Houston offers a fantastic array of recurring family-friendly activities that are perfect for weekends. From interactive museum exhibits to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly weekend outings in Houston that will keep both kids and adults entertained, weekend after weekend.
Houston Zoo: A Wild Weekend Adventure
The Houston Zoo is one of the city’s top family-friendly destinations, offering a chance to see over 6,000 animals from around the world. With sprawling exhibits, educational presentations, and a beautiful park setting, the zoo is a favorite spot for families looking to spend an active day outdoors.
Weekend Highlights:
- Animal Encounters: Meet zookeepers and learn about animal care through close-up encounters.
- Children’s Zoo: Kids can interact with friendly farm animals and explore a nature-themed playground.
- Seasonal Events: The zoo often hosts themed weekends, including Halloween “Zoo Boo” and holiday “Zoo Lights.”
Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to beat the crowds and catch morning feeding times.
Discovery Green: Urban Park Fun
Discovery Green is a vibrant urban park located in downtown Houston, offering free family activities nearly every weekend. With wide green spaces, a lake, and interactive art installations, it’s a fantastic spot for families to enjoy the outdoors.
Regular Weekend Activities:
- Family Yoga Classes: Free yoga sessions designed for all ages, perfect for a relaxed family bonding time.
- Outdoor Movies: Discovery Green hosts movie nights under the stars, where families can watch kid-friendly films on a large outdoor screen.
- Paddle Boating: Rent a paddleboat and explore Kinder Lake as a family, adding a touch of adventure to your day.
Visitor Tip: Pack a picnic or grab a bite from the park’s on-site vendors for a complete day out.
Children’s Museum Houston: Hands-On Learning
The Children’s Museum Houston is an interactive wonderland, offering hands-on exhibits and activities designed to stimulate young minds. Each weekend, the museum hosts special events that mix education with fun, making it an ideal spot for families with children of all ages.
Weekend Features:
- Invention Convention: Kids can engage in science and engineering challenges, working on projects like building bridges or testing inventions.
- Tot Spot: Perfect for toddlers, this area provides a safe and engaging environment filled with sensory activities.
- Storytime and Puppet Shows: Enjoy storytelling sessions and puppet shows that bring kids’ favorite tales to life.
Pro Tip: Visit on Thursdays after 5 p.m. for free admission, though weekends often include special exhibits worth exploring.
Miller Outdoor Theatre: Live Entertainment for All Ages
Miller Outdoor Theatre is a Houston staple that hosts free live performances across a variety of genres, from music and dance to theater and comedy. The venue offers open seating on the hillside, so families can bring blankets and snacks for a relaxed outing.
Weekend Performances:
- Family Movie Nights: Enjoy family-friendly films in an open-air setting.
- Musical Performances: From jazz to symphonic music, there are performances to suit all tastes.
- Children’s Theatre: Engage young audiences with interactive storytelling and shows specially curated for kids.
Visitor Tip: Check the theater’s schedule to see which shows are suitable for children, as some performances are geared toward adults.
Levy Park: Games, Workshops, and Relaxation
Levy Park is a beautifully designed space that offers a mix of relaxation and interactive play, with a variety of activities to entertain kids and adults. This West Houston park includes a children’s play area, dog park, and spacious lawns.
Weekend Fun:
- Storytime Sessions: The park offers storytime sessions on weekends, where kids can listen to popular stories read aloud.
- Games and Activities: Kids can enjoy giant chess, foosball, and board games, all available for free use.
- Craft Workshops: Family-friendly art and craft workshops are regularly held, allowing kids to create their own masterpieces to take home.
Visitor Tip: Bring sunscreen and hats, as many activities take place outdoors, and Houston’s sun can be strong.
Market Square Park: Family Picnics and Outdoor Games
Located in the Historic District, Market Square Park offers a scenic setting for family gatherings and often hosts weekend events that are free and open to the public.
Regular Weekend Activities:
- Game Carts: Borrow games like corn hole, table tennis, and giant Jenga to play as a family.
- Food Trucks: Enjoy a rotating selection of Houston’s best food trucks, offering options from tacos to ice cream.
- Picnic Areas: Bring a blanket and enjoy a family picnic on the lawn, surrounded by Houston’s historic buildings.
Dining Tip: Market Square is surrounded by family-friendly restaurants, making it easy to grab lunch before or after your park adventure.
Final Tips for Family-Friendly Weekend Activities in Houston
- Check for Updates: Many of these venues have rotating events or seasonal activities, so check their websites for the latest schedule.
- Arrive Early: Houston’s weekend attractions can get busy, so early arrival helps you avoid crowds and find parking.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially for outdoor events where you may spend several hours.
These family-friendly spots in Houston offer a wealth of fun, learning, and bonding opportunities every weekend, ensuring that families can make the most of their time together in this vibrant city.