When people think of Houston, they often think of skyscrapers and busy city streets. But, did you know that Houston is also home to several stunning waterfalls? That’s right – hidden amongst the city’s concrete jungle and sprawling suburbs are some of the most beautiful and picturesque waterfalls you’ll ever lay your eyes on.
Houston’s waterfalls are a mix of both natural and man-made formations. Some of the natural formations are like the Waterfall at Buffalo Bayou Park, the Waterfall at Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens, and the Waterfall at Herman Park.
Others like the Waterfall at Discovery Green, the Waterfall at Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, and the Waterfall at Market Square Park have been created as part of parks and recreational areas. However, regardless of their origin, each waterfall in Houston offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or just looking for a serene escape from the city, Houston’s waterfalls are waiting for you to explore.
1. Buffalo Bayou Park Waterfall
Address: 1800 Allen Pkwy &, Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77019, United States
Phone: 713-752-0314
The Buffalo Bayou Park Waterfall is a man-made waterfall that stands about 27 feet tall. Located in Buffalo Bayou Park, this waterfall is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and unwind. The park has several biking and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the waterfall. The park also has a boat rental service that allows visitors to explore the Buffalo Bayou. The waterfall was designed by a group of architects and landscape designers in 2015 as part of a larger redevelopment project of the park.
2. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
Address: 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056, United States
Phone: 713-850-8841
The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is located in the heart of Houston’s Galleria area. The Waterwall is an impressive 64-foot-tall semi-circular fountain that pumps 11,000 gallons of water per minute over its interior and exterior walls. Visitors can walk behind the waterfall and feel the cool mist of the water. Several high-end retail shops and restaurants are easily accessible from the park. The Waterwall is one of the projects of architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee in 1985.
3. McGovern Centennial Gardens Waterfall
Address: 1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone: 713-524-5876
The McGovern Centennial Gardens Waterfall is a 30-foot-tall waterfall located in Hermann Park’s McGovern Centennial Gardens. The waterfall is right in the middle of a tranquil pond and beautiful botanical gardens. The gardens have several walking trails, picnic areas, and a cafe. The design of the garden commemorates Houston’s 100th anniversary in 2014.
4. Japanese Garden Waterfall
Address: 6000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone: 713-524-5876
The Japanese Garden Waterfall is located within the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Cockrell Butterfly Center. The garden is home to several koi ponds and a 22-foot-tall waterfall. Visitors can explore the butterfly center and learn about the different species of butterflies that call the center home. The Japanese Garden is a design of landscape architect Koji Morimoto in 1994.
5. Waterfall at Discovery Green
Address: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010, United States
Phone: 713-400-7336
The Waterfall at Discovery Green is a man-made waterfall located in the heart of downtown Houston’s Discovery Green Park. The waterfall is about 12 feet tall and is in the middle of some beautiful greenery. The park has several walking trails, public art installations, and a dog park. The park is a design of landscape architect Hargreaves Associates and opened to the public in 2008.
6. Waterfall at Fernbank Park
Address: 6138 Franz Rd, Katy, TX 77493, United States
The Waterfall at Fernbank Park is located in Katy, Texas. The park is home to a small but picturesque waterfall. The park also has several playgrounds and soccer fields. It was named after the Fernbank Oil Company, which donated the land for the park in 1967.
7. Waterfall at Sheldon Lake State Park
Address: 14140 Garrett Rd, Houston, TX 77044, United States
Phone: 281-456-2800
Sheldon Lake State Park is located in northeast Houston and is home to a beautiful 25-foot-tall waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by hiking trails and scenic views of the lake. The park has several fishing piers, picnic areas, and camping sites. The park was established in 1944 and is named after Joseph Sheldon, who donated the land to the state.
8. Waterfall at Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens
Address: 22306 Aldine Westfield Rd, Humble, TX 77338, United States
Phone: 713-274-4160
The Waterfall at Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens is located in Humble, Texas. The park is home to a small but beautiful waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by gardens, walking trails, and a butterfly house. The park has several educational programs and events throughout the year. The park was named after Thelma and Charles Mercer, who donated the land for the park in 1974.
9. Waterfall at Kleb Woods Nature Preserve
Address: 20303 Draper Rd, Tomball, TX 77377, United States
Phone: 281-353-8100
The Kleb Woods Nature Preserve is located in Tomball, Texas. The preserve is home to a beautiful waterfall that stands about 15 feet tall. Hiking trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching stations surrounds this beautiful waterfall. The preserve has several educational programs and events throughout the year, including nature walks and stargazing events. The preserve was named after the Kleb family, who lived on the land for over a century before donating it to Harris County in 1991.
10. The waterfall at Bear Creek Pioneers Park
Address: 3535 War Memorial St, Houston, TX 77084, United States
Phone: 281-496-2177
The waterfall at Bear Creek Pioneers Park is a small but picturesque waterfall located in west Houston. It stands about 8 feet tall and cascades into the pond below, creating a soothing sound that you can hear from several feet away.
The park surrounding the waterfall has several walking trails that wind through the woods and offer stunning views of the waterfall and pond. Also, there are several picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and turtles, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.
11. Waterfall at Matzke Park
Address: 13110 Jones Rd, Houston, TX 77070, United States
Phone: 713-274-0930
The Waterfall at Matzke Park is a small, yet charming waterfall located in the northwest area of Houston. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocks into a tranquil pond below. It is situated in a peaceful and secluded area of the park, surrounded by trees and plants that create a natural setting.
Matzke Park is a relatively new park established in 2003. Shortly after, they added the waterfall to boost the parks beauty. Visitors can walk around the pond to view the waterfall or enjoy a picnic in the park’s picnic area. The park also has a playground, a sand volleyball court, and a disc golf course for visitors to enjoy.
12. Waterfall at Mary Jo Peckham Park
Address: 5597 Gardenia Ln, Katy, TX 77493, United States
Phone: 281-353-8100
The Waterfall at Mary Jo Peckham Park is a stunning waterfall located in the city of Katy, just west of Houston. The waterfall is situated in a large, serene pond and is surrounded by a beautiful landscape of trees and plants. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocks into the pond, creating a soothing sound that adds to the tranquil atmosphere of the park.
It is a natural formation, created over time by erosion and the flow of water. Mary Jo Peckham Park was established in 1984, and the waterfall has likely existed for many years before that. Visitors can walk or bike on the park’s trails, go fishing or boating in the pond, or enjoy a picnic in the park’s picnic area. The park also has several playgrounds and sports facilities, including basketball and tennis courts, making it a popular destination for families and sports enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Houston has several stunning waterfalls that offer visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with nature. Whether it’s a man-made waterfall in the heart of downtown or a natural formation in a secluded nature preserve, these waterfalls provide a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone.
Many of these waterfalls also have a rich history behind them, with some parks and preserves dating back to the early 1900s. These locations have been preserved and maintained by dedicated individuals and organizations to ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy them for years to come.
You can also engage in a variety of activities at these locations, such as hiking, biking, picnicking, birdwatching, and fishing. Some of the parks have additional amenities like playgrounds, cafes, and educational centers that make them great destinations for families with children.