Houston Arboretum

Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

If you’re looking for a place in Houston to get back to nature, a visit to the arboretum may be just what you need. The 155-acre nature sanctuary in Memorial Park has plenty of habitats to explore, from woodlands and prairies to ponds and wetlands, making it easy to see a variety of wildlife species while you’re there. Houston Arboretum

It’s a great place to hike, walk or just hang out. It has five miles of pristine trails and is surrounded by gorgeous, natural landscapes. You can easily lose yourself in a grove of oaks or sit on a bench and enjoy the view.

You’ll also find six educational field stations, where you can learn about the plants and animals that call the arboretum home. These field stations include an interpretive nature center and an education center, which features a hands-on Discovery Room with microscopes and other interactive exhibits.

For a truly immersive experience, you can even sign up for one of the many classes offered at the arboretum. These classes cover a wide range of topics, including botany and environmental conservation.

Some of the courses are also free, but others will require you to pay a fee. The arboretum also offers a range of programs for children and families, including an evening version of the Arboretum At Night program and a Naturally Wild Families event.

There are also several programs designed for older kids, like an art class where you can learn how to make a flower crown or a paper butterfly craft. You can also join a weekly class for kids called Adventures in Nature, where you will explore a new topic each week and have a chance to take part in a fun outdoor activity.

The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a must-visit for any nature lover. The 155-acre space is nestled on the western edge of Memorial Park, and it’s one of the few places in Houston where you can truly get lost in nature.

Its pristine trails wind through forest, meadow, and wetland habitats with almost no elevation change. The park also has eight ponds and wetland areas, plus Buffalo Bayou on its southern side, which means that wildlife sightings are practically guaranteed.

You can even take a stroll along a nature trail that takes you above a swamp. The Buttonbush Trail is a short loop that can be done in about 20 minutes, and you’ll enjoy seeing the native vegetation and a variety of birds along the way.

Another option is to walk along the South Woodway Pond, which is full of aquatic wildlife and foliage. There are a number of raised decks that let you look directly at the watery depths, and you’ll often spot turtles and other aquatic creatures here.

If you’re looking for a place to relax, the arboretum also has a large, shaded garden area that can be used for meditation. It’s a wonderful place to spend time with your family and friends, so be sure to bring a blanket or mat so you can spread out and enjoy the surroundings.