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. Whether you’re looking for a new running trail or a family-friendly pocket of Houston to explore, take a trip through Houston with us, park by park.
Stroll the organic community gardens and beautifully maintained paths of Mandell Park in Houston’s Museum District.
Officially opened in August 2014, Mandell Park is a 1.22-acre integrated park space used by area residents for events, picnics and community-oriented gardens which invite camaraderie between neighbors just as much as the birds and butterflies they attract.
Featuring a mixture of native plants, trees and grasses the shared space is surrounded by Bonnie Brae, Mandell and Richmond Avenue in Houston’s Museum District.
History of Mandell Park
In the 1980s, the City of Houston purchased and cleared the site in order to build a public library, but when a better site for the library was found, the site was abandoned and ultimately became a dumping ground for old furniture and trash.
Adopted by fed up local residents, the accumulated trash was removed and over the next 20 years, the site was maintained by the neighborhood association whom established the volunteer-based garden, “Meredith Gardens” which has been in continuous operation since.
In 2004, the property was transferred from the City of Houston Library Department to the Parks and Recreation Department, but due to budget demands required help to continue the improvement of the property.
Established in 2004, the park has been maintained by the Friends of Mandell Park since.
Click here for more info on Friends of Mandell Park and their upcoming family events.
Mandell Park
- Location: Mandell Park, Mandell Street at Richmond Ave, Houston, Texas 77006
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Parking: Free street parking is available in the surrounding area
- Admission: Free
