
Top Family Vacation Spots in Houston, United States
1. Houston Museum of Natural Science
Explore the wonders of science and nature in this vast museum with an IMAX theater.
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities for kids to learn about dinosaurs, space, gems, and minerals.
- IMAX Theater: Immersive films that transport families into different worlds.
- Fossil Hall: A walk through prehistoric times featuring real dinosaur fossils.
2. Children's Museum of Houston
An innovative playground for children to learn and grow through fun interactive experiences.
- Innovation Station: A creative space where kids can explore the world of engineering, design, and invention.
- Cogwheel Express Train: A mini train ride through the museum for little ones to enjoy.
- Art Studio: Open studio workshops for kids to express their creativity.
3. Space Center Houston
Step into the world of space exploration at NASA's official visitor center.
- Rocket Park: View iconic rockets like the Saturn V up close.
- Tram Tour: Explore the historic buildings where astronauts prepared for space missions.
- Mission Mars: Experience a virtual mission to Mars using state-of-the-art technology.
4. The Health Museum
Learn about the human body and health in engaging and interactive ways.
- Body Adventure: A fun, interactive exploration of the human body for kids.
- Sky Trail Ropes Course: Challenge your family's agility and coordination skills on this ropes course.
- Emergency Room: Experience a simulated emergency room to learn about medical careers.
5. The Houston Zoo
Encounter over 6,000 exotic animals from around the world.
- Wildlife Carousel: Ride a carousel featuring animal sculptures.
- Zoo Babies!: Visit the Zoo Babies! exhibit to see newborn animals.
- Zoo Train: Take a ride around the zoo on a miniature train.
6. Kemah Boardwalk
Enjoy family-friendly attractions, dining, and shopping at this waterfront destination.
- Boardwalk Ferris Wheel: Experience stunning views of the Gulf Coast from a 150-foot Ferris wheel.
- Kemah Aquarium & Animal Attractions: View sea creatures up close and interact with stingrays, sharks, and more.
- Waterfront Restaurants: Savor seafood and other delicious dishes while enjoying the water view.
7. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Celebrate Texas heritage with rodeos, concerts, and livestock shows.
- Rodeo Events: Watch thrilling bull riding, barrel racing, and other rodeo events.
- Livestock Shows: See farm animals up close and learn about their roles in agriculture.
- Concerts: Enjoy performances by popular music artists during the event.
8. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Discover the beauty and tranquility of a 155-acre urban forest preserve.
- Woodland Trails: Explore miles of wooded trails for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
- Butterfly Center: Visit a butterfly-filled conservatory and learn about their life cycles.
- Educational Programs: Attend workshops, classes, and guided tours for families.
9. The Houston Galleria Ice Rink
Enjoy ice skating year-round at this popular shopping center attraction.
- Ice Skating Lessons: Sign up for lessons to learn the basics of ice skating.
- Special Events: Participate in themed events like Disney on Ice or Christmas celebrations.
- Rentals: Rent skates, helmets, and other equipment for your visit.
10. The Houston Museum of African American Culture
Learn about the African American experience in Houston through art, history, and culture.
- Art Gallery: View contemporary and historical artwork by African American artists.
- Permanent Exhibits: Discover the contributions of African Americans to Houston's history.
- Temporary Exhibits: Engage with rotating exhibits showcasing various aspects of African American culture.
11. The Houston Center for Photography
Explore the art and science of photography through exhibitions, workshops, and education.
- Exhibitions: View thought-provoking and inspiring photographic works by artists.
- Workshops: Learn from professional photographers through workshops and classes.
- Education Programs: Participate in lectures, tours, and family-friendly events.
12. The Art Car Museum
Experience the colorful world of art cars at this unique Houston attraction.
- Permanent Collection: View an ever-changing collection of art cars on display.
- Temporary Exhibits: Discover new and interesting art cars during special exhibitions.
- Workshops: Join workshops to learn about the art of creating your own art car.
13. The Houston Museum of Natural Science Butterfly Center
Enjoy a tropical oasis filled with colorful butterflies in this greenhouse attraction.
- Butterfly Conservatory: Walk among thousands of free-flying butterflies in a lush garden setting.
- Learning Opportunities: Attend educational programs about the life cycle and conservation of butterflies.
- Gift Shop: Purchase unique gifts, books, and souvenirs related to butterflies and nature.
14. The Houston Zoo's ZOO-2-U
Bring the zoo experience right to your doorstep with this unique virtual tour.
- Online Access: Stream live animal cams from the comfort of home.
- Interactive Activities: Participate in virtual activities and workshops led by zoo educators.
- Animal Encounter: Schedule a virtual animal encounter with your favorite zoo creature.
15. The Houston Public Library
Discover a world of knowledge and entertainment at this expansive library system.
- Books: Borrow books, audiobooks, DVDs, and more from one of the many branches.
- Programs for Kids: Attend storytimes, craft workshops, and educational programs for children.
- Digital Resources: Access thousands of e-books, audiobooks, and online resources from home or on the go.