Explore Flights to and from Houston | Houston Airports
Houston airports connect travelers to top destinations across the U.S. and around the world. Whether you're booking flights to Houston for a trip to the Space Center, Houston Zoo, or world-class museums—or flying out for business or vacation—George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and HOU (William P. Hobby Airport) make travel easy. Search for flight deals, learn about airline routes, or discover where you can grab a coffee before takeoff. Your journey starts at here.
5 Houston Area Attractions for Families
How to Enjoy the City of Houston, Texas with Kids
Planning a family getaway or stopover in Houston, Texas? Whether you're visiting for a weekend or adding a little fun to your business travel, Houston is full of exciting, enriching, and family friendly attractions. With interactive museums, wildlife encounters, outdoor green spaces, and waterfront fun, the Houston area offers something for every age and interest. Here are five of the best Houston family activities that will help you explore the city and make the most of your time in Houston with kids.
1. Space Center Houston
Explore the wonders of space, right here on Earth
If you're traveling to Houston with kids, Space Center Houston is a must-visit. As the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, it offers a fascinating look into space exploration through interactive exhibits, real spacecraft, and historical artifacts. Families can take the NASA Tram Tour to see the working space campus, marvel at the massive Saturn V rocket in Rocket Park, and learn how astronauts live and work in space. Families can easily spend several hours here. There are play areas for younger children, engaging science experiments, and rotating exhibits that keep the experience fresh. Be sure to catch one of the live science shows, and don’t miss the gift shop for space-themed souvenirs. With both indoor and outdoor features, it’s a great destination rain or shine. Located southeast of downtown, Space Center Houston is a quick drive from both Houston airports.
2. Houston Zoo
A wild adventure for animal lovers of all ages
Located in the heart of Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo offers an up-close look at over 6,000 animals from around the world. It’s one of the most popular Houston attractions for families, with exhibits that include elephants, gorillas, sea lions, giraffes, and more. The zoo is well-shaded and walkable, making it ideal for families with strollers or younger children. In addition to animal exhibits, the zoo features a children’s zoo area with a petting barn, a water play park (perfect for cooling off during summer months), and fun educational experiences like zookeeper chats and wildlife presentations. Make time for a family picnic at nearby McGovern Lake or hop on the Hermann Park train for an extra dose of fun. Easily accessible from downtown, the zoo is centrally located for anyone looking to enjoy top Houston attractions.
3. Downtown Aquarium
Dive into fun in the heart of the city
The Downtown Aquarium blends aquatic discovery with family entertainment. This unique destination features a 500,000-gallon tank system filled with sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish from across the globe. Guests can explore themed exhibits like the Louisiana Swamp, the Rainforest, and the Shipwreck, each filled with fascinating sea creatures. Beyond the exhibits, the aquarium offers outdoor amusement rides including a carousel and a 100-foot Ferris wheel with views of the Houston skyline. Kids will love the Shark Voyage train ride, which takes you through a tunnel surrounded by live sharks. Plan to enjoy a meal at the full-service restaurant where you can dine next to a massive aquarium filled with tropical fish, making it a memorable mealtime experience. Located in downtown Houston, the aquarium is ideal for families staying nearby or looking for an afternoon adventure.
4. Kemah Boardwalk
Classic family fun on the Texas coast
Just a short drive from the city, the Kemah Boardwalk offers a vibrant mix of amusement rides, games, shops, and waterfront dining. It’s a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors and soak in the charm of Galveston Bay. The area has a festive, carnival-like atmosphere with something happening almost every weekend—from live music to festivals. Families can ride the Ferris wheel, drop tower, or classic wooden roller coaster, then cool off with ice cream or a breezy stroll along the boardwalk. The kids will love the arcade and mini train, while parents can relax with fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Sunset views over the water make this an especially magical stop in the evening. A favorite for both locals and visitors, especially those seeking family friendly fun near the water.
