Top 19 Things To Do With Kids In Houston

Top 19 Things To Do With Kids In Houston: Planning a family getaway to the vibrant city of Houston? This guide unveils a diverse range of exciting activities perfect for children of all ages, from exploring world-class museums and engaging in thrilling outdoor adventures to experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage and indulging in delicious family-friendly dining. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable Houston adventure with your little ones!

From interactive science centers to sprawling parks and captivating zoos, Houston offers a wealth of experiences designed to stimulate young minds and create lasting memories. Whether your children are toddlers, preschoolers, or school-aged, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the city’s best offerings, ensuring a fun-filled and enriching trip for the entire family. We’ll cover museums, parks, zoos, entertainment venues, sporting events, cultural experiences, dining options, and shopping destinations – all tailored to create a memorable Houston experience for your kids.

Museums & Educational Activities

Houston offers a wealth of engaging museums perfect for family outings, providing enriching educational experiences for children of all ages. These institutions go beyond simple entertainment, fostering curiosity, sparking imagination, and promoting valuable learning through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. The selection below highlights some of the best options for a fun and educational day out.

Top Houston Museums for Children

Choosing the right museum depends on your child’s age and interests. To help you plan, here’s a table summarizing five excellent choices:

Educational Value of Houston’s Children’s Museums

Each museum offers unique learning opportunities. The Houston Museum of Natural Science, for example, excels in science education, with its dinosaur exhibits fostering paleontology interest and the butterfly center providing insights into ecology. Younger children at the Children’s Museum of Houston can engage in interactive play that develops motor skills and problem-solving abilities. Older children at Space Center Houston can learn about space exploration and STEM fields, while the Health Museum provides valuable insights into the human body and health science.

The Houston Zoo provides opportunities for learning about animal habitats, conservation efforts, and biodiversity.

Sample Family Day at the Children’s Museum of Houston

This itinerary focuses on a family day at the Children’s Museum of Houston, designed for children aged 5-8.

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Arrival and Exploration of the entrance area. This allows children to acclimate to the environment and get a sense of the space before diving into specific exhibits.

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: EcoStation. Children can engage in hands-on activities related to environmental science and sustainability.

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Power Play. This exhibit offers opportunities for physical activity and developing gross motor skills through climbing, sliding, and navigating obstacle courses.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Lunch break. The museum has a cafe, or you can pack a picnic.

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: The Water Play Area. Children can engage in sensory play and learn about the properties of water.

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Free play and exploration of other exhibits based on children’s interests. This allows for flexible exploration based on the children’s engagement levels.

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2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Departure. This leaves time for a leisurely exit from the museum.

Parks & Outdoor Adventures: Top 19 Things To Do With Kids In Houston

Houston boasts a fantastic array of parks perfect for family fun, offering diverse environments for children of all ages. From sprawling green spaces ideal for picnics and active play to smaller, more intimate parks designed for younger children, there’s a perfect outdoor escape for every Houston family. These parks provide valuable opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and connection with nature.

Houston Parks for Kids: A Diverse Selection

Choosing the right park depends on the ages and interests of your children. To assist you, we’ve detailed three parks showcasing a range of amenities.

• Memorial Park: This expansive urban park offers a multitude of activities. Its vast size provides ample space for running, biking, and kite flying. The playgrounds cater to various age groups, with separate areas for toddlers and older children. The scenic trails are perfect for leisurely strolls or more challenging bike rides. For water fun, the park has a picturesque lake suitable for model boat sailing (weather permitting).

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  Memorial Park also features the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, offering additional educational opportunities.

• Levy Park: Levy Park is a more modern, amenity-rich park designed with families in mind. It features a unique, interactive playground with climbing structures, slides, and water features. A large lawn provides space for picnics and outdoor games. Levy Park also boasts a dog park, making it a great choice for families with furry friends. The park’s central location makes it easily accessible.

  The amenities are particularly well-suited for younger children and preschoolers.

