Sam Houston Park

Activity Overview

Sam Houston Park is a public park located in the heart of downtown Houston, Texas. It was founded in 1900 as the city's first park and was named after Sam Houston, a president of the Republic of Texas who helped it to become part of the United States in the mid-1800s.

This beautiful urban park features several Victorian-era historic homes that can be accessed via paths that take visitors through landscaped areas, across a stream, and past an old mill. It's a wonderful place for a relaxing family walk surrounded by history.

Things to Do

• Go for a stroll through the park and enjoy the peaceful escape it provides from the hustle and bustle of downtown Houston.
• Take a guided tour of one of the many fascinating historical buildings in the park. They include the Kellum-Noble House, thought to be the oldest surviving brick house in Houston, and St. John Church, which was built in 1891 and still retains its original pews and altar.
• Visit the Heritage Society Museum in the park to learn more about Houston's history while viewing its intriguing free exhibitions.

Sam Houston Park Insider Tips

• If you're in Houston at Christmastime, don't miss the annual Candlelight Tour in the Park event! It features tour guides in traditional costume who teach visitors all about the historical heritage of the area.
• Bring along some food and have a fun family picnic near the historic bandstand or the beautiful lily pond.
• Take your kids to see The Old Place, a rustic cedar cabin built in the early 1820s - it's a great place for them to visit and imagine how people lived long ago.