Embassy Suites includes a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast for guests—easy, budget-friendly way to fuel up before heading into town. Confirm start time at check-in (often 6:30–9:30am weekdays/weekends vary).
A central downtown park with seasonal holiday installations, skating/performances some years, and plenty of green space — a relaxed walk and photo stop. Many installations run through December, but specific displays/hours can change so verify the holiday schedule before you go.
Phoenicia (Midtown/downtown grocery-cafe) offers ready-made sandwiches and international bites — good for a budget-friendly family lunch; many downtown cafes also have family options. Check current open hours (often 11am–7pm).
Seasonal rooftop activation on the Marriott Marquis with holiday lights, views of downtown and themed drinks/activities — a festive early-evening stop for photos and a drink. Rooftop hours and ticketing are seasonal; reserve or confirm hours in advance (often late afternoon into evening).
Choose a family-friendly downtown restaurant or hotel restaurant (many hotels run holiday menus); for a budget pick a casual downtown restaurant or hotel diner — call ahead for holiday hours and reservations on Christmas Eve. Embassy Suites also often offers an on-site evening menu if you prefer to return early.
Enjoy the complimentary Embassy Suites breakfast — on-site breakfast is the most reliable option on a holiday morning. Verify holiday serving times at check-in.
Planned Coca‑Cola holiday activation — typically a themed truck/market or downtown holiday activation with lights or photos. These events are seasonal and dates/hours vary; confirm the 2025 schedule and exact location (some years are at downtown plazas or shopping centers).
Many standalone restaurants may be closed on Christmas Day; plan for hotel dining (Embassy Suites or nearby hotel restaurant) or a grocery deli for a quick, budget-friendly lunch. Call ahead to confirm which nearby spots are open.
Child-friendly Discovery Garden area at the Houston Botanic Garden offers hands-on nature spaces and sensory gardens — perfect for a teen who likes exploration and nature photography. Verify that the Botanic Garden is open on Christmas Day (many gardens have reduced or closed hours on Dec 25).
For an assured open option, reserve a holiday dinner at a full-service hotel restaurant (Marriott Marquis, Hyatt Regency, or another downtown hotel) — hotels usually have Christmas menus and accept reservations. Book early; ask about prix‑fixe menus and teen-friendly options.
Houston's premier mall with hundreds of stores, many restaurants, and a holiday-decorated indoor ice rink during the season — great for shopping, window‑shopping, and a festive atmosphere. Mall hours can vary post‑Christmas; expect extended hours on Dec 26 but verify store-level hours (many retailers open earlier/longer).
Choose a convenient spot inside The Galleria like a family-friendly sit-down restaurant or the mall food court for a budget-conscious meal; many Galleria restaurants handle post-Christmas crowds but reservations help for sit-down spots.
Finish the day with a rooftop cocktail/tea and skyline views at a downtown/Post-area rooftop bar — Post Rooftop offers skyline views and a holiday atmosphere. Rooftop hours and cover charges are variable in winter; check for teen-appropriate hours and ID policies (non-alcoholic options available).
Return toward Katy or dine near the Galleria; choose a mid-priced family restaurant (Italian, American chain, or hotel restaurant) with flexible hours and kid-friendly menu items. Reserve if you want a sit-down holiday meal after a busy shopping day.
Enjoy the included Embassy Suites breakfast one last time, pack, and confirm checkout details. If needed, ask the front desk about storing luggage for an afternoon activity before departure.
A local family mini‑golf course (indoor glow or outdoor depending on venue) is a low-cost, fun activity for a teen and adult — great for a relaxed last‑day activity. Confirm the exact venue and hours (many open by 10am).
Choose a quick, budget-friendly lunch in Katy (pizza place, diner, or burger joint) to keep things simple before an afternoon activity or the drive home.
A high-energy go-kart session (indoor karting center like K1 Speed or a local family entertainment center) is a fun way to end the trip — check age/height requirements for your teen and book sessions in advance. Centers typically run multiple race formats and charge per race; allow 1–2 hours.
Return to the hotel to collect luggage if stored and begin your drive home. If you have time, pick up snacks or souvenirs from a local store on your way out.