Must-Visit Museums in Houston over Summer

1. Children's Museum of Houston

We love the Children’s Museum of Houston because while kids think they’re just playing, parents know they’re learning, too. Families can explore new worlds and discover more about science, the environment, culture, math, and the arts. Planning a visit? Be sure to grab our exclusive discounted tickets before you go and read about our favorite parts. 

2. Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is always a family favorite — check out our review of it here. This summer, their new exhibit Extreme Animals Alive! opens on May 23 and promises to be an unforgettable experience for kids. While you’re there, don’t miss the Cockrell Butterfly Center — it’s one of our absolute favorite spots in Houston! 

3. Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is the ultimate place to see why Houston is truly Space City! It’s one of our favorite local experiences — and a must-visit spot for out-of-town guests — where you can immerse yourself in the past, present, and future of space exploration. Even better? Enjoy buy-one-get-one-free admission this summer!

4. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) isn’t just for art lovers — it’s a vibrant destination full of creativity, culture, and interactive fun for the whole family. Even better, kids under 12 always get in free! This summer, be sure to check out Floating World: A.A. Murakami, an incredible immersive exhibition we previewed — and trust us, it’s a must-see!

5. Houston Toy Museum 

If you haven’t visited the Houston Toy Museum in The Heights, it’s definitely worth checking out. They have toys from the 1800s all the way through the new millennium, so there’s something for everyone to recognize — I even spotted a Cabbage Patch Kid, which took me right down memory lane! While it’s not a traditional children’s museum, they’ve added a nice interactive play space for younger kids on the second floor. It’s a great spot for both parents and kids to enjoy together. Read about our visit here.

 
Museum of Illusions is a unique summer activity in Houston. Photo by Elizabeth R.

6. Museum of Illusions

If you're looking for a fun and interactive experience for the whole family, the Museum of Illusions Houston is a must-visit! Located inside The Galleria, this 6,000-square-foot museum features over 60 mind-bending exhibits that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Want a sneak peek before you go? Check out our visit here!

7. Lone Star Flight Museum 

If you're looking for a family-friendly outing that combines fun and learning, the Lone Star Flight Museum in Houston is a fantastic choice (you can check out our visit here!). They've even opened the Boeing Toddler Terminal, a dedicated play area for kids aged 1–4. Don’t forget to grab discounted tickets before you head there this summer!

8. The Health Museum

For an educational outing that both adults and kids will enjoy, the Health Museum in Houston is a fantastic choice. They've recently opened Body Worlds 101: The Core of Life, a captivating exhibit that offers a detailed look at human anatomy through real specimens preserved using plastination. It's designed to ignite curiosity and understanding about the human body.

9. Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center

The Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center in Sugar Land is a favorite for hands-on fun and learning. As an extension of the Children’s Museum Houston, it offers many of the same interactive exhibits in a smaller, more manageable setting — perfect for younger kids. From Kidtropolis to the Tot*Spot, there’s something engaging for every age. Even better, we have a summer deal on admission, so it’s a great time to plan a visit. We also have a video from our trip if you want a quick look at what to expect!

10. HMNS Sugar Land

The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land is a smaller, more manageable version of the main campus — which, as a parent, I really appreciate. It’s perfect for a half-day outing, with hands-on exhibits like Discovery Works, plus dinosaurs, fossils, and space science displays that keep kids engaged. And the easy, stress-free parking is a major bonus! We’ve got a video from our visit if you want a quick look inside

11. Asia Society Texas

Looking for a unique summer outing? Asia Society Texas in the Museum District offers hands-on fun for all ages with its interactive Explore Asia exhibit and a museum-wide scavenger hunt. And we’ve got a summer deal on admission to make your visit even better!

Essential Outdoor Summer Activities Around Houston

12. Splash Pads

Spending summer at the splash pads is a rite of passage for every toddler parent in Houston — and we’ve rounded up the ultimate guide to help you discover some new favorites this season. A few of our personal go-tos include Discovery Green, Levy Park, and the Commons at Hermann Park. And don’t miss Ridgeview Park in Missouri City — it’s a hidden gem we recently visited and loved!

13.  Playgrounds

Yes, playgrounds are totally doable during a Houston summer — and with school out, it’s the perfect time to explore new ones. Just plan to go early or in the evening when it’s cooler, and look for parks with plenty of shade. Two of our favorite shaded spots are Hedwig Park and Pumpkin Park (a longtime local favorite!).

 
Houston's waterparks are a perfect summer activity to keep cool. Photo courtesy of Typhoon Texas.

14. Waterparks

Nothing beats the heat like a day at a local waterpark — it’s a guaranteed hit with the kids. Even better, we’ve got discounted admission to some of our favorite spots: Typhoon Texas, Splashway Waterpark in Sheridan, and Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures in New Caney. Summer fun made a little easier (and cheaper)!

15. Shaded Hikes

Get outside and beat the heat with some of our favorite shaded hikes! Explore the scenic trails at Houston Arboretum and Sheldon Lake State Park — perfect for a nature-filled escape while staying cool in the shade.

