Houston

Texas

United States

North America

Traveling with children isn’t always easy, but travelers will be delighted to know that there are plenty of things to do in Houston with kids. There are attractions here that will delight anyone; you just have to think about what might interest the particular children you are traveling with.

Traveling with children isn’t always easy, but travelers will be delighted to know that there are plenty of things to do in Houston with kids. There are attractions here that will delight anyone; you just have to think about what might interest the particular children you are traveling with. Some parents might decide that they want to focus on fun activities, while others might want their outing to have an educational element.
<h2>1. Johnson Space Center</h2>
The Johnson Space Center has many activities that families can enjoy together. You can watch the Mission Control room where space explorations are monitored. Thousands of artifacts are housed within the center’s campus. You can learn about the history of space travel and get a glimpse into what the future holds. Touring the entire campus can take at least a full day, depending on how long you spend taking in each exhibit and section.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009307 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_380820034.jpg" alt="space center houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Health Museum Houston</h2>
The Health Museum Houston offers interactive exhibits to help children learn about the human body and various aspects of medical science. Some exhibits are appropriate for children of all ages, but others are geared more toward teenagers. Many exhibits are permanent, but be sure to find out what temporary and traveling exhibits are there when you plan to visit. Many of these are offered in conjunction with larger museums and medical centers.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009308 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_64930972.jpg" alt="museums in houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. Houston Zoo</h2>
The Houston Zoo is a great place to spend a day but try to visit when the weather is nice. There are shelters to protect you from the rain, as well as sprinklers to help cool visitors in the blistering heat, but it is best to visit on a mild day when you can truly enjoy being outside. You can find a host of animals here, and the Natural Encounters facility offers an up-close look at some of them.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/178376205-1024x683.jpg" alt="houston zoo kids" width="1024" height="683" /> cheng8 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Children's Museum of Houston</h2>
The Children’s Museum of Houston is a fun attraction all year long. There are activity areas geared toward all age groups. Many of the exhibits are permanent, but the museum also has some temporary ones that offer a new experience with each opening. There is a Tot Spot for kids who are three and under. Other exhibits throughout the 90,000 square foot facility include interactive options covering culture, history, technology, science, art, and health.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009287 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_443557621.jpg" alt="children's museum houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Downtown Aquarium</h2>
Houston’s Downtown Aquarium has something to offer people of all ages. You can watch divers caring for the massive tanks and animals. Interactive exhibits thrill children and adults. You can even take a turn petting stingrays. If you plan to visit the aquarium, you should schedule at least several hours, but it might take more than one day to go through all of the exhibits at a leisurely pace.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009309 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_1183180336.jpg" alt="local destination kids" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Kemah Boardwalk</h2>
The Kemah Boardwalk can keep children and adults happy for hours on end. It is a traditional boardwalk attraction complete with rides and other amusement park offerings. An all-day ride pass is available, or you can opt to pay per ride if you won't be going on too many. The area features 11 eateries, including a coffee shop, seafood restaurants, an ice cream shop, and a grill. There are also several shops and kiosks where you can find a variety of goods and souvenirs.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/689045032-1024x683.jpg" alt="children houston texas" width="1024" height="683" /> Sid Karic / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. SplashTown</h2>
During the summer months, you can beat the heat at SplashTown. This massive waterpark has giant slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. There are also areas for smaller children to enjoy, with adult supervision of course. You can find cooling stations and refreshments throughout this 40-acre park. Thrill seekers might enjoy the Tornado or the Stingray Racer attractions.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009323 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_458948245.jpg" alt="traveling with kids " width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>8. The Chocolate Bar</h2>
The Chocolate Bar has two locations in the city and is one of the sweetest things to do in Houston with kids. You can find a host of chocolate goodies at either location, including one in Rice Village and other in River Oaks. Many of the desserts and offerings are made in-house. With so many goodies in the counter-style display cases, everyone in your group should be able to find something yummy to snack on.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009325 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_6531523421.jpg" alt="kids houston" width="1100" height="744" />


