Houston has consistently warm weather that is perfect for spending time outdoors. The city is also home to many beautiful gardens that are worth exploring.
Bayou Bend
If you want to explore a garden area that is both refreshing and historic, the Bayou Bend is the place to go. The expansive grounds of the Bayou were once home to Ima Hogg. The estate dates back to 1928 and includes over 14 acres of outdoor beauty including country era themed formal gardens, Southern flowering trees, and uniquely-designed rooms within the garden spaces.
The Bayou is also a part of the Museum of Fine Arts of Houston and you can view a lot of unique artwork within the estate. There are daily guided and study tours available to learn more about this Houston attraction. The Bayou is truly every garden enthusiasts ideal destination.
McGovern Centennial Gardens
Although the plans for the McGovern Centennial Gardens were initially proposed over a century ago, many locals would agree that it was well worth the wait. The creation of this formal garden was inspired by the larger city park attractions in Paris and New York.
The first thing you notice at the entrance is the large Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion. This one-of-a-kind design was created by the same architect of the Apple brand stores. The park is in the Hermann Park Conservancy and features over eight acres of themed gardens. Just a few of the garden rooms include the Centennial Green, the Rose Garden, the Friendship Pavilion, and the Woodland Garden.
Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden is also a part of the Hermann Park community. The garden honors the friendship between the United States and Japan. It features a Kaiyu-Shiki stroll garden and a tea garden, and every aspect of the garden celebrates the Japanese culture. Visitors enjoy the carved lanterns, crushed stone curbed walkways, and rock-filled water basins. There are two different viewing areas that give you a better view of the entire Japanese-inspired garden.
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
This Houston nature center is a great place to enjoy the outdoors while also learning about the nature of the area. The Arboretum area includes many outdoor trails that are perfect for a day spent hiking, biking, or just strolling through the wonderful Houston outdoors. Just a few of the trails within the nature center include the Carol Tatkon Sensory Garden, the Outer Loop, and the Biomimicry Trail. Each of the trails has unique sight-seeing experiences.
The center also has many educational programs for those looking to learn more about the park. Adult programs include the Arboretum at Night viewing experience and the Nature Revealed program. Child-friendly programs include Tyke Hikes, Science Sprouts, and even an exclusive home school program. The Arboterum also hosts an annual Garden Gala to raise maintenance funds for the garden centers.
Houston is a beautiful city with many exciting outdoor experiences. Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the city by visiting any of these unique gardens.
Image “Bayou Bend Gardens” by zephrene, used under CC BY-ND 2.0
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