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Free Outdoor Fun for Kids in Houston

1. Memorial Park – Memorial

This massive park offers trails, playgrounds, and wide-open green space for all ages. It’s easy to pair a visit with a picnic or bike ride.

2. Nature Discovery Center – Bellaire

The Nature Discovery Center combines indoor discovery rooms with an outdoor playscape and trails. It’s especially great for kids who love bugs, birds, and getting a little dirty. 

 
The Arboretum is a great place for a nature walk. Photo courtesy of the Houston Arboretum.

3. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center – Memorial Park

Miles of easy trails and a kid-friendly Discovery Center make this feel like a nature getaway in the city. Go early for cooler temps and fewer crowds, especially on weekends, and explore the hours of fun things to do there. 

4. Sea Center Texas – Lake Jackson

Visit Sea Center Texas, a marine aquarium, fish hatchery, and education center located on 75 acres. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the tanks, trails, and educational exhibits.

5. Mercer Botanic Gardens – Humble

The 60 acres of Mercer Botanic Gardens feel peaceful and uncrowded, even on weekends. It’s stroller-friendly and perfect for a slow afternoon walk.

 
Levy Park has a great playground and free events. Photo courtesy of Levy Park.

6. Levy Park – Upper Kirby

Levy Park is one of Houston’s best playgrounds, with splash pads and free programming. Weekends are busy, so mornings are your best bet.

7. Evelyn's Park – Bellaire

Evelyn's Park has beautifully designed play areas and wide lawns, making this a favorite with families. Free concerts and kids’ events add to the appeal.

Don't forget to check out the cool Alice in Wonderland statues in Evelyn's Park. Photo by Jessica Stautberg. 

8. Woodchase Park – Westchase

Explore the modern playground and participate in free programming at Woodchase Park. It’s especially nice for school-age kids, and is a great alternative to some of the busier, well-known parks.

9. Discovery Green – Downtown

Visit Discovery Green, a 12-acre park and one of our favorite Things to Do in Downtown Houston. It features a playground, art, and green space with many free events, so be sure to check out the calendar before you go.

10. Japanese Garden – Museum District

Waterfalls, bridges, and winding paths make this a calming escape. It’s best for quieter kids and stroller walks.

11. Miller Outdoor Theater – Museum District

See a family-friendly performance at Miller Outdoor Theater. Bring a blanket and arrive early for good views.

12. Alief Neighborhood Center and Park – Alief

Play tennis, skateboard, explore the playground, and more at the Alief Neighborhood Center and Park. It’s a solid choice for mixed-age siblings.

13. POST Skylawn – Downtown

Enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends at Post Skylawn, a rooftop park with downtown skyline views. It’s great for sunset visits and casual family hangouts.

14. Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve – Northwest Houston

Hike, fish, and picnic at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve. It’s great for nature-loving families.

15. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center – Humble

Nature trails, a playground, and free educational programs make this a full-day destination. It’s well worth the drive for outdoorsy families.

 
Frolic near the Galveston Seawall. Photo by DiAnn L Roy, via Flickr.

16. Seawall – Galveston

Families with energetic kids will love the sand and waves at the Seawall on Galveston Island, home of many fun things to do with kids.  

17. Buffalo Bayou Park – Downtown

Enjoy beautiful gardens and native landscaping, hike and bike trails, or frolic in the play area at Buffalo Bayou Park. Weekdays are calmer for little kids.

18. Sheldon Lake State Park – Northeast Houston

Explore Sheldon Lake State Park with a lake, ponds, wetlands, woods, prairie, and an 82-foot observation tower. It feels like a field trip without leaving the city.

19. Kemah Boardwalk – Kemah

Walk the Kemah Boardwalk and enjoy window shopping, water views, and free entertainment. Free only for kids who can enjoy the atmosphere without going on rides!

20. McGovern Centennial Gardens – Museum District

Enjoy a variety of themed gardens, including an educational family garden, at McGovern Centennial Gardens. Spring and fall offer the best weather and blooms. 

21. Terry Hershey Park – Memorial

22. Exploration Park – Katy 

Swing and play at Exploration Park, an immersive public playground. This playground is designed for kids of all abilities.

