Fall in Houston is the perfect time to get outside with the kids. (Slightly) cooler weather means more afternoons at the park, local farms filled with pumpkins, and plenty of family-friendly activities happening all across the Houston area. From corn mazes and hay rides to special events at the Houston Zoo and Discovery Green, there are so many fall things to do in Houston with kids that the whole family will enjoy.
When I think about fall fun in Houston, I always start with the classics. The Houston Zoo is a must-visit in the fall, with cooler weather making it the perfect time to stroll the grounds and see the animals. While the Zoo Ball 2025 on October 25 celebrates forest animals and the zoo’s leadership, I’ll keep an eye out for any Zoo Boo announcements. Either way, a trip to the zoo is always a hit with the whole family this time of year.
For days when we want air conditioning, the Children’s Museum Houston is a lifesaver. Their interactive exhibits keep kids of all ages entertained, and there’s almost always a special event or seasonal activity happening. Pair it with the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and you’ve got a full day of fun in the Museum District. If you’re looking for a perfect FREE fall activity, check out this guide on when you can visit museums all over Houston for free.
And of course, the entire family can enjoy the open green spaces at Hermann Park and Discovery Green. Between the playgrounds, splash pad, and occasional live music, they’re the perfect spots to soak in that first hint of cooler weather.
For families searching for fall events near Houston, pumpkin patches are a must. Dewberry Farm is a perfect destination with its corn maze, hay rides, petting zoo, and even pony rides. It’s one of the best places to spend a fall weekend, with enough activities to keep kids busy from morning until late afternoon.
I’ll be putting together a more in-depth guide to Houston pumpkin patches in October and will link it here once it’s live. In the meantime, don’t overlook the smaller patches hosted by local churches across the city. They’re an easy, family-friendly stop to grab the perfect pumpkin and snap a few photos without the big crowds.
Another local favorite is the Old Time Christmas Tree Farm, which hosts pumpkin picking every fall. Bring the whole family for a festive weekend without needing reservations, as the entry fee is paid at the gate. Inside, you can browse nine varieties of pumpkins, take a train or hay ride around the 75-acre farm, explore the 1-acre corn maze, or hang out with furry friends at the petting zoo. Kids can also enjoy inflatable activities, obstacle courses, and carnival-style treats in shaded picnic areas. It’s a perfect spot for family photos you’ll cherish for years, and a simple way to spend quality time together while getting a real farm experience.
There are plenty of fall festivals across the Houston area that offer family fun all season long. The Texas Renaissance Festival is known for its costumed characters, jousting tournaments, and live entertainment that appeals to the entire family. Our kids had a blast last year when we brought the wagon along and let them take it all in. They loved the live music, tried a few of the games, and even hopped on some of the rides. Plus, the food is half the fun—there are so many cool things to taste and experience together.
In the city, the Bayou City Art Festival (Oct. 11–13, 2025) brings artists, food trucks, and live performances to downtown Houston. Food lovers will also want to mark their calendars for the Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival (Oct. 11–13, 2025), while cultural celebrations like the 41st Annual Galveston Greek Festival (Oct. 12–13, 2025) make for a great fall activity.
Smaller fall events such as Depot Day Fall Fest, St. Paul’s Fall Festival, and St. Peter’s ECDC Fall Festival offer obstacle courses, costume contests, and bounce houses, making them a perfect time to gather the whole family for seasonal fun without leaving your neighborhood.
When the air finally (kind of) cools, it’s the perfect time to trade screens for fresh air. Families can head to the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, where kids can explore trails, spot wildlife, and even join STEM education programs. For a bigger adventure, the Armand Bayou Nature Center offers boat rides and interactive exhibits that connect kids to the natural world.
If you’re up for a short drive, Stephen F. Austin State Park and Lake Livingston State Park both have picnic areas, miles of trails, and room for the whole family to spread out. Kids can climb, bike, or run through the trees while parents enjoy (a little) peace.
For something a little more unique, Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson combines an interactive experience with an aquarium and hatchery, giving kids a fun and educational day by the coast. These escapes make for the best places to recharge before the busy holiday season.
Halloween in Houston is packed with family fun, and there are so many ways to celebrate beyond trick-or-treating. Churches and schools across the Houston area also host trunk-or-treats, giving kids a chance to dress up and collect candy without heavy traffic or late-night runs. I’ll be updating this guide with even more trunk-or-treat events for 2025, so check back as dates get closer.
More from the blog to help you plan your perfect fall day:
🍂 Best Patios in Houston to Visit This Fall
For families looking to enjoy the cooler weather and dine outdoors, Best Patios in Houston to Visit This Fall offers a curated list of restaurants with kid-friendly patios. These spots are perfect for a relaxed meal after a day of fall activities.Holly in Houston+2Holly in Houston+2
🌌 30+ Fun Things To Do In Houston At Night With Family
As the evenings cool down, explore 30+ Fun Things To Do In Houston At Night With Family. This guide includes family-friendly nighttime activities, from stargazing at the Twilight Epiphany Skyspace to enjoying evening events in the Museum District.
🌳 7 State Parks Near Houston That Are Perfect for Kids
For families seeking a day trip, 7 State Parks Near Houston That Are Perfect for Kids highlights nearby parks offering hiking, picnicking, and nature exploration—ideal for embracing the fall foliage.
🎃 Best Texas State Parks Near Houston To Explore
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, Best Texas State Parks Near Houston To Explore provides information on parks like Lake Livingston and Stephen F. Austin, where families can enjoy outdoor activities amidst beautiful fall scenery.
🎶 The Best Houston Music Festivals Happening in 2025
For families interested in live music, The Best Houston Music Festivals Happening in 2025 includes events like the Puerto Rican & Cuban Festival and Korean Festival Houston, offering cultural experiences and entertainment suitable for all ages.