<h2>9. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts</h2>
The Hobby Center for Performing Arts provides children and adults with the opportunity to do hands-on activities that bolster an appreciation for the arts. The Mad Potter is an art studio where you can the kids can paint pottery. While you are in the area, you can enjoy seeing some artwork from local artists in various galleries.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009326 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_1149710126.jpg" alt="performing arts kids" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Houston Theater District</h2>
The Houston Theater District is housed across 17 blocks and includes eight performing arts groups. Many of the performances, including the ones by the Express Children’s Theater, can keep kids entertained while helping to foster a love for the arts. Make sure you look up the schedule for the performances so you can make it to the ones that interest you.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009327 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_725364610.jpg" alt="kids" width="1000" height="662" />

10 Things to Do in Houston with Kids

Houston is debatably the United States' third/fourth largest city depending on how cranky Chicago is feeling. With its size comes strength and plenty to do on your next visit. Strangely, that might involve Indian food, an Astros game and more.

Houston is debatably the United States' third/fourth largest city depending on how cranky Chicago is feeling. With its size comes strength and plenty to do on your next visit. Strangely, that might involve Indian food, an Astros game and more. Houston has truly grown up in the last two decades, and its hospitality has been brilliant for a couple of decades.
<h2>1. The James Turrell Skyspace</h2>
When you enjoy something for free, you remember that experience. This sound and light fun is a must-see and must-repeat Houston event. You'll need to make reservations, but this LED experience with accompanying music truly hits the spot when looking to get into the mood to enjoy this oil city that is so much more if you have a week or two.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/841506898-1024x684.jpg" alt="841506898" width="1024" height="684" /><span class="image-caption">bernardbodo / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Check Out the Astros</h2>
They won the World Series last year with undersized players and a Texas attitude. Their pitching certainly didn't hurt, and the Astros have a reasonable chance of repeating their accomplishments this year. There are many games played during the day, and it's an opportunity to tell your friends that you experienced outdoor air conditioning.

[caption id="attachment_2772" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-2772" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/GettyImages-869209308-1024x889.jpg" alt="Bob Levey / Getty Images" width="1024" height="889" /> Bob Levey / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Austin Has Nothing on Houston's Craft Beers</h2>
Austin has a lot of bloggers. Consequently, you may have missed the fact that Houston has its own beer scene and is blowing it away at present. Heard of Saint Arnold, 8th Wonder Brewery, Buffalo Bayou Brewing? Plan a beer trip in Houston, and you surely won't be left disappointed.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/535804011-1024x683.jpg" alt="535804011" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">JacobStudio / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. BYOB AsiaTown</h2>
People fail to recognize that Houston's economy added jobs during the financial crisis of 2007-2008. It stood up to what crumbled and added a population. This included a tremendous uptick in immigration to, Texas of all places for hundreds of thousands and they brought their food with them and often down mind if you show up with a bottle to celebrate their resettling and food.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/839958568-1024x768.jpg" alt="839958568" width="1024" height="768" /><span class="image-caption">LauriPatterson / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Houston is on the Water, and that Means Seafood</h2>
The Gulf of Mexico is Houston's home. For some reason, people seem to think this city is all Texas all the time and BBQ. It's not, Houston is a massive port city populated by brilliant chefs from all over the country. When you have money, a good chef and water expect seafood to take a place in the front row. Check out Liberty Kitchen and ask your waiter where they eat seafood in Houston. Famed New Orleans restaurant Brennan's also has a Houston location that prides itself on its own seafood offerings.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/913545576-1024x683.jpg" alt="913545576" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">bhofack2 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. Have a Picnic</h2>
Hopefully, you're not visiting Houston in the dead of summer when it's, well, quite warm. It's ungodly hot in the summer months but the rest of the year provides a respite, and the city has no shortage of green spaces to enjoy a picnic. The city's Houston Dairymaids, Phoenicia Specialty Foods and more offer a wealth of picnic-ready foods to take to Menil Campus, Discovery Green, Buffalo Bayou Park or other fantastic picnicking locales.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/522533700-1024x683.jpg" alt="522533700" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">fotostorm / Getty Images</span>
<h2>7. Houston's Art Scene</h2>
Check out the "Refried Bean." Anish Kapoor, the artist behind the bean sculpture in Chicago, also left his mark on Houston with a bean of their own entitled "Cloud Column." The Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza in Houston houses this statue as well as an architectural fountain and the sculpture "Song of Strength" by Eduardo Chillida. The plaza is also close to the Cullen Sculpture Garden and while you're in the neighborhood visit the many studios in the Glassell School of Art building.

