5 Family-Friendly Labor Day Activities in Houston

As the unofficial last day of summer, Labor Day marks the end of lazy afternoons at the beach, delicious family barbecues, and warm nights out on the patio. But it’s not over yet! We have one final three-day weekend to bid farewell to summer in style.

When it comes to celebrations, Houston is the place to be. NASA’s Space Center, the Museum District, the Houston Zoo—the city has it all. There are plenty of places to be and things to see, even if you don’t already have a plan. Whether you have money to burn, or you’re trying to have fun on a budget, Houston has the perfect Labor Day weekend activity for you and your family.

1. Buffalo Bayou Park
   160 acres of gorgeous slow-moving waters and lush green grass are a beautiful backdrop for any relaxing long weekend. Buffalo Bayou Park offers an activity for everybody. From walking and biking to kayaking and canoeing, this urban park is a mecca for sporty athletes and relaxed readers alike. For those hoping to save extra cash this Labor Day weekend, a leisurely stroll through the trails or a picnic on the grass is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Buffalo Bayou Park.
2. Houston Zoo
   A popular attraction for visitors and locals, the Houston Zoo is fun for the whole family. With more than 6,000 exotic animals to see, this is the perfect Labor Day outing for groups, families, couples, and solo travelers. Hoping to save a little money on your day pass? The zoo offers plenty of deals for large groups, families with infants, students, military members, and more.
3. Space Center Houston
   The official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston is an enormous attraction in the city. For space lovers, this center is a true haven with tons of things to do: experience the Mars exhibit; see what it’s like to live in a space station; check out a Stellar Science Show—the possibilities are endless. Aside from the many interactive experiences the Space Center has to offer, academic minds can learn about NASA’s upcoming missions. The best part? It’s a great way to beat the Houston heat!
4. Street Art
   If strolling through Buffalo Bayou Park isn’t really your scene, there are plenty of other free outdoors activities to take advantage of in the city. Houston is a well-known sanctuary for rising artists, and the city is famous for its unbelievable street art (We talked about in this article). According to Aerosol Warfare, Gonzo247 is likely the most notorious graffiti artist in the area, responsible for the “Houston is Inspired” mural at the corner of Travis and Preston Streets as well as the “Houston” mural at Leeland and St. Emanuel Streets.
5. Houston Museum District
   With 19 museums to choose from, the Houston Museum District has a venue for everyone. From Egyptian antiques and African-American art to American sculptures and natural science exhibits, the entire district is a gem for locals. Not only are many of the admissions reasonably priced, at least 10 are entirely free to the public. For those looking to stretch their legs outside after perusing the museums, Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are both nearby.