5. Discovery Green
An urban park designed with families in mind
Located in downtown Houston, Discovery Green is a 12-acre park that offers plenty of room for kids to run and explore. With its interactive water fountains, playgrounds, wide-open green spaces, and family events, it’s a natural gathering spot for both visitors and locals. It’s also just steps away from many downtown attractions, making it an easy addition to your family’s itinerary.
Depending on the season, you might catch an outdoor movie night, children’s concert, art installation, or even a free yoga class. Kids can splash in the Gateway Fountain, explore the playground, or grab a bite from one of the on-site cafes. It’s the perfect place to unwind between city stops or to enjoy a low-key afternoon in the fresh air. Centrally located and easily walkable from other major Houston attractions.
Make the Most of Your Family Trip with Houston Airports
When you travel to Houston, arriving through George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) gives your family easy access to all of these unforgettable destinations. Whether you're planning a full vacation or adding some fun to a business trip, Houston family activities are just a short drive away.
From space exploration to wild animals, sea life to amusement rides, and green parks to waterfront fun, Houston with kids is a journey full of adventure. Let Houston Airports be your starting point for family-friendly fun in the Houston area, where every trip becomes a memory worth making.
Weekend Getaway from HOU to Atlanta:
Where to Stay, What to Do, When to Go
Looking for a quick escape from Texas? A weekend getaway to Atlanta, Georgia is just a short flight away. With flights from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Atlanta taking under two hours, you can easily immerse yourself in a city full of history, culture and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Houston to Atlanta or prefer to fly direct from HOU to Atlanta, Houston Airports makes it convenient to reach the heart of this vibrant destination.
Where to Stay: Exploring Atlanta’s Neighborhoods
Atlanta is a city of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character and charm, making it easy to find the perfect spot to match your travel style.
For first-time visitors, Midtown is a popular choice. Known as Atlanta’s cultural hub, this neighborhood is walkable and filled with attractions like the High Museum of Art, the Fox Theatre, and Piedmont Park. It’s a great option if you want to balance sightseeing with dining and nightlife.
Downtown Atlanta puts you at the center of the action, with close proximity to many of the city’s top attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park. This area is perfect for travelers who want convenience and easy access to places to visit in Atlanta without needing a car.
If you’re drawn to a trendier, more laid-back atmosphere, the Eastside neighborhoods are a great fit. Inman Park combines historic Victorian homes with some of the city’s best restaurants, while Little Five Points is known for its alternative vibe, funky shops, and local music scene. Both areas are excellent for foodies and travelers looking for a more eclectic experience.
For those who enjoy upscale shopping and fine dining, Buckhead is Atlanta’s luxury district. This area is home to high-end boutiques, designer stores, and some of the city’s best restaurants. Buckhead also offers vibrant nightlife and is well-connected to other parts of the city, making it a versatile option for a weekend getaway.
Families or travelers looking for a quieter pace may enjoy Decatur or Sandy Springs. Decatur has a small-town charm with a lively downtown square full of shops, cafes, and family-friendly activities. Sandy Springs, located just north of the city, offers a mix of outdoor recreation along the Chattahoochee River and easy access to Atlanta’s main attractions.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, you’ll find that Atlanta’s diversity is part of its appeal. Each district offers a different perspective on the city, allowing you to craft the type of experience you want, whether that’s cultural exploration, sports excitement, luxury relaxation, or a family-friendly retreat.
What to Do: Top Attractions in Atlanta
One of the best parts of booking a trip from HOU to Atlanta is the wide variety of activities and attractions the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, design, nature, or sports, Atlanta has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see spots for your weekend adventure.
Georgia Aquarium As one of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium is an unforgettable stop. Visitors can marvel at whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other marine creatures in massive, state-of-the-art exhibits. Families especially love the dolphin and sea lion shows, while hands-on touch pools let kids and adults alike interact with marine life. A visit here is more than just sightseeing, it’s an educational and awe-inspiring experience that’s easily one of the top things to do in Atlanta.
