This Inner-Loop Sanctuary Brings Heart to the City
Nature has numerous positive benefits, among them the ability to reduce stress, physically and psychologically. “Being in such a large city [like Houston], it’s so important that we have these green spaces,” Senior Marketing and Development Manager at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center Christine Mansfield states. “We’re just really happy to be a part of that.”
For folks who might not already know, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature sanctuary that’s been around for over 50 years. Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty President Robin Conner was intrigued to learn about the history of the establishment.
The preserve is loaded with amenities for all residents in the area to enjoy, attracting everyone from adults, families, kids, birdwatchers, dog walkers, and more. “Anyone who wants to come out, there’s something for everyone here,” Mansfield adds.
With its convenient location, Houstonians can easily get to the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center from just about anywhere in Greater Houston as the Arboretum is just on the western edge of Memorial Park. The Arboretum has free walking trails, including a 5-mile trek. The wildlife has everything from snakes and frogs to rare birds and sometimes even coyotes.
“It’s just a really cool opportunity to see