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14 Free Kids Activities in Houston From A Local Mom

Discover FREE handpicked adventures curated just for you by your favorite local Houston mom, turning everyday moments into unforgettable family memories.

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  • Hey fellow Houston area parents! Let me show you some free family fun in our city. While these activities might not be super flashy, they're great for keeping the kiddos entertained without breaking the bank. Let's explore together and make some simple but special memories with our little ones!

    1 Gateway Fountain Splash Area at Discovery Green

    Make a splash with your kids at Discovery Green's popular "cool spot" - a playful fountain with lively jets and a granite surface! Beat the heat and enjoy the fun water park experience in the heart of Houston. Hours vary by weather, see website for details.

     Location
    Discovery Green
    1500 McKinney St
    Houston, TX, 77010
    Learn More

    2 Kinder Lake at Discovery Green Park

    Discover the beauty and fun of Kinder Lake at Discovery Green with your kids! Enjoy a variety of activities like kayaking, remote-controlled boat rides, and more! The area also features stunning water gardens, a pier, and beautiful Carruth Lake Lights.

     Location
    Discovery Green
    1500 McKinney St
    Houston, TX, 77010
    Learn More

    3 Visit George Bush Park

    Houston's George H.W. Bush Park is an exciting 7,800-acre nature reserve with jogging trails, biking routes, sports fields, and even a wooden bridge crossing the Buffalo Bayou. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities and a tribute to the former president!

     Location
    George Bush Park
    16756 Westheimer Pkwy
    Houston, TX, 77082
    Learn More

    4 Visit Discovery Green

    Discover endless fun and relaxation for the whole family at Discovery Green in downtown Houston! From water parks to restaurants, kayaking to dog runs, this 12-acre village green has it all!

     Location
    Discovery Green
    1500 McKinney St
    Houston, TX, 77010
    Learn More

    5 LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch in Katy

    Come and experience the thrilling upscale shops and restaurants in Cinco Ranch's LaCenterra! With 34 acres of excitement, families can bond in the common areas and discover incredible gifts while indulging in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor dining options.

     Location
    LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
    23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd
    Katy, TX, 77494
    Learn More

    6 Exploration Park and Playground in Katy

    Get ready to be amazed by Exploration Park! This one-of-a-kind playground, filled with thrilling play features and educational principles, opened in 2015. And that's not all - they added a parking lot in 2016 and a restroom building in 2020. It's a place you don't want to miss!

     Location
    Exploration Park
    15020 Cinco Park Rd
    Katy, TX, 77450
    Learn More

    7 Visit Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

    Escape the city and immerse yourself in 155 acres of beautiful, natural habitats. Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a serene escape.

     Location
    Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
    4501 Woodway Dr
    Houston, TX, 77024
    Learn More

    8 Hermann Park: Japanese Garden

    Escape to the tranquility of the Japanese Garden in Hermann Park. Stroll through the serene landscapes, explore the winding paths, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. With a teahouse, cherry trees, and lush gardens, it's a perfect family getaway. Best of all, it's free!

     Location
    Japanese Garden
    6000 Fannin St
    Houston, TX, 77030
    Learn More

    9 Houston Museum of African American Culture

    Explore African American culture and history at Houston Museum of African American Culture. With exhibitions, workshops, and events, it's a must-visit for all who want to learn and celebrate diversity.

     Location
    Houston Museum of African American Culture
    4807 Caroline St
    Houston, TX, 77004
    Learn More

    10 Visit Central Green Park in Katy

    Central Green in Katy is the ultimate destination! It's got it all - weekly activities, fantastic entertainment, and amazing dining options. You can even enjoy a picnic on the lawn. Don't miss out on the yoga, movie nights, and other awesome events. Visit their website now!

     Location
    Central Green Park
    Central Green Park, Commercial Center Blvd
    Katy, TX, 77494
    Learn More

    11 Sheldon Lake State Park

    Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the beautiful Natural Oasis park, just 15 mins from downtown Houston! With free entry, accessible trails, and a range of activities including fishing, hiking, and paddling, there's something for everyone.

     Location
    Sheldon Lake State Park and Environmental Learning Center
    14140 Garrett Rd
    Houston, TX, 77044
    Learn More

    12 Sam Houston National Forest

    Sam Houston National Forest is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts with beautiful trails, lakes, and camping sites. Bring your family for a fun-filled adventure and create lasting memories surrounded by the natural beauty of Texas.

     Location
    Sam Houston National Forest - Double Lake Recreation Area
    301 FM 2025
    Coldspring, TX, 77331
    Learn More

    13 Visit Southdown Park and Splash Pad in Pearland

    Woohoo! Southdown Park is the place to be! With a huge shade cover to keep you cool on the slides, and a splash pad with fountains and a fire hydrant. Water fun is guaranteed from April 1st - October 1st!

     Location
    Southdown Park
    2150 Country Pl Pkwy
    Pearland, TX, 77584
    Learn More

    14 THE MENIL COLLECTION

    The Menil Collection features a diverse range of artworks spanning from prehistoric times to contemporary art, reflecting personal and intellectual passions of founders John and Dominique de Menil. With nearly 19,000 works, the museum continues to grow and prosper.

     Location
    The Menil Collection
    1533 Sul Ross St
    Houston, TX, 77006
    Learn More

    I hope you find your free family adventure today in Houston. Remember: Finding Fun Shouldn't Be Hard! You can browse all of our Houston activities here.

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