Hermann Park in Houston is one of the city’s top family-friendly destinations, but also one of Houston’s top parking conundrums. This 445-acre urban oasis, located in the heart of the Museum District, is home to the Houston Zoo and The Commons, which is one of the city’s best playgrounds. Plus, the Zoo hosts popular annual events like Zoo Lights.
All these visitors means that parking can be a challenge. For normal zoo days, our best tip is to arrive early, ideally before the Houston Zoo opens, to secure a good spot. If arriving early isn’t possible, read on for more parking options near the Houston Zoo and Hermann Park.
Free Public Parking in Hermann Park
Hermann Park provides free parking in multiple lots. The closest options to the Houston Zoo, Kinder Station for the Hermann Park Train, and the Paddle Boats are Lots G, F, E, H, and I (as shown on the Hermann Park Parking Map), all within a 5-10 minute walk. These lots are accessible along Hermann Park Drive.
Lot C, located at the corner of Hermann Drive and Crawford Street near McGovern Centennial Gardens, is about a 15-minute walk to the Houston Zoo. Note that parking in Lot C is limited to three hours.
Lot A is located just off the roundabout near the Sam Houston Monument, which is an easy walk to The Commons.
Paid Parking Options Near Hermann Park
Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza Parking Garage
6400 Fannin, Houston, TX 77030This parking garage offers the closest access to The Commons and the playground. From here, visitors can enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk through The Commons to reach the Houston Zoo. Parking reservations for this garage can be made in advance at parkwhiz.com.
Houston Museum of Natural Science Parking Garage
5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030The Houston Museum of Natural Science is located across the street from Hermann Park, about a 20-minute walk from the Houston Zoo. Daily parking is available at $30 for the general public and $10 for HMNS members.
Metrorail
Another convenient option for reaching Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo is to take the METRORail. Park at the METRORail Park & Ride at the Fannin South Transit Center for $3, then board the Red Line. Exit at the Memorial Hermann Hospital/Houston Zoo station, and enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk through the Commons in Hermann Park to reach the zoo.