news

In First Phase of Multimillion-Dollar Overhaul, Hermann Park Conservancy Unleashes New Dog Park

In First Phase of Multimillion-Dollar Overhaul, Hermann Park Conservancy Unleashes New Dog Park

Dogs romp and play at the McWilliams Dog Park's ribbon-cutting ceremony

SO FETCH! HOUSTON officially has a new dog park, located within one of the city's most beloved green spaces. At a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Hermann Park Conservancy unleashed the new McWilliams Dog Park along Brays Bayou, and pet-lovers and their pups are putting it to good use thanks to this beautiful weather.

The two-acre off-leash area is the first completed project named in the Conservancy's $54 million Play Your Park campaign, which is set to conclude next year with the addition of a fantastic playground, among other amenities. "With tails wagging and hearts brimming with excitement, we are so happy to declare the McWilliams Dog Park officially open," said Doreen Stoller, president of Hermann Park Conservancy, in a statement. "From that very first email requesting a dog park during our master planning process, to this highly anticipated moment, the journey has been a community-driven endeavor. ... [We] invite Park visitors and their furry friends to romp, play, and forge new friendships at the McWilliams Dog Park for many years to come."

Local landscape-architecture firm Lauren Griffith Associates, which was also responsible for renovating the park's intricate trail system in 2011, designed the McWilliams Dog Park. It includes separate areas for small and large breeds, plus plenty of natural shade and a ginormous interactive water feature — all on an elevated site, which will hopefully remain protected from flooding.

The dog park is open to the public 6am-11pm, Tuesdays through Sundays; it will be closed on Mondays for weekly maintenance.

Dogs enjoyed the McWilliams Dog Park's ribbon-cutting ceremony

From Your Site Articles
Related Articles Around the Web
People + Places
promoted

Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

Al Torres
Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

How did you get to where you are today? The present moment is a combined history of my family, my time as an athlete, my passion for learning, and my desire to see the world be better. I grew up as a successful springboard and platform diver, however, an injury caused me to seek alternative treatments to heal my body. In that process, I discovered the power of yoga, exercise, meditation, mindset, and nutrition. This holistic approach eventually led me to open a Pilates and cycling studio called DEFINE body & mind. I opened studios around the nation, and after selling most of my business between 2017-2019, I was ready to explore how I could make an even greater impact on the wellbeing of our community. In 2023, I started actively working on a brand new multi-family/apartment concept called, Define Living. The idea focused on offering health and wellness services within a beautiful apartment setting to increase the wellbeing of our residents. Having a strong sense of community is the number one factor in living a happy life, so why not build a community where daily fitness, cooking classes, and social connection are the norm? We opened Define Living in March of 2024, and we couldn’t be happier with how things are being received. We are already looking at building more concepts like this in the Houston area and beyond.

Keep Reading Show less
food

Savor the Sun with Okto’s New Happy Hour

THE WEATHER IS changing, and soon, so will the time! Make the most of that extra hour of sun at Montrose’s Okto. This Mediterranean hotspot, located in Montrose Collective and part of Sof Hospitality — a group nominated for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Award in the competitive Outstanding Restaurateur category — is rolling out a new happy hour to enjoy on their urban-chic patio.

Keep Reading Show less
Food
promoted

Golden Hour at The Marigold Club: A Decadent Escape

THERE'S A MOMENT just before dusk when everything turns to gold—the light softens, the world slows, and indulgence feels not just necessary, but deserved. Welcome to Golden Hour at The Marigold Club, where opulence meets effortless charm and your midweek unwind turns into an exquisite ritual.

Keep Reading Show less