14 Things to Do in Houston Before School Starts

Summer is quickly drawing to a close, so it's time to squeeze in as much seasonal fun as possible before school starts. Most of these events and activities won't be available in the fall, so make sure to add them to your summer bucket list now! From weekend getaways to museum visits, read on for some fun ideas of things to do in Houston before school starts. 

Want even more things to do in Houston this summer? Then be sure to check out our summer fun guide for Houston kids.

1. Mindworks at The Health Museum

MindWorks brings ideas like decision-making, memory, and emotions to life through playful, interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to step into their minds and explore how they think, feel, and react in a playful and exciting new way. The exhibit is on loan, so catch it before it's gone at the end of September.

 
Family movie night photo courtesy of Levy Park

2. Free Outdoor Movies

Enjoy your favorite flicks on an outdoor big screen this summer, and make sure not to forget your picnic blanket and chairs.

3. Family Sundays with the Houston Astros

Family Sundays offer a little extra incentive for spending the day at the ballpark cheering on our Houston Astros. Packages include four tickets to the home game, four hot dogs, and four sodas, plus an afternoon of baseball family fun!

4. Summer Escape at The Children's Museum Houston

With interactive exhibits, engaging activities, and hands-on learning opportunities, Summer Escape at The Children's Museum Houston is a great way to let kids unleash creativity and curiosity all summer long.

5. Splash into Summer Fun at a Splash Pad

With nearly 30 FREE splash pads making our favorites list around Houston, there is no shortage of spray parks to run, jump, and cool off at before summer's end.

6. Summer Break at MFAH

Head to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston every Thursday during June and July to create fun summer memories and join teaching artists to experiment with new materials, tools, and processes to create art. Coloring sheets, colored pencils, and knowledgeable educators help spark discovery about the world of art at this free event.

 
The Commons Water Features. Photo Courtesy of Johnny Than Photography

7. The Commons at Hermann Park

Hermann Park recently completed major renovations, the centerpiece being two acres of playground and play gardens complete with a splash pad, carousel, and a 45-foot-tall rocket ship. It's a must-visit for every Houston kid.

8. Park after Dark at Discovery Green

Beat the heat this summer at Discovery Green during Park After Dark every Thursday evening through August 8th. Enjoy lawn games, the Gateway Fountains, music, food trucks, vendors, and special park lighting.

9. Disney's The Lion King The Musical

Experience the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular with performances at the Hobby Center until August 4th.

 
AIA Sandcastle Competition, East Beach. Photo courtesy of Visit Galveston

10. Day Trip to Galveston

Nothing feels like summer more than a day at the beach. Head to Galveston for summer fun and make sure to check out our favorite beach in Galveston for families. 

11. Visit one of Houston's Museums

While the kids are out of school, it's a great time to check out a new Museum, especially ones that are free or at Museums that offer free admission days.

12. Getaway for the Weekend

The summer is a perfect time for a long weekend getaway. Escape to a swimming hole in the hill country or explore a nearby city like San Antonio.

13. Spend the day at a Theme Park or Water Park

Kids and adults alike can have fun at a theme park or water park, and our Houston Theme Park and Water Park Guide has the best places to go with teens, school-age kids, and even toddlers and preschoolers.

14. Take a Dip in a Pool

Whether you're looking to book a day pass to one of Houston's fancy resort pools or explore the tons of free local swimming pools around greater Houston, you can't find a better way to beat the heat than with a nice dunk in a pool. Set out to splash and, in some cases, slide into a refreshing pool and make those fleeting summer moments count.