Park Spotlight: Tranquillity Park

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Wortham Fountain | Photo courtesy of the City of Houston

In our Park Spotlight series, we take a closer look at Houston’s vast array of public recreational areas to shine a light on hidden and not so hidden gems. This week we’ll be spotlighting Tranquillity Park. Join us as we take a trip through Houston, park by park.

Located in the heart of Downtown near the Theater District, Tranquillity Park offers a much-needed calm amid the hustle and bustle of Downtown for those looking to transport themselves from the grind of city life.

Named after the Sea of Tranquility, where man first landed on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission on July 20, 1969, the city greenspace was officially dedicated on the tenth anniversary of the historic lunar landing in the summer of 1979.

Featuring a two-block oasis of flowing water and walkways, the park showcases mounds and imprints throughout the park that imitate the cratered lunar surface, a 32-level Wortham Fountain made up of towering steel cylinders that resemble the Apollo’s boosters, and a replica of Neil Armstrong’s footprint left on the moon.

Visitors will also find bronze plaques placed along the main entrance with the first words transmitted by Neil Armstrong from the moon, “Houston, Tranquillity Base here. The Eagle has landed,” written in 15 languages.

Be sure to check out the northern part of the park where, across the street, a smaller park sits with two memorials for each shuttle disaster.

Tranquillity Park 

  • Location: 400 Rusk St, Houston, TX 77002
  • Hours: Daily from dawn to dusk
  • Parking: Paid lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Street parking is free on the weekends and on weekdays after 6pm.
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Cody Swann
Cody Swann is a writer and musician born and raised in Houston. When he isn't recording or touring the country with his band, Wild Moccasins, he can be found covering live music and arts events for 365 Things to Do in Houston.