The Houston Arboretum and Nature Centre is a tranquil natural sanctuary with walking and wildlife in the very heart of the city.
Houston Arboretum is a haven of calm and natural beauty nestled on the western edge of Memorial Park. Providing a place of shelter for the local plants and animals, it’s walking trails, meadows and water ways make for the perfect escape from the bustling streets of downtown Houston.
Pack your walking boots, grab a compass and drive the ten minutes from the city centre to spend a glorious afternoon hiking through the forest and watching the wildlife. If you head to the Arboretum around dawn or dusk, you’ll be rewarded with sightings of turtles, frogs and any number of native birds. There are alligators as well, but these are kept safely in an enclosure so you needn’t be afraid!
The Arboretum has made an effort to be accessible to everyone, so many of the paths are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and buggies. Try out the Palmetto trail - a multi-sensory experience for the sighted and visually impaired. Directions are provided by means of braille signposts and stop-off points along the way play on your sense of touch and smell to bring you closer to your surroundings.
Toddlers will love the regular Tyke Hikes, leading them and their parents around pushchair-friendly paths before settling down with a story. Older visitors can relax and rejuvenate at one of the early morning yoga or tai chi classes and make the most of the ever-popular evening Wine and Cheese walks. Wine and cheese are provided for a small fee, but the glorious views and relaxed chatter are completely free of charge.
Before you leave, take some time to explore the Discovery room. It has a host of games, puzzles and interesting objects which will help you find out more about the urban wildlife that that calls the city home.
The easiest way to get to the Houston Arboretum and Nature Centre is by car. It is a ten minute drive from downtown Houston and free parking is available.