[caption id="attachment_2773" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-2773" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/GettyImages-803137870-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Sean Pavone / Getty Images" width="1024" height="683" /> Sean Pavone / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Beat the Heat at Wet n' Wild SplashTown</h2>
They do things big in Texas, and this water park located north of Houston in Harris County is no exception. Wave pools, lazy rivers, and over twenty different water slides for the thrill seeker make up  40+ acres of Houston's oasis from the heat. The park is constantly expanding each year and offers something for every body's speed at this massive water park.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/914622632-1024x581.jpg" alt="914622632" width="1024" height="581" /><span class="image-caption">kali9 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. The National Museum of Funeral History</h2>
One of Houston's truly unique, bizarre and stranger museum offerings. The 35,000 square foot museum's theme is "Any day above ground is a good one." This museum celebrates the hard work put in by those in the funeral profession and get you looking your best on your last day to be seen by your friends and family. 2018 saw the museum's opening of its celebration of and rise in popularity of cremation. Escape the heat with this odd take on a museum and educate yourself on the history of coffins and caskets, the history of the hearse through time and more.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/1002084380-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="1002084380-1" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Pauws99 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. Space Center Houston</h2>
The Space Center Houston welcomes over a million visitors a year and is one of the cities cornerstones of tourism. With dozens of permanent exhibitions and tributes to astronauts over the years, a visit is a fantastic opportunity for kids to seniors. This working government facility epitomizes Houston's role in space exploration and offers tours that can run as long as six-hours for those that wish to explore the whole complex.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/172282961-1024x681.jpg" alt="172282961" width="1024" height="681" /><span class="image-caption">DHuss / Getty Images</span>

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Houston

Millennials have learned to associate Houston with big business and big city living. These may be true, but the city's appeal lies in more than just industry and shiny skyscrapers. It's also home to a flourishing art scene, good food, and exciting nightlife. Downtown Houston is the developing urban heart of the city.

Millennials have learned to associate Houston with big business and big city living. These may be true, but the city's appeal lies in more than just industry and shiny skyscrapers. It's also home to a flourishing art scene, stunning architecture, good food, and exciting nightlife. Downtown Houston is the developing urban heart of the city. An eclectic mix of old and new-fashioned glamour with vibrant outdoor spaces, Downtown welcomes new businesses and demographics without compromising the Houstonian tradition. Whether you're traveling solo or with family, Downtown Houston is an exciting destination with something for everyone's interests.
<h2>1. Visit the Birthplace of Houston</h2>
Allen's Landing on Buffalo Bayou is the undisputed birthplace of the city. In 1836, two brothers from New York stepped onto the land and claimed it as their own. The spot eventually became the first port in Houston, and the city developed into one of the most important business centers in the country. These days, Allen's Landing is the focus of a rejuvenation project and renewed cultural interest. A small park dedicated to Houston's founders sits on the banks of Buffalo Bayou, where you can relax on the grass and watch the water flow. A renovated promenade, concrete-paved wharf, and terrace overlooking the bayou beckon visitors to spend time at this secluded and tranquil space.

[caption id="attachment_32737" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/134833086.jpg" alt="Allen's Landing in Downtown Houston is the city's birthplace and original port. " width="1200" height="800" /> Subsociety / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Appreciate the Diversity in Architecture</h2>
Houston's modern skyline is a constant reminder of the city's affluence. It's easy to forget about the classic architectural gems tucked in between the skyscrapers and sleek residential buildings that line the streets. Exploring Downtown on foot is a sure way to discover some of the best architecture in Houston. The Julia Ideson Building in the Civic Center District wows visitors with its Spanish Rennaissance style and Depression-era murals. The Jones on Main features a large bank hall in the entryway, with gold leaf ceilings and terrazzo floors. The most famous Art Deco building is City Hall, located in Hermann Square. If you're feeling hungry, head to the Conservatory. This former theater now serves the community as an elegant, Art Deco food hall.

