Parks & Outdoors

Houston's green spaces and outdoor adventures — from urban bayou trails and nature preserves to nearby beach escapes along the Gulf Coast.

Buffalo Bayou Park

A stunning 160-acre park that transformed a neglected stretch of bayou into Houston's premier urban greenspace with 5+ miles of trails, kayaks, and a bat colony.

1800 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019

Hermann Park & Miller Outdoor Theatre

Houston's 445-acre flagship park offers free year-round performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre — Shakespeare, symphony, ballet, and Bollywood under the stars.

6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030

Memorial Park

Nearly 1,500 acres — one of the largest urban parks in the nation. Trail running, mountain biking, golf, and a spectacular new land bridge.

6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007

Discovery Green

A vibrant 12-acre downtown park — Houston's living room. Free yoga, concerts, farmers markets, kayaks, ice skating in winter, and movies under the stars.

1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

A 155-acre urban nature sanctuary within Memorial Park featuring 5 miles of trails through meadows, wetlands, and forest. Free admission, perfect for bird watching.

4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024

Galveston Island Day Trip

Just 50 miles from Houston — Gulf Coast beaches, the historic Strand District, Moody Gardens, and Pleasure Pier. A perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

Galveston Island, TX (50 miles from Houston)