How about we discover a custom-made jewel? It’s right here in Hermann Park. I’m talking about the McGovern Centennial Gardens. These gardens add a new dimension to Houston’s attractions.
To commemorate Hermann Park’s centennial in 2014, Hermann Park Conservancy transformed the former Houston Garden Center site. It became the eight-acre McGovern Centennial Gardens. The McGovern Centennial Gardens opened to the public December 22, 2014.
Visitors explore themed garden rooms. These rooms sit along the spacious central lawn. It’s called the Centennial Green. The Gardens are home to more than 490 new trees. These trees represent over 50 species. You will also find 760 hedge shrubs. There are 55,000 perennial bulbs. See 650 azaleas too. And don’t forget the 4.5 acres of grass.
The Gardens include the Arid Garden. Discover the Rose Garden. Explore the Celebration Garden. The Woodland Garden awaits you. And don’t miss the educational Family Garden. It produces seasonal vegetables. It also grows herbs and fruit trees.
The main entry is through the Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion. Peter Bohlin designed it. He is the architect of Apple stores worldwide.
The McGovern Centennial Gardens hours change seasonally. The Gardens stay open later during spring and summer. They close earlier during the shorter winter months. The Gardens are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Normal hours are 9 am to 5 pm. Last entry is at 4:45 pm.
Let’s talk about some of the gardens in the McGovern Centennial Gardens. The Arid Garden showcases plants that thrive in dry climates. The Rose Garden is full of beautiful roses. The Celebration Garden is a rental venue. It’s perfect for special events. The Woodland Garden offers a shady retreat.
The Family Garden is educational. It teaches about growing food. The Hawkins Sculpture Walk combines art and nature. The Pergola Walk offers a shaded path. The Tudor Family Pine Hill Walk is a peaceful stroll. The Friendship Pavilion is a gathering spot.
Don’t miss the garden mount. It stands 30-foot high. A spiral trail leads to its summit. From the top, admire Houston’s skyline. Take in views of the Houston Zoo. See the Miller Outdoor Theatre. Glimpse the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
The McGovern Centennial Gardens provides a tranquil environment. It’s perfect to explore nature and relax. The large hill at the heart of the garden offers a beautiful spot. Admire Houston’s skyline from there. The hill is covered with lush green grass. It is dotted with trees. It provides a scenic backdrop for picnics.
The Gardens also house several native plant species. You will find Texas live oaks. Look for magnolias and wildflowers. This makes it an ideal spot for bird watching too.
The McGovern Centennial Gardens is a Houston landmark. It offers visitors an escape from the city. It’s a place to connect with nature. It’s a place to find peace. It’s a place to appreciate beauty.