Houston Toy Museum in The Heights. Photo by Nan Ross

Hidden Gem Museums in Houston

1. Houston Toy Museum — The Heights

Explore toys from different eras at this fun museum housed in a two-story 1940s building in The Heights. Although the toy museum collection is behind glass, kids can play in a ball pit and with many toys and puzzles, including a vintage Nintendo gaming system. Show your kids what you liked to play with as a child! There’s also a gift store so you can find fun toys to play with at home.

Check out the Best Things to Do in The Houston Heights with Kids while you're there.

2. Children’s Museum Secret Spy Game — Museum District 

Everyone knows Houston’s amazing Children’s Museum, but the Secret Spy Game is a hidden gem inside it. This escape-room-like activity takes you around the museum on one of six missions to access hidden clues, solve puzzles, and take on mental and physical challenges. Purchase the cool mission gear package for $15. Subsequent missions cost $10. You can even book a secret agent birthday party!

3. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft — Museum District

This museum introduces visitors of all ages to contemporary craft through displays and events. On select weekends, they have free activities kids love, such as paper-marbling or making sculptures that balance. They also run paid workshops for older kids, such as creating glass ornaments and suncatchers.

Hidden Gem Parks in Houston

4. Smither Park — Third Ward/East End

The same people who manage Houston’s Beer Can House – another unique attraction – run Smither Park. The park is a riot of mosaics and has some huge bench swings. On Saturdays, you can join artists working on their mosaic art creations. On the first Sunday of the month, from 1 – 5 pm there is free live music, crafting activities and artisan vendors.

5. Pumpkin Park — River Oaks

Officially called River Oaks Park but affectionately known as Pumpkin Park, this fully fenced playground has areas for younger and older kids. The pumpkin carriage is a must-visit for all budding Cinderellas! In the rest of the park, there is also a trail, room to run around, and basketball and volleyball courts.

6. Fire Truck Park — Southside Place

Toddlers will love playing firefighters at this adorable park in Southside Place. There’s also a mini slide and small climbing obstacles. It’s one of many great parks on our list of Best Houston Playgrounds and Parks for Toddlers. 

 
Sam Houston Boat Tour in the Houston Ship Channel. Photo by Roy Luck, via Flickr CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Hidden Gem Activities in Houston

7. Slick City Action Park — Katy

When the outdoor parks get too hot, head inside to Slick City Action Park in Katy. Kids will love the drops and speed as they whizz down the Megalaunch, race on the Fast Lane or clamber in the Junior Jungle, a multi-level playground for kids under 45 inches tall.

8. Showboat Drive-in Theater — Hockley 

Enjoy a family evening out at this large drive-in, which has two screens showing popular movies. You can watch from the comfort of your car or bring lawn chairs, and you can even bring your dog! Concessions are available for purchase.

9. U.S. Golf & Games — Southbelt/Ellington 

This family-fun center offers classic fun, including mini golf, batting cages, arcades, and a covered go-kart track. They’re open every day, so you and your kids can get out whenever you like and enjoy the wide range of attractions.

10. Sam Houston Boat Tour — Port of Houston

Get out on the water on the Sam Houston Boat Tour - one of many Free Fun Things To Do in Houston With Kids. This 90-minute tour on a beautiful 1950s boat explores the industry and sights along Houston Ship Canal and includes a free drink. Reservations are on a first-come basis, so this trip needs to be planned in advance.

All photos by Jessica Stautberg unless otherwise indicated.