Top 22 parks in Houston
Houston, Texas, is home to an array of parks, each offering unique experiences. "Parks in Houston" encompass green spaces scattered throughout the city, from the shining jewel of Hermann Park to the dog-friendly buffs of Terry Hershey Park. These "parks in Houston" provide recreation, relaxation, and opportunities to connect with nature for locals and visitors alike.
- 1. Memorial Park
- 2. Levy Park
- 3. Hermann Park
- 4. Buffalo Bayou Park
- 5. Arthur Storey Park
- 6. Sam Houston Park
- 7. Midtown Park
- 8. Tranquillity Park
- 9. Terry Hershey Park
- 10. Alexander Deussen Park
- 11. Smither Park
- 12. Woodland Park
- 13. Bay Area Park
- 14. Stude Park
- 15. Emancipation Park
- 16. Keith-Wiess Park
- 17. Market Square Park
- 18. Herman Brown Park
- 19. Mason Park
- 20. River Oaks Park
- 21. Hermann Square
- 22. Westlake RV Resort
1. Memorial Park
Japanese garden and World War II memorial

Memorial Park is a large city park, offering numerous hiking, jogging, and biking trails. Its vast green space provides a refreshing contrast to the densely populated surrounding area, giving the feeling of being in a forest. However, while visiting this park, one must exercise caution, particularly when it comes to parking in the main lot.
During a brief visit of an hour, an unfortunate incident occurred as my car got broken into. This event puts a damper on an otherwise lovely park experience. Despite this, the park itself remains a beautiful and enjoyable destination for those seeking outdoor activities. Visitors should simply be aware of the potential risks and take the necessary precautions to protect their belongings while visiting Memorial Park.
2. Levy Park
Includes a splash pad and skate park

Levy Park, located in Houston, is widely regarded as one of the city's top parks. Its cleanliness and well-maintained appearance make it an inviting space for visitors of all ages. The park offers a variety of activities, making it a popular destination for families.
The children's area and dog park are particular highlights of the park, providing entertainment for both young and old. In addition, the spacious open areas offer plenty of room for picnics, sports, and other outdoor activities. Overall, Levy Park is a true gem in the heart of Houston, providing a much-needed green space for the community to enjoy.
3. Hermann Park
One of Houston's premier parks with various attractions

Hermann Park is a well-maintained municipal golf course, although it features narrow fairways and a narrow course layout that can make for challenging play. It's common for golfers to inadvertently hit their balls onto the wrong fairway due to the tight layout. Unfortunately, the pace of play at the course can be slow, which may be frustrating for some players.
On the other hand, Hermann Park is also a beautiful and spacious park that offers a variety of activities for families. The green space is expansive and provides a tranquil setting for visitors. Attractions such as the zoo, museums, and gardens are popular draws for both locals and tourists alike, making Hermann Park a diverse and engaging destination.
4. Buffalo Bayou Park
cultural landmark with natural scenery

Buffalo Bayou Park is a sprawling urban park located in Houston, Texas, known for its scenic beauty and lively atmosphere. The park, which runs alongside a large bayou, is a hub for various special events, making it a vibrant and bustling destination for both locals and tourists.
Measuring 160 acres, the park offers a range of activities and attractions, including walking trails, bike paths, and skateboarding areas. The park's recent renovations have transformed it into a true gem of Houston, providing a welcome escape from the noise and chaos of the city. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic with friends, or simply soak up some fresh air, Buffalo Bayou Park is the perfect destination.
5. Arthur Storey Park
Beautiful sunsets over the lake

Arthur Storey Park is a peaceful retreat located in Houston, Texas, offering a scenic escape from urban life. The park boasts lush greenery, winding trails, and serene ponds, making it an ideal location for various outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely walks, and birdwatching in this beautiful setting.
The park is situated at 7400 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. South, Houston, and offers a range of amenities for visitors. This dual-use park features two lakes, a playground, a yin-yang Tai Chi court, and a gazebo overlooking the water. Additionally, there are more than 3 miles of paved trails for walking, running, or biking. The park's diverse offerings make it a popular destination for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
6. Sam Houston Park
Houston's oldest public park

Sam Houston park in Houston is a pleasant green space featuring a notable collection of historic houses. Visitors can explore these structures, which add historical significance to the park. The park also has small ponds with statues and charming water features.
The historic houses in Sam Houston park are a highlight, attracting many visitors. The park provides a peaceful oasis in the city, complete with ponds, statues, and relaxing water features. The combination of nature and history makes this park a must-visit in Houston.
7. Midtown Park
Newly renovated urban park with unique public art

