The attractive Tiffany & Co. Foundation Bridge spans the corner of McGovern Lake near the pedal boat lagoon and connects the Lake Plaza and Lake Picnic areas. A $1 million grant from Tiffany & Co. Foundation in 2008 made this scenic bridge possible. The bridge was designed by Overland Partners with White Oak Studio. 

This unique bench is the work of Jesus Bautista Moroles, known for his abstract, granite sculptures. The carved stone bench was situated in Hermann Park in 1999 and offers a pleasing view of McGovern Lake. 

McGovern Lake is home to several islands that provide a protected habitat for plants and wildlife. The islands are important to the area’s waterfowl, and provide a landing spot for a stopover for migratory birds. The islands are not accessible to pedestrians. 

General Sam Houston, sitting atop his horse, Saracen, has watched over the entrance to Hermann Park at Montrose and Main streets since 1925. The bronze sculpture was created by Enrico Filiberto Cerrachio (1880-1956) and was funded by the Women’s City Club. The iconic statue was lovingly restored by the Houston Municipal Art Commission in 1996.

One of the most popular features in Hermann Park, the Mary Gibbs and Jesse H. Jones Reflection Pool measures 740 feet long and 80 feet wide. Sculpted stone edges create an attractive border for the pool and a black bottom offers maximum reflection. Both sides are lined with beautiful mature live oak trees.

Located on the north shore of McGovern Lake, picturesque Lake Overlook and Molly Ann Smith Plaza offer picnic areas on a raised lawn, shaded seating, and playful interactive fountains for children to enjoy. The Pioneer Memorial obelisk honors the early pioneers who founded Houston.

The Hermann Park Railroad has been a favorite with children for over 50 years. The train winds its way around the Park on a scenic tour, delighting riders of all ages. Riders can board at Kinder Station, the main stop for the train, or at one of three substations. The train drops off and picks up riders at the M.D. Anderson Train Station, whose destinations include the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Two other stops accommodate METRORail riders and walkers from the Texas Medical Center and Rice University areas. Train tickets ($3.25 per person) are sold at the Conservancy Gift Shop at Kinder Station in Lake Plaza.

Japanese Garden Hours:
March 1 - October 31: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
November 1 - February 28: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

With its waterfalls, bridges, and stone paths that wander among crepe myrtles, azaleas, Japanese maples, dogwoods, and cherry trees, the Japanese Garden is a peaceful hideaway in Hermann Park. The garden was designed by world-renowned landscape architect, Ken Nakajima. Natural materials are used, such as rock, wood, and plants, to give a feeling of serenity. The Japanese Garden features a teahouse and winding paths to explore the lush gardens.

On October 19, 2012, 20 cherry trees were planted in the garden to commemorate the original gift of cherry trees to the United States by Japan in 1912.

The Japanese Garden is open daily for your enjoyment and there is no admission charged.

The entrance to the Japanese Garden is near the Pioneer Memorial obelisk just off Molly Ann Smith Plaza near the Heart of the Park. The closest parking lot is Lot A located just off Sam Houston Monument circle. To get to the Japanese Garden from Lot A, follow the decomposed granite path along the Jones Reflection Pool under the double allée of trees and you'll see the entrance just off the plaza with the obelisk. View our interactive map for more information.

For more information on the history of the Japanese Garden, click here to visit the Houston Parks and Recreation Department's page. 

The Japanese Garden is not available for rentals. For more information call 713.284-8300 or 713.284.1300.

A pedestrian underpass provides safe passage below North and South MacGregor Ways and connects walkers, joggers, and cyclists to the Bayou Parkland area of Hermann Park. The underpass also provides access to the Bill Coats Bridge crossing Brays Bayou and and leads to a 35-mile trail system. 

Spanning 290 feet, this contemporary suspension bridge connects the banks of Brays Bayou in the Bayou Parkland area of Hermann Park. Named for a Conservancy founder, the bridge is an important link that connects the Park to nearby neighborhoods and to a 35-mile trail system. Cyclists and pedestrians enjoy the convenience and safety it offers.