If you’re looking to plan a fun adventure for your family but want to avoid the hassle of overnight stays and long travel days, you’re likely plotting out some day trip possibilities. Thankfully, The Woodlands is situated in an area that makes figuring out a day trip incredibly easy. You won’t have to drive for more than a few hours (or much, much less!) to enjoy an amazing family outing.

Whether you’re interested in art, history, the outdoors, or anything in between, our area has you covered. Our Woodlands child care center put together this list of day trips you need to try to get you started.

Blessington Farms

“smiling man carrying toddler boy while holding pumpkins” used with permission via Unsplash by derekowensheart

You can’t go wrong by making the quick trip from the Woodlands to Blessington Farms when you want to play a fun day out and about with the kiddos. Located in Wallis, this nearby farm offers plenty to do, no matter the season. You’ll get to pick your own vegetables and fruit while learning about farming.

The farm is popular in the fall thanks to their amazing selection of pumpkins, and if you head out in the summer, you can look forward to heaps of strawberries. Ideal for families with kids, Blessington Farms delivers old-fashioned family fun close to home. General Farm Funland admission costs $20 plus tax, or $15 plus tax for seniors. Children under 24 months old, active military, veterans, and first responders can enter for free. You’ll need to pay a bit more to add on some activities.

Galveston Island

History, charm, and tons of activities come together at Galveston Island. You’ll find one of the most famous coastal holiday destinations in all of Texas under two hours away from The Woodlands by car. If your family is looking for an easy beach getaway, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this popular spot. The beach stretches 32 miles and is chock full of historical gems, antique shops, and more. You can even take a boat into the Gulf of Mexico and look for dolphins!

Kemah Boardwalk

You don’t need to drive for much longer than an hour to treat your family to an amusement park adventure. Just head over to Kemah Boardwalk. Located just 20 miles from downtown Houston, the Kemah Boardwalk features rides, festivals, and seaside shows, not to mention some fantastic waterfront restaurants and charming stores to explore. An All Day Ride Pass costs $18.99  for those under 48 inches and $24.99 for anyone 48 inches or taller. You’ll have to buy separate tickets for some of the rides.

Sam Houston National Forest

Seeking out a day reconnecting to nature? You’re in luck. You’ll find the amazing Sam Houston National Forest just about a half hour from home. One of four national forests in Texas, this popular destination features tons of great hiking opportunities. Head over to the Lone Star Hiking Trail, accessible throughout the year, for a walk that takes you past creeks, streams, and rivers. You’ll get to see different vegetation and ecosystems while you treat the family to a day outdoors. You may even encounter wildlife like deer, ducks, and the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.

Stark Museum of Art

Kids who love art will delight in a day trip to Orange, where you’ll find the amazing Stark Museum of Art. You’ll also have an excuse to explore historic downtown Orange while you’re in town to visit this unique museum, which features one of the most significant collections of American Western art in the country. From paintings to sculptures, prints to rare books, you’ll get an interesting glimpse into life in the West.

The museum includes works from 19th century frontier artists to 20th century artistic colonies in New Mexico. The land, people, and wildlife of the American West are at the forefront of everything you find at this museum. The museum also features a significant collection of American Indian baskets, clothing, jewelry, and pottery. Even better? Admission to the museum is free.

Austin

If you’re in the mood for a city-based adventure, that’s easy from The Woodlands. Austin, the state capital city, is just a few hours away. You’ll find so much to enjoy in this city, you’ll likely want to plan multiple day trips to experience it all. Countless live music venues and a quirky vibe make Austin a hit with visitors of all ages. When it’s time to slow down, you can rent a boat or just relax by Lady Bird Lake in Zilker Park.

For hands-on activity designed specifically with kids in mind, check out Thinkery. This children’s museum features a range of exhibits that explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) topics. General admission to Thinkery costs $14 for anyone 24 months old and older and is free for kids ages 0 to 23 months.

Houston

Of course, it’s incredibly easy to plan a day trip to Houston from The Woodlands. This nearby city boasts a range of fun activities sure to keep every member of your family entertained. Start with Children’s Museum Houston, offering the perfect place for young museum-goers to learn and play. You’ll need to book tickets in advance to visit. Children under 1 year old can enter for free; otherwise, general admission costs $12 for adults and children, $11 for seniors, and $10 for members of the military with active ID. Tickets to the SECRET Spy Game cost $7.

If your kiddos are interested in outer space and astronauts, you’ll definitely want Space Center Houston on your day trip itinerary. This museum is another fun and engaging learning opportunity. Admission costs $29.95 for anyone 12 years old or older, $27.95 for seniors, and $24.95 for kids between 4 and 11. Kids 3 years old and under can enter for free. Then, explore Houston’s amazing restaurant scene, and enjoy all the city has to offer.There you have it, Crème de la Crème of The Woodlands just gave you seven great day trip ideas. Do you have another day trip locals shouldn’t miss? Let us know so we can add your recommendation!