Sarah Banks

The 10 Best Free Hidden Gems for Kids in Houston

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Fri, 09/05/2025 - 8:27am

Free alligator education at Brazos Bend State Park. Photo by Sarah Banks.

Houston is full of family-friendly destinations, but some of the best adventures are free hidden gems that many locals and visitors overlook. From sprawling skateparks and scenic nature escapes to free art-filled spaces and cultural museums, the city is packed with opportunities for affordable fun and education. Whether your kids are budding artists, thrill-seekers, or curious explorers, this guide highlights 10 of the best free hidden gems in and around Houston. These hidden gems are a few of the more quirky 100 Free Things to Do in Houston with Kids. Check out our Free Fun Things to Do Guide for more.

Best Places to Earn Scout Badges in Houston

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Sun, 08/24/2025 - 8:15am

Help your Scout rack up the badges at these programs in Houston. Photo courtesy of Canva.

Earn badges and have fun at Houston's museums, parks, and more.

Where to Find the Coolest Arcades for Kids in Houston

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Sun, 08/10/2025 - 10:43am

Palace Social has bowling and a restaurant in addition to arcade games. Photo courtesy of Palace Social

Find out which arcades are best for small kids, school-aged kids, and teens.

Best Crafting Parties for Teens in Houston

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Sun, 08/03/2025 - 12:13pm

A crafting party at one of these venues or at home is the perfect celebration for a creative kid. Photo courtesy of Color Me Mine

Venues, vendors, and DIY options for a fun crafting birthday party.

Fun Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah Venues in Houston

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Fri, 07/18/2025 - 4:11pm

Our top picks for your Houston bar/bat mitzvah. Photo by Juliano ASTC, courtesy of Pexels.

Places in Houston to hold your teen's special celebration.

Houston Summer Bucket List for Teens

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Fri, 06/20/2025 - 3:49pm

Tired of your teens saying, "I'm bored?" Hand them this list!

Houston Budget-Friendly Weekend Itinerary for Families

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Fri, 05/23/2025 - 10:08pm

Go for a nature walk in on of Houston's huge parks. Photo by Anthony Rathbun, courtesy of the Houston Arboretum.

Your guide to weekend fun on the cheap.

Things To Do in Garner State Park with Kids

Submitted by Sarah Banks on Sun, 05/11/2025 - 12:54pm

Explore 16 miles of trails, some leading to bird's-eye views. Photo courtesy of Texas Parks & Wildlife

Tucked into the scenic Texas Hill Country and nestled along the crystal-clear Frio River, Garner State Park in Concan is a classic choice for a weekend getaway with kids. With more than 1,700 acres of trails, swimming holes, and family traditions like nightly jukebox dances, it’s easy to see why generations of Texans return to Garner year after year. If you're looking to trade city noise for cypress trees and starry skies—this is the spot.

Whether you’re tubing the river, roasting s’mores, or bunking in a riverside cabin, Garner offers something for every kind of family adventurer. Read our tips for things to do in Garner State Park and our cabin and camping recommendations. And while you're in the area, check out our Texas Hill Country with Kids article and our picks for Best Hill Country Swimming Holes.

Sarah Banks

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