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

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.

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 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 Eve Buffet
Café in the Park
December 24 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Make holiday memories with the family at the Christmas Eve Buffet featuring Herb Roasted Ribeye, Seared Salmon, and Carved Turkey. Guests will also enjoy Chicken and Sausage Gumbo, Traditional Cornbread Stuffing, and Chef's Selection of Holiday Desserts.

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

Christmas Day Buffet
Café in the Park
December 25 • 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Let us take care of Christmas dinner this year! Indulge in a festive buffet featuring traditional holiday entrees, sides, appetizers, desserts, and more. Enjoy a stress-free celebration with family and friends!

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

Christmas Day Plated Lunch
Café in the Park
December 25 • 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Celebrate Christmas Day with an elegant plated lunch at Café in the Park. Delight in a festive feast starting with rich Lobster Bisque, followed by exquisite main courses like Seared Grouper with Gulf Shrimp in Lemon Sauce or Chimichurri-Crusted Beef Tenderloin with Smoked Enoki Mushrooms plus delicious sides and desserts. Make your holiday truly special with this dining experience!

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.

New Year's Eve Dining

Shearns Seafood & Prime Steaks Restaurant located on the 9th floor of the Moody Gardens Hotel

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

On the 9th Floor of the Moody Gardens Hotel

December 31

Ring in the New Year in style at Shearn's Seafood & Prime Steaks! Join us for a delectable NYE meal, followed by a spectacular celebration in the Moody Ballroom at Moody Gardens Hotel. Party in style at the New Year's Eve Celebration with live music from the Mambo Jazz Kings, dancing, food available and an iconic balloon drop, champagne toast and fireworks as we make our way into the New Year. A great celebration for those 21 and up. Reserve table online or call 409-683-4554 to make your reservation at Shearn's.