What is the entry fee to Discovery Green?
Entry to the park and most events are completely free! Events requiring tickets are infrequent and clearly marked. We hope you enjoy your day!
Wait… all this is free? How is that possible?
The Discovery Green Conservancy is the non-profit entity that cares for, maintains, and programs this 12-acre green space in the heart of downtown. The Conservancy relies on grants, sponsorships and donations from visitors to care for the park’s gardens and facilities as well as the free concerts, movie nights, exercise classes, art installations, educational workshops and more.
If you’ve enjoyed your time at the park and would like to pay it forward so that other families can also enjoy the space, please consider becoming a part of our donor community. You can find more information at www.discoverygreen.com/donate
How much does it cost to park?
There are several parking options at Discovery Green. The closest garage parking is Avenida Central. Prices range from $10 per two hours and up. Metered street parking is also available and is often more economical. Drivers with valid handicap or veteran placards may park in metered street parking free of charge. For more information on parking visit www.discoverygreen.com/parking.
What can I do at Discovery Green?
There is so much to see, do, explore and learn at Discovery Green. For starters, look through our event calendar and peruse our attractions. A few of the Discovery Green Conservancy team’s favorite things to do are:
- Visit the listening vessels. It’s one of Houston’s best-kept secrets!
- Read a book in the gardens.
- Take selfies at the Synchronicity of Color.
- Dance at a concert.
- Visit the bar at The Grove for a drink and some beet hummus.
- Cool off in the water fountains.
- Take a free exercise class.
How do I get to Discovery Green?
Discovery Green is located at 1500 McKinney Avenue in Houston, TX. We are in front of the George R. Brown Convention Center and next to The Hilton-Americas. We suggest taking the metro, a bus, a B-cycle or a car if you must. Bicycle lanes on the streets surrounding the park connect with trails from the East End. For more information visit www.discoverygreen.com/***
How can I plan an event at Discovery Green?
Areas of the park can be rented for corporate events, family gatherings, weddings, community festivals and more. For more information on holding your own event at Discovery Green visit www.discoverygreen.com/***.
Why can’t I ride scooters through the park?
For the health and safety of everyone, including our littlest visitors like puppies and toddlers, scooters are not allowed in the park.
How can I apply to be a vendor at Discovery Green?
Discovery Green is currently accepting applications from artisans and small business owners for our Flea by Night event. For more information visit www.discoverygreen.com/****
Is Discovery Green ADA friendly?
Yes! Discovery Green is wheelchair accessible with ramps, large sidewalks and an elevator in the parking lot. During events a seating section for visitors with disabilities is created and subtitles for movies are provided.
Are there restrooms?
Public restrooms are located on the south side of Alkek Building under the Stedman West Veranda near the playground. Additional restrooms are located in the Avenida Central Garage, located directly under Discovery Green. An additional women’s restroom is under the Cullen Veranda. Bathrooms may be closed at times for cleaning or maintenance.
Are you a city park?
Discovery Green is a public space, but it is privately managed by the Discovery Green Conservancy. Through the generosity of donors and sponsors, the park provides a green experience to discover and play for people of all ages and walks of life. Learn more about Discovery Green’s mission and history.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Dogs must be kept on a leash unless they are inside the dog runs. Owners must remain with their dogs and are required to pick up after them.
Can I celebrate my kid’s birthday at the park?
Yes! Please make a reservation at the H-E-B Family Celebration Zone.
Where can I eat?
There are plenty of food options at Discovery Green. Take a look at the restaurants page.
What is there for kids to do?
There are literally hundreds of free things for kids to do at Discovery Green. Take a look at the events calendar for art workshops, movies, and more. Then, check out the playground and the water fountains!
How did you get the name Discovery Green?
From the very beginning of Discovery Green, the Conservancy has sought input from Houstonians about how they wanted this green space to develop. With the guidance of Project for Public Spaces, the Conservancy mounted an intensive public process, which included both large public meetings and smaller focus groups to solicit public feedback. This feedback became the basis for the park’s programming. The Conservancy also worked with the local media and community sponsors and sought the help of the public by creating a contest to name the park. More than 6,200 entries were submitted. “Discovery Green” was selected as it fit the personality of the park, and invited discovery and education, delight and surprise.
What makes Discovery Green “green”?
Park designers worked hard to build a park that could meet the highest environmental standards while providing beauty and usability to the public. From the location of Discovery Green, the materials used to build Discovery Green to how Discovery Green uses resources like sustainable energy and water, the Conservancy takes care to protect the natural environment. You can learn more at www.discoverygreen.com/***
How can I buy Discovery Green merchandise?
You can purchase your Discovery Green gifts here. ***
More questions? Please message us here.