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.