World of Coca-Cola No trip to Atlanta is complete without exploring the World of Coca-Cola, the museum dedicated to one of the most famous beverages in the world. Beyond learning the history of this iconic brand, visitors can tour interactive exhibits, view original advertisements, and even peek into the vault containing the secret formula. The highlight for many is the tasting room, where you can sample sodas from around the globe, an especially fun activity for groups or families.
Atlanta Botanical Garden For a peaceful break from the city, the Atlanta Botanical Garden offers 30 acres of stunning greenery right next to Piedmont Park. Seasonal flower displays, themed gardens, and the tropical rainforest conservatory provide plenty to explore. One of the highlights is the Canopy Walk, which gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of the trees and gardens below. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, this attraction is a refreshing way to enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) Design lovers will appreciate MODA, the only museum in the Southeast dedicated exclusively to design. Its rotating exhibitions highlight the role of design in everyday life, from fashion to architecture to technology. The museum is small but thought-provoking, making it a great stop for those who want a more cultural and intellectual activity during their weekend getaway to Atlanta. MODA’s central location also makes it easy to pair with a visit to nearby Midtown attractions.
Sports Attractions Atlanta is a sports city through and through, and visitors can find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the action. Baseball fans can catch the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park, which also features The Battery Atlanta: a lively area with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Football enthusiasts won’t want to miss Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons and one of the most architecturally stunning stadiums in the country. Basketball fans can cheer on the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena, which also doubles as one of the city’s top concert venues.
For those who prefer interactive experiences, the College Football Hall of Fame is a must. With immersive exhibits, a giant indoor football field, and memorabilia from decades of the sport’s history, it’s a destination that appeals to both die-hard fans and casual visitors. Together, these sports attractions showcase why Atlanta is one of the top places to visit in the South for anyone who loves the energy of live games and events.
When to Go: Best Times to Visit Atlanta
Atlanta is a destination you can enjoy year-round, but the best time for your Houston to Atlanta getaway often depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. Each season offers something different, from outdoor festivals to exciting sports seasons.
Spring (March – May) Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Atlanta thanks to mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. The Atlanta Botanical Garden comes alive with vibrant flowers, and Piedmont Park is the perfect spot for a picnic or afternoon stroll. Spring also brings popular events like the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and the Atlanta Jazz Festival, both of which celebrate the city’s artistic culture. If you’re looking to spend plenty of time outdoors, spring is an excellent choice.
Summer (June – August) Summers in Atlanta can be hot and humid, but the city is buzzing with activity. Families will love exploring the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and other indoor attractions during the warmer afternoons. Sports fans can catch an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park or attend concerts at State Farm Arena. Summer is also festival season, with events like Music Midtown and outdoor food festivals drawing crowds. If you don’t mind the heat, summer is a lively time to explore the city’s energy.
Fall (September – November) Fall is another favorite time to visit, offering comfortable weather, colorful foliage, and plenty of sports excitement. Football season kicks off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium where the Atlanta Falcons play. Fall festivals, including Taste of Atlanta, highlight the city’s incredible food scene, while cooler evenings make strolling through neighborhoods like Inman Park or Buckhead especially enjoyable.
Winter (December – February) Winters in Atlanta are generally mild compared to other parts of the country, making it a great option for travelers looking to escape colder climates. Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and MODA remain open year-round, and you’ll often find cheap flights from HOU to Atlanta during this season. Holiday events, such as the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, add a festive touch. While it’s the city’s quietest tourism season, winter can be ideal if you prefer fewer crowds and lower travel costs.
Book Your Flight from HOU to Atlanta Today
Ready to experience everything Atlanta has to offer? From world-class attractions to vibrant neighborhoods, this Southern gem is just a short flight away. Houston Airports makes it easy to plan your weekend escape with direct service and convenient scheduling.
Whether you’re booking early for the best deals on cheap flights from Houston to Atlanta or looking to fly direct from HOU to Atlanta for a quick getaway, your adventure begins here. Visit Houston Airports to explore your flight options and start planning your Atlanta getaway today.