[caption id="attachment_32738" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/542940876.jpg" alt="The 1930s-era City Hall building in Downtown Houston is an Art Deco masterpiece. " width="1200" height="800" /> typhoonski / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Learn the History of Houston's Oldest Buildings</h2>
The Heritage Society in Downtown manages some of the most historic buildings and homes in the city. Located in Sam Houston Park, you can view several renovated buildings dating back to 1823. The docent-led tour invites you into the lives of Houston's first settlers. You'll browse some of the renovated buildings on the 10-acre complex and learn the fascinating history of frontier life. If you don't have time for the docent-led tour, you can take the self-guided cell phone tour. Instructions for connecting to the audio tour are at each building, and the service is free.

[caption id="attachment_32739" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/636255518.jpg" alt="The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park is a good place to begin your historic tour. " width="1200" height="800" /> IVANVIEITO / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Take Your Four-Legged Buddy for a Day Out</h2>
Downtown Houston is one of the most dog-friendly destinations you could visit. Market Square Park in the Historic District is the hub of the neighborhood and a photogenic spot for a picnic and roll in the grass. Buffalo Bayou Park is in the green belt, a hotspot for outdoor activity and exercise. Stop by the dog park to socialize your pup with some furry friends. Discovery Green is Downtown's premier outdoor space. With tons of eateries, entertainment venues, sports arenas, and a lake, you may never have to leave this 12-acre complex.

[caption id="attachment_32740" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/172377061.jpg" alt="There are miles of dog-friendly walks in Downtown Houston. " width="1200" height="803" /> Zview / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Explore the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern</h2>
Houston's drinking water reservoir in Buffalo Bayou operated until 2007 when an irreparable leak forced its closure. Local groups campaigned to repurpose the strangely beautiful structure, resulting in a spectacular public space with rotating art installations. The Cistern is an extraordinary venue for Houston artists to share their work and help put this historic community on the map. Guided tours are available for a small fee with reservations, or you can join a walk-in tour while spaces are available. Every Saturday and Sunday for one hour, the Cistern is open for photography sessions. You don't have to be a professional as long as you are creative and open to unusual experiences. Check online for rates and scheduling.

[caption id="attachment_32741" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/981006230.jpg" alt="The architecturally intriguing Buffalo Bayou CIstern is on Sabine Street in Downtown Houston. " width="1200" height="803" /> RoschetzkyIstockPhoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Tour Professional Sports Facilities</h2>
With all the shopping and architecture to behold in Houston's lively Downtown, it's easy to forget that the city is home to two of professional sports' biggest teams: the Houston Astros and the Houston Rockets. Located in the Discovery Green complex, each team's venue is unique from the other and worthy of an afternoon tour. Toyota Center hosts some of the biggest touring acts in the business and spans six city blocks. Minute Maid Park is home to the 2019 and 2107 World Series Champions, the Astros. The park's cavernous entryway, with its soaring columns and old clocks, hearkens back to its days as the Union Train Station. One glimpse of the immaculately-kept infield will remind you that this is, in fact, a modern baseball park.

[caption id="attachment_32742" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/936581614.jpg" alt="Browse the home of the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park in Downtown Houston. " width="1024" height="785" /> John Parra / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Cycle Your Way Through Downtown</h2>
Public transportation isn't the only way to get around the city without a rental car. Houston's parks provide ample space for cyclists and joggers to share the smooth paths and inspiring scenery. Bringing your bike to the city will ensure that your exercise routine isn't interrupted. If you aren't able to bring it, the city's bike-sharing program manages over 100 rental stations throughout Central Houston. Renting a bike is easy: use your credit card to pay at the kiosk and unlock your bike. When you reach your destination, dock the bike at the nearest station to end the rental. Rates are per half-hour; check online for current rates and a map of the stations.

