Menil Park

Menil Park is a 30-acre green space located in the Montrose neighborhood of Houston, Texas. The park is an integral part of the Menil Collection campus, situated between the Menil Collection's main building and the Rothko Chapel. Lined with early 20th-century bungalows and shaded by mature live oak trees, the park offers a tranquil retreat within the bustling city.

The park's landscape is characterized by its expansive lawns and scattered art installations. Visitors can find major works of outdoor sculpture throughout the grounds, including pieces by renowned artists such as Michael Heizer and Mark di Suvero. One of the most recognizable features is Jim Love's "Jack" sculpture, which greets visitors as they enter from the Alabama Street parking lot.

Menil Park is not just a static green space; it serves as a gathering place for the community. Students from nearby St. Thomas University, local residents, and museum visitors alike use the park for various activities. On weekends and pleasant afternoons, the park is often filled with people enjoying picnics, reading under the shade of the oak trees, or simply relaxing on the grass.

A unique feature of the park is the bright red swing hanging from one of the sturdiest oak trees. This swing is part of the globe-spanning Red Swing Project, created as an "urban intervention" by a University of Texas architecture student. It adds a playful touch to the otherwise serene landscape.

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, offering free access to all visitors. While it doesn't have traditional park amenities like playgrounds or sports facilities, its primary appeal lies in its peaceful atmosphere and connection to art and nature.