Destination: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Embarking on a journey from Houston to Vancouver promises a gateway to lush landscapes, innovative culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're scoping out cheap flights from Houston to Vancouver or need info on direct flights from Houston to Vancouver, this travel guide has you covered, right from taking off in Houston to exploring all that beautiful British Columbia has to offer.
Getting There: Flights from Houston to Vancouver
Travelers enjoy both value and convenience:
- Cheap flights from Houston to Vancouver are available by booking in advance or being flexible with dates, especially midweek or during shoulder season.
- Nonstop flights from Houston to Vancouver offer ease, reducing travel time and stress. Keep an eye on Houston Airports’ flight schedules for current options.
This direct-route convenience makes travel from Houston to Vancouver seamless and appealing with flights under 6 hours! Say goodbye to hot and sunny Texas and hello to lush, cool British Columbia.
Climate Contrast: Houston vs. Vancouver
Houston at a Glance
Houston delivers hot, humid summers and mild winters. It averages around 204 sunny days per year, with 53 inches of annual rainfall, and virtually no snow in most years.
Vancouver Highlights
In contrast, Vancouver has a temperate oceanic climate, meaning mild, dry summers and wet, cloudy winters, thanks to the moderating influence of the Alaska Current. Rainfall primarily falls between October and March.
So if you're used to Houston's heat and sun, Vancouver offers a refreshing change, especially great for outdoor adventures with less heat and more greenery.
Top Things to Do in Vancouver
1. Stanley Park & Seawall
Stanley Park is often ranked as one of the world’s greatest urban parks, and it’s easy to see why. The 1,000-acre green space is surrounded by Vancouver’s famous Seawall, a 17-mile paved path perfect for cycling, rollerblading, or simply strolling with ocean views. Inside the park, you’ll find lush forest trails, gardens, and wildlife. Families love the Stanley Park Railway, a miniature train that offers seasonal rides, while Beaver Lake and Lost Lagoon provide peaceful escapes for birdwatching. Don’t miss the Vancouver Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species and a leader in ocean conservation.
2. Granville Island
Once an industrial hub, Granville Island has transformed into a lively cultural district that blends art, food, and entertainment. At its heart is the Granville Island Public Market, where you can sample everything from fresh seafood to handmade pastries. The area is also packed with theaters, art galleries, and boutique shops selling artisan crafts. Street performers and musicians often create a festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit for families and couples alike. Pro tip: take an aqua bus ferry from downtown for a fun and scenic way to arrive.
3. Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain
A short drive from downtown, the Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 450 feet across and 230 feet above the Capilano River, offering breathtaking rainforest views. The park also features treetop walkways and cliffside adventures that bring you closer to the West Coast’s natural beauty. Just beyond is Grouse Mountain, known as the “Peak of Vancouver.” In summer, visitors can hike trails like the challenging Grouse Grind, while winter brings skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing just 30 minutes from the city center. Year-round, the gondola ride to the summit offers panoramic views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
4. Neighborhoods: Gastown, Yaletown, Kitsilano
Vancouver’s neighborhoods each have their own personality. Gastown, the city’s oldest district, is known for its cobblestone streets, independent shops, and the iconic Steam Clock, which draws crowds every hour. Yaletown offers a sleek, modern vibe with stylish boutiques, trendy restaurants, and waterfront paths perfect for evening walks. Meanwhile, Kitsilano (or “Kits” to locals) is laid-back and beachy, home to Kitsilano Beach and Kitsilano Pool, Canada’s largest saltwater pool. Each neighborhood offers a different way to experience the city’s lifestyle, from historic charm to chic urban living.
5. Culture & Art
Vancouver is rich in culture, with a strong emphasis on Indigenous heritage and contemporary art. Visitors can take a guided tour with Talaysay Tours in Stanley Park to learn about local First Nations traditions and the meaning behind the totem poles. The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia houses an impressive collection of Indigenous art and cultural artifacts. Downtown, the Vancouver Art Gallery features works from Canadian artists like Emily Carr as well as international exhibitions, making it a cultural hub in the heart of the city.
