Rice University

8 Best Parks in Houston

"You may not think of a university as a go-to spot for a scenic afternoon, but Rice University is a 300-acre green oasis in the center of the country's fourth largest city. The entire campus, a designated teaching and research arboretum, regularly earns the Tree Campus USA designation from the Arbor Day Foundation. What can you expect once you’re here? More than 216 species of birds (making Rice one of the premier bird-watching locations in the nation), a 2.9-mile decomposed-granite sidewalk for walkers and joggers, distinctive architecture, and an extensive collection of public art." - Marcy de Luna