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.
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.
Mardi Gras Ball for Special People
2025 Date Coming Soon!
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.
Learn More
Art in the Gardens
September 13, 2024
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.
Learn More
Adaptive Sports Festival
October 5, 2024
Moody Gardens Hope Therapy has teamed up for a second year with the Christina Sullivan Foundation to host the 33rd 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 special equipment and instructors. This event is only for intellectually, cognitively and physically disabled special needs individuals with their families. No special needs group facilities allowed for this event.