6. Food & Night Markets
As one of North America’s most diverse cities, Vancouver is a foodie’s paradise. From world-class seafood to authentic Asian cuisine, the dining options are endless. The city is often called the “sushi capital of North America”, thanks to its high-quality, affordable Japanese restaurants. For a lively experience, head to the Richmond Night Market, one of the largest in North America, where you’ll find endless food stalls, games, and live entertainment. Farm-to-table dining is also big in Vancouver, with local chefs highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.
7. Waterfront & Outdoor Exploration
Vancouver’s stunning waterfront setting makes outdoor adventures easy. Take a Harbour Air seaplane tour for a bird’s-eye view of the city, or paddle a kayak in Deep Cove, a peaceful inlet perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Just outside the city, Lynn Canyon Park offers suspension bridges and rainforest trails, while Pacific Spirit Regional Park near UBC provides miles of serene walking paths. Whether by land, sea, or air, Vancouver is best experienced outdoors.
Seasonal Highlights: The Best Times to Visit Vancouver
Vancouver is a city that shines year-round, but each season offers a unique flavor for travelers from Houston:
- Spring (March – May): The city comes alive with cherry blossoms and tulip festivals, making it one of the most picturesque times to visit. Mild temperatures are perfect for exploring Stanley Park’s trails or enjoying patio dining along the waterfront.
- Summer (June – August): Warm, dry weather and long daylight hours make summer ideal for outdoor adventures. Popular activities include hiking Grouse Grind, kayaking in English Bay, or relaxing at Kitsilano Beach. Summer also brings vibrant events like the Celebration of Light Fireworks Festival and lively night markets.
- Fall (September – November): Crisp air and colorful foliage create a stunning backdrop in places like Queen Elizabeth Park. This is a fantastic season for foodies, with harvest-inspired menus and wine events across the city. Crowds thin out compared to summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
- Winter (December – February): While Houston stays mild, Vancouver’s nearby mountains become winter wonderlands. Just 30 minutes from downtown, you can ski, snowboard, or snowshoe on Grouse Mountain, Cypress, or Mount Seymour. In the city, enjoy festive lights, holiday markets, and cozy cafés.
No matter when you go, Vancouver offers a refreshing climate contrast to Houston’s warmth and humidity—making it a versatile destination for every kind of traveler.
Travel Tips for Flying Internationally: Houston to Vancouver
Passport & Real ID
- For international flights to Canada, a passport is mandatory.
- Within the U.S., as of May 7, 2025, the TSA requires a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license for airport security. If your current license isn’t REAL ID–compliant, bring your passport to avoid delays.
TSA PreCheck Enrollment
- Considering convenience? Enroll in TSA PreCheck®, just remember, starting May 1, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or other acceptable ID like a passport to complete your enrollment.
- To get started, find an enrollment center using TSA’s tool by zip code TSA.
Packing & Customs
- Pack respecting U.S. airline liquid rules.
- Declare any food or regulated items when entering Canada. Review the Canada Border Services Agency guidelines ahead of time.
Final Thoughts: Travel from Houston to Vancouver
Whether you’re seeking cheap flights from Houston to Vancouver or prioritizing the ease of direct flights from Houston to Vancouver, prepare for a change of scenery, literally. From Houston’s heat to Vancouver’s cool, moist elegance, the contrast is invigorating.
With its year-round appeal, the best time to travel from Houston to Vancouver depends on your interests: spring blossoms, summer festivals, fall foliage, or winter ski trips just outside the city. No matter the season, you’ll find new reasons to love this vibrant destination.
Once you land, Vancouver beckons with forested parks, cultural neighborhoods, coastal beaches, and exceptional dining. Be sure to pack layers, carry your passport, and have a REAL ID if you plan to breeze through TSA.
Enjoy your journey, and welcome to the fresh, dynamic spirit of Vancouver, BC!