[caption id="attachment_32743" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/186812590.jpg" alt="You can enjoy a scenic ride through Buffalo Bayou park on a rented bicycle. " width="1200" height="800" /> Zview / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Browse the Alternative Art Scene in the Warehouse District</h2>
The Warehouse District in East Downtown used to be a heavily industrialized neighborhood before its transformation into one of Houston's most eclectic communities. Converted warehouses serve as lofts, galleries and art studios, and in response, commercial and retail spaces are popping up all over the district. Established art collectives, such as Motherdog studios, are the heart of the Downtown art scene. They oversee the annual Artcrawl, an open studio event that takes place throughout the city. Hardy and Nance Studios encourages creatives from elsewhere to apply for their artist residencies. In exchange for volunteer work, an artist in residency has the opportunity to create work rent-free for three months. Support this vibrant community by visiting the Warehouse District to find some original artwork.

[caption id="attachment_32744" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1184915737.jpg" alt="The Warehouse District of Downtown Houston is an artists' hotspot and currently under development." width="1200" height="801" /> Art Wager / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Descend into the Tunnels of Houston</h2>
Most visitors have never heard of the vast network of tunnels underneath Houston's business district. Originally, these subterranean paths provided local businesses with a shorter route between buildings. Today the tunnels are a labyrinth of retail stores and restaurants. These walkways are mostly frequented by local commuters, but tourists can have fun getting lost in the maze. Find a seat at a café or restaurant before the lunch rush begins and watch the crowds. To access the tunnels, use the entrances at Wells Fargo Plaza or McKinney Garage on Main, or descend from the lobby of a connected building. For a map of associated structures and routes, visit Downtown Houston's website.

[caption id="attachment_32745" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/95508483.jpg" alt="You can access the Houston tunnels from the lobby of a connected building. " width="1200" height="903" /> DanielMirer / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Have a Few Drinks and Take the Light Rail Home</h2>
The nightlife in Downtown Houston is happening; with artsy bars in the Warehouse District and upscale establishments along Main Street, it can be tough to decide where to hang out. Luckily, you can sample a few drinks in more than one Downtown neighborhood without getting behind the wheel or having to wait for an Uber. The Houston Light Rail runs through Downtown and beyond from early morning until well after midnight. Feel free to start your night in Midtown or near the University, and rest assured you'll get back to Downtown safely. The bus is another option if you'd like to tour the city from street level for a low price. Check online for exact schedules and fares.

[caption id="attachment_32746" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/175186464.jpg" alt="The Downtown Houston Light Rail runs all day and night, so you can enjoy your vacation. " width="1200" height="797" /> Zview / Getty Images[/caption]

There's Something for Everyone in Downtown Houston

Houston is a city with large cultural appeal. The museums in this city cover a variety of topics. You might choose to visit one museum every day; however, some places might not take as long as others.

Houston is a city with large cultural appeal. The museums in this city cover a variety of topics. You might choose to visit one museum every day; however, some places might not take as long as others. When you are planning your visit, consider choosing accommodations close to the museum district. This increases the number of museums you can visit during your trip to Houston, since you won't have a lengthy commute.
<h2>1. The Houston Museum of Natural Science</h2>
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is open seven days a week. People spend more than three hours here on average. Permanent exhibits include an IMAX theater, dinosaur skeletons, a six-story butterfly area, and space station models. There is also a planetarium and a gem exhibit to enjoy. This museum offers family-friendly exhibits, so it is ideal for those who have children. Besides the permanant exhibits, there are also some temporary ones that change every few months.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009286 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_738314032.jpg" alt="natural science Houston" width="1000" height="667" />
<h2>2. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston</h2>
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is open seven days a week, but it closed on major holidays. The museum features a permanent collection that includes various types of art from all over the world. These are created by 15 curatorial departments, each with a different specialty.

The exhibitions at the museum change periodically. They include paintings, sculptures and other forms of art focused on a single theme. There is also a film option for people who enjoy seeing works from around the world.

People usually spend more than three hours here to ensure they see everything. Plan accordingly, so you don't feel rushed.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009285 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_1202048338.jpg" alt="fine arts Houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. The Houston Museum of Natural Science</h2>
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is open seven days a week. People spend more than three hours here on average. Permanent exhibits include an IMAX theater, dinosaur skeletons, a six-story butterfly area, and space station models. There is also a planetarium and a gem exhibit to enjoy.

