After getting off our cruise ship in Galveston, we had a late flight later that day. Instead of heading straight to the airport, we rented a car and decided to explore Houston for the day. Houston is only about an hour from Galveston, so it worked out perfectly to squeeze in a few attractions before heading home.

➡️ Here is what we did during our time in Houston.

Space Center Houston

One of the most popular attractions in the city is Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. This is a great stop for families, especially kids who are curious about space, astronauts, and science.

Visitors can expect interactive exhibits that explain how astronauts train and what life is like in space. There are real spacecraft, rockets, and astronaut suits on display. One of the most popular experiences is the NASA Tram Tour, which takes guests behind the scenes to see areas of the Johnson Space Center, including historic Mission Control and astronaut training facilities.

There are also hands on exhibits where kids can learn about space missions, rocket launches, and the science behind space exploration. It is easy to spend several hours here exploring all the exhibits.

Breakfast at Frank’s Grill

Before continuing our day of exploring, we stopped for breakfast at Frank’s Grill. Many people say this is the best breakfast in Texas. I have had better, but my son loved his pancakes and that was all that mattered to me.

The restaurant has a classic diner feel and serves traditional breakfast items like pancakes, eggs, bacon, and breakfast platters. It was a quick and easy stop before heading to our next attraction.

Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in the country and is located inside Hermann Park. The zoo is large and well organized, so it helps to grab a map when you enter.

Visitors can expect to see animals such as elephants, giraffes, lions, gorillas, reptiles, and many other species from around the world. One popular experience for kids is feeding the giraffes. There are also educational exhibits and interactive areas where children can learn about wildlife and conservation.

There are shaded walking paths and places to sit and take breaks throughout the zoo, which makes it easier when visiting with kids.

Hermann Park

Hermann Park sits right next to the Houston Zoo and is a great place for families to relax and enjoy some outdoor space. The park has large open lawns, walking paths, gardens, and a scenic lake.

One popular activity is riding the Hermann Park Railroad, a small train that takes visitors on a relaxing ride through the park. Families can also rent pedal boats on McGovern Lake or visit the Japanese Garden, which has peaceful pathways, ponds, and beautiful landscaping.

The park is a great place for kids to run around and burn off energy before continuing your day.

Autism Friendly and Sensory Friendly Things to Do in Houston

Houston offers several attractions that can work well for families traveling with autistic children or those looking for sensory friendly experiences.

Children’s Museum Houston

This museum features hands on exhibits designed for kids to explore science, creativity, and engineering through play. The museum also offers sensory friendly events on select days.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Families can explore dinosaur skeletons, a butterfly center, and interactive science exhibits. The wide galleries allow visitors to move at their own pace.

The Health Museum

An interactive museum focused on the human body, health, and medical science. It offers hands on learning experiences that can be engaging for older children

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Discovery Green

A large outdoor park in downtown Houston with open space, playground areas, and family friendly programming throughout the year.

Kemah Boardwalk

Located about 30 minutes from Houston, this waterfront destination offers rides, restaurants, and entertainment that many families enjoy.

Seismique Interactive Art Museum

An immersive art experience with colorful rooms, lights, and digital installations that many children find visually engaging.

Houston turned out to be a great place to explore for a few hours before heading to the airport after our cruise.

To see more of our adventures in action, check out my Instagram page Autism Spectrum Adventures .