If your family likes to have fun —and what family doesn’t — you are going to want to make the move to The Grand Prairie. The community is just minutes away from all the fun activities around Hockley, so you can enjoy everything from drive-in movies to locomotives. Here are six attractions you won’t want to miss.
Zube Park
For outdoor fun, you can’t beat Zube Park. The 225-acre playground is actually three parks in one. On one side, you have a traditional park with grass to run on, playgrounds for climbing and swinging and a disc golf course for more competitive folks. Adults will appreciate the full-body weight gym pavilion with ellipticals, presses and more. Some pavilions can be rented for parties and are equipped with grills, electricity, preparation sinks and tables. Dogs are welcome if they are on a leash, and everyone can explore the trails. The other side of the park is devoted to a whimsical splash pad the kids will enjoy cooling down on. The final third of the park is dedicated to 4,700 feet of track for train rides.
Houston Area Live Steamers
If you’ve got a train lover in your family, you have to take them to Zube Park. The Houston Area Live Steamers (HALS) operate free train rides on the third Saturday of the month, March through November. The 1-mile ride on the miniature trains takes 12 to 15 minutes. There’s usually a line, but it moves quickly, and the trains are well worth the wait. While there you are likely to see a range of locomotives, tractors, boats and more.
Greater Houston Soap Box Derby
A full-size replica of the Soap Box Derby World Championship Track in Akron, Ohio, this 950-foot track at the Hockley Recreational Complex features a 50-foot hill and opportunities for gravity racing the young and young-at-heart will enjoy. In addition to competitive races, the derby hosts “public fun days” with free non-competitive rides for all ages (cars provided).
Showboat Drive-in Theater
The Showboat Drive-in offers opportunities to catch new and classic films under the stars from the comfort of your car. The theater is open year-round every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night (and every night in the summer). Movie snacks, drinks, and concessions are available for purchase. It’s fun for the entire family!
Coastal Prairie Conservancy
Formally known as The Katy Prairie Preserve, the conservancy includes more than 18,000 acres of native prairie and depressional wetlands. Each preserve presents opportunities to learn about the area’s history, geology and wildlife community. Guided tours are available. Numerous events are offered throughout the year, including Unplugged Adventures which presents opportunities for families to enjoy themed activities such as a nighttime predator prowl or kite flying event.
BackDoorPizza
After any of these adventures, your family is sure to be hungry. One of the best places to get a bite must be Backdoor Pizza. This family-owned restaurant offers a great ambiance and a selection of mouthwatering pizzas, calzones and sandwiches. People rave about the Margarita, Brooklyn and Mediterranean Greek pizzas.
Visit the Grand Prairie Today
Want in on the action in Hockley? Visit The Grand Prairie to see how much fun your life will be.