• Hermann Park: This large, historic park offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Hermann Park boasts a picturesque lake with paddle boat rentals, making it a fun activity for older children and families. The park also includes a zoo, Japanese Garden, and McGovern Centennial Gardens, offering diverse experiences for a full day of exploration. Playgrounds are spread throughout the park, catering to different age groups.

  The wide, paved trails are perfect for strollers and bikes, making it accessible for families with young children.

Park Amenities and Suitability for Different Age Groups

Memorial Park, with its expansive trails and varied playgrounds, caters well to school-aged children and families who enjoy active pursuits. Levy Park, with its interactive playground and modern amenities, is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. Hermann Park, encompassing diverse attractions and paved trails, offers something for all ages, from toddlers enjoying the playgrounds to older children enjoying the lake activities.

A Family Picnic at Levy Park

Imagine a vibrant scene: A family of four spreads a checkered picnic blanket on the lush green lawn of Levy Park. Sunlight filters through the trees, dappling the grass. Two young children, a boy and a girl, are excitedly building a sandcastle in the nearby sandbox, their laughter echoing through the air. Their parents relax on the blanket, enjoying sandwiches and lemonade, occasionally watching their children’s playful antics.

The scent of freshly cut grass mingles with the aroma of the picnic food. In the background, the gentle sounds of children playing and the distant hum of the city create a peaceful yet lively atmosphere. The family’s faces are radiant with joy, capturing the perfect memory of a carefree afternoon spent together in a beautiful urban park.

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Zoos & Aquariums

Houston offers fantastic zoological and aquatic experiences for families, providing opportunities for animal encounters, education, and conservation awareness. Both the Houston Zoo and the Downtown Aquarium are popular choices, each offering unique attractions and learning opportunities.

The Houston Zoo and Downtown Aquarium provide diverse animal habitats and interactive exhibits, catering to a wide range of ages and interests. Beyond the sheer entertainment value, both institutions actively participate in conservation efforts and offer educational programs designed to foster a deeper understanding of wildlife and their ecosystems.

Houston Zoo and Downtown Aquarium Attractions

The following table summarizes key attractions and animal encounters at the Houston Zoo and Downtown Aquarium, categorized by location, description, and age appropriateness.

Conservation and Educational Programs

Both the Houston Zoo and the Downtown Aquarium are actively involved in wildlife conservation and offer a variety of educational programs. The Houston Zoo participates in several breeding programs for endangered species and supports field conservation projects globally. The Downtown Aquarium, through its exhibits and educational initiatives, promotes awareness of aquatic ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts.

Sample Family Itinerary: Houston Zoo

This itinerary provides a suggested schedule for a family visit to the Houston Zoo, ensuring a balanced experience covering various exhibits.

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Begin at the entrance, heading towards the African Elephant Exhibit. Allow approximately 1 hour here. Next, explore the Gorilla Expedition (45 minutes) and then the Catzilla exhibit (30 minutes).

Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Enjoy lunch at one of the zoo’s restaurants.

Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Visit the Penguin Encounter (30 minutes) and the 4-D Theater (45 minutes). Spend the remaining time exploring other exhibits based on your family’s preferences.

Interactive & Entertainment Venues

Houston offers a vibrant array of interactive entertainment options perfect for families with children of all ages. These venues provide opportunities for learning, playing, and creating lasting memories, offering a diverse range of experiences beyond traditional attractions. Choosing the right venue depends on your children’s ages, interests, and your family’s budget.

Five interactive entertainment options in Houston suitable for children, highlighting their unique features and target age ranges, are detailed below. The comparison of cost-effectiveness and overall family experience considers factors such as ticket prices, amenities offered, and overall enjoyment levels reported by visitors.

