Inside the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center
If you’re looking for a place to take your kids to have fun and learn at the same time, you’re in luck!
That’s exactly what you’ll find at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center in Sugar Land, which is not just any ordinary museum. It’s an environment where science, art, and creativity come together to create an unforgettable experience.
So, if you’re ready for an adventure that will leave your kids wide-eyed with wonder (and maybe even spark your inner child), join us into the captivating world of the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.
What is Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center?
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center (FBCDC) is a project of the Children’s Museum of Houston (CMH). Its exhibits focus on the educational development of children and the increase of parental involvement, all in a 12,000 sqm restored building.
It all began in the mid-1990s, when CMH had a goal to ensure that people with less access to opportunities gained free access to educational offerings. It also raised awareness about its family learning programs.
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
In 2006, a group of Fort Bend County residents proposed the establishment of a satellite location of CHM within the county.
The first steps involved hosting summer venues within Sugar Land Town Square, utilizing vacant retail spaces for six weeks each summer in 2007 and 2008, drawing a staggering 21,000 visitors each year.
The overwhelming success of these temporary sites eventually led to the establishment of the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center!
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
Since then, several reputable institutions and media outlets have recognized CMH and FBCDC as one of the top museums in the United States. Some noteworthy examples include Forbes Magazine, Parents Magazine, Nickelodeon and Click2Houston.
Today the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center focuses on its goals to foster the development of the children in Houston and to enhance parents’ participation by reinforcing classroom learning and honing real world skills.
Address: 198 Kempner St, Sugar Land, TX 77498, United States
Phone Number: +1 832-742-2800
Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10 am to 6 pm
- Sunday and Monday – Closed
Featured Attractions
Embrace Your Inner Child at KLUTZ® Amazingly Immature
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
At KLUTZ® Amazingly Immature, you’ll find all the activities we loved to do as kids, but weren’t always allowed or encouraged to do!
Here, you can observe the concept of inertia by pulling a tablecloth from under a place setting or learn about geometry by folding money into paper rings. You can also make paper boomerangs and practice throwing playing cards to learn aerodynamics.
Whether it’s learning how to juggle, using spoons as catapults or figuring out how to catch coins off your elbow, there’s plenty for both adults and kids to learn and explore at KLUTZ® Amazingly Immature.
Take a Closer Look at Everyday Machines
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
The How Does It Work exhibit invites curious minds of all ages to explore physics by taking a closer look at simple machines we encounter daily. This is done through a series of fun hands-on experiences that dive deep into the heart of scientific discovery!
Ever wondered how pulleys make challenging tasks seem effortless? At Kid Lift, you’ll have the chance to raise yourself five feet in the air. You can also get a glimpse of aerodynamics in action by sending objects through a pneumatic tube system!
If you’re interested in gravity, you can explore inclined planes at Build a Ramp with your own courses. You can also send wooden balls spiraling down the center of a giant gravity well at Motion in a Funnel, which is probably our favorite.
The Gears section is great if you love tinkering with gear chains, and if you’re intrigued by ancient architectural design, you’ll have a blast at the Build an Arch where you learn the important part keystones play.
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
Get a Taste of the Real World at Kidtropolis
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
Kidtropolis was designed to mimic the Fort Bend County Community to teach its visitors the important roles citizens play by performing their jobs.
In Kidtropolis, all the iconic buildings and critical institutions that form are run by the children who play the part of leaders, workers, and business owners.
The kids get to see what common jobs entail like bankers, service crews, teachers, mechanics, detectives, reporters, EMTs, dispatchers, veterinarians, artists, and everything else in between.
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
Kids earn Kidtropolis money through their work to experience real-life financial decisions. They choose how they want to spend, save, and invest for money management and financial planning.
They also experience debating and voting on decisions that impact the city’s community, for a sense of responsibility at City Hall.
Let the Little Ones Experience Hands On Learning at Tot*Spot
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
Tot*Spot was designed for visitors 35 months and under where they can touch, feel, and play in a safe space. The kids are encouraged to explore and experiment with their parents and bond.
Young drivers can play inside a toy car which has interactive pedals, buttons, and car sounds. Pushing toy cars down the Helix Car Ramp teaches them cause and effect.
Adventure Climber is an obstacle course for toddlers that encourages where they navigate steps. In Balls, Balls, Balls, children dive into a padded nest filled with, you guessed it, balls.
