Texas is a sprawling state with a vast number of attractions suited to children. In all of the major cities, and many of the smaller ones, families will find something to do that will appeal to their younger members. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, Texas has it all in the kid’s department.
The Dallas Zoo, covering 95 acres, is the largest zoological experience in Texas. It has been around since 1888 and offers a fun-filled day for family outings. Sections of the zoo include the Wilds of Africa, which features river, woodland, mountain and forest exhibits. Animals housed here include chimpanzees, vultures, antelope, crocodiles and meerkats. Zoo North is where cheetahs, rhinoceroses, kangaroos and giraffes can be viewed. The children’s zoo, especially for the little ones, features a place for birthday parties in addition to a petting zoo with farm animals, pony rides and a wildlife discovery house. A monorail runs throughout the zoo, easily transporting visitors to various areas.
The Dallas Zoo
650 South R L Thornton Freeway
Dallas, TX 75203
(214) 670-5656
dallaszoo.com
According to its website, the Children’s Museum of Houston is one of the top rated in the country. It contains more than 14 exhibits. These include the Secrets of Circles; FlowWorks, which describes the attributes of water; the Matter Factory, which teaches kids about nanotechnology; and TotSpot, a special play space just for toddlers. The Kid’s Café is an on-site eatery that serves everything from corn dogs to veggie burgers, a variety of sandwiches and even crab and lobster bisque. Special activities occur throughout the day, such as science displays and art lessons. Check the calendar before arriving for details. The museum also has a birthday club that requires online registration. It offers treats like balloons and frozen yogurts to kids who visit during their birthday month.
Children's Museum of Houston
1500 Binz Street
Houston, TX 77004-7112
(713) 522-1138
cmhouston.org
Volente Beach Waterpark is a children’s water park located on Lake Travis in Austin, Texas. Rides at the park include Gator’s Crossing, which challenges kids to cross a pool on wobbling green platforms with the help of a rope overhead; the Pirate Ship, which features slides and water cannons; and the Lazy Lagoon, a pool with a volleyball net stretching across it. During the summer, the water park has a camp for kids with fun activities and snacks every day of the week. Party packages for kids include a burger party, which includes cheeseburgers and drinks, a BBQ beach party, which comes with brisket and potato salad, and a traditional pizza party. All parties come with admission, food and a reserved party area.
Volente Beach Waterpark
16107 Farm to Market Road 2243
Leander, TX 78641
(512) 258-5109
volentebeach.com