23. The George Mitchell Nature Preserve – The Woodlands

Miles of trails wind through forested areas ideal for hiking and biking. Kids who love adventure will appreciate this nature preserve.

24. Surfside Beach – Brazoria County

Play in the sand and waves on the pedestrian side of Surfside Beach. This quieter beach offers space to spread out and play. Go early for easier parking.

The morning hours are the best ones at Surfside Beach. Photo by Jessica Stautberg. 

25. Sylvan Beach Park – La Porte

A family-friendly beach with playgrounds and picnic areas. It’s calmer than Galveston.

26. Mary Jo Peckham Park – Katy

Fish and play at Mary Jo Peckham Park, which features a playground, a fishing lake, and a miniature golf course. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon here.

Free Indoor Things To Do in Houston

27. Frolic's Castle – Memorial City

Easily one of Houston's Best Indoor Playspaces for Babies and Toddlers, this free indoor play area is the largest within a shopping center, and features a castle, slide, soft play, and more. 

28. Disney Junior Play Zone – Katy

Play with your favorite Disney Junior friends through interactive digital displays and climbable playsets at the Disney Junior Play Zone at Katy Mills Mall. A great spot if your kids love Disney Junior shows!

29. Houston Police Department Museum – Downtown

Visit the Houston Police Department's downtown headquarters to see the Houston Police Museum, one of Houston's best free museums. Elementary-age kids who love uniforms, vehicles, and true stories will be especially interested.

30. Downtown Tunnels – Downtown

Head underground to a system of Downtown Tunnels 20 feet below Houston's Downtown streets and more than 6 miles long. Weekdays during business hours are best, since many shops close on weekends.

31. Houston Food Bank – East Houston

Volunteer at the Houston Food Bank or check out other Houston volunteering opportunities. Kids from age 6 can get involved.

32. North Houston Skate Park – North Houston

Skateboard at the largest skate park in North America, the North Houston Skate Park, or one of Houston's other Kid-Friendly Skate Parks. 

 
The Galleria is a year-round destination. Photo courtesy of the Houston Galleria 

Free Events, Fairs, and Festivals in Houston

33. Houston Farmers Market – The Heights

Stroll the city’s oldest and largest farmers market at the Houston Farmers Market, one of the Best Things To Do in The Heights with Kids. 

34. Houston Area Live Steamers – Hockley

Go on a train ride every third Saturday of the month from March to November by the Houston Area Live Steamers at Zube Park.

 
Enjoy free shows at the Woodlands. Photo courtesy of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion

35. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion – The Woodlands

Take advantage of free Performing Arts shows throughout the season at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. The Houston Symphony orchestra performs free, high-quality shows.

Free Arts, Culture, and Learning Activities

36. Free Family Night Children's Museum Houston – Museum District

Free Family Night is every Thursday from 5-8 pm at Children's Museum Houston. Expect crowds, but the energy is part of the fun.

37. Free Admission Hours at Buffalo Soldiers National Museum – Museum District

Explore the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum for free every Thursday from 1-5 pm, and children under 5 are always free. 

38. Free Family Thursday at The Health Museum – Museum District

Does your kid like playing at being a doctor? Learn about medical science and the human body at The Health Museum during free general admission from 2-7 pm on Thursdays.

39. Free Admission Hours at the Houston Museum of Natural Science – Museum District

See dinosaurs at the Houston Museum of Natural Science during free admission to the permanent exhibit halls every Tuesday from 5-8 pm. Arrive early to avoid long lines at this popular and modern museum.

40. Free First Tuesday at the Houston Zoo – Museum District

Enjoy seeing the animals for free with a reservation on the first Tuesday of each month at the Houston Zoo. Spots fill quickly, so plan ahead.

41. Free Thursdays at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston – Museum District

View the world-class art galleries at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston for free every Thursday. Children 12 and under are always free. 

42. Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts – Spring

See the exhibitions at the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts and enjoy an active schedule of programs and services, including those for children. It's a calmer environment than some of the downtown museums.

43. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft – Museum District

View art made primarily from craft materials during a rotation of artist exhibitions, or enjoy regular programming of free craft-making activity led by local guilds and artists for all ages at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. Check out the events schedule before you go.

