Hours

HOURS Open 7 days/week
Grounds & Trails 7 a.m. to dusk – Gates close at 8 p.m.

All visitors must be off premises by dusk, no exceptions.
Building and grounds closed Friday, October 26, 2012.

Saturday, October 27, 2012: Arboretum will only be open for annual ArBOOretum event (special hours), which requires paid admission or Arboretum membership.
Building 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nature Shop 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Discovery Room 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Mondays* * Please note: Groups wishing to visit the Discovery Room must make reservations. Tuesdays — Fridays, the Discovery Room may be closed during the day for scheduled school programs. Please call 713-681-8433 to check availability.
2012 Building Closures Wednesday, July 4 – Building closed
Monday, September 3 – Building closed
Friday, October 26 – Building and trails closed.
Thursday, November 22 – Building closed
Friday, November 23 – Building closed
Tuesday, December 25 – Building closed
VISITOR POLICIES The mission of the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is to provide education about the natural environment to Houstonians of all ages while acting as an urban wildlife sanctuary for native plants and animals.

Because it is a wildlife sanctuary, we ask you to observe the following rules which are in place for the protection and safety of all:

Rules
  1. All plants (their leaves, flowers, cones) and all animals (including turtles and snakes) found at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center are protected. Collection and removal are not allowed.
  2. Trails are designed for hiking only. Jogging, biking, skateboarding, horseback riding and other sport recreation activities are not allowed.
  3. There is no picnicking on Houston Arboretum & Nature Center grounds. However, Memorial Park next door is equipped for such activity.
  4. The health of wildlife as well as your safety are jeopardized by feeding native animals. Please do not feed the animals.
  5. For your safety and to reduce environmental impact, stay on designated trails.
  6. Dogs are permitted only if they are controlled by a leash and restrained to trails during their visit. This is as much for the safety of the pet as for the protection of the wildlife. Potential hazards to dogs not controlled by a short leash include snake bites and contact with poison ivy. All City of Houston Ordinances regarding dogs, including clean up of waste, must be followed. Pets should not be left in unattended vehicles.
  7. Increase your chances of seeing wildlife by refraining from making loud noises.
  8. For safety and greater enjoyment, we require that adult sponsors supervise visiting youth groups. At least one adult chaperone per 10 children is required.
Thank you for abiding by these guidelines for the safety and enjoyment of all.