Finding ways to entertain your toddler can feel complicated, but when you live somewhere as awesome as Houston, it’s not as much of a challenge as you may think! Even if you’re just visiting the area, there are plenty of amazing things to enjoy together as a family. If you’re looking for a little inspiration, here are some of my favorite things to do in Houston with toddlers!
Photos on this blog have all been taken by Amato Photography
6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030
Few things will leave toddlers in awe of our planet more than a trip to the Houston Zoo. The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals, all of whom receive the highest standard of animal care from amazing zookeepers, veterinarians, and other passionate staff. You and your little ones can enjoy a variety of world-class exhibits showcasing mammals, reptiles, birds, insects, and amphibians from all over the world! You can see animals like elephants, chimpanzees, cheetahs, African lions, orangutans, rhinos, gorillas, and so many more. Be sure to try feeding the giraffes while you’re there, and take a ride on the Wildlife Carousel for a little extra entertainment!
7401 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024
Houston First Baptist Church on the Loop has a free indoor play land (think fun tunnels, slides, etc.) that you can go to for free! You park and enter into the rec center. Be sure to check into the hours online so that you go at a time that it is open! The area is new, safe, clean, and so fun!!
1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004
Children’s Museum Houston has just been recognized as the 2024 America’s Can’t Miss Children’s Museum by Good Housekeeping for the second year in a row! Their meaningful, engaging, and impactful Houston exhibits have all been thoughtfully designed to encourage toddlers’ exploration and discovery through play. Their Toddler Trail map guides families with toddlers through the museum in a helpful and intentional way, allowing them to explore exhibits in age-appropriate ways. Visitors with little ones ages 0 – 2 will love the Tot*Spot, an infant/toddler-friendly space to “foster your child’s brain development through discovery, sensory exploration, experimentation, social communication, problem-solving, and imaginative play.”
5555 Hermann Park Dr Houston, TX 77030
Oh man. Talk about an incredible experience! I feel like this option is great for many ages as it is stimulating and engaging for all children, just in different ways. I personally love the butterfly exhibit and love that it is less crowded to visit on weekdays.
1601 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058
If you know toddlers obsessed with outer space, look no further than the Space Center Houston. Visitors from around the world come to explore this incredible space exploration learning center. It’s home to over 400 space artifacts, exhibits, experiences, and theaters designed to engage, educate, and entertain adults and children alike. You can see space suits up close and tour a replica of the Independence, a real space shuttle! Explore the International Space Station from down here on Earth, learn about NASA’s next trip to the moon, and take a tram that will give you a sneak peek at Mission Control and astronaut training facilities!
Public libraries are amazing and FREE. If you look into a specific location near you, you’ll be happy to find that there are several that offer story times and interactive activities. After or before story time, your child can explore the different activities set up. Houston Public Library specifically hosts read alongs, STEM time, lego days, coding, and so much more. Keep up with the events, put it on your calendar, and venture out!
767 N Shepherd Dr #400, Houston, TX 77007
Sometimes, Houston toddlers just need to burn off some energy! Wonderwild is an indoor play zone in Houston that provides a safe environment for imagination, play, and exploration. Part of their facility is designed just for kids 6 and under. It’s home to action pedal cars, indoor jumping and bounce houses, slides, and multi-story playscapes. There is so much to climb and explore, bounce, and jump on at Wonderwild! Little ones can safely step outside of their comfort zone, knowing they are in a safe space designed just for them. Keep in mind, too, that Wonderwild is a great place for fun and unique birthday parties!
You’re probably thinking, duuuuuuuuh, Hannah. We want something different. Well, parks are FREE and Houston has SO many of them. Here are some options that you may enjoy trying out! One amazing option is Terry Hershey which has several children’s parks at the entrance of each one. This park is SO huge that you most likely live by one of the entrances. : ) Another absolute FAVORITE of mine is the newly built nature play area at the Houston Arboretum. This park is amazing as it gives children the opportunity to explore, climb, run, but in a safe way. I host photography sessions here and 9/10 times the families end up playing at this park because of how cool it is! Kids LOVE IT! Bonus: Parking is free on Thursdays during the day!!
These things to do in Houston with toddlers should keep you busy and let you make some amazing new memories with your little ones. Check them out and see for yourself some of the best ways you can explore Houston with your family!
While you’re looking for more ways to make this stage unforgettable, I would love to connect! I’m a Houston motherhood photographer and I love working with local parents to make sure they can have gorgeous memories of this stage. If you’ve been thinking about booking some pictures with your crew, let’s have a conversation so you can plan your next photos. Contact me today so we can chat!
Show more
Read about some of our favorite resources and small businesses in and around Houston to support you and the season that you are in!
Great article! I really appreciate the clear and detailed insights you’ve provided on this topic. It’s always refreshing to read content that breaks things down so well, making it easy for readers to grasp even complex ideas. I also found the practical tips you’ve shared to be very helpful. Looking forward to more informative posts like this! Keep up the good work!