About the Arboretum
The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a 155-acre non-profit urban nature sanctuary located just miles from Downtown Houston on the western edge of Memorial Park. Established in 1967, the Arboretum was one of the first nature education facilities for children in the state of Texas, and it continues to provide nature education for more than 10,000 children annually and reach over 600,000 visitors each year.
Visitors can enjoy 5 miles of nature trails, winding through native prairie, savanna, wetland, woodland, and riparian habitats. Six educational Field Stations throughout the site offer information about local plants and wildlife as well as places to sit and take in the views. The Arboretum’s eight ponds and wetland areas, along with Buffalo Bayou along its southern border, provide ample opportunities for exciting wildlife sightings.
The Nature Center building is open to the public and includes a Nature Shop filled with items for nature lovers of all ages as well as an interactive Discovery Room. Educational exhibits, hands-on activities, live ambassador animals, biofacts, and a weekly botany display make the Discovery Room the perfect place for visitors young and old to explore.
This 155-acre site serves as an outdoor classroom and backdrop for year-round educational opportunities. Schools, children, families, adults, and educators are all invited to learn and explore during one of the Arboretum’s many classes and events. The natural setting also provides a unique space for special events such as meetings, weddings, birthday parties, and more.
The Arboretum is a private non-profit educational space whose Board of Directors and staff operate City of Houston land under an agreement with the City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department. Funding for the Arboretum’s operations is provided primarily through grants, earned income, and generous donations from both corporations and individuals.