These 14 parks in Houston are so scenic that they make you forget you’re in the middle of the city!
As a Houstonian, I’ve uncovered a treasure trove of outdoor havens nestled among the urban sprawl—yes, I’m talking about the parks in Houston.
Houston isn’t just about oil rigs and space missions; it can also be a backdrop of your favorite park moments. One sunny afternoon, armed with a picnic basket and a sense of adventure, I embarked on a mission to uncover the best of these urban sanctuaries.
So, grab your sunscreen and sense of adventure—let’s discover the green side of Space City!
1. Buffalo Bayou Park
Address: Shepherd Drive to Sabine Street between Allen Parkway and, Memorial Dr, Houston
Website: https://buffalobayou.org/
Contact Details: +1 713-752-0314 ext. 301, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–11 PM
Buffalo Bayou Park spans 160 acres and offers a green oasis along a 2.3-mile stretch from Shepherd Drive to Sabine Street. The park is a hub for young Inner Loop residents and a perfect spot for both recreational activities and calm contemplation
The park boasts lush gardens, native landscaping, and extensive hike and bike trails. Visitors can also enjoy paddle craft and bike rentals, making it easy to explore the park’s natural beauty.
One of the park’s unique attractions is the Waugh Drive Bridge. At sunset on warm evenings, 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the bridge, offering a spectacular natural show.
The park’s amenities include a 30,000 square-foot, in-ground skatepark, a popular dog park, and the Barbara Fish Daniel Nature Play Area. This play area features a rolling lawn, boulder rock scramble, climbing logs and stones, and a 33-foot slide.
Moreover, Buffalo Bayou Park features public art installations and two visitor centers. These provide numerous spots to picnic, relax, and engage in outdoor activities.
Pro tip:
- If you’re interested in kayaking or paddleboarding, head over to the Lost Lake Visitor Center. They have rentals available, and paddling down the bayou offers a unique perspective of the city.
2. Sesquicentennial Plaza Park
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Address: 400 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
Contact Details: +1 832-395-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Sesquicentennial Plaza Park has a blend of historical significance and modern beauty. Established to commemorate Houston’s and Texas’ 150th birthday, the park stretches along Buffalo Bayou, adjacent to the Wortham Theater Center.
The park’s grand entrance, spanning 2.2 acres, features a stunning fountain and a stairway leading to the promenade. This area invites visitors to explore its multi-level design, which enhances the aesthetic appeal and accessibility of the park.
Water-based events like the Buffalo Bayou Regatta are popular at Sesquicentennial Park, taking full advantage of the park’s riverside location. At night, the park transforms as the steel pillars light up, casting a magical glow over the waterway and promenade.
Pro tip:
- Check the event schedule before you go as the park often hosts outdoor events, concerts, and festivals. It’s worth seeing if anything is happening during your visit to catch some local culture and entertainment.
3. Sam Houston Park
Media: d3stinyrobl3s
Address: 1000 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/abouthouston/samhoustonpark.html
Contact Details: +1 832-394-8805
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 AM–9 PM
Sam Houston Park offers a unique blend of history and green space amid the bustling urban landscape. This 20-acre park is a peaceful oasis, just blocks from City Hall, providing a welcome retreat from the city’s modern skyscrapers and highways.
Home to the Heritage Society, Sam Houston Park showcases 10 historic buildings that reflect Houston’s rich past. Among these is the Kellum-Noble House, the oldest surviving structure built in Houston, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century life.
The park also features an 1823 cabin, a church built by German and Swiss immigrants in 1891, and a grand mansion from 1905. These buildings, relocated by the Heritage Society, illustrate the diverse architectural and cultural history of the area.
Visitors can also explore other notable landmarks, including the 12-foot-tall Scanlan Fountain from 1891 and the U.S.S. Houston Monument. A series of eight historical markers throughout the park provide insights into the city’s development and heritage.
Pro tip:
- The park offers guided tours of the historic buildings, providing fascinating insights into Houston’s early days. The guides are knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have about the architecture and history.
