Nature Things to Do Near Houston, TX

Terry Hershey Park

Opens at 7am

4.5

Serenity defines Terry Hershey Park, offering 500 acres of lush trails, scenic views, and plenty of family activities by the peaceful Buffalo Bayou.

Eleanor Tinsley Park

Nature thrives in Eleanor Tinsley Park, offering urban trails with stunning skyline views and vibrant community events along Buffalo Bayou.

Sheldon Lake State Park and Environmental Learning Center

Opens at 8am

Exploration of diverse wildlife and unique wetlands makes Sheldon Lake a captivating spot for birdwatching and educational outings.

Downtown Aquarium

Opens at 11am

Adventure awaits at Downtown Aquarium with its thrilling shark train ride and diverse aquatic exhibits for families and visitors to enjoy.

Armand Bayou Nature Center

Opens at 12pm

4.5

Diversity of wildlife captivates me here, from bison to alligators, across serene trails intertwined with marsh ecosystems and family engagement opportunities.

Memorial Park

Opens at 6am

4.5

Oasis for city dwellers, Memorial Park boasts expansive trails, sports facilities, and a nature bridge, offering a refreshing escape within Houston.

Brazos Bend State Park

Opens at 8am

4.5

Wildlife lures me here; I can spot alligators and enjoy birdwatching. As a certified dark sky park, the stargazing is incredible too.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Opens at 7am

4.5

Sanctuary for urban dwellers, this 155-acre haven offers forest trails, birdwatching, and family-friendly nature experiences right in the city.

Mercer Botanic Gardens

Opens at 8am

4.5

Cultivation is evident in Mercer Botanic Gardens with its vast array of native and exotic plants, bamboo varieties, and peaceful walking trails.

Lake Houston Wilderness Park

Opens at 7am

4.5

Solitude defines my experience at Lake Houston Wilderness Park, the only camping site within the City of Houston that offers spacious trails and serene nature views.

Space Center Houston

Opens at 10am

4.5

Curiosity drove me to Space Center Houston, where I experienced incredible exhibits and gained insider knowledge about NASA's space missions.

Zoo Lights

Delightful lights transform the Houston Zoo into a magical wonderland, showcasing stunning holiday displays and unforgettable family memories.

Houston Botanic Garden

3.5

Flourishing, the Houston Botanic Garden offers stunning plant collections from around the world, winding trails, and immersive nature activities.

Williams Tower

Closed today

Tranquility describes the Gerald D Hines Waterwall Park: a stunning man-made waterfall brings a refreshing mist and a great photo backdrop in the city.

Cockrell Butterfly Center

Opens at 10am

4.5

Wonderfully immersed in a lush rainforest, I marveled at the thousands of butterflies and tropical birds in a serene educational setting.

Bayou Bend Collection-Gardens

Opens at 1pm

Uniqueness defines Bayou Bend; its historic mansion and meticulously designed gardens create a peaceful retreat rich in decorative art and beauty.

Discovery Green

Opens at 6am

4.5

Vitality draws me to Discovery Green, with its ice rink, art installations, and lively community events that create a refreshing urban escape.

The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park

Charmingly, the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern’s historic underground architecture and engaging light shows make it a captivating cultural gem.

Sam Houston Park

Closed today

4.5

Heritage drew me to Sam Houston Park, where 1800s buildings meet modernity, offering a serene retreat to explore Houston's rich history.

Levy Park

Opens at 8am

Community defines Levy Park, where families enjoy a vibrant space with a splash pad, food trucks, and engaging events year-round.