Everything is infamously bigger in Texas — including its cities. As the largest city in Texas and one of the biggest cities in the country, it's understandable that Houston would prioritize its park and green space development. The city may be home to towering skyscrapers and larger-than-life highways, but it also has plenty of space to run, play and relax in nature.
The top outdoor parks in Houston can be enjoyed throughout the entire year, making them some of the best amenities in this city.
Below we detail the six best parks in Houston to add to your trip.
1. Sam Houston Park
- Address: 1000 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
The past juxtaposes the present at historic Sam Houston Park, which was the first park to be established in the city. Located in the heart of downtown Houston, Sam Houston Park pays homage to the civic leaders who helped to build and develop Houston into the dynamic, thriving city that it is today.
The park's most popular attractions are the historic buildings and sculptures that are scattered throughout the green space. Visitors have an opportunity to learn more about the events that transpired in these buildings and the people who made an impact on the community.
The walking trail that winds through the park guides visitors on their journey, allowing them to soak up the sights of the city's breathtaking skyline. One of the best views of Houston City Hall can be found along the walking path at Sam Houston Park.
2. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
- Address: 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056
Home to one of Houston's most iconic landmarks, Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is considered one of the Houston best parks for both tourists and locals alike. The Waterwall itself was built in 1985 as a decorative element for the grounds of the Transco Tower. Today, it is considered to be one of the most refreshing and exhilarating landmarks in the city, with people from around the world getting close enough to feel its mist and hear its cascading waters.
Adding to the peace and serenity of this park are more than 100 live oak trees. Park visitors can relax in the shade and splendor of the trees in this true oasis, which offers a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Uptown Houston.
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and members of the general public enjoy free admission. However, parking is limited and visitors may have to pay to park in lots and garages located nearby.
3. Hermann Park
- Address: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
To refer to Hermann Park as one of the best parks in Houston doesn't seem to do it justice. This massive green space is home to some of the community's most prized amenities, including the Houston Zoo, the Hermann Park Conservancy and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It's a true community hub that is often referred to as Houston's version of Central Park.
On any given day, you will find local Houston residents walking the grounds of Hermann Park on their way to and from work, school and outings with friends and family members. There is seemingly endless green space in the park as well as walking paths, benches and sparkling fountains, making it one of the best places in Houston to enjoy a picnic. It is also home to a golf course, playgrounds for young children and a small pond where park visitors can cast a line or enjoy a boat ride.
It would be easy to spend your entire day at Hermann Park and many visitors do, so be sure to include plenty of time for this spot on your Houston itinerary.
4. Memorial Park
- Address: 6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Established nearly a century ago, Memorial Park is one of the largest parks in the United States, easily earning its rank as one of the top outdoor parks in Houston. The park spans more than 1,400 acres and it strives to meet the needs of all Houstonians, regardless of their age, ability or interests.
Some of the top things to do at Memorial Park include:
- Enjoying a picnic in the quaint and quiet picnic areas, which are available by reservation.
- Allowing children to play at the Vale-Asche Foundation Playground, which is a large and spacious accessible playground where all children are able to play and have fun together.
- Taking a wellness or fitness class at the park with other like-minded visitors.
- Mountain biking on the trails that wind through the Bayou Wilds area of the park.
- Playing croquet on the croquet courts.
- Playing volleyball at one of the four sand volleyball courts that are located on the park grounds.
Popular among residents who value an active lifestyle, Memorial Park is a local treasure. If you find that you work up an appetite while you are spending your day at the park, you will be happy to know that there are often food trucks in and around the park serving up fresh, delicious food.
5. Buffalo Bayou Park
- Location: Shepherd Drive to Sabine Street between Allen Parkway and, Memorial Dr, Houston, TX
If you are looking for a more intimate park experience, then Buffalo Bayou Park may be your best bet. This park is comprised of about 160 acres of land, yet it packs in plenty of amenities for those who want to enjoy one of Houston best parks.
This park can be found just west of the downtown area and it is best known for its hiking and biking trails that wind around the native gardens that have been established in the park. There also are playgrounds for children as well as a dog park for those special, four-legged guests, making this a favorite park among local Houstonians. The public art that can be discovered throughout the park makes any visit to Buffalo Bayou Park feel a bit like a treasure hunt.
6. Smither Park
- Address: 2441 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023
Smither Park is perhaps one of the most unique and innovative parks in Houston. Located next to the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, the concept for this park was inspired by the center's mission to promote self-taught art in Houston and beyond. Park organizers affectionately refer to this park as a creative urban space and visitors find themselves wondering what they will discover next as they wander through the maze of mosaic installations.
Each work of art is more magical and inventive than the next, giving visitors plenty to ponder as they soak up the works that were created thanks to the dedication and imagination of more than 300 individual artists in Houston. The park is home to an amphitheater, a pavilion for gathering with friends and neighbors, a memory wall, a meditation wall, tile-lined walkways and several swings that are great for relaxing amid the colorful creations.
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