Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Is your beau bugging you to go primitive camping? Why not suggest an urban forest event, so you don't have to scout for a bathroom in the middle of the night? The Arboretum has a "Wine and Cheese Night Hike" and other evening events like "Bugs and Beer" for buzzed adults. The programs are usually $30 for non-members. Here is a poetic description of what you will hear... "The night forest pulses with the sounds of melodious songs, clicking calls, flapping wings, and shuffling feet. Frogs, crickets, bats, and other animals are on the move; meeting mates and finding food- it’s the night life of the forest! Come out and discover which creatures are sounding off, participate in a special frog symphony, and take a night hike into a forest rich in sounds and excitement. After the hike, enjoy wine and cheese while discussing your evening in the woods. All participants will receive a free night forest recording for attending this event." Pros: Better than camping Cons: Might need to wear Off more

One of the best places in Houston to walk a basset hound. Interesting plants, too. But the dog liked it more than we did. Pros: Cheap, Good Exercise, Weird Walkers Cons: None more

This is the best walk in the park in the city of Houston. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a pleasant [and free!] experience. Pros: free, never crowded, nice trails Cons: too close to freeway more

The Houston Arboretum is a real gem! Best Houston has to offer in terms of natural habitat, and a staff that is welcoming and eager to help us learn more! This is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the fury of the city. Pros: Free, Beautiful, Peaceful more

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center (HANC) is the greatest outdoor classroom Houston has to offer. Bring your family and you will all learn about nature together. There are lots of activities for the kids, and a free walking tour on the weekends, otherwise you can go it alone. There are simple maps available for small change, so bring your quarters. Bring Mosquito repellent, so that you don't get bitten! You will love seeing nature however! It's so quiet, and the scent of the fresh pine needles are awesome. The sounds of nature are soft and beautiful! If you are a bird watcher, bring some binoculars, you'll see tons of them! Have fun! Pros: family day @ the park, place for families, Totally Free and fun Cons: mosquitos more

A great place to leave it all. Take a hike on the great trails. Listen to the birds, the bees, the scurrying of unseen animals. The trains on Sunday mornings are also great. The hammering of the pileated woodpecker is my favorite, next to the smiles on the faces of the other people on the trails. Bring a friend. Pros: Unique, Restful, Private more

Some of my happiest memories are of horseback riding in Memorial Park in the early 60s. I don't need to elaborate about the obvious upheavals in the city landscape since then, but it delights me that part of the park was set aside for the arboretum. I have seen the dedicated and talented people who work there -- both as staff members and volunteers -- to keep this place a haven for harried Houstonians as well as a site for children to become acquainted with the beauty (and annonyances) of nature. Pros: Nice staff, Well maintained, Dogs are permitted more

Great place for a long walk with your dog! The trees provide lots of shade & its got great trails that are well marked. A really nice getaway from the normal exercise routine. more