4. McGovern Centennial Gardens
Address: 1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004
Website: https://www.hermannpark.org/visit/mcgovern-centennial-gardens/
Contact Details: +1 713-524-5876
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM–7 PM
McGovern Centennial Gardens, located in Houston’s Hermann Park, opened in 2014 to celebrate the park’s 100th anniversary. The gardens feature a series of themed ‘garden rooms’ including a rose garden, arid garden, and celebration garden.
At the heart of the gardens, a stunning lawn is lined with perennial flowers and surrounded by 50 different types of trees. This area is flanked by the Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion on one end and a tiered, ziggurat-like hill on the other.
Over the hill, visitors will find a sculpture garden that includes busts of several prominent figures from Houston’s history. Notable sculptures include representations of Gandhi, Confucius, Martin Luther King Jr., and Chilean leader Bernardo O’Higgins.
The variety of scenic views makes McGovern Centennial Gardens perfect for picnics. You can enter through the Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion and enjoy the grand fountains, or wander through the pathways past themed gardens and sculptures.
Pro tip:
- Check out the Friendship Pavilion. This pagoda-style pavilion, a gift from Taipei, adds a touch of international culture to the gardens. It’s a great spot for photos and offers a bit of shade on a sunny day.
5. Hermann Park
Address: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
Website: https://www.hermannpark.org/
Contact Details: +1 713-526-2183, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–11 PM
Hermann Park, situated near the Museum District, Rice University, and Texas Medical Center, is a prime cultural and recreational hub in Houston. Spanning 445 acres, it offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
Hermann Park boasts several free attractions, including the serene Japanese Gardens and the expansive McGovern Centennial Gardens. The eight-acre McGovern Lake is a popular spot where visitors can feed the ducks or enjoy a pedal boat ride.
Children will delight in the two-mile train journey on the Hermann Park Railroad, departing from Kinder Station. The park also features art installations, such as Trenton Doyle Hancock’s colorful mural and Sharon Englestein’s vibrant Dillidiidae sculptures.
Adjacent to the Houston Zoo and the Museum of Natural Science, Hermann Park is also home to the Miller Outdoor Theatre, which hosts various shows throughout the year. This proximity to major attractions makes it an essential stop for both locals and tourists.
Pro tip:
- There are plenty of beautiful spots for a picnic, especially near McGovern Lake and the Japanese Gardens. Bringing your own snacks and drinks lets you enjoy a leisurely meal in the midst of nature.
6. POST Houston Skylawn
Address: 401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201
Website: https://www.posthtx.com/skylawn
Contact Details: +1 713-999-2550, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
POST Houston Skylawn, a 5-acre rooftop park in downtown Houston, offers a unique urban oasis. You can access it through the POST Houston food hall via the gleaming spiral staircase, the double-helix staircase, or the wheelchair-accessible elevator.
This vibrant former central post office now houses the POST Market, where visitors can curate a picnic from diverse cuisines such as Filipino, Thai, and Mediterranean.
One fascinating feature of Skylawn is its roof, composed of transparent, air-filled pillows made from a polymer developed by NASA engineers in the 1950s. This design ensures a light, airy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the expansive skyline views.
Reflecting Houston’s cultural diversity, Skylawn features garden rooms celebrating southeast Texas landscapes. Here, you can explore the arid garden, woodland, and tropical water garden for distinct horticultural experiences.
Pro tip:
- Being a rooftop park, it’s best enjoyed on a clear day. Cloudy or rainy days might limit the stunning views and outdoor activities, so plan accordingly for the best experience.
7. Emancipation Park
Media: Visit Houston
Address: 3018 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77004
Website: https://epconservancy.org/
Contact Details: +1 713-528-1872, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9 AM–8 PM, Sunday: Closed
Emancipation Park, the oldest in Houston, reopened on Juneteenth in 2017 after a $33 million, four-year renovation. Purchased in 1872 by former slaves for Juneteenth celebrations, this 10-acre park holds significant historical importance.
Located in the Third Ward, Emancipation Park is a vital hub in the historically African-American neighborhood.
The park now features a glass-fronted recreation center, lighted basketball, tennis, and softball courts, and a free outdoor swimming pool with dual twisting slides. These modern amenities make it a popular spot for both relaxation and active recreation.
