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.

Finn, the Moody Gardens Shark Mascot stands with a group of children.
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Hope Therapy

Hope Therapy at Moody Gardens was inspired by the son of Foundation Trustee Robert L. Moody, who sustained a head injury in an automobile accident and who subsequently discovered the healing benefits of therapy utilizing animals and nature. Opening in January 1986, Hope Therapy became the cornerstone of Moody Gardens, an internationally recognized program that offered rehabilitative horseback-riding (Hippotherapy) to mentally and to physically disabled individuals.

Today's Hope Therapy offers Horticultural Therapy, through which individuals with disabilities can improve sensory awareness and motor abilities, regain confidence, and learn new skills to prepare for employment opportunities. The massive greenhouse and Rainforest Pyramid at Moody Gardens are tended in part by these special clients.

Vocational Training, or Supported Employment also is an important part of the program. This provides the opportunity for individuals with disabilities to develop the necessary skills to gain and maintain a job. Moody Gardens employs many of these individuals on a full and part-time basis. We will work with job coaches, as needed.

For individuals with special needs looking for employment, please contact our Human Resources Department at 409-683-4275.

Volunteers Needed: please contact Volunteers at 409-683-4108 or email volunteers@moodygardens.org to find out about volunteer opportunities.

A large group of people of all ages are in the Moody Gardens Convention Hall for the Mardi Gras Ball

Mardi Gras Ball for Special People

February 23, 2025 - Registration Closed

Annually celebrated by thousands, this event provides food, fun and entertainment for people with intellectually, cognitively and physically disabled special needs as well as their immediate families.  This event is open to special needs individuals, their families and special needs group facilities.

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Two teens, a girl and a boy show their creations made from recycled material during Art in the Gardens

Art in the Gardens

September 12, 2025

This hands-on arts festival offers a non-competitive forum for children and youth with disabilities to celebrate and share creativity through participatory experiences, performances, and more. This event is a public school field trip for intellectually, cognitively and physically disabled special needs students.

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A group of attendees wearing swim gear pose for a photo in front of the zip-line tower during the Adaptive Sports Festival.

Adaptive Sports Festival

October 4, 2025

Moody Gardens Hope Therapy is hosting the 34th Adaptive Sports Festival. This event allows families to enjoy a day at Palm Beach and gives individuals with special needs the chance to participate in aquatic and land sports, such as water skiing, sailing, kayaking, fishing, archery, tennis, bocce ball and more with specialized equipment and instructors. This event is only for the intellectually, cognitively and physically disabled special needs individuals with their families. No special needs group facilities will be allowed for this event.

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