RELATED: Fun Houston Storytimes Found Outside the Library

44. Project Row Houses – Historic Third Ward

Go see Project Row Houses, a highly acclaimed art and cultural community center consisting of renovated shotgun-style homes

45. The Menil Collection – Montrose

View paintings and sculptures at The Menil Collection Museum. Keep visits short with younger kids and enjoy the surrounding green space for breaks.

46. Contemporary Arts Museum Houston – Museum District

See works of the best and most exciting international, national, and regional art of our time at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. Admission is always free, making it easy to pop in without pressure.

47. Lawndale Art Center – Museum District

This intimate art space features thoughtful exhibitions and community-focused programs. It’s a good fit for older kids who enjoy discussing ideas and visuals.

48. James Turrell Twilight Epiphany Skyspace – Rice University

Experience the magical James Turrell Twilight Epiphany Skyspace art installations' light sequences that occur daily at sunrise and sunset. Set expectations ahead of time, since the experience is quiet and reflective.

49. Houston Museum of African American Culture – Museum District

Exhibits celebrate African American history, culture, and achievements in Houston and beyond. Families appreciate how approachable and educational the space feels.

50. Smither Park – East End

Explore a creative urban space filled with mosaic installations at Smither Park. Kids love spotting tiny details hidden throughout the installations.

51. Cullen Sculpture Garden – Museum District

Walk through a tranquil oasis of art and nature at Cullen Sculpture Garden.  It’s a great calm-down stop between busier Museum District attractions.

52. Free Admission Hours at the Czech Center Museum Houston – Museum District

Celebrate Czech and Slovak culture during free admission hours at Czech Center Museum Houston every Thursday from 2-5pm. It's a smaller space to some other museums, so easy to explore with kids.

53. Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary – Memorial 

See the only log home within Houston that still stands where it was originally built and hike surrounding trails at the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary. A great option for combining local history with the outdoors.

54. Sawyer Yards – Arts District

Meet artists and explore the open studios during Second Saturdays at Sawyer Yards. Inspire your kids with art-in-progress.

 
Visit BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu temple. Photo by Katie Haugland Bowen via Flickr

55. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir – Stafford

Visit BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a gorgeous traditional Hindu temple open to all faiths and backgrounds. Dress appropriately and plan for a quiet, respectful visit.

56. 19th Street – The Heights

Explore the eclectic collection of shops that decorate historic 19th Street in Houston Heights. Weekend window shopping pairs well with nearby playgrounds.

57. The Strand – Galveston 

Stroll The Strand in Galveston, with historic architecture, family attractions, locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. While you're there, check out all the other Things To Do in Galveston with Kids. 

58. Free Thursdays at Asia Society Texas – Museum District

Visit Asia Society Texas for free every Thursday from noon– 7pm. Enjoy a calm and culturally rich museum.

Free Seasonal Fun in Houston

59. Japan Festival Houston – Museum District (Spring)

Experience Japan Festival Houston, an annual celebration of Japanese culture held in Houston’s Hermann Park in the springtime.

Giddyup to the Rodeo Houston Parade. Photo courtesy of Rodeo Houston

60. Rodeo Houston Parade – Downtown (Spring)

Watch thousands of men and women on horseback fill the streets with marching bands and decorative floats at the Rodeo Houston Parade. And while the Rodeo itself isn't free, we have a Houston Rodeo Guide to help you navigate it. 

61. Art Car Parade – Downtown (Spring)

The annual Art Car Parade is Houston's largest free cultural event and one of its most iconic celebrations. You can walk up and down the cars before they set off to see the craftsmanship in detail.

 
Hermann Park Kite Festival is free every spring. Photo courtesy of Hermann Park

62. Hermann Park Kite Festival – Museum District (Spring)

Fly a kite at the Hermann Park Kite Festival held every spring. 

63. Freedom Over Texas (July 4) (Summer)

Houston celebrations for July 4 feature 6 hours of activities and concerts, culminating in an amazing firework display. This is a crowded event. 

64. Korean Festival (Fall)

This weekend festival in October has been running for over fifteen years, with live performances. For kids who can get overstimulated by crowds, the first 2 hours on Sunday are sensory-friendly.

