Everything You Need to Know About Hermann Park in Houston
Did you know that each year, over 6 million make their way to Houston’s Hermann Park? It might sound like an inflated amount for a city park, but you haven’t seen anything like this one.
Yes, it comes complete with lush green areas, huge trees, and assorted flowers, but this park is more than just your average neighborhood green space. This park is home to a museum, a golf course, and expansive gardens. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Intrigued? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local wanting to make sure you haven’t missed anything, our travel guide tours you around Hermann Park. Join us as we unlock things to do while you’re there and start exploring now!
Background and History of Hermann Park
Hermann Park is one of the oldest parks in Houston and takes up a total of 445 acres of land near the south part of the popular Museum District.
This park’s rich history began in the 1910’s when Houston was undergoing a comprehensive urban replanning. Philanthropist George H. Hermann had a sawmill located in the area, but he willingly donated 278 acres of land to the local government.
The park was later named after him and expanded by 122 acres as per his will and request. Famous landscape architect George Kessler was the one responsible for making the master plan for the park.
It took 2 decades to complete the park, and many more years and about $120 million worth of renovations to become what it is today.
Things to Know Before Going
Entrance to the park is free, but some attractions in the park might cost some money to be able to enjoy. Most of the park is wheelchair and stroller friendly, so don’t worry about accessibility. Bathrooms are also pretty clean and convenient to use.
The park is located in Houston’s Museum District, so don’t leave the area without checking out the Health Museum and the Children’s Museum of Houston.
Address: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 526 2183
Hours: Open everyday from 6 am to 11 pm
Things to Do at Hermann Park
Have a Wildly Fun Time with the Animals at the Houston Zoo
Phone Number: +1 713 533 6500
Hours: Open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm
Parks are great places to be at one with nature, but Hermann Park takes it a step further with its very own zoo. The Houston Zoo spans across 55 acres that serves as the home to an impressive collection of more than 3,100 animals and 500 species.
The zoo is divided into sections with areas dedicated to African animals, nocturnal creatures, a replica of the Galapagos Islands, a petting zoo, an elephant habitat, wetlands, and a primate area.
At the Bird Habitat, you can find Chilean Flamingos, Blue Macaws, and Blue Billed Curassows. Bug lovers will enjoy the special house for some creepy crawlies. You can find regular bugs like bees and cockroaches to more dangerous ones like scorpions.
A popular activity to enjoy here is the Giraffe Feeding Program where you can buy some animal-safe food and feed them directly to the giraffes. There are also lots of animals you can touch and interact with like yellow pythons and eagles.
| Pro Tip: If you have kids who aren’t big fans of animals, they can still have a lot of fun at the Wildlife Carousel where they can ride around on replicas instead. The Houston Zoo also has a Nature Play Area where they can climb branches and play in mud pits. |
Catch a Show at the Miller Outdoor Theatre
Hours: Open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm
Aside from nature experiences, Hermann Park is also a hotspot for the arts and culture. Within the park grounds, you’ll find the Miller Outdoor Theatre. This theater is stunning even when not in use with its unique design and triangular roof.
But, it truly comes alive during a show. The Miller Outdoor Theater is the only outdoor venue in the entire country. The kinds of performances you can expect to see here range from classical music concerts, jazz performances, and musical theater shows.
One of the most popular events here is the Houston Shakespeare Festival which has been happening yearly for almost 5 decades now. You can watch some classic films, listen to lectures, and watch remakes of iconic plays.
The theater is also a popular venue for performances like ballet and ethnic dances. The best thing about all of this is that these performances are all free for you to watch. Just be sure to arrive early to grab a good seat and don’t forget to bring a blanket.
Enjoy a Fun Time Learning at the Houston Museum of Natural Science
Phone Number: +1 713 639 4629
Hours: Open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm
If you’re interested in learning then you’ll be stoked to know that Hermann Park has its own museum. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is the biggest feature of the park and has exhibits that cover history, biology, and different branches of science.
