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In search of a park the whole family can enjoy? Look no further than Levy Park in Houston’s Upper Kirby District. The free green oasis in the heart of the city features everything from picnic space, a massive play area for kiddos, a dog park, and more, all with thoughtful landscaping surrounding the park. With events taking place year round, you never know if you’ll stumble upon live music, a family storytime, Bollywood dancers, or another culturally enriching experience. Pack a lunch or order from Gaspachos Mexican Bites for a perfectly planned picnic in a gorgeous local park.
One of Memorial Park’s newest gathering spots, the Clay Family Eastern Glades (pictured), spans 100 acres of open space and features a 5 ½-acre lake, extensive trails and boardwalks, and picturesque picnic spots. Spread out with your crew on the green lawn, enjoy a nice nature walk on the boardwalk over the lake, and embrace the energy of all of those working out nearby. The trees provide much needed shade, public restrooms make visiting the Glades convenient, and the amount of free open space offered makes navigating the area an effortless experience and the perfect way to enjoy a picnic in the park.
If you’ve got a large group looking to spread out and soak up some great weather, Hermann Park is the place for you. With sprawling green space, the walkable and photo-op worthy McGovern Centennial Gardens, and walking trails that offer beautiful views of nature, it’s no wonder why Hermann Park is such a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Bring a frisbee, a kite, or just a blanket and some buddies to enjoy the great outdoors. You won’t struggle to find open space at this vast park located just outside of the Texas Medical Center. As an added bonus, Hermann Park is just a short walk to the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre and Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Smither Park is an art-lover’s dream to enjoy the outdoors in Houston! The mosaic-covered park situated right next to The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, serves as a testimony to the vibrancy and creativity of the city of Houston. Walls of intricately decorated art pieces surround the park, a man-made throne with a built-in crown rests near an amphitheater inside a fish’s mouth, and giant swings beckon kiddos and the children at heart to feel the breeze in their hair. Stop by this truly unique, one-of-a-kind park near the University of Houston that will undoubtedly be a feast for the eyes while you feast on your picnic basket provisions.
A vast green space near Buffalo Bayou with a scenic view of the Downtown Houston skyline awaits at Eleanor Tinsley Park. Buffalo Bayou winds through the 500-acre park with scenic bike and hiking trails running parallel to the bayou’s banks. Sloping hills, lush trees, and people-watching for days make for a picture-perfect picnic. Bring a frisbee, a volleyball, or comfy shoes to take a stroll on the trails and soak in the beautiful nature vibes right in the heart of the city. Feeling whimsical? Join the kiddos and roll down the hills that surround the park for an instant rush of adrenaline and childlike wonder.
Picnickers, musicians, slackliners, and bookworms all flock to Menil Park for some relaxing fun in the sun. Located in close proximity to The Menil Collection, Menil Park is an artsy spot for a picture-perfect picnic experience. The lush green area is lined with early-20th-century bungalows and shaded by live oak trees, adding to Menil's aesthetic and experience. If you’re feeling inspired after enjoying the sculptures in Menil Park, head over to the Menil Collection or the Rothko Chapel for a truly sophisticated and cultural experience.
For a quintessential mix of city life and park vibes, the Sarofim Picnic Lawn at Discovery Green is a must. In addition to a dedicated picnic space, “Disco Green” includes dog runs, a playground, and even a mist tree for kiddos to cool off. If the term “picnic” simply means gathering outdoors without personally packing food and drinks, take advantage of the nearby restaurant, The Grove, or Grove Market & Park Provisions proximal to the lawn offering snacks and drinks to wet your whistle. You never know what activities are going on at Discovery Green, so take advantage of some of the fun events before or after your picnic.
Looking for some fresh air after shopping all day at The Galleria or working away in the Post Oak area? A lengthy green space awaits at the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park. Rest, relax, and reset with the soothing sounds of rushing water from the 64-foot-U-shaped waterwall fountain. Lining the park are 186 live oaks along with benches that make for a nice respite from a long day of walking and shopping. Located right in the hustle and bustle of a typically high-traffic area, this park is the perfect escape for a solo picnic or group gathering!