65. Run Fest at Discovery Green – Downtown (Winter)

Have fun at Run Fest, a festival held the weekend of the Houston Marathon that includes activities for everyone in the family. A great way to expend some energy.

66. MLK Unity Parade (Winter)

Honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with this fun annual parade in H-Town. Kids will learn important history without even knowing it.

67. The Galleria – Uptown (Winter)

The holiday decorations add to the fun at perhaps the best place in Houston to people-watch and window shop. There's plenty of walking space to wear out kids!

Top Free Things To Do with Toddlers vs. Tweens and Teens

68. Gallery Furniture North Freeway – North Houston

Play at the indoor playground and see exotic birds around the store at Gallery Furniture. It’s a surprisingly great rainy-day option.

​69. Donovan Park – The Heights

Play at the wooden, train-themed playground at Donovan Park. Choo choo!

RELATED: Free Things to Do in Houston with Kids Guide

70. Bear Creek Pioneers Park – Northwest Houston

Check out an aviary and wildlife habitat, play at the playground, and enjoy the Bear Creek Pioneers Park trails. It’s easy to spend several hours here.

 
Gorilla Forest at The Commons. Photo Courtesy of Johnny Than Photography

71. Hermann Park The Commons – Museum District

Have a picnic and play at the beautiful new section of Hermann Park. It’s quickly become a family favorite.

72. Pumpkin Park – River Oaks

Play at the shaded, pumpkin-themed Pumpkin Park. Go in the fall to celebrate the pumpkin theme!

73. Hedwig Park – Memorial Villages

Play at Hedwig Park, one of Houston's most shaded playgrounds. Beat the Houston summer by playing in the shade.

74. Barbara Fish Daniel Nature Play Area – Downtown

Explore Barbara Fish Daniel Nature Play Area, a nature-based play area. Downtown views add a fun twist.

75. The Lorraine Cherry Nature Preserve – Greater Heights

Take a walk at the Lorraine Cherry Nature Preserve, a beautiful pocket wilderness park. Perfect for a short walk.

76. Emancipation Park – Third Ward

Play at the oldest park in Texas, Emancipation Park. It’s a meaningful and fun visit.

77. Storytime at Houston Botanic Garden – Southeast Houston

On the third Friday of each month, register for storytime at Houston Botanic Garden and receive free admission. It’s a lovely intro to the gardens for little ones.

78. The Hill at Miller Outdoor Theater – Museum District

All Houstonians know that one big hill in Hermann Park at Miller Outdoor Theater, and it's a Houstonian rite of passage to roll down it at least once as a kiddo. Bring a blanket and let the kids go wild.

79. Living Spaces – Multiple Locations

Get some energy out at the indoor playground in the furniture store Living Spaces. Parents quietly love this errand-plus-play combo.

Top Free Things To Do with Tweens and Teens

80. Rockstar Energy Bike Park – North Houston

Bike or scooter at Rockstar Energy Bike Park, the largest BMX park in the USA. Helmets are required upon signing in.

81. Free Admission Hours at Holocaust Museum Houston – Museum District

Visit the Holocaust Museum Houston for free on Thursday from 2-5 pm. Kids ages 18 and under are always free. 

82. Tom Bass Park – Southeast Houston

Challenge yourself on a ninja-style course at Tom Bass Park, one of Pearland's Things to Do with Kids. Older kids and teens especially love this park.

The obstacle course at Tom Bass Park (best for older children but not lost on littles). Photo by Jessica Stautberg

83. Sugar Land Town Square – Sugar Land

Window shop and enjoy free programming at the vibrant Sugar Land Town Square. Bring a change of clothes if you'll use the splash pad.

84. Urban Harvest Farmers Market – Upper Kirby

Check out local vendors at Urban Harvest Farmers Market, one of Texas’ largest farmers markets. Go early for the best experience and grab the free samples.

Catch some air at the Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark. Photo courtesy of the Houston Parks Board

85. Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark – Downtown

Skateboard at Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, a 30,000-square-foot in-ground public facility that holds one of the largest cradles in the nation. Even non-skaters enjoy watching the action.