The city has transformed an empty lot adjacent to the original Metro Train line into a vibrant park for all to enjoy. The three-acre space features a range of amenities including parking facilities, open grassy areas, a large stage, and bathroom facilities. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, park employees and police are regularly present.
One of the standout features of the park is the beautiful mosaic created by artist Dixie Friend Gay. The water attractions, complete with waterfalls, offer a refreshing escape during hot temperatures. The park also offers playground equipment such as swings, climbing sculptures, and jungle gyms, making it a fun destination for children.
8. Tranquillity Park
Jesse T. Hogan statue and fountain

A visit to downtown Houston took us to Tranquility Park, which was under construction during our visit, disappointingly limiting the activities and attractions we could explore. Despite the ongoing construction, the park offered a notable feature: a spacious bricked area surrounded by concrete benches, providing an outstanding view of Houston's city skyline.
The main appeal of Tranquility Park is the expansive brick-lined area and comfortable seating, inviting visitors to relax and take in the panoramic views of Houston's skyscrapers. Although the park was not fully accessible due to construction, the available portion still provided a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city, with the opportunity to enjoy the cityscape from a unique perspective.
9. Terry Hershey Park
Scenic views of Buffalo Bayou

The park in question boasts stunning acreage, offering miles of walking and bike trails for visitors to enjoy. The area is filled with gorgeous greenery and offers breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot to take a picnic and spend the day.
10. Alexander Deussen Park
Large off-leash dog park

The fun park is a beautiful and well-maintained destination, offering a wide range of activities for its visitors. The park's wildlife is one of its main attractions, with five peacocks, great herons, egrets, raccoons, geese, and a variety of ducks living in and around the park's pond. The park's crew works hard to keep the park clean and presentable, which is evident in the excellent walking trails and bike rentals now available.
Visitors to the park can enjoy the company of the many animals that call the park home, such as the five peacocks, great herons, egrets, and a couple of raccoons. The park's wildlife also includes geese and a variety of ducks that can be found at the pond. The park's cleanliness and well-maintained walking trails make it a pleasure to explore on foot or by bike, with bike rentals available for those who do not have their own.
11. Smither Park
Community-built public art space

Mosaic art is a form of artwork that involves creating a design or image by arranging small pieces of materials such as glass, stone, or tile. The author of the first piece has a personal experience with mosaic art, having done some mosaic work themselves and even receiving college credit for it. They highly appreciated the opportunity to explore the mosaic artwork in this location, praising the wide variety of subject matter and the frequent changes in the artwork.
The second piece describes a picturesque picnic/park location in Houston, featuring beautiful mosaic artwork. The author expresses their delight in being able to spend hours looking at all the hidden pictures in the mosaic artwork. Both pieces highlight the beauty and intrigue of the mosaic artwork in this location.
12. Woodland Park
Home to over 2,000 animals and 500 species of plants

The urban community center is a bustling hub of activity, offering a range of facilities open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a welcoming and supportive environment, with friendly staff always on hand to assist. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the center has been forced to close its doors, with the exception of a limited afternoon window from 3-5pm. During this time, anyone aged 1-17 can stop by to receive a free lunch, ensuring that the community's most vulnerable members are still being cared for.
Despite the closure, there is still plenty of activity to be found in the surrounding area. With many people opting to spend time outdoors in order to maintain social distancing guidelines, the community center's outdoor spaces have become a hotspot for various activities. From families working out and playing sports together, to children riding bikes and fishing, there's no shortage of entertainment to be found. Overall, the community center remains a vital and vibrant part of the urban landscape, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
13. Bay Area Park
Scenic views of the bay and downtown Houston

14. Stude Park
Houston's largest waterpark

Stude Park, located in Houston, is a small yet well-used park that is particularly popular among families with young children. The park features a playground that, while modest, provides a fun environment for little kids to play and explore. However, the park's main attraction is its proximity to the bayou trails, which offer a more significant draw for visitors looking to engage in outdoor activities.
Spanning 36.7 acres, Stude Park boasts a serene and inviting ambiance that appeals to walkers and runners seeking a revitalizing outdoor experience. The park's lush greenery, winding trails, and picturesque views create an urban oasis that allows visitors to connect with nature while still in the heart of the city. The park's scenic beauty and natural surroundings make it an ideal location for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat.
15. Emancipation Park
Site of Texas Declaration of Independence

Emancipation Park in Houston is a significant and historic site, known for its role in commemorating the emancipation of slaves in Texas. The park has undergone recent renovations, improving its features and amenities, and making it an even better place to visit.
Visitors to Emancipation Park can enjoy plenty of green space and outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for recreation and relaxation. The park's historic significance, combined with its modern amenities, make it a must-visit destination in Houston.
16. Keith-Wiess Park
Home to the Merfish Treehouse

