston is a city brimming with possibilities for families, offering a mix of educational, cultural, and recreational activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of space, diving into hands-on museum exhibits, or simply enjoying the city’s green spaces and entertainment venues, there’s no shortage of adventures to create lasting memories.

With its warm hospitality and endless options for family-friendly fun, Houston proves to be a destination that’s as engaging as it is diverse. No matter your family’s interests, the city promises an experience that will leave both kids and adults eager to return.

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