Interactive Entertainment Venues in Houston

• Discovery Green: This urban park features interactive water features, playgrounds, and regularly scheduled events suitable for all ages. Its unique open-air design allows for free exploration and spontaneous play. Target age range: All ages.
• Houston Museum of Natural Science: While a museum, its interactive exhibits, particularly within the paleontology and space center sections, engage children through hands-on activities and immersive experiences. The museum caters to a wide age range with dedicated children’s areas. Target age range: 5 and up (younger children may enjoy specific exhibits).
• Children’s Museum of Houston: Designed specifically for children, this museum boasts numerous interactive exhibits focused on science, art, and culture. Its play-based learning approach caters to various developmental stages. Target age range: 2-12.
• Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: This dinner theater offers a unique, immersive experience with jousting knights, horses, and a medieval-themed feast. While not strictly interactive in a hands-on sense, the spectacle captivates children and families. Target age range: 6 and up (younger children may find parts overwhelming).
• Urban Air Adventure Park: This indoor adventure park features trampolines, climbing walls, and other active play areas. It provides a high-energy, active experience for older children and teens. Target age range: 5 and up (height restrictions may apply to some activities).

Comparing the cost-effectiveness and family experience of these venues reveals a range of options. Discovery Green offers a free and flexible experience, ideal for budget-conscious families. The Children’s Museum of Houston and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, while more expensive, provide structured learning experiences with dedicated children’s areas. Medieval Times offers a premium, memorable experience, but at a higher cost.

Urban Air Adventure Park provides active fun, but the cost can add up depending on time spent and activities chosen.

Comparison of Interactive Entertainment Venues

Sporting Events & Activities

Houston offers a vibrant sports scene, providing families with exciting opportunities to enjoy various sporting events and activities throughout the year. From the thrill of professional games to the engaging atmosphere of youth leagues, there’s something for every family member to enjoy. These events offer not only entertainment but also valuable opportunities for bonding and creating lasting memories.

Families in Houston have a diverse range of sporting events and activities to choose from, catering to different age groups and interests. The city’s major league teams provide high-energy entertainment, while local youth sports offer a more intimate and participatory experience. Considering factors such as ticket prices, scheduling, and accessibility features is crucial for planning a successful family outing.

Family-Friendly Sporting Events in Houston

Several sporting events in Houston are particularly well-suited for families. The following examples highlight events known for their family-friendly atmosphere and accessibility features.

• Houston Astros Baseball Games: The Houston Astros, a Major League Baseball team, play their home games at Minute Maid Park. Games are typically scheduled throughout the spring and summer months, with varying start times. Ticket prices vary depending on the day of the week, opponent, and seat location. Information on schedules and ticket purchasing can be found on the Astros official website or through various ticket resale platforms.

• Houston Dynamo FC Soccer Games: The Houston Dynamo FC, a Major League Soccer team, plays at PNC Stadium. Their season typically runs from spring to fall, with game schedules available on their official website. Ticket options range from general admission to premium seating, allowing families to choose a price point that fits their budget. Family-friendly promotions and special events are often offered throughout the season.

• Houston Rockets Basketball Games: The Houston Rockets, an NBA team, play at the Toyota Center. Their season runs from fall to spring. Ticket prices vary depending on the opponent and seat location. The Toyota Center offers various family-friendly amenities and often features special promotions for families attending games. Schedule and ticket information are available on the Rockets official website.

Family Experience at Sporting Events

Attending sporting events in Houston as a family offers a unique and memorable experience. The energetic atmosphere, filled with cheers, music, and excitement, creates a sense of community and shared enjoyment. Many venues offer family-friendly areas with dedicated concessions and activities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for children of all ages. The opportunity to cheer on a local team fosters a sense of civic pride and shared enthusiasm.

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Accessibility for Families with Children of Different Ages and Abilities

Most major sporting venues in Houston are designed with accessibility in mind. They provide features such as wheelchair-accessible seating, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Many venues also offer sensory-friendly areas or designated quiet zones for children with autism or other sensory sensitivities. Families should check the specific venue’s website for details on accessibility features before attending an event.

Early arrival is recommended to allow ample time to navigate the venue and utilize any necessary accessibility services.

Cultural Experiences

Houston boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, offering families a unique opportunity to explore diverse traditions and perspectives. Immersing children in these experiences not only broadens their horizons but also cultivates empathy and understanding of the world’s rich diversity. The following cultural experiences provide engaging and educational opportunities for families visiting Houston.Exploring Houston’s diverse cultural offerings provides children with invaluable learning opportunities, fostering appreciation for different traditions, art forms, and perspectives.