16. Armand Bayou Nature Center

We love spending time at Armand Bayou Nature Center in Pasadena during the summer! The Firefly Hikes offer a magical experience as you explore the bayou at night, and the Bayou Safari Tour is perfect for spotting wildlife without a lot of walking in the heat. For a more hands-on adventure, the Kayak Tours let you explore the bayou up close. It’s a fantastic family outing that blends fun and nature!

17. Outdoor Dining

Dining al fresco in the summer is a must, and Houston has plenty of kid-friendly restaurants and breweries with patios and play areas to explore. Many places offer spacious outdoor seating, perfect for families to enjoy a meal while the kids get some fresh air.

18. Free Outdoor Movies

Enjoy a free movie under the stars on those cooler summer evenings! We've put together a list of outdoor movie showings happening all summer long around the Houston area.

19. Noah's Ark

Noah’s Ark was our go-to summer spot when my kids were little — it’s the perfect pool for younger ones, with shallow water, fun slides, and plenty of water sprays to keep them cool and entertained. You can check out our visit here!

20. Waugh Bridge Bat Colony

Seeing the bats at Waugh Bridge is one of those cool, only-in-Houston experiences — and summer is the best time to go since there are even more bats out at dusk. It’s free, quick, and the kids love watching them swirl out from under the bridge just after sunset. Check out what to expect here!

21. Pick-Your-Own Berries

Picking blueberries has become one of our favorite summer traditions — and pro tip: they freeze beautifully, so let the kids pick to their hearts’ content! Want to give it a try? Check out our roundup of the best farms around the Houston area for berry picking.

22. Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo is a summer favorite for our family — we go early and cool off in indoor exhibits. Bring water, sunscreen, and a change of clothes to stay comfortable! And yes, parking can be tricky - find some tips to find a spot here!

23. Buffalo Bayou Cruises

One of our favorite ways to see the city from a new perspective is the Buffalo Bayou boat cruise. It’s a relaxing ride through downtown Houston with great skyline views. Tours are for ages 4 and up, and we’ve got a video from our trip if you want a peek at what to expect! Also if you want to beat the heat, they offer bat tours at dusk in the summer to see the Waugh Bridge Bats emerge.

Can’t-Miss Indoor Activities for a Cool Houston Summer

 
Meow Wolf is interactive art — and indoors! Photo courtesy of Meow Wolf Houston

24. Meow Wolf Houston Radio Tave

One of our favorite new openings last year, and if you haven’t been yet, summer’s the perfect time to check it out. Meow Wolf is an immersive, mind-bending art experience that blends storytelling, interactive exhibits, and incredible visuals — it’s like stepping into another world (see our visit here!). Bonus: we’ve got a discount code to make it even easier to go!

25. Trampoline Parks

There’s no better way for kids to burn off energy and beat the heat than at a trampoline park — and we’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots around Houston to help you jump into summer fun! 

26. Indoor Play Places

Indoor play spaces are a summer lifesaver — kids stay active in the A/C while parents get a break. Even better, we’ve got summer deals at some of our favorite spots like The Play Space Sugar Land, Cheeky Monkeys, and Toddler Towns.

27. Indoor Mini Golf

We love a little family-friendly competition with mini golf—and in the summer, we take the fun indoors. Check out our visits to two great indoor spots: Holey Moley and Monster Mini Golf!

28. Andretti Katy

We checked out Andretti in Katy, and it’s the perfect indoor escape for summer fun—with everything from go-karts to laser tag, bowling, and more. Even better, you can enjoy extra arcade play with our summer deal!

29. Movies

Catching a movie is a classic (and air-conditioned!) way to beat the heat and enjoy time together as a family. Be sure to check for theater deals—many offer deeply discounted family showings during the week all summer long!

30. Buffalo Bayou Cistern Tour

If you're looking for something really cool and uniquely Houston this summer, check out the Cistern Tour! It's an amazing underground experience, and you can see our visit here. Just a heads-up—kids must be 9 and older to join the tour.

31. Roller Rinks

Is there anything better than a classic trip to the roller rink in the summer? We think the coolest spot in the area is Skate World Deer Park—check out our visit here. Plus, save at Skate World and its sister rink, Bear Creek Roller Rink, with our summer deals!

Root for the Home Team this Summer

32. Astros Game

Luckily, Daikin Park features a retractable roof that can close when the summer heat kicks in, so you can enjoy rooting for the home team all season long. Be sure to check out their calendar for fun events like Kids Run the Bases and Dollar Dogs Night!

33. Sugar Land Space Cowboys

Catching a game with the Sugar Land Space Cowboys is a blast for the whole family! They’ve got a playground and splash pad right past the outfield, making it the perfect spot for kids to play. You can check out our visit here!

34. Houston Dynamo and Dash

If your kids are into soccer, catching a Houston Dynamo or Houston Dash home game this summer is a must! The Dynamo play at Shell Energy Stadium, and the Dash share the same venue. Both teams offer exciting matches that are perfect for family outings.

