Inner Loop

Where To Find Bluebonnets in Houston this Spring

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Fri, 03/08/2019 - 10:05pm

It's that time of year again. Texas Bluebonnet season runs March-May, and this Spring Texans have already seen these beautiful blue blooms in some parts of the state. We've rounded up some spots where you can snap some of those iconic pictures in and around Houston, and we'll continue to update this post as we find more locations. If you have a favorite spot to share, let us know at houstoneditor@mommypoppins.com.

15 Free Things to Do With Kids at the Houston Rodeo

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Tue, 02/19/2019 - 9:08pm

Everything is bigger in Texas, and this motto is exemplified in Houston's massive livestock show and rodeo - from the crowds to food selection - but your resulting credit card bill doesn't have to be. After paying the price of admission, there are lots of things to do as a whole family without spending another dime. That's not to say you won't be tempted by the smells of deep-fried goodness and adorable miniature cowboy and cowgirl hats. Read on for free and fun activities, all of which are open 9 a.m.-9 p.m. every day unless otherwise noted.

Free and Cheap Summer Camps Around Houston

Submitted by Kate M on Tue, 02/12/2019 - 12:00am

It's hard to believe it, but it is already time to start making summer plans for your little ones, and one thing every kid looks forward to in the summer is going to camp! Summer camp is a chance for kids to have fun while learning new skills and making memories with new friends. From overnight camps, outdoor camps, science camps, dance camps, arts camps, and music and theater camps, Houston has so many different types of summer camps, including the following camps that won't break the budget.

To find a summer camp that your little one and your wallet will love, check out this list of inexpensive or cheaper camps that we've rounded up, all of which cost around $100 - $150. Also, keep in mind that many camps offer early bird (get on it now!), multi-week, and sibling discounts, as well as discounts for members, and some even offer scholarships. And for more summer and vacation camp ideas, check out our comprehensive camp guide and full directory of camp listings.

Perfect Day Camps for Preschoolers to Try This Summer

Submitted by Ashley Jones on Sun, 02/10/2019 - 8:00am

Finding ways to fill long summer days with fun and enriching activities for kids can be a challenge. This is especially true for preschoolers, many of whom seem to have boundless energy and want to constantly be entertained. Day camps can help get kids out of the house and provide a variety of engaging events to participate in. Whether your little one is into exploring the outdoors, experimenting, or creating, Houston has a variety of day camp options. Read on for a selection of day camps that are specifically designed for preschoolers.

For more summer and vacation camp ideas, check out our comprehensive Houston Summer Camp Guide or full directory of camp listings to search by age, interest, or area.

Best Spots Around Houston for Hosting a Birthday Party on a Budget

Submitted by Ashley Jones on Tue, 01/29/2019 - 4:46pm

Planning a fantastically fun birthday party that your child and their friends will remember for years to come can seem like a daunting task, especially when you start counting out invitations and pricing venues. Making the most of a birthday party budget means getting the best deal possible on space, food, decor, and entertainment. Luckily for Houstonians, there are several great options for planning birthday parties on a budget all over town.

Whether you prefer a more traditional party with streamers, balloons, and a bounce house, or want to go for a more unique experience like a museum tour, we've got you covered. Read on for our suggestions on where to go and what to do when you want to make the most of a birthday party budget, and consult our Birthday Party Guide for more ideas.

February GoList: Best Things to do with Houston Kids This Month

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Sun, 01/27/2019 - 6:49pm

It seems Houston's few days of winter have passed, and that's the way we like it, but in case you need ideas for indoor activities on the random chilly days we will likely face - trampoline parks, rock climbing gyms, or a fun indoor playground are always good options. We've also come up with a list of eight museums you've probably never heard of to take the kids to.

And if you're the planning type, you may have started thinking about summer plans, like what in the world you're going to do to keep your kids busy all day. Check out our summer and vacation camp guide for ideas on things they can do out of the house. Read on for the best things to do with the kids this month.

Best Indoor Play Spaces for Babies & Toddlers Around Houston

Submitted by Rachael Cherry on Fri, 01/18/2019 - 5:49pm

All moms of toddlers can probably agree that their mini humans are full of an overwhelming amount of extra energy. It's incredible to me (and, quite frankly, exhausting) to see just how fast my own toddler can run circles around the house no matter what time of a day it is. For this reason, we have a running list of favorite outdoor parks, playgrounds and splash pads to head to when his energy levels are at an all-time high and we need to get out of the house. But on those days when the weather isn't cooperating or we just need a change of scenery, Houston is home to great indoor play spaces that serve the same purpose. As an added bonus, many of these places also have areas for babies to "play" and learn, which is the perfect combination for my almost 3-year-old and almost 3-month-old.

15 Science Summer Camps for Houston Kids

Submitted by Rachael Cherry on Tue, 01/15/2019 - 10:44am

While the long, lazy days of summer are met with excitement and anticipation as the school year draws to a close, after a couple weeks of no plans or structure you probably start hearing your kids utter the infamous, "I'm bored!" with increasing frequency. Worse yet, you may find that to quell that inevitable boredom, they've started conducting their own experiments around the house. Encourage that inventive, curious nature without compromising the state of your house by signing your kids up for a science-themed summer camp.

Below you'll find a plethora of camps around Houston that encourage children to think outside the box, foster a love of the sciences and keep boredom at bay, all while presenting educational information in an entertaining way. And for more summer and vacation camp ideas, check out our comprehensive camp guide and full directory of camp listings.

Days and Times for FREE Admission to Houston's Museums

Submitted by Frances Broussa... on Sun, 01/06/2019 - 6:53pm

For tourists and locals alike, Houston provides a culturally diverse selection of museums, art centers, and gardens. However, many individuals may not know that these locales are completely free or offer free admission on certain days and times. Keep this list nearby when planning your next visit.

January GoList: Best Things to Do With Houston Kids This Month

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Fri, 12/28/2018 - 10:34pm

It's a new year, so start it off right by getting out at one of these fun events around Houston. Who knows if we will actually get a winter this year, but just in case you need ideas for fun indoor activities, check out an area trampoline park, rock climbing gym, or even an escape room if your kids are old enough.

And while Christmas is technically over, many holiday festivals are still up and running through the first few weeks of January, so you can still check out the beautiful holiday lights at Zoo Lights, Festival of Lights in Moody Gardens, Sugar Land's Holiday Lights, and Magical Winter Lights for a little while longer. Read on for the best things to do around Houston in January with the kids.