A unique aspect of Emancipation Park is its three separate sprayground areas, open year-round, including a splash pad on the pool deck. This feature, along with the extensive facilities, makes it a family-friendly destination in Houston.
Pro tip:
- While the park provides great facilities, bringing your own basketball, tennis racket, or softball gear ensures you can fully enjoy all the activities without having to wait for available equipment.
8. Memorial Park
Address: 6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Website: https://www.memorialparkconservancy.org/
Contact Details: +1 713-863-8403, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 5 AM–11 PM
Memorial Park has been a landmark urban oasis in Houston since 1924, welcoming everyone, from avid runners to families enjoying a day out. Undergoing enhancements since 2018, the park continues to evolve, offering more to visitors every year.
The Clay Family Eastern Glades, reclaimed in 2020, added 100 acres featuring picnic areas, trails, boardwalks, restrooms, and the 5.5-acre Hines Lake and wetlands. Food trucks frequent the area, making it a convenient spot for spontaneous outings.
The playground and tennis center are perfect for playdates, offering fun for both kids and adults. Opened in 2022, the Memorial Drive Land Bridge and Prairie connects the park’s north and south sides, providing additional space for relaxation and exploration.
Memorial Park spans 1,500 acres, almost twice the size of Central Park, a fact that Houstonians proudly share. The Eastern Glades boardwalk and new Kinder Land Bridges are favorite spots for walks and jogs, highlighting ongoing restoration efforts.
Pro tip:
- Located within Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum offers a serene escape into nature with beautiful trails, gardens, and educational exhibits. It’s a must-visit while in the park.
9. Menil Park
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Address: 1423 Branard St, Houston, TX 77006
Website: https://www.menil.org/visit/campus/menil-park
Contact Details: +1 713-525-9400, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 AM–7 PM
Menil Park seamlessly blends art and nature into a harmonious urban oasis. The park is home to the prestigious Menil Collection, housing an extensive range of art spanning centuries and continents, making it a cultural gem in the heart of the city.
Visitors here are treated to not only stunning artworks but also lush green spaces, tranquil trails, and majestic oak trees. The park’s diverse landscape offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with family and friends.
One of the park’s highlights is the iconic red swing hanging from a mighty oak tree. This swing is part of the Red Swing Project, a global initiative aimed at inspiring creativity and spontaneity in urban environments.
In addition to the Menil Collection, the park’s vicinity also includes the Cy Twombly Gallery and Rothko Chapel. These spots offer free admission and add to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Pro tip:
- Don’t miss the chance to explore the renowned Menil Collection, which is located within the park. It offers a unique cultural experience that complements your visit to the park. Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone.
10. Bear Creek Pioneers Park
Media: 𝘌𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘚𝘬𝘺 𝘗𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘺
Address: 3535 War Memorial St, Houston, TX 77084
Website: https://cp4.harriscountytx.gov/Parks
Contact Details: +1 281-353-8100
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 AM–10 PM
Bear Creek Pioneers Park boasts a historic log cabin and an extensive trail system that winds through lush greenery. It provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, picnicking, and immersing oneself in nature.
Situated near Sam Houston State University and Bayou Greenways, it serves as a tribute to early settlers. You’ll encounter historical artifacts throughout the grounds that offer insights into the lives of past inhabitants and their contributions to local heritage.
The park’s well-maintained trail system, developed along an old logging railroad, features a mix of paved and unpaved pathways. This ensures ease of exploration for visitors of all ages and abilities.
From the forested areas to the wetlands and prairies, the diverse landscapes along the trails provide captivating backdrops for outdoor adventures. Moreover, hikes along the Wilderness Trail and Wildflower Trail include soothing sounds of flowing water.
Pro tip:
- As you enter the park, grab a trail map from the visitor center. It will help you navigate the expansive trail system and ensure you don’t miss any of the park’s hidden gems.
11. Keith-Wiess Park
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Address: 12300 Aldine Westfield Rd, Houston, TX 77093
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/KeithWeissPark/
Contact Details: +1 832-394-8805
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6:30 AM – 9:45 PM
Keith-Wiess Park, situated on Houston’s north side, offers nearly 500 acres of natural beauty. Its new, wide paved trails wind gracefully through forests, providing visitors with a serene experience and moments of seclusion.