There are plenty that are worth a visit like the Paleontology Hall with 450 fossils and replicas. The T-rex, triceratops, and diplodocus skeleton mounts are among the most impressive ones we’ve seen in the country.
The Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife is also a great feature where you can see almost 500 specimens of animals that include 250 different species. There are rare and endangered species like ocelots, jaguars, and passenger pigeons.
The Hall of Ancient Egypt is perfect for those who are interested in artifacts dating over 5,000 years back complete with mummies, tools, and accessories. Another interesting installation is the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals totaling 750 unique pieces.
There are also interesting installations here like the Foucault Pendulum that showcases the power of the Earth’s rotation and how it affects us. There are also interactive chemistry activities at the Welch Chemistry Hall to try.
But, our favorite thing here is the Cockrell Butterfly Center which is home to over 50 to 60 different species of butterflies from the local area and from other countries as well. The entire center is designed like a realistic rainforest.
It’s housed in a glass cone that spans 3 stories tall enough to encase the 50 foot waterfall inside. If butterflies aren’t your thing, then maybe the Burke Baker Planetarium with its astronomy shows and huge telescope can be more interesting for you.
Or better yet, the Giant Screen Theater is a state of the art 3D theater that produces 4k digital projections. So it’s basically like watching the movies about science come to life right in front of your eyes.
Get Transported into an Asian Paradise at the Japanese Garden
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Phone Number: +1 713 524 5876
Hours: Open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm
If you enjoy nature, but plain oak trees just don’t do it for you, then the Japanese Garden inside Hermann Park will delight you. This 5.5 acre garden was designed by famous Tokyo landscape designer, Ken Nakajima.
The main feature of the garden is the traditional Japanese tea house given by then Japanese Prime Minister Toshiki Kaifu which was built without using any nails. The garden was built around it and was made to look exactly like the ones in imperial Japan.
You can expect landscaping and water features that mimic the ones found in the homes of high ranking warlords in Japan. There are sculptures, lanterns, bridges, and even a pond with koi fish surrounding the teahouse.
Plants from Japan were shipped in including Japanese maple trees, bonsai trees, cherry trees, and over 50 species of flowers. These were combined with local flaura like crepe myrtles, redbuds, dogwoods, peach trees, and Brazilwoods for a unique blend.
| Pro Tip: If you’re more of a classic flower kind of person, you’ll be glad to know that Hermann Park is home to a Rose Garden which was included in the original plans for the park. Formal rose beds are home to garden roses, polyanthas, Chinas, and Bourbons. |
Explore the Many Ecosystems at the McGovern Centennial Gardens
Phone Number: +1 713 524 5876
Hours: Open from Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm
The McGovern Centennial Gardens was made to celebrate the park’s 100th anniversary in 2014. It’s spread across 8 acres of land and is made up of different garden areas that all surround the central lawn.
There are over 500 trees here made up of 50 species, 750 hedges and shrubs, 55,000 kinds of perennial bulbs, 650 kinds of azaleas, and 4.5 acres of land covered in grass.
The Arid Garden is home to low maintenance plants like aloes, agaves, and yuccas.
Another crowd favorite is the Family Garden which is an interactive area where you can learn about how to grow different vegetables and plants that bear fruit. There are sub areas dedicated to citrus fruits, berries, and herbs.
Other notable areas include the Woodland Garden with mist flowers, sweet gum, blue ginger, and summer snowflakes, as well as the Friendship Pavillion, a gift from Taipei and a cool place to take a break and enjoy a picnic.
Have Some Fun on the Water at the McGovern Lake
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If you connect more with nature with the help of water, then McGovern Lake should be your first stop when you enter Hermann Park. Spanning across 8 acres, the lake’s surface is extensive enough to enjoy an array of different water based fun.
You can fish here as long as you follow the catch and release rules of the city, but only for kids under 12 and for senior citizens over 65 to ensure it’s only for leisure. You can expect to find bass and bluegill here all year round!
There are also pedal boats in the shape of swans that you can rent from the Lake Plaza. This is our favorite activity here, especially when we paddle to the middle of the lake where it’s quiet and you get a unique vantage view of the surrounding greenery.
If you just like the sight of water, but not getting in it. The shores of the lake have been repurposed to serve as great sitting areas to watch the view or enjoy a picnic on a sunny day.
| Pro Tip: The area surrounding the McGovern Lake has also seen a steady rise in the population of birds. This spot serves as habitats for a lot of birds that are migrating including the muscovy duck, black bellied whistling duck, and mallards. |
Tee off at the Hermann Park Golf Course
Phone Number: +1 713 526 0077
Hours: Open everyday from 7 am to 7 pm
The Hermann Park Golf Course was built in 1922 and is one of the very first amenities completed at this iconic park. The entire course is filled with oak trees that serve as shade while you play. The area itself is wide and spacious with great views.
The course has a 3 and a half star rating from Golf Digest Places and is made up of 18 scenic and challenging holes that vary in levels of difficulty. The layout of the entire course is flat and great for walking, and most tee boxes are near each other.
The landscaping is always well maintained and the fairways and greens are made with Bermuda Grass and facilities that are open all year round. It also has the only driving range inside the Loop which measures over 3 acres of space.
After a great round, you can unwind on the spacious veranda of the clubhouse. We always order food and drinks here and enjoy the sunset after a later game. Just next door is the Pro Shop with all the latest gear and equipment in case you need them.
Climb Aboard the Hermann Park Railroad Ride
Hours: Open everyday from 10 am to 5 pm
Price:
- $3.75 per person for both adults and children above 1 year old
- $7.50 for an all day pass
The Hermann Park Railroad is probably the most iconic activity to try in the park. This ride will take you around the park grounds and takes about 15 minutes to complete. Make your way to Kinder Station which is where the train departs every 20 minutes.
Kinder Station is also where you buy your tickets and is the main stop. There are 3 other sub stops along the park and the end destination is the M.D. Anderson Train Station located near the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
The other 2 stops are for the MetroRail Station nearest the park and the other is located near the Rice University and Texas Medical Center Areas.
Other Attractions Inside Hermann Park
- Buddy Carruth Playground – filled with slides, swings, splash pads, sandboxes, mini ziplines, bridges, and monkey bars for the kids
- Mary Gibbs and Jesse H. Jones Reflection Pool – features a rows of live oaks that line the 740 foot long reflection pool that honors veterans of war with occasional duck and turtle sightings
- Sam Houston Memorial Statue – bronze sculpture of the famed soldier, Governor of the State, Senator, and President of the Republic of Texas
- Molly Ann Smith Plaza – with water fountains, Pioneer Memorial Obelisk, and picnic spots
- Mecom Fountains – visible from the streets and extra pretty during the night time
How to Get There
By Car
You can get to Hermann Park by making your way to:
- 59 North which will lead to Hermann Drive then Caroline Street which will take you to the entrance near the Museum of Natural Science.
- 59 South and then make a right onto Main Street then Hermann Park Drive to the Sam Houston Monument and into the park grounds.
- 288 North/South, then turn right on North MacGregor, followed by another right on Cambridge Street, and a final right turn onto Hermann Park Drive.
| Pro Tip: Parking can be found in the central lots located along Hermann Park Drive. There are also slots at the McGovern Centennial Gardens and metered parking along the streets of the Museum District surrounding the park grounds. |
By Railway
Hermann Park is accessible by way of the Red Line of the METRORail. Get off at the Dryden/ TMC station and the park is about a 10 minute walk straight down Fannin Street from there.
Best Time to Go to Hermann Park
The best time to go to Hermann Park is during the winter months between December to January when the weather is cooler and drier. There are lower chances of rain and the heat is more manageable.
We also recommend you go during weekdays if possible, since the park becomes extra packed on the weekends when people are off work and kids are done with school. Another thing to watch out for is the schedule of events that might draw big crowds.
Tips for A Great Visit
- Expect to spend the entire day at the park if you really want to make the most out of it. Better yet, divide your visit into multiple days over the weekend so that you’re not rushing.
- Wear cool and comfortable clothes with shoes made for walking.
- Don’t forget to bring umbrellas, shades, and SUNSCREEN, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Pack bottles of water and light snacks if you don’t want to keep exiting the park just to buy some.
- Pack extra clothes and towels for the kids. They will sweat through their clothes.
- Hermann Park is pet friendly, but check park maps to see which sections prohibit them.
Places to Stay Nearby
Hotel ZaZa Museum District
Address: 5701 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 527 1800
Pricing: $ $ $
Hotel ZaZa in Houston’s Museum District is one of the most beautiful hotels to stay in the city. Not only is it located in a prime spot, but the hotel suites themselves are destinations to enjoy. All rooms are well designed and furnished, with good views.
But, the real stars of the show are the Magnificent Seven Suites with their own themes. If you don’t want to splurge that much on a hotel room, even the concept suites are sights to see. On top of that, they also have pool villas to chill in while you swim!
You can also enjoy the full service spa which has massages, facials, and other treatments you can enjoy during your stay.
Houston Marriott Medical Center/Museum District
Media Credit: jesusbarrios14
Address: 6580 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 796 0080
Pricing: $ $ $
For a convenient place to stay close to Hermann Park, the Houston Marriott Medical Center/ Museum District is a great place to try. The hotel is not only near the park, but it’s also located just 4 miles from downtown and 6 miles from the Galleria.
Other nearby attractions are Rice Village, MD ANderson, and the TMC facilities. If you’d rather enjoy a relaxing stay after exploring the park, the hotel also has pretty comfortable rooms with soft beds and complete appliances.
You can also make use of the fitness gym that’s open everyday from guests and then relax your muscles in the hot tub they have on site.
Hilton Garden Inn Houston Medical Center, TX
Address: 6840 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 346 433 8200
Pricing: $ $
For a comfortable and highly convenient stay, we recommend the Hilton Garden Inn Houston Medical Center. Aside from being just across the street from the park, the hotel also offers a free shuttle service for all of its guests from Monday to Friday.
This service can take you from the hotel to nearby attractions as long as you inquire and reserve a seat the day before. The hotel itself has rooms which are all equipped with high speed wifi, streaming TVs, and digital keys for maximum comfort.
Plus, the Hilton Garden Inn also has an outdoor pool where you can cool off after a day of exploring everything Hermann Park has to offer.
DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Medical Center Hotel & Suites
Address: 6800 Main St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 528 7744
Pricing: $ $
For a welcoming stay near Hermann Park, we suggest you choose DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Medical Center Hotel & Suites. They start your experience right with a free warm cookie the moment you enter the hotel grounds.
The service of the staff here is what we enjoy the most. They’re always friendly and eager to help, even when you’re asking for a list of suggested attractions you can check out nearby. Plus, this hotel is pet friendly so your fur babies can come enjoy with you.
Don’t worry about food either. The Made Market Snack Bar, on-site restaurant, and good room service are all great options for dining.
The Westin Houston Medical Center/Museum District
Address: 1709 Dryden Rd, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 730 2404
Pricing: $ $
Aside from the beautiful architecture features at The Westin Houston Medical Center/Museum District, the place also offers convenience by way of the sky bridge that connects them to the Texas Children’s Hospital, with great views of the streets below.
Other nearby spots to visit are Rice University, NRG Stadium, Houston Methodist, and of course Hermann Park. It’s near the Red Line of the MetroRail, so getting to and fro is also easy. The convenience extends to their 24 hour fitness gym and heated pools.
This way, you can enjoy the amenities any time of the year. Treat yourself to a cocktail at the hotel lobby bar to cap off a day of adventure.
Places to Eat Nearby
Davis Street
Address: 5925 Almeda Rd A, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 526 1663
Hours:
- Open from Tuesday to Thursday from 4 pm to 9 pm
- Open on Friday from 4 pm to 11 pm
- Open on Saturday from 5:30 pm to 11 pm
- Open on Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm
If you’re looking for a place to have dinner after exploring Hermann Park, then Davis Street should be on top of your list. This place combines Southern flavors with more sophisticated techniques and luxurious ingredients.
Try their seafood tower, oysters, or ceviche for some fresh seafood dishes. Stand out dishes from the entrees are4 the chicory dusted duck breast with soft egg ravioli and the peri peri dusted cornish hen with pure luck feta and preserved lemon.
Don’t miss out on trying their sides like the Vivian’s Truffle Mac and the kimchi collard greens for an Asian twist on the Southern classic.
Bodegas Taco Shop
Address: 1200 Binz St #160, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 528 6102
Hours:
- Open from Monday to Thursday from 7 am to 10 pm
- Open on Friday from 7 am to 11 pm
- Open on Saturday from 10 am to 11 pm
- Open on Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm
For some casual Mexican food, you don’t have to look further than Bodegas Taco Shop. Whether it’s a lunch out with friends after a visit to Hermann Park or a get together with the family for dinner, this place is great if you like good food and a lively atmosphere.
Everything you would expect from a Tex-Mex or Mexican joint, you’ll find here from their burritos locos, nacho bar, street taco, tilapia veracruz, rotisserie chicken, cantina skewers, chicken tortilla soup, quesadillas and more.
This place is perfect for breakfast too if you drop by before 9:30 am on weekdays. You can build your own tacos with proteins like chorizo, fajita steam and bacon.
Terrace 54 Bar + Table
Address: 1709 Dryden Rd, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 730 2404
Hours: Open everyday from 6:30 am to 11 pm
Terrace 54 Bar + Table is a popular rooftop grill and bar that’s a popular choice among locals, and for good reason. The location itself, in the heart of the Texas Medical Center, makes it easily accessible. Plus, there are great city views to enjoy.
The menu features an array of different food types from sesame Hummus from Thailand to the classic Terrace Burger. They also have a pizza menu that’s just as good as the other items, especially the artichoke burrata with pesto, olive medley, and garlic confit.
Drop by the Terrace 54 Bar + Table from 4 pm to 6 pm any day between Monday to Friday to enjoy Social Hour with discounted drinks and bar snacks.
Monarch
Address: 5701 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 527 1800
Hours:
- Open from Sunday to Thursday from 6:30 am to 10 pm
- Open from Friday to Saturday from 6:30 am to 12 am
For a refined place to dine near Hermann Park, Monarch Restaurant and Terrace at Hotel ZaZa is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
We always get the volcano salt garlic fries for our starter as it pairs well with the red wine braised short ribs with sharp cheddar grits. Seafood lovers in our friend group have enjoyed the brown butter scallops and the Chilean sea bass.
If you’re more of a brunch person, their brunch menu features some really fun dishes like the baked brie with cherry compote, pistachios, and toasted baguette. You can also opt for the build your own omelets that come with breakfast potatoes.
Cosmo Eatery -1
Address: 5927 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 868 8881
Hours: Open everyday from 9 am to 10:45 pm
Cosmo Eatery is a great option for food if you’re just into relaxed meals where you can enjoy eating while chatting with friends. The food here is also pretty casual, but good!
Classic breakfast items we recommend are the shrimp and grits and their croissant breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs, American cheese, and turkey bacon. They also have French toast with fruits and maple syrup if you have a sweet tooth.
For lunch and dinner, you can choose from their wide selection of cold and warm sandwiches, rice bowls, soups, salads, pizzas, pastas, and a dessert to top it all off. Make sure you get one of their made to order crepes, especially the Turkish crepe!
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