For visitors to Houston with children in tow, the city offers an array of entertainment options.

Our list includes some local favorite spots in Houston to visit for a few hours or the entire day.

For more entertainment ideas, see our full guide of where to eat, drink and shop in Houston.

Children’s Museum of Houston
Easily identified by its multicolored facade, the museum has interactive exhibits for children ages 0-12 years old. 1500 Binz St., Houston. 713-522-1138. www.cmhouston.org Houston Museum of Natural Science

Houston Zoo
Elephants, large cats and sea lions are just some of the creatures on display at this top family destination in Hermann Park. 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. 713-533-6500. www.houstonzoo.org

Buffalo Bayou Park
Located from Shepherd Drive to Sabine Street, between Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive, 160 acres of nature, artwork and trails can be found here. www.buffalobayou.org

Houston Museum of Natural Science
See exhibits, a planetarium or an indoor butterfly habitat at this popular Houston spot. 5555 Hermann Park Drive. 713-639-4629. www.hmns.org

Museum of Fine Arts
The museum’s collection covers pieces from around the world and includes photography, sculpture, antiquities and decorative arts. 1001 Bissonnet St., Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org