The Grand Gateway, the historic main entrance to Hermann Park, includes the area from the Mecom Fountain to the Sam Houston Monument, erected in 1925, and the stretch of parkland along Main Street from the Fountain to the Texas Medical Center. Planned in 1915, the axis of Main and Montrose was punctuated with an elliptical sunken garden (later replaced by the Mecom Fountain), while South Main Street was designed as an oak-lined parkway.

The Grand Gateway’s beauty once marked the area as an important cultural hub in the heart of Houston. While still home to the iconic landmarks and canopy of trees along Main Street, its minimal landscaping and lack of sidewalks and amenities belie the beauty and accessibility of the Park’s interior.

The Grand Gateway renovation project will restore the area, safely connecting surrounding communities to the Park and offering a proper welcome to one of Houston’s most historic green spaces.

Grand Gateway Highlights

• Extensive landscaping and seasonal plantings between the Sam Houston Monument and Mecom Fountain to reflect the sunken garden of the Park’s history
• Improved walkways to increase connectivity to neighborhoods and METRORail 
• Pedestrian-scale lighting, benches, and bike racks to provide convenience for walkers and bicyclists 
• New drainage and irrigation to preserve the Live Oaks along Main Street

To learn about naming opportunities and more, please contact development@hermannpark.org.