There are plenty of other activities to enjoy which involve playing with colors, patterns, shapes, bubbles, balls and other everyday objects! To wind down, the Book Nook offers a reading area where parents and kids can cuddle up and enjoy some reading.
| Pro Tip: To make sure the area stays as clean as possible, they don’t allow shows inside. So make sure the kids take them off or put on some shoe covers near the entrance. |
Go on a Fairytale Learning Adventure at the Dragons & Fairies Exhibit
Image Source: Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Website
The Dragons & Fairies: Exploring Vietnam Through Folktales exhibit is filled with interactive theater experiences about Vietnam.
Houston is home to the second-largest Vietnamese community in the United States.This fosters cultural appreciation by bringing Vietnamese folktales to life to teach you the country’s history, values, and customs.
Each theater uses multimedia presentations that transport you to various regions of Vietnam.
One moment, you’re immersed in the landscapes of Vietnam’s countryside. Next, you’re strolling the bustling streets of the city, in preparation for Tet Trung Thu or their Mid-Autumn Festival.
One of our favorites, “The Story of One Hundred Eggs,” tells the tale of King Lac Long Quan, a descendant of dragons and how his wife birthed 100 sons, the ancestors of the Vietnamese people.
Things to Know
You can buy tickets to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center onsite on the day of your visit at the ticketing booth, but for a more hassle free experience, booking online in advance is the way to go!
Plus, there are only a certain number of tickets for walk-ins every day.
Ticket Prices:
- General Admission – $15 per person
- Senior Citizens Above 65 – $14 per person
- Military Personnel with ID – $13 per person
- Children Under 1 Year Old – Free
| Pro Tip: Keep in mind that kids under have to be accompanied by an adult at all times and all adults are only allowed inside if they have a child with them! |
Best Time to Go
To avoid the crowds at the museum, the best time to go to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is on Tuesdays from 2 pm to 5 pm.
The discovery center is open through the holidays, with special events on kid-friendly ones like Halloween and Children’s Day. So, make sure to check their events calendar to plan your visits accordingly!
Every month, the center closes its doors to the public and hosts a Sensory Friendly Day for kids with Autism to give them the space to explore in a more controlled environment. Make sure you check the dates for those too to not waste a trip down to the center!
How to Get There
To get to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center from Houston, make your way to Spur 527 which will lead you to I-69. From there, take Exit 111 towards Sugar Creek.
After making a right onto Dairy Ashford Road, turn left onto US-90, aright onto Brooks Street, and a final left onto Kempner Street. Once in the area near the center, you can find free parking at the Imperial Market lot and also along Kempner Street.
Tips to Remember
- You’re not allowed to bring meals inside, but you can (and should) bring some drinks and some snacks to keep the kids’ energy levels up.
- We recommend having the kids wear comfy and cool clothes to fully enjoy the activities and exhibits.
- The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center hosts regular events like the annual Boo!scovery Center Halloween with activities and experiments that are worth the visit!
- The discovery center’s management is strict on health and safety, so if visitors have any symptoms of sickness, they might be denied entry.
- Availing one of their membership programs is worth it if you’re going to visit the park more than thrice a year with the entire family.
Where to Eat Nearby
Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen
Image Source: Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Website
Address: 403 Hwy 6, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 494 1114
Pricing: $$
If you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is the place to satisfy your cravings. It’s got that perfect blend of cozy and casual.
They have a menu loaded with not just pizza but also a range of soups, sandwiches, and pastas. They’ve got the Italian classics down to a tee. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty slice of pizza or a comforting bowl of pasta, this place delivers.
Plus, it’s a fantastic spot for a family meal or a laid-back gathering with friends.
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
Image Source: Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Website
Address: 803 Bonaventure Way, Sugar Land, TX 77478, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 242 1035
Pricing: $$
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is a place that takes American comfort food and gives it a Texas twist. Imagine this: you’ve spent the day at the Discovery Center, and now you’re craving some good old fashioned comfort food. Cheddar’s is where you need to be.
From their hearty dishes to their refreshing cocktails, it’s a family-friendly joint that hits all the right notes. Kids can enjoy their chicken fingers while the parents can enjoy some classic drinks like mojitos!
The best part? Everything is made from scratch, so you know it’s going to be delicious.
Aki Steak & Sushi
Image Source: Aki Steak & Sushi Website
Address: 510 Hwy 6 #180, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 565 1110
Pricing: $$
If you’re up for some sushi rolls that are almost too pretty to eat, Aki Steak & Sushi is the spot to be. They’ve got a knack for making nigiri and specialty sushi rolls that are like little works of art that taste just as good as they look.
