Rated the #1 children’s museum in the United States by Parents magazine, Children’s Museum Houston is a world-class family destination offering 90,000 square feet of interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. Located in Houston’s Museum District, this innovative nonprofit museum has been transforming communities through child-centered education since 1980.
Interactive Exhibits and Galleries
The museum features 14 interactive galleries designed specifically for children from birth to age 12, all presented in both English and Spanish. Popular exhibits include FlowWorks, an outdoor water exhibit where kids can explore the forces and properties of water; EcoStation, featuring indoor and outdoor nature areas with a pond and woodland; and Kidtropolis USA, where children run their own city, stores, and government.
The Inventor’s Workshop encourages hands-on creativity and problem-solving, while PowerPlay challenges kids with a 40-foot Power Tower climbing structure and fitness activities. Younger visitors (ages 0-35 months) have their own dedicated Tot*Spot play area with age-appropriate toys and padded play structures.
STEM Learning and Special Programs
The museum excels at making STEM education fun and accessible. Kids can conduct experiments in the Power Science Lab, use 3D printers and laser cutters in the Maker Annex, and crack codes as undercover agents in the SECRET Spy Game. The How Does It Work? exhibit lets children engineer roller coasters and explore scientific concepts through interactive experiences.
Visitor Information
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm (until 8pm on Thursdays), and Sundays from 12pm to 6pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Every Thursday from 5-8pm offers free admission for everyone during Family Night. To enter the museum, your group must include a child age 12 or under.
Plan to spend 4-6 hours to fully experience all the exhibits. The facility includes Fresh Café for dining and Fiddle Sticks gift shop. Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Robert Venturi, this whimsical building houses one of the most beloved family attractions in Houston.
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