Carrie Taylor

Latest posts by Carrie Taylor

Guide to Viewing Houston's Annual Thanksgiving Parade With Kids

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Mon, 11/19/2018 - 4:24pm

Houston's annual Thanksgiving is back with its larger-than-life floats and entertainment. The 2018 69th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Parade begins at 9 a.m. in Downtown Houston on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 22, 2018) with two grand marshalls who own our hearts: Jose Altuve and James Harden. Plan on joining the thousands of Houstonians and visitors who will line the streets on parade day? We have you covered with everything you need to know. But before getting into all of that, know that despite the large crowd, it's not as stressful as you might think to grab a good spot and enjoy the festivities.

Houston Area Trunk-or-Treats for Halloween

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Tue, 10/09/2018 - 2:46pm

Trick-or-treating is great and all, but if this year is as hot as previous Halloweens, walking around in thick felt costumes may not exactly get your little ones excited. Trunk-or-Treat events are great alternatives (or opportunities to collect more chocolate for mom) because they offer a safe environment where your kids can still get their candy fix without having to lap the neighborhood.

For those who are scratching their heads at the word "trunk," these events usually feature area organizations and groups that decorate the trunk of a car (typically in elaborate and fun displays) and fill it with candy. Read on to find a trunk-or-treat event that's on or near Halloween close to you.

Free Outdoor Movies for Houston Families This Fall

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Wed, 10/03/2018 - 12:01am

One of the great things about Houston's "fall" is that temperatures typically hover in the 70s and 80s in the evenings; it's the prime time for outdoor activities. And there's nothing better than stretching out on a blanket to watch a movie on the big screen (especially when it's FREE). Here are your options for free outdoor movies this fall around Houston.

World's Biggest Bounce House Returns to Houston This Fall

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Mon, 10/01/2018 - 7:41pm

The world's largest bounce house is coming back to Houston in October, and tickets are on sale now! Last year's event sold out, so you'll want to secure your tickets now so you can see what new and exciting bounce houses and activities the event has in store for 2018.

The Big Bounce America makes its third stop in Texas Oct. 26-28, 2018 in Houston at Houston Sportsplex. Tickets range from $12-$17 depending on how long you're looking to jump and play.

25 Things To Do in Nashville, TN with Kids

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Sat, 09/29/2018 - 4:21pm

It only takes one minute in the Music City to see it's truly alive, from the constant pulse of live music in almost every public space and eatery to the rich history and beautiful landmarks. One thing is for sure, your family will never be bored. There is something for every kid, from the train enthusiast to the science lover to the outdoor adventurer.

And for more guides on visiting cities around the world with kids, check out our Mommy Poppins Family City Guide.

Houston's Spookiest Haunted Houses and Attractions for Halloween

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Thu, 09/27/2018 - 4:07pm

While Houston offers several Halloween-themed events and attractions safe for the littlest trick-or-treater, like the Zoo Boo or Scream on the Green, those of you with older children may want something a little stronger in the scare department. We've rounded up a list of Houston area haunted houses that are not for the faint of heart - most of these destinations have age requirements of 12 and up. If you're feeling daring, take a trip to one of these haunted horrors, and don't forget to scream at least a little softer than your pre-teen.

Check out our Halloween Fun Guide for more seasonal events and activities.

Momentum Indoor Climbing: Adventure & Fun For Climbers of All Sizes

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Tue, 08/14/2018 - 4:36pm

Kids can climb at Momentum Indoor Climbing

For any rock-climbing enthusiast, entering Momentum Indoor Climbing makes you feel like a kid entering a candy shop. This recent addition to Houston's indoor gym and rock climbing scene has two locations in the city - Silver Street and Katy - and both offer challenging and fun routes and amenities for both kids and adults. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the facilities are extremely nice: clean, colorful, and well air-conditioned! Each location has a bit of a different flair, so you can visit both and your kids will find something new to do each time.

8 Houston Parks Perfect for Kids' Birthday Parties

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Mon, 08/13/2018 - 3:12pm

Hosting birthday parties for your kids comes with so many choices nowadays. Which indoor playground is best? What kind of cake will be served? What will the decorations be? Will there be entertainment? Can you get away with just not throwing one at all? The answer to the last one is....probably not (unless your kid is turning 3 and under and they won't know the difference anyway.) Our favorite place to host a birthday party is a great park - one with picnic tables so you don't have to bring any, lots of shade, plenty of room to run around, and great playgrounds so the kids don't have a reason to say they are bored.

The good news is, Houston is home to lots of great parks perfect for birthday parties. Here are some of our favorites.