Our favorite roll is the Amazing Tuna Roll topped with 2 types of tuna, 4 types of tobiko or fish roe and shredded seaweed. But that’s not all. Aki also dishes out Chinese and Japanese entrees in an understated, cozy space.
From their Chinese items, our go to is the General Tso Chicken and Stir Fried dish with shrimp, chicken, beef, and vegetables.
Lupe Tortilla
Image Source: Lupe Tortilla Website
Address: 15801 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 265 7500
Pricing: $$$
Lupe Tortilla, a regional Tex-Mex gem, is known for serving classics and serving them exceptionally well. First off, their homemade tortillas are something of a local legend. Always made fresh everyday to ensure that they’re warm and fluffy.
Don’t leave without trying their tacos and enchiladas, especially the braised beef brisket tacos on corn tortillas and the cheese enchilada with tamale and ancho sauce.
And then there are the margaritas. They’ve got quite the variety. So, after a day of exploring, if you’re hankering for some Tex-Mex goodness, Lupe’s got your back.
Silom Station
Image Source: Silom Station Website
Address: 222 Hwy 6 Suite 500, Sugar Land, TX 77478, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 340 0707
Pricing: $$
Last but not least, let’s talk about Silom Station. This place is an all-day cafe with a cozy vibe that’s just perfect for unwinding. They’ve got something for every palate. If you’re a coffee or tea enthusiast, their SIT N SIP Coffee Brewer is a must-visit.
And when it’s time for a meal, DUNCH Thai Eatery serves up some seriously tasty local Thai street food, all crafted by talented Thai chefs. Must orders are their tom yum soup, papaya salad, pad thai noodles, and green curry.
And, you definitely have to get the sweet rice with mango!
Where to Stay Nearby
Courtyard by Marriott Houston Sugar Land/Lake Pointe
Image Source: Courtyard Houston Sugar Land/Lake Pointe Website
Address: 16740 Creekbend Dr, Sugar Land, TX 77478, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 494 0555
Pricing: $$$
When it comes to finding a quality place to stay near the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, the Courtyard by Marriott Houston Sugar Land/Lake Pointe is a solid choice.
You’ll find modern rooms designed for relaxation, with plush bedding that makes you feel right at home. They even have themed rooms like one that makes you feel like you’re sleeping right in the stands at the stadium for an extra layer of fun.
As the cherry on top, the hotel is a lakefront location which means an amazing view to wake up and fall asleep to.
Hilton Garden Inn Houston/Sugar Land
Image Source: Hilton Garden Inn Houston/Sugar Land Website
Address: 722 Bonaventure Way, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 491 7777
Pricing: $$$
For those seeking a well-rounded stay, the Hilton Garden Inn Houston/Sugar Land has you covered. The rooms are roomy and comfy for a comfortable night’s sleep. The Great American Grill offers a delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
And you can unwind with a drink at the Pavilion Lounge. If you prefer to stay outdoors, you can sip on your drink at the pool side or take a refreshing dip there. But you would rather stay active, you can go for a workout at the fitness center that is open 24/7.
Hampton Inn & Suites Houston Sugar Land
Image Source: Hampton Inn & Suites Houston Sugar Land Website
Address: 218 Promenade Wy, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 277 5246
Pricing: $$
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet comfortable stay near the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, the Hampton Inn & Suites Houston Sugar Land is worth considering.
The rooms here are clean and cozy, making for a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring. What’s great about this hotel is the complimentary hot breakfast, which ensures you start your day off right.
Plus, the friendly staff is always ready to assist with any questions you might have about the area.
Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land
Image Source: Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land Website
Address: 16730 Creekbend Dr, Sugar Land, TX 77478, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 491 0300
Pricing: $$$
The Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land offers a modern stay with a touch of luxury. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring a separate living area where some of the guests can talk while others rest in the bedrooms.
What sets this place apart is the Break Fast BAr, which offers a variety of freshly prepared breakfast items like yogurt, granola, eggs, hash browns, waffles, and fresh fruit.
The Placery at the lobby serves up classics like burgers, salads, sandwiches and fries that pair perfectly with their drinks, wines, and beers.
Houston Marriott Sugar Land
Image Source: Houston Marriott Sugar Land Website
Address: 16090 City Walk, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 275 8400
Pricing: $$$
For a touch of elegance during your visit to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, the Houston Marriott Sugar Land is a top choice. The rooms are all designed with your comfort in mind.
The hotel features a beautiful courtyard area, complete with a fire pit, where you can relax and unwind. The hotel’s location is also ideal, allowing you to explore nearby attractions and enjoy shopping and dining within walking distance.