By actively participating in these experiences, children develop a greater understanding of global citizenship and the interconnectedness of cultures. The memories created during these family excursions will last a lifetime, enriching their understanding of the world beyond their immediate environment.

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Houston Museum of Fine Arts

The Houston Museum of Fine Arts (HMFA) houses a vast collection spanning various eras and cultures. Its engaging exhibits, tailored to different age groups, provide opportunities for children to explore art from around the world. For example, the museum often features interactive displays allowing children to participate in art-making activities, fostering creativity and appreciation for diverse artistic styles.

The museum’s cultural significance lies in its commitment to showcasing global art history, exposing visitors to diverse aesthetics and artistic expressions. The HMFA’s diverse collection provides a visual journey through various cultures, allowing children to observe artistic techniques and cultural interpretations across different societies. The HMFA’s educational programs and family-friendly events further enhance the learning experience.

The Menil Collection

The Menil Collection stands out for its unique approach to art and its emphasis on cultural understanding. This museum features a diverse collection of art from various cultures and periods, including ancient artifacts, modern masterpieces, and contemporary installations. The collection’s significance stems from its commitment to presenting art within a broader cultural context, promoting dialogue and cross-cultural understanding. For children, the museum’s tranquil environment and thoughtfully curated exhibits create an enriching experience.

Interactive elements, such as hands-on workshops and guided tours designed for families, encourage active engagement and learning. The Menil Collection’s unique approach to art education fosters critical thinking and appreciation for art’s role in reflecting cultural values and beliefs.

Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern

While not strictly a museum, the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern offers a unique cultural experience. This underground reservoir, once a vital part of Houston’s infrastructure, has been transformed into an awe-inspiring art installation space. The vast underground chambers, with their impressive scale and unique acoustics, create a captivating environment for both art exhibitions and educational programs. The cistern’s cultural significance lies in its connection to Houston’s history and its repurposing as a vibrant space for artistic expression and community engagement.

The impressive scale of the space and the innovative use of the historic site provide a memorable and educational experience for children. The immersive environment fosters creativity and sparks conversations about Houston’s past and present.

Incorporating Cultural Experiences into a Family Vacation Itinerary

To seamlessly incorporate these cultural experiences into a family vacation, consider dedicating a half-day or full-day to each location. Plan your visit around the museum’s opening hours and family-friendly events. Pack snacks and drinks to avoid lengthy breaks, and consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time. Encourage children to actively participate by asking them questions about the art, artifacts, and exhibits.

After the visit, engage in family discussions about what they saw and learned, fostering further understanding and appreciation of the cultural significance. Remember to allow for flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate the children’s interests and energy levels.

Food & Dining Options

Houston boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a wealth of options for families with children. Finding restaurants that cater to both adult palates and picky eaters can be a challenge, but Houston’s family-friendly establishments rise to the occasion, providing delicious food in comfortable settings. The key is to find places with kid-friendly menus, accommodating atmospheres, and services that make dining out a pleasant experience for everyone.

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Houston

Choosing a restaurant for a family outing requires considering factors beyond just the menu. The overall ambiance, service, and price point all contribute to a positive dining experience. Below are three examples of family-friendly restaurants in Houston, each offering a unique experience.

• The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation: This Houston institution offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu featuring Tex-Mex classics. Their kid’s menu includes familiar favorites like chicken tenders and cheese quesadillas, ensuring even the fussiest eaters will find something they enjoy. The restaurant is known for its lively, bustling environment, often featuring live music.
• Goode Co. Seafood: For a more upscale yet still family-friendly experience, Goode Co. Seafood provides a sophisticated setting with a menu focusing on fresh seafood. While not explicitly a “kid’s menu,” the menu features dishes that are easily adaptable for children, such as grilled fish or shrimp. The ambiance is more refined than Ninfa’s, but still welcoming to families.

