Perhaps one of the most magical things about spring in Texas is the seemingly instant bloom of the Texas bluebonnets. The vibrant petals and stems are eye-catching reminders that spring has sprung, so families everywhere ready their cameras and coordinating outfits for that perfect photo. The bluebonnets are so iconic that they are the Texas state flower and if you visit Houston this spring, you shouldn’t miss this spectacular bit of nature on full display. We just ask that anyone enjoying the bluebonnets be very careful while walking through or around them, remaining respectful of the natural splendor.
One of the best spots to see bluebonnets is along Buffalo Bayou in Houston. Grab your bikes, strollers and pack a fun picnic while enjoying parts of the 52-mile waterway. Typically, the bluebonnets are near the end of the bayou that’s close to Downtown. Along with the flowering banks, visitors can enjoy additional natural landscapes, trails for walkers and hikers, launch points for canoes and kayaks, the Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, and a dog park near Studemont and Allen Parkway.
Blessington Farms is a great spot to take the family to enjoy a fun day outdoors. Known for its strawberry patches, Blessington Farms also typically has bluebonnets that populate its vast acreage. If you plan to pick strawberries and/or visit the bluebonnets, give them a call to see whether one or both activities are available. Nature can be temperamental, so plan before making the trip. However, there are always plenty of fun things at the farm to keep the family busy, including tug-o-war games, gem mining, trolley swings, rope maze, hayrides, fossil digs and more!
Terry Hershey Park is a great spot on the west side of town to enjoy bluebonnets in a quiet and serene environment. With 12 miles of trails along the western end of Buffalo Bayou, visitors can walk, bike, or stroll to enjoy the spring flowers. The park is also 500 acres and includes anthills for bikers who like more of a challenging ride, exercise stations, playgrounds and picnic sites throughout. For those Downtown or near Montrose, check out Spotts Park for some beautiful patches of bluebonnets. The multi-use space makes room for basketball and volleyball courts, a children’s playground, walking trails and picnic area.
Want a quick photo opportunity in a fun part of town? If so, head to White Oak Bayou in The Heights to see the bluebonnets on the bank of the waterway. Parking is usually easy, as the stretch of bluebonnets runs along T.C. Jester from W. 34th St. to Ella Blvd. Then, go explore the White Oak Bayou Greenway or grab a bite and some drinks at The Barking Pig or Tex-Mex at Tony’s.
Lastly, we know that there are plenty of flowers in bloom in Houston. So, if you’re looking to just enjoy nature during what is arguably the most beautiful season, there are plenty of additional places to go. For the rose enthusiast, visit the Hermann Park Rose Garden for master gardener-level roses. The rose beds feature a broad range of antique roses: found garden roses, polyanthas, Chinas, Bourbons, teas, climbers, and roses that have received the coveted ‘Earth-kind’ designation. Bayou Bend Gardens is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy spring flowers. The grounds, curated by Ima Hogg, date back to the 1920s before the planning the construction of her home. The estate is over 14 acres with gardens full of southern staples like camellias, azaleas, crepe myrtles and magnolias complemented by intricate boxwoods and greenery throughout. Further, there’s also an area full of dense, natural woodland foliage, putting Houston’s natural ravines on display.
