Scenic Walks in The Heights (That Are Actually Kid Friendly)
Let’s be real: not every “family-friendly” walk is actually family-friendly. Some are stroller traps. Others are shade deserts. And don’t get us started on the ones that end with your toddler melting down while you carry a scooter, a snack bag, and a small human uphill.
But in The Heights, we’ve got a few solid options that are actually enjoyable — whether you’re chasing a toddler on a balance bike, catching up with a friend, or just trying to get out of the house before nap time eats your soul.
These two trails are local favorites for a reason: they’re beautiful, they’re smooth (shoutout to no cracked sidewalks), and they have enough charm and coffee stops to keep everyone happy.
Let’s take a walk.
The Heights Boulevard Esplanade Trail
Start: 4th Street
End: 20th Street
Length: ~1.5 miles (3 if you're feelin’ ambitious)
Surface: Smooth concrete — aka stroller paradise
Why we love it:
Big trees, bigger vibes.
Stroll under those iconic oaks, past charming bungalows and sculptures that double as toddler conversation starters.
No sidewalk dodgeball.
The path is wide enough for joggers, dog walkers, scooters, and one very confident guy on rollerblades.
Built-in entertainment.
Keep an eye out for fairy gardens, “little free libraries,” and the occasional porch chicken. Yep, a real one.
Snack stops + sanity breaks.
Grab a coffee at Boomtown, a juice at Juiceland, or reward good behavior (yours or theirs) with a spin at Donovan Park.
You can cross the street without holding your breath.
Safe crossings at most intersections make this doable solo or with a crew of mini humans.
The MKT Heights Hike & Bike Trail
Start: Lawrence Street (by M-K-T)
End: White Oak Bayou Trail connection
Length: ~1.8 miles one way
Surface: Smooth pavement — yes to strollers, scooters, and even training wheels
Why it’s a hidden gem:
Nature meets city energy.
One minute you’re under trees, the next you’re spotting skyline peeks and cool murals.
Shady spots = less sweat.
Thank you, tree cover. You make being outdoors in Houston actually enjoyable.
Parks + pit stops.
Slide into Lawrence Park for a play break or head straight to the M-K-T complex for coffee and croissants.
Traffic? What traffic?
It’s set back from busy streets, so you can actually relax while your kid insists on “pushing the stroller this time.”
Surprise and delight.
There’s always something random that makes your walk more fun — a dog in sunglasses, a unicyclist, a ukulele player. You’ll see.
Pro Tips:
Bring snacks. (For them and for you.)
Don’t skip the sunscreen — even in the shade.
Stop at the 11th Street bench for a goldfish break. You’ll know it when you see it.
Whether you’re trying to tire out a toddler, sneak in some movement, or just breathe for five minutes without a screen involved — these trails have your back.
See you out there — and if you spot a baby in pajamas clapping at a squirrel, yep, that’s probably us.