• Brennan’s of Houston: This iconic restaurant offers a classic, elegant atmosphere, but is surprisingly accommodating to families. While their menu is more sophisticated, they are generally happy to adapt dishes to suit children’s preferences. The service is impeccable, and the overall experience is memorable, though it comes at a higher price point than the other two options.

Comparison of Price Range and Dining Experience

The three restaurants offer varying price ranges and dining experiences. The Original Ninfa’s provides a more casual and affordable dining experience, suitable for a quick family meal. Goode Co. Seafood offers a step up in terms of ambiance and price, providing a more refined yet still comfortable setting. Brennan’s of Houston represents the highest price point, offering a truly special occasion dining experience.

Each restaurant offers a unique atmosphere and caters to different preferences and budgets.

Atmosphere and Services Appealing to Families, Top 19 Things To Do With Kids In Houston

Each restaurant mentioned caters to families in its own way. The Original Ninfa’s offers a lively and energetic atmosphere that children often find engaging. Goode Co. Seafood provides a more sophisticated yet welcoming environment, suitable for a slightly more formal family outing. Brennan’s of Houston, while elegant, maintains a level of service and attentiveness that makes families feel comfortable and valued.

All three prioritize aspects that enhance the family dining experience, such as prompt service, high-quality food, and comfortable seating arrangements.

Shopping & Retail Experiences

Houston offers a diverse range of shopping experiences, catering to various tastes and budgets. Beyond the typical department stores, the city boasts unique retail destinations that provide engaging and memorable outings for families with children of all ages. These locations often incorporate features designed to entertain children, making shopping a more enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Kid-Friendly Shopping Destinations in Houston

Three prominent shopping destinations in Houston stand out for their family-friendly amenities and attractions. These locations understand the needs of families and strive to create an environment where children are entertained while parents shop. The design and features of these locations contribute to a positive shopping experience for all family members.

• The Galleria: This upscale mall features a wide variety of high-end stores, but also incorporates several kid-friendly elements. Its expansive layout includes a carousel and a large ice-skating rink, providing ample opportunities for children to burn off energy. The diverse range of restaurants offers various dining options to suit different preferences and budgets. Furthermore, its central location makes it easily accessible via various transportation modes.

• Baybrook Mall: This large shopping mall provides a more relaxed and family-oriented atmosphere compared to some of its upscale counterparts. Baybrook Mall features a play area specifically designed for children, offering a safe and fun space for them to play while parents shop. The mall also boasts a diverse range of stores, including family-friendly brands and restaurants, ensuring there is something for everyone.

  The ample parking and convenient location add to its family-friendliness.

• Market Square Park: While not strictly a mall, Market Square Park, situated in the heart of downtown, offers a unique shopping experience combined with outdoor entertainment. Surrounding the park are numerous boutiques and shops offering a variety of goods. The park itself provides a green space for children to play, often hosting events and activities suitable for families. This location offers a blend of shopping and outdoor recreation, making it a particularly attractive option for families.

Accessibility and Convenience for Families

The accessibility and convenience of these shopping destinations vary, but all generally cater to families. The Galleria and Baybrook Mall both offer ample parking, making it easy for families arriving by car. Public transportation options are available, although not always the most convenient. Both malls have stroller-friendly layouts and accessible facilities for those with disabilities. Market Square Park is easily accessible by public transportation and offers ample space for strollers and wheelchairs.

The proximity of restaurants and restrooms also enhances the convenience for families.

Sample Shopping List for a Family Outing to Baybrook Mall

Planning a shopping trip with children requires forethought. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, consider creating a shopping list that caters to different age groups. This approach minimizes potential conflicts and maximizes everyone’s enjoyment.

• For the youngest child (toddler): New pair of socks, a favorite snack, a small toy to keep them entertained during shopping.
• For an older child (elementary school): A new book, art supplies, a small game or puzzle.
• For teenagers: New clothing item, accessories, a gift card to their favorite store.
• For parents: Grocery items, household essentials, personal care items.