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Top Things to Do in Houston with Kids Over Christmas Vacation 2024

​1. Neighborhood Holiday Lights

Check out all the Best Neighborhood Christmas Lights in Houston. From River Oaks to Pecan Grove, some Houston neighborhoods go big on holiday decorations.

2. Christmas Light Shows

From drive-thru lights like The Light Park in Katy to immersive holiday events like Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston, check out the Best Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows in Houston.

3. Radiant Nature

Houston Botanic Garden's "Radiant Nature" is back this year. It transforms the Gardens into an illuminated wonderland featuring dozens of Chinese lantern installations after dark.

RELATED: Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for Houston Families

Head to Houston's only outdoor rink at Discovery Green. Photo courtesy of Discovery Green

4. Ice Skating

One of our favorite ice skating rinks during the holidays is the outdoor rink Ice at Discovery Green, and they even have days you can skate with Santa. There are also many other fun outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks in the Houston area.

5. Indoor Playspaces

Let your kids get the wiggles out at one of the Top Indoor Playgrounds in Houston, like The Play Space in Webster or Wonderwild in The Heights.

6. Slick City

Check out Slick City Katy, an indoor waterless slide park at Katy Mills Mall.

7. Local Museums

Visit one of our many great local museums, and don't forget to check for Free Museums and Free Museum Days in Houston.

8. Immersive Illusions

Head to one of Houston’s newest immersive experiences at the Museum of Illusion Houston and prepare to have your mind blown.

9. Bowling

Try out one of the many Kid-Friendly Bowling Alleys in Houston, like Palace Social, which blends classic bowling with arcade fun. 

10. Arcades

Visit one of our favorite arcades, Cidercade. It’s family-friendly until 9pm and only $12 to play all day.

11. Easy Hikes

Getting outdoors at State Parks Near Houston and Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in Houston are a great way to exercise as a family. 

12. Parks and Playgrounds

The amazing new The Commons at Hermann Park is a must-visit, and check out other places to explore outdoors from our Guide to Playgrounds and Parks in Houston. 

13. Zoo

Head to the Houston Zoo or check out The Best Petting Zoos Near Houston to get up close and personal with farm animals.

14. Sloomoo Insitute 

Sloomoo Institute has a location in Houston, where you can play with slime, make your own, and even get slimed.

15. Day Trips

Get out of Houston for the day with an easy day trip to a neighboring town, like the beaches in Galveston or Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham.

16. Tourist Attractions

Take the kids and out-of-town guests to some of the Top Tourist Attractions in Houston for Kids and Families.