Houston Day Trips Perfect for a Summer Adventure

35. Galveston

Galveston is always worth the drive in the summer—see our Top Things To Do with Kids while you're there. Whether it's building sandcastles at Galveston Island State Park (our favorite beach for families - see our visit here!), riding rides at the Pleasure Pier, or just grabbing ice cream on the Strand, there's plenty to keep kids happy and parents relaxed. We try to go early to beat the crowds and heat.

 
Kemah Boardwalk is inexpensive and fun. Photo by Segiy Galyonkin via Flickr 2.0

36. Kemah Boardwalk

Kemah Boardwalk is a fantastic summer day trip for families from Houston—just about 45 minutes away, it offers a perfect mix of thrills, waterfront views, and kid-friendly fun.

37. Blue Bell Creamery

Nothing says summer like a scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream, and a trip out to Brenham makes it even sweeter. The Blue Bell Creamery Visitor Center is free to explore—you can learn about the brand’s history and watch the production lines in action from the observation deck. And don’t miss the Ice Cream Parlor, where scoops are just $1! Just note: the creamery is only open Monday through Friday. 

38. Crocodile Encounter

If you're looking for a unique and educational summer outing near Houston, Crocodile Encounter in Angleton is a hidden gem. Just a short drive from the city, this wildlife facility offers an up-close look at crocodiles, alligators, and a variety of other animals. You can see what to expect from our video here!

39. Bayou Wildlife Zoo

Bayou Wildlife Zoo in Alvin is a fantastic day trip from Houston, especially for families with younger kids. It's a 30-minute drive south and offers a unique safari-style experience right here in Texas. The main attraction is the 80-acre guided tram tour, where you'll see animals like zebras, camels, buffalo, and various exotic species. You can feed many of them from the tram, which is a big hit with kids! See our visit here!

40. BeeWeaver Honey Farm

We love making the drive up to Navasota to visit BeeWeaver Honey Farm—it’s such a unique and memorable experience for the whole family. Their Public Hive Tour is a great value at just $10 for adults and $7 for kids ages 4–13. You’ll join a beekeeper for a close-up look at a live hive from the comfort of a screened-in observation deck. The tour includes a fascinating overview of beekeeping tools, hive structure, and honey bee biology. It's both educational and fun—and a big hit with curious kids! You can check out visiting a hive tour here!

41. Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens in Galveston is one of our favorite summer day trips. Between the Aquarium and Rainforest Pyramids, 3D theater, and seasonal Palm Beach water park, there’s something for everyone. It’s a fun mix of education and entertainment—you can read all about it here!

42. Aggieland Safari

Aggieland Safari in Bryan, TX, is a must-visit for families with animal-loving kids! Just a short drive from Houston, you can explore a 250-acre drive-thru safari with over 300 exotic animals, including zebras and bison. There's also a walkabout zoo with giraffes, lemurs, and more! We even have a video of our visit to give you a sneak peek.

43. George Observatory

Looking for an out-of-this-world day trip this summer? Head to the George Observatory in Brazos Bend State Park, part of HMNS. On Saturday nights, enjoy stargazing with constellation laser tours, telescopes, and expert astronomers. Don’t miss the Milky Way exhibit featuring meteorites and more inside!

Must-Do Events for Summer Fun in Houston

44. Park After Dark at Discovery Green

Make the most of summer evenings at Park After Dark, happening every Thursday in June at Discovery Green! As the sun goes down, the park lights up – literally! They're keeping the fountains and lights on late, so guests can enjoy the summer fun.

45. Memorial Day in the Woodlands

Celebrate the official start of summer in The Woodlands. This Sunday event pays tribute to all military servicemen and women who lost their lives while serving in the United States military while featuring live music, children’s activities, and a dazzling fireworks display.

 
World Ocean Day Festival in June. Photo courtesy of Visit Galveston

46. World Ocean Day Festival in Galveston

This free, family-friendly event on June 7th transforms the shoreline into a hub of ocean love and learning. Get hands-on with eco-art workshops, explore coastal ecosystems, and discover how art and science can help protect our blue planet.

47. Galveston Island Juneteenth Festival and Celebration

Join the celebration and experience the rich culture, history, and spirit of Juneteenth on June 14th in Galveston with a free, family-friendly event that features live entertainment, music, food vendors, and a diverse showcase of local entrepreneurs.

48. Comicpalooza

Artistic creators, insightful panelists, cosplayers, stars, and enthusiastic spectators will come together for a magical weekend (June 20th-22nd) celebrating anime, comics, gaming, literature, cosplay, and much more.

49. Rainbow on The Green

This free, family-friendly Pride event on June 27th will feature an evening of all-star performances and entertainment.

50. Freedom Over Texas

Houston’s signature Fourth of July celebration takes place along Buffalo Bayou, spanning Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks.

51. Houston Shakespeare Festival at Miller Outdoor Theatre

The University of Houston proudly presents two of Shakespeare's iconic works, Henry V and As You Like It, at the Miller Outdoor Theater as part of the annual Houston Shakespeare Festival. Enjoy these performances for free from July 31st to August 9th.

This post was originally published in May 2017 and updated in 2025.