Discovery Green

Discovery Green is an 11.78-acre public urban park located in Downtown Houston, Texas. Opened in 2008, the park transformed what was once two large parking lots into a vibrant green space that has become a focal point for community gatherings and events in the city center.

The park is situated adjacent to the George R. Brown Convention Center and is bounded by La Branch Street to the west, McKinney Street to the north, Avenida de las Americas to the east, and Lamar Street to the south. Its central location makes it easily accessible to both residents and visitors of Houston.

Discovery Green features a diverse range of landscapes and amenities designed to cater to various interests and activities. The park includes expansive green lawns, shaded promenades lined with century-old live oak trees, and a one-acre lake. This artificial lake, known as Kinder Lake, serves as a focal point for the park and is used for model boat activities.

The park was developed through a public-private partnership between the City of Houston and the Discovery Green Conservancy, a non-profit organization. This collaboration has allowed for the creation of a well-maintained space that offers year-round programming, including free events, small festivals, and children's activities.

Since its opening, Discovery Green has exceeded expectations in terms of visitor numbers. Initially projected to attract 500,000 visitors annually, the park achieved this number in its first six months. By 2014, it was hosting over 1.2 million visitors and organizing 700 free events each year, establishing itself as a key destination in Houston's urban landscape.

The park has also had a significant impact on the surrounding area, catalyzing approximately $1.25 billion in nearby development, including residential and commercial projects. This economic boost has helped to revitalize the downtown area and create a more vibrant urban environment.