Houston Area Parks

Sam Houston Park was the first official public park established for the city of Houston in 1899 and, thanks to George H. Hermann's donation of 285 acres of land, Hermann Park was created several years later in 1914. Today, these well-known parks are joined by Memorial Park, Discovery Green, and numerous other parks both large and small located throughout the city of Houston, neighborhoods, and surrounding areas. Many philanthropists and supporters continue to advocate for the preservation of open space in Houston. This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Hermann Park and commemorative events will include an exhibition at the Julia Ideson Building.

Explore digital archival material from the Houston Area Digital Archives including postcards, photographs, and oral histories that illustrate the history of Houston area parks.