Spring Picnic Locations in Houston
Hello there, friends.
I hope you had a lovely weekend!!
I’ve been trying to do more things outside before it gets too hot here in Houston and also to get a little sun exposure for Vitamin D. When I’ve gone walking or running I’ve noticed families and sets of friends having picnics around Buffalo Bayou Park, which got my mind to thinking about this. I saw a large extended family carrying pizza boxes with them and some girlfriends noshing and imbibing on wine.
I haven’t had a picnic in a very long time but growing up we’d periodically head straight to the beach after school and my mom would pack a large cooler of food and drinks and we’d have a picnic dinner on the beach. We LOVED it!
So I thought I’d take a moment to share a short post with some various parks to consider having a picnic in around town before it gets too hot!
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AROUND THE HOUSTON AREA:
1) Buffalo Bayou Park: This is the park that runs down Allen Parkway and Memorial Parkway. This is where I run and there are lots of grassy knoll options perfect for a picnic on either side of the bayou. There are bridges every 1.5-ish miles to cross over if needed. I will say the only restroom is in the building where the restaurant Flora is near Lost Lake at Dunlavy. There is a dog park closer to Waugh Dr.
2) Hermann Park: This park is near the Med Center and the Houston Zoo, as well as all of the museums. There’s beautiful ponds, fountains, trail to walk, a train to ride, and paddle boats.
3) Waterwall Park: This is the park with the tall waterfall fountains by the Galleria. I never really think about going here until I drive by it. The grassy park area isn’t huge by any means, but the waterwall is beautiful to look at and would make for a nice picnic background.
4) Discovery Green: This is a park in the downtown area close to the convention center. There’s frequently activities happening there between the playground, dog runs, movie nights, concerts, and exercise classes like yoga or Zumba. It’s a nice area for family picnics.
5) Memorial Park: This park has grown and changed a lot through the years and I still haven’t explored all of it since the 3 mile loop has been extended into more trails. There are areas with picnic tables and restrooms in more areas. There’s a playground for kids, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and golf.
6) McGovern Centennial Gardens: This park is actually a part of Hermann Park but it’s sort of separate in a way and just REALLY beautiful so I wanted to list it separately. I attended a wedding there once and loved the beauty of the landscaping, fountains, and flowers.
7) Smither Park: This is the park where the Orange Show takes place. I remember going here as a kid and playing in the maze. There’s unique art and mosaics here, a museum, a gift shop, and the “Beer Can House” as well.
8) Terry Hershey Park: This (almost 500 acre) park is located in the Katy area and has a ample trails and picnic areas and playgrounds. I have never been to this park but I have heard about it!
9) Levy Park: This park is located near the Greenway Plaza area and it a popular spot for families to have picnics and birthday parties, but I have been told you have to pay to rent the tables for a party. There’s a playground, family events, a dog park, and a food truck.
10) Stewart Beach: Ok, I know this isn’t a park; however, given that I mentioned our childhood beach dinners above it I simply had to suggest it. Stewart Beach has a pavilion with restrooms and showers and a concession stand. You do have to pay to park, but given the amenities it is worth it. A picnic on the beach is a lot of fun after swimming.
This list is obviously not all inclusive of every park around town, but merely the ones that I have either been to or have heard about. Are there any parks you’d add to the list for nice places for picnics around town? Do you ever go on a picnic? Comment below!
XOXO
