McGovern Centennial Gardens

McGovern Centennial Gardens is a public garden within Hermann Park in Houston featuring multiple themed sections designed around different plant and landscape styles. The space includes rose gardens, an arid garden, and an elevated garden mount that provides views across the entire grounds.

The gardens opened in December 2014 following the transformation of the former Houston Garden Center site through a major development project. This renovation added a significant new attraction to Hermann Park and expanded the park's offerings for visitors.

The Hawkins Sculpture Walk features international artworks positioned throughout the gardens, including representations of historical leaders and thinkers. Visitors encounter these pieces while walking through different garden sections, creating conversations between art and nature.

The gardens are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM throughout the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, with no admission fee. The different themed sections are easy to navigate, and the elevated areas provide helpful reference points for orientation.

The site contains a remarkable range of plant life with many tree species and tens of thousands of flowering bulbs that bloom at different times throughout the year. This seasonal variety means the garden offers a different experience depending on when visitors arrive.