This museum offers family-friendly exhibits, so it is ideal for those who have children. Besides the permanant exhibits, there are also some temporary ones that change every few months.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009286 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_738314032.jpg" alt="natural science Houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. Children's Museum of Houston</h2>
Despite being named a children's museum, the Children's Museum of Houston has exhibits that appeal to people of all ages. One of the popular ones, FlowWorks, is open year-round but closes periodically for upkeep. Many activities in the museum are hands-on to keep children engaged while they learn.

There is a mix of concepts covered, including real-world experiences for little ones and STEM options for children who are interested. Plan on spending at least a day here if you are going to try to see everything.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009287 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_443557621.jpg" alt="children's Houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>4. Holocaust Museum Houston</h2>
The Holocaust Museum Houston offers older children and adults facts about a dark time in history. Two of the components that are likely to make an impact on visitors are the railcar that was used to move prisoners to concentration camps and the Danish rescue boat.

This is a smaller museum that you can likely make it through in two to three hours. A movie room houses a World War II film that might interest some. There is also the option of the interactive area where you can interact with a WWII survivor.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009288 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_1275316075.jpg" alt="museums in Houston" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Space Center Houston</h2>
Space Center Houston is the official visitor center for the NASA Johnson Space Center. The only day the center is closed is Christmas Day, and there are activities and exhibits for everyone. You can look in on Mission Control and learn about the training it takes to become an astronaut.

More than 400 relics and artifacts are housed here. There are also videos and interactive options that help to teach visitors the history of the space program and help them to look into the potential future of space exploration. Plan on spending at least a day here if you want to take everything in without having to rush.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/1052942548-1024x683.jpg" alt="space center Houston" width="1024" height="683" /> Loren Elliott / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. 1940 Air Terminal Museum</h2>
The 1940 Air Terminal Museum is housed at Hobby Airport, Houston's original airport. Visitors are treated to lovely art deco exhibits, as well as various planes like the Bamboo Bomber, which was made of plywood and didn't drop any bombs. Old photos are also on display to provide a realistic view into this era of aviation.

The small museum is staffed primarily by volunteers who are happy to give tours. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays.

[caption id="attachment_11887" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11887" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/1387799373_df19da7d68_b.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="768" /> mrbill / Visual hunt[/caption]


<h2>7. Health Museum Houston</h2>
The Health Museum Houston is open six days a week. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays. It offers interactive exhibits that can help adults and children alike learn more about the human body and the medical field. There are permanent displays, but there are also some that change periodically.

Plan to spend at least half a day or longer here. Check the 4D movie times to see if they coincide with the times you will be at the museum. The videos change often so you can look for something that interests you.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009291 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_192404471.jpg" alt="houston museums" width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>8. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum</h2>
Explore the rich history of African American soldiers at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. You can enjoy reenactments and workshops that bring the past to life. The exhibits cover various wars, including the Civil War, Vietnam War, World War I and World War II.

The museum is open daily except for Sundays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Thursday afternoons offer free admission, so take advantage of this and bring your friends and family.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009292 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_5637576641.jpg" alt="Houston texas" width="1100" height="733" />


<h2>9. The Heritage Society</h2>
The Heritage Society has a small village of 10 historical structures. You can go through them at your own pace or you can take a guided tour. These buildings and the Museum Gallery house more than 23,000 artifacts that represent life in the early days of Houston.

You should expect to spend almost a full day here, but remember that it is closed on Sundays and Mondays. It is also closed on major holidays.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009293 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_1221423142.jpg" alt="Houston tx" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Art Car Museum</h2>
The Art Car Museum offers an eclectic collection of contemporary art based on motor vehicles. The artists are from all around the world, including many local artists. It is sometimes known as the "Garage Mahal" due to the types of pieces displayed here.

The museum offers free admission but is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. There are special events hosted here periodically that appeal to gearheads and novices alike.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1009294 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/shutterstock_1224092332.jpg" alt="Houston" width="1000" height="667" />

Houston

Texas

Top Stories

There's Something for Everyone in Downtown Houston

10 Museums to Visit in Houston, TX

The Latest

10 Things to Do in Houston with Kids

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Houston