Keith-Wiess Park, a 499.46-acre natural retreat, is located in Houston's northern area and is surrounded by pine forests along Aldine-Westfield Road. This beautiful park's history is deeply rooted in the philanthropy of one of the region's most influential oil and timber families. The park provides a peaceful escape from urban life, with paved trails that are recently constructed, wide, and elegantly weaving through the forests while encircling the central pond.
The park's recent improvements make it an ideal location for outdoor activities, including walking, jogging, or biking along the winding trails. The ponds and thick forests are home to diverse wildlife, providing opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. Despite its size, the park remains a hidden gem, offering a serene and less crowded alternative to other popular parks in the city. Its beautiful landscape and peaceful atmosphere make Keith-Wiess Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Houston.
17. Market Square Park
Houston's first city park

Lauren's Garden is a beautiful and tranquil spot, ideal for individuals seeking peace and quiet. The garden boasts seasonal flowering trees that add a pop of color to the landscape and create a serene atmosphere. A soothing water fountain is also present, providing a calming sound that drowns out the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
On the other hand, Market Square Park is a great place to unwind, offering plenty of seating and shaded areas. The park is family-friendly, featuring a children's play area that keeps younger visitors entertained. Both Lauren's Garden and Market Square Park provide unique experiences, but they share a common purpose - to offer a peaceful retreat to visitors looking to escape the stress of daily life.
18. Herman Brown Park
Dog-friendly areas

Evening walk with my son was enjoyable, thanks to the trail's excellent condition which was mostly paved. However, we encountered a disappointing sight on the back trail by the bayou. It was covered in garbage and waste, which negatively affected the overall experience.
The scenery on the trail was pleasant, but as we progressed, it started to become increasingly trashy. Unfortunately, my car was broken into during a morning run, and I learned that another person had a similar experience. As a result, I have decided not to return to the trail.
19. Mason Park
Historic site with 1930s structures
Mason Park is an ideal location for families to enjoy the outdoors. With ample open space, playgrounds, and sports facilities, there are countless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The park is a popular destination for picnickers, dog-walkers, and athletes alike, making it a lively and engaging community hub.
Additionally, Mason Park boasts scenic walking trails and a picturesque bayou, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere for visitors. The park's natural beauty and peaceful ambiance make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more leisurely and laid-back outdoor experience. Whether you're looking to stay active or simply unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature, Mason Park has something for everyone.
20. River Oaks Park
Historic property with beautiful architecture
River Oaks Park, ranked #378 out of 837 things to do in Houston, is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. This park has undergone recent renovations that have transformed it into a favorite spot for many. The park's standout feature is the stunning pumpkin carriage that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. The carriage is a popular backdrop for family photos, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled day out.
In addition to the carriage, the park boasts an impressive playground that offers a range of activities for children to enjoy. The playground is well-maintained, clean, and safe, providing parents with peace of mind while their kids play. With its charming ambiance, River Oaks Park is an ideal location for families looking to spend quality time together in a beautiful and engaging environment. The park's renovations have elevated it to a must-visit destination in Houston, drawing praise from parents who have been wowed by its new look and offerings.
21. Hermann Square
Houston's civic center
Hermann Square is a courtyard located in the heart of the city, occupying a city block and featuring a reflecting pool as its central element. The square was initially established as a public park in 1914, long before the construction of the City Hall on its western edge. The square was adorned with large live oak trees and landscaping, which provided a scenic and serene atmosphere around the reflection basin.
As the years passed, the square remained a public green space, but it was not until the construction of City Hall that it gained more significance. Once the City Hall was built, Hermann Square became its courtyard, further enhancing its prominence in the cityscape. The reflecting pool, which had been a part of the square since its inception, became a defining feature of the space. Despite the addition of City Hall, the square retained its natural beauty, with the huge live oak trees and landscaping around the reflecting pool making it a popular destination for city residents and visitors alike.
22. Westlake RV Resort
Scenic views of West Lake

Westlake RV Resort is one of the nicest RV parks, with concrete pads that are large enough to accommodate both your RV and a vehicle. The park is mostly inhabited by full-time residents, making it a friendly and welcoming community. I had the pleasure of camping there in a travel trailer and was thoroughly impressed during my initial visit in 2015.
Recently, I returned to Westlake RV Resort in April 2024 after staying at another RV park, eager to experience the top-notch facilities once again. The resort maintains its charm, making it an excellent option for RVers seeking a comfortable and friendly place to stay. The spacious RV pads and welcoming community make it a standout choice for both short-term and full-time residents.