14 Free Family-Friendly Things To Do In Houston
By: The Kid’s Directory Family Resource Guide – Houston
May 2023. Last Updated March 2025 on www.kids-houston.com
14 Free Family Friendly Things To Do!
The Kid’s Directory knows how important it is to spend time with family, so we found 14 free family friendly things to do in Houston. You can spend the day in the park with a picnic lunch, enjoy outdoor performances, visit museums, explore the outdoors full of activities & adventures and so much more.
We hope you will enjoy our list of the 14 free family friendly things to do as much as we do!
14 free family friendly things to do
1. Houston Museum of Natural Science:
On Thursdays from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, general admission to the permanent exhibit halls is free for everyone.
14 free family friendly things to do
2. Houston Museum of Fine Arts:
General admission to the museum’s permanent collection is free every day. They also offer free family programs and activities.
14 free family friendly things to do
3. Miller Outdoor Theatre:
Enjoy free performances of music, dance, theater, and movies at this outdoor venue located in Hermann Park. Check their schedule for family-friendly events.
14 free family friendly things to do
4. Houston Public Library:
Visit any branch of the Houston Public Library system for free access to books, educational programs, story times, and other family-friendly events.
14 free family friendly things to do
5. Discovery Green:
This urban park in downtown Houston offers free events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, movie screenings, and interactive installations.
14 free family friendly things to do
6. Buffalo Bayou Park:
Explore this beautiful park with walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. Enjoy scenic views and free access to nature.
14 free family friendly things to do
7. Houston Arboretum and Nature Center:
Admission to the nature center and trails is free. Families can go on self-guided nature walks, attend educational programs, and explore the diverse ecosystems.
14 free family friendly things to do
8. Hermann Park:
Discover the Japanese Garden, pedal boats, a miniature train, and the McGovern Centennial Gardens—all for free. You can also bring your own picnic and enjoy a day in the park.
14 free family friendly things to do
9. Menil Collection:
This art museum offers free admission to its collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol.
14 free family friendly things to do
10. Waugh Bridge Bat Colony:
Witness the spectacle of thousands of bats emerging from under the Waugh Drive Bridge at dusk. It’s a fascinating and educational experience for children. Not only did Waugh Bridge Bat Colony make our 14 free family friendly things to do list, but it is batastic!
14 free family friendly things to do
11. Levy Park:
This urban park offers a playground, splash pad, picnic areas, and free events and activities throughout the year, including concerts and yoga classes.
14 free family friendly things to do
12. Art Car Museum:
Admission is free at this unique museum showcasing elaborately decorated and modified vehicles. Kids will enjoy the colorful and imaginative displays.
14 free family friendly things to do
13. Waterwall Park:
Visit this iconic Houston landmark where a 64-foot semi-circular fountain creates a cascading water wall. It’s a great spot for family photos and picnics.
14 free family friendly things to do
14. Pearl Fincher Museum:
Pearl Fincher Museum in Spring has free events & different exhibits throughout the year! You can explore the beauty of art in a family friendly museum.
14 free family friendly things to do
15. San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield
San Jacinto Day takes place on the first Saturday of each month. On that day, children can enter for free when accompanied by an adult family member who purchases a ticket. In addition, there will be a hands-on, interactive program designed to be enjoyed as a family scheduled for part of the day.
14 free family friendly things to do
16. Port Houston Boat Tour
Port Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel. Come aboard for a one-of-a-kind, waterborne voyage that provides a unique and educational introduction to the Houston Ship Channel.
14 free family friendly things to do
17. Houston Police Department Museum
The Houston Police Department Museum features unique displays. Included among the displays are artifacts from the Honor Guard, SWAT, Mounted Patrol, badges, uniforms and other equipment utilized over the years.
Note: Some of the 14 free family friendly things to do attractions may have limited free access, specific free admission days/hours, registration required so it’s always a good idea to check their websites or contact them beforehand for the most up-to-date information.
14 free family friendly things to do is constantly being updated and added onto, so check back often!
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The Kid’s Directory is the one-stop family resource for Houston & surrounding areas. Providing the best schools, after-school activities, field trips, Spring & Summer Camps and activities, ABA Therapies, medical services, pediatric & family dentistry, museums, libraries, everything for birthday parties, holiday activities & events, festivals, and so much more!
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