86. Rothko Chapel – Montrose

Meditate and reflect in the renowned sacred art space of the Rothko Chapel and grounds. Good for kids who can be quiet and reflect!

87. Traders Village – Northwest Houston

Amble around Traders Village and check out local vendors. There's often free entertainment.

88. Citycentre – Memorial

Enjoy live music and other events at the shopping destination CityCentre, or check out other Things To Do in Memorial. Free concerts and seasonal events keep families coming back.

89. Spring Creek Greenway Nature Center – Spring

Check out the indoor center with more than 60 species of wildlife on exhibit or explore the many trails around Spring Creek Greenway Nature Center. It's a great place to bring a bike.

90. First Saturday Arts Market – Houston Heights

Browse art by local artists and enjoy music at the family-friendly First Saturday Arts Market. Great for encouraging creativity.

91. Houston Center for Photography – Montrose

This small gallery packs a punch with compelling photography exhibits. It’s best for tweens and teens who enjoy visual storytelling.

Hidden Gems and Weird Free Things To Do

92. Beer Can House – Rice Military

Take a peek inside the Beer Can House, an iconic Houston landmark that's owned and operated by The Orange Show. It’s a quick stop, but kids are always fascinated by the unexpected sparkle and texture.

93. Sam Houston Boat Tour – East Houston

Ride along and enjoy a leisurely, 90-minute round-trip, educational tour along the Houston Ship Channel on the Sam Houston Boat Tour. This is one you need to plan ahead and make a free reservation in advance when tickets are released.

94. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park – Galleria Area

Visit one of Houston’s most beloved, iconic landmarks at Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park. A great Instagram spot for Houston families.

95. Waugh Drive Bridge Bat Colony – Downtown 

See an estimated 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats take flight at sunset from the Waugh Drive Bridge Bat Colony. Arrive early for a good viewing spot and bring bug spray.

96. Heights Hike and Bike Trail – The Heights

Enjoy downtown views on a bike ride along the Heights Hike and Bike Trail. It’s stroller-friendly and popular with families.

97. Houston Murals – Multiple Locations

Take a self-guided tour to see the many wonderful Houston murals and street-art installations. Teens especially love this for cool photos.

98. Port Bolivar Ferry – Galveston

Spot dolphins and seagulls on the Port Bolivar Ferry that takes travelers between Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula. Just being on a boat makes a refreshing change from everyday life.

99. Tomball Railroad Depot – Tomball

Does your kid love trains? See all things trains at the Tomball Railroad Depot, including train memorabilia and two highly detailed model railroads, during free tours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

100. George Bush Intercontinental Airport Observation Lot – North Houston

Watch planes take off and land from the only official Airport Observation Lot at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Transport-loving kids will enjoy this spot. 

Free Fun for Kids in Houston FAQ

What are the best free family activities in Houston?

Houston families are lucky to have tons of free options year-round. Exploring big parks like Hermann Park or Discovery Green, visiting always-free museums like the Menil Collection, and catching a performance at Miller Outdoor Theatre are some of our favorite ways to spend a day without spending money. Free festivals and cultural events pop up constantly, too. 

What can kids do for free on weekends in Houston?

Weekends are packed with free kid-friendly happenings if you know where to look. Libraries and community centers host storytimes, crafts, and shows, while parks and public spaces offer free concerts, markets, and seasonal festivals. Checking our weekend calendar will give you many ideas!

Are there free museums or attractions for kids in Houston?

Absolutely. Several Houston museums are always free, including the Menil Collection and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, making them easy go-tos for families. Others offer free admission days each week, which are especially helpful on rainy days or when the heat is too much.

What are some free things to do in Houston with toddlers?

Toddlers have plenty of free fun around Houston. Indoor play spots like Frolic’s Castle are great escapes from the heat, while outdoor favorites like Levy Park and Evelyn’s Park offer shaded playgrounds and gentle play areas. Storytimes and nature centers are also perfect for short, low-stress outings. Our guide to free indoor places for kids in Houston also has many toddler-friendly options.

What’s the best time to visit free attractions in Houston?

In Houston, weekday mornings are usually your best bet for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures, especially at parks and museums. During the summer, early mornings or evenings work best, and for popular free events, arriving early helps with parking and finding shade.