What makes Keith-Wiess Park unique is its clever layout. It resembles a “barbell” shape, which allows visitors to enjoy a diverse range of natural landscapes while also maintaining a sense of seclusion and tranquility.
Despite its proximity to IAH, the park’s isolation from traffic noise creates a peaceful ambiance, making it a favorite among locals. The park boasts a range of amenities, including expansive green spaces, walking trails, playground, and sports facilities.
Visitors can also enjoy picnics at the park’s pavilions, some of which are covered, while others are nestled under trees with barbecue grills nearby. These make it an ideal spot for gatherings, picnics, and socializing amidst the natural surroundings.
Pro tip:
- For those interested in fishing, bring your gear and cast a line into the central pond. It’s a peaceful activity that allows you to connect with nature and maybe catch a few fish.
12. Terry Hershey Park
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Address: 15200 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079
Website: https://cp4.harriscountytx.gov/Parks
Contact Details: +1 281-353-8100
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 AM–10 PM
Terry Hershey Park is a sprawling 500-acre green space nestled along Buffalo Bayou. It has over 10 miles of serene hike and bike trails that wind through west Houston’s vibrant “Energy Corridor.”
Surrounded by more than 40 neighborhoods, Terry Hershey Park is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. Its convenient location and well-maintained trails make it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and fitness levels.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities within the park, including a boat/canoe launch onto Buffalo Bayou, picnic areas with exercise equipment, restroom facilities, gazebos, and playgrounds. It even has a unique sundial that uses your shadow to tell time.
For those seeking a moment of tranquility, Terry Hershey Park also boasts a memorial fruit orchard and a beautiful butterfly garden. These provide peaceful settings for reflection and appreciation of nature’s beauty.
Pro tip:
- Keep an eye out for wildlife such as turtles, rabbits, and even occasional deer sightings along the trails. Remember to observe from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them.
13. Levy Park
Address: 3801 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098
Website: https://levyparkhouston.org/
Contact Details: +1 713-522-7275
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Levy Park is one of Houston’s premier parks, located in the Upper Kirby District. This 5.9-acre urban park underwent a significant renovation, transforming an underutilized area into a vibrant community hub.
The park offers an activity lawn and a gaming area with shaded spots for checkers, foosball, ping pong, and miniature golf. The large gated children’s garden provides a safe, imaginative space with interactive sculptures and playful fountains.
A unique aspect of Levy Park is the 150-foot-long tree house, which is ADA accessible and integrates beautifully with the park’s mature live oak trees. The reading room and community garden offer serene spots for relaxation and engagement with nature.
Meanwhile, dog lovers appreciate the separate play areas for large and small dogs, each equipped with berms and water features. The generous promenade encircling the park invites leisurely strolls and connects the various attractions seamlessly.
Pro tip:
- Check the park’s schedule for events and activities. They frequently host yoga classes, movie nights, and live music, which add a fun twist to your visit.
14. Smither Park
Media: Houston Parks Board
Address: 2441 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023
Website: https://orangeshow.org/
Contact Details: +1 713-926-6368, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 AM–7 PM
Smither Park, located in Houston’s emerging East End, is a collaboration between The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art and architect Dan Phillips. The park, next to the Orange Show, serves as an artistic venue for leisure-time activities.
Unlike typical parks focused on greenery, Smither Park offers a unique twist with its vibrant mosaics. This beautiful fusion of colors makes it one of the most Instagrammable spots in “The Bayou City.”
Filled with performance areas, playgrounds, and covered spaces, Smither Park utilizes reused items like broken ceramics, bottle caps, and seashells in its design. These elements create an environment that is both creative and eco-friendly.
The park showcases the work of over 300 artists, featuring a variety of mosaic panels, sculptures, and other eye-catching installations. Other amenities include an amphitheater, a memory wall, a meditation area, a covered pavilion, and swings.
Pro tip:
- The Memory Wall, stretching 400 feet, showcases over 60 mosaic panels crafted by artists and individuals nationwide. Don’t miss the life-size throne built into one of the panels—it’s a popular spot for memorable photos.
