George Ranch Historical Park
Experience life on a 19th-century Texan ranch at the George Ranch Historical Park, a living history museum set around a 20,000-acre (8,094-hectare) family ranch. The interactive visits are great fun for all ages, as you explore historic buildings, watch the ranchers at work, and see the livestock.
The Basics
Learn about ranch life over the years as you stop by the four historic houses: the 1830s Jones Stock Farm, the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home, the 1890s Davis Victorian Complex, and the 1930s George Home & Cattle Complex. Chat with costumed guides, watch demonstrations by blacksmiths and cowboys, and help out around the ranch. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the George Ranch Heritage Trail, looking out for alligators, red-eared sliders, and birds.
Things to Know Before You Go
The admission fee includes all ranch activities, and children under age 3 are free.
Pack a picnic and take plenty of water—the ranch has an on-site gift shop but no restaurant.
Most of the park is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. A tractor-drawn tram is available to transport visitors between attractions.
How to Get There
The George Ranch Historical Park is located in Richmond, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) southwest of Houston. The only way to get there is by car—the ranch is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Houston, along US 59 South. Parking is plentiful.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The ranch is usually open to visitors Tuesday through Saturday during daytime hours. To participate in all the activities and demos, arrive at the ranch before 1:30pm, and plan to spend at least three hours there. The ranch also hosts a variety of annual events, such as the George Ranch Rodeo, Christmas and summer campfires, and seasonal festivals.
Where to Find More Family Fun in Houston
Besides the George Ranch Historical Park, Houston has plenty of other entertaining things to do with kids. Head to the Children’s Museum of Houston, an educational playground for the under 12 set; check out Houston Zoo or rent a pedal boat in Hermann Park; and enjoy outdoor activities at Buffalo Bayou. Other options include Space Center Houston, the Downtown Aquarium, and the Hurricane Harbor Splashtown water park.
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