Family Friendly Attractions & Events

Nestled amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, Moody Gardens offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for guests of all ages for work or play. From tropical rainforests to the oceans of the world, a wide range of attractions, educational activities, kid's events, dining options, and exciting entertainment await. This island resort uniquely accommodates large conferences, weddings and social events as well as being the romantic escape and family destination where special memories are created.

Holiday Dining at Moody Gardens header
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Holiday Fantasy A Live Show Spectacular Dinner event presented by Moody Gardens and Mirage Entertainment.

Thanksgiving Brunch

November 27 | Frances Anne Moody Ballroom

Celebrate Thanksgiving morning with a lavish brunch featuring made-to-order omelets, red velvet waffles, fresh seafood, seasonal salads, and chef-carved meats, all complemented by a beautiful array of holiday pastries, artisan breads, and decadent desserts. With gluten-free options throughout, this festive feast offers something for everyone to savor and enjoy.

Thanksgiving Plated Lunch

November 27 | 11:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Café in The Park

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a delicious plated lunch at Café in the Park. Enjoy a festive menu featuring herb turkey breast, beef tenderloin, savory sides, and a decadent dessert trio. Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome!

Holiday Fantasy A Live Show Spectacular Dinner event presented by Moody Gardens and Mirage Entertainment.
Holiday Fantasy A Live Show Spectacular Dinner event presented by Moody Gardens and Mirage Entertainment.

Thanksgiving Day Buffet

November 27 | 10:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. | The Garden Restaurant

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a bountiful feast featuring a wide variety of holiday favorites and chef-curated specialties. Highlights include a carved roast of ribeye, roasted turkey with traditional cornbread stuffing, glazed ham, and a custom pasta station made to order. Enjoy an expanded selection of seasonal sides, salads, and entrées, along with a chef’s holiday dessert spread filled with festive treats.

Holiday Fantasy:
North Pole's Got Talent

December 19 - January 3
Dinner & Show | Moody Gardens Hotel

Walter and Holly are back! The search is on for the season’s brightest star in this holiday showdown of epic proportions. This new and high-energy show features jaw-dropping acrobats, soaring aerialists, mesmerizing fire dancers, and more for the most dazzling Christmas celebration ever!

Holiday Fantasy A Live Show Spectacular Dinner event presented by Moody Gardens and Mirage Entertainment.
Sugar Rush Pop-Up Bakery now available at the Moody Gardens Hotel from November 22 thru January 4

Breakfast with Santa

December 13 - 14 & 20 - 23 | Seating at 8:30 am & 10:00 am | Frances Anne Moody Ballroom

Start your day with Santa joy! Join the jolly man himself and his friends for a delightful breakfast adventure! Feast on a scrumptious buffet packed with tasty selections, snap that perfect keep sake photo with Santa, and create memories that'll last all year long at the Frances Moody Ballroom.

Christmas Eve Buffet

December 24 | 10:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. | The Garden Restaurant

Join us on Christmas Eve for a festive buffet featuring a variety of seasonal dishes. The menu includes roasted turkey, garlic-herb crusted striploin, and holiday ham, along with a selection of sides and accompaniments. Finish your meal with a spread of holiday cookies, cakes, and desserts. A warm and satisfying way to enjoy the evening with family and friends.

The Garden Restaurant Holiday in the Gardens Buffet from November 23 to January 1 except November 27 and December 25
The Garden Restaurant Holiday in the Gardens Buffet from November 23 to January 1 except November 27 and December 25

Christmas Brunch

December 25 | Frances Anne Moody Ballroom

Celebrate Christmas Day with an unforgettable brunch, featuring chef-crafted dishes from made-to-order omelets and seafood gumbo to herb-roasted entrees and festive desserts. This lavish spread includes gluten-free options, carving stations, seafood, salads, and a full breakfast buffet, all designed to delight every palate. You can also check out the Holiday in the Gardens Festival while you're here!

Christmas Day Buffet

December 25 | 10:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. | The Garden Restaurant

Celebrate Christmas Day with a festive buffet offering a variety of classic and seasonal dishes. Enjoy a roast of striploin and holiday ham, a pasta station with made-to-order options, roasted turkey, and blackened redfish. Start with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup, and end on a sweet note with our holiday dessert spread featuring cakes, cookies, and more. A perfect way to gather and enjoy the day with great food.

The Garden Restaurant Holiday in the Gardens Buffet from November 23 to January 1 except November 27 and December 25
Shearns Seafood & Prime Steaks Restaurant located on the 9th floor of the Moody Gardens Hotel

New Year's Eve Dinner at
Shearn's Seafood & Prime Steaks

December 31 | Moody Gardens Hotel

Romance meets culinary excellence! Indulge in an extraordinary evening at Shearn's with breathtaking of Galveston Bay and the evening's fireworks show. Chef Bobby Ross has crafted an unforgettable menu that'll tantalize your palette and create the perfect romantic date night to launch you into 2026!