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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NEW! Pop-Up Bakery

Bringing Holiday Sweets to Your Season - Now with Online Ordering

Discover the warmth of the season at Sugar Rush Bakery and Sweet Treats, a cozy pop-up inside the Moody Gardens Hotel. Open for a limited time, this holiday shop offers tempting cakes, pies, and cookies crafted to bring joy to every celebration. Treat yourself and loved ones to the simple pleasures of homemade-style holiday desserts, available in-store or online for your convenience.

Sugar Rush Pop-Up Bakery now available at the Moody Gardens Hotel from November 22 thru January 4

Holiday Fantasy Dinner Show

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

Holiday Fantasy:

A Live Show & Dinner Spectacular

Moody Gardens Convention Center
Dec. 19 - 21, 24 & 25, 27, and 28 at 6:30 pm

Moody Gardens and Mirage Entertainment present this fantastic Christmas show which combines musical theater illusions, acrobatics, stunning visuals and electrifying performances into a heartwarming spectacle that will reignite your holiday joy.

Holiday in the Gardens Buffet

Holiday In the Gardens Dinner Buffet

The Garden Restaurant

Embrace the holiday spirit at our Holiday in the Gardens Buffet! Delight in a sumptuous selection of festive dishes at The Garden Restaurant. Gather your friends and family for a heartwarming meal that celebrates the joy of the season.

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

Christmas Dining Options

Christmas Day Brunch
Frances Anne Moody 
Ballroom
December 25 • 10:30 am - 2:30 pm

Guests will enjoy an elevated and delicious selection of seasonal delights in the beautiful Frances Anne Ballroom at the Moody Gardens Hotel.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Breakfast with Santa
Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
December 14 & 15, 21 - 23
8:30 am or 10:00 am

Leading up to Christmas, be entertained with Breakfast with Santa! Indulge in breakfast favorites like waffles, eggs, and bacon. Take a memorable photo before the jolly man sets off to deliver presents worldwide. Hotel package includes breakfast for two adults (ages 13+) and two children (ages 4 - 12), a guest room, souvenir photo, and costumed character meet & greet. Service fees are included.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Christmas Eve Buffet
The Garden Restaurant
December 24 • 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

Enjoy a delectable Christmas Eve Buffet offering a family friendly atmosphere featuring Holiday Roasted Chicken, Roast of Ribeye, Holiday Ham, a selection of salads, side dishes, and sampling of cookies and cakes.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Christmas Day Buffet
The Garden Restaurant
December 25 • 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

Let Moody Gardens prepare your Christmas Feast! Enjoy a buffet of offerings of traditional, festive Christmas entrees, side dishes, appetizers, desserts and more.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Christmas Day Brunch
Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
December 25 • 10:30 am - 2:30 pm


Guests will enjoy an elevated and delicious selection of seasonal delights in the beautiful Frances Anne Ballroom at the Moody Gardens Hotel.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Breakfast with Santa
Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
December 14 & 15, 21 - 23 • 8:30 am or 10:00 am


Leading up to Christmas, be entertained with Breakfast with Santa! Indulge in breakfast favorites like waffles, eggs, and bacon. Take a memorable photo before the jolly man sets off to deliver presents worldwide. Hotel package includes breakfast for two adults (ages 13+) and two children (ages 4 - 12), a guest room, souvenir photo, and costumed character meet & greet. Service fees are included.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Christmas Eve Buffet
The Garden Restaurant
December 24 • 11:00 am - 7:00 pm


Enjoy a delectable Christmas Eve Buffet offering a family friendly atmosphere featuring Holiday Roasted Chicken, Roast of Ribeye, Holiday Ham, a selection of salads, side dishes, and sampling of cookies and cakes.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.

Christmas Day Buffet
The Garden Restaurant
December 25 • 11:00 am - 7:00 pm


Let Moody Gardens prepare your Christmas Feast! Enjoy a buffet of offerings of traditional, festive Christmas entrees, side dishes, appetizers, desserts and more.

Reservations recommended, but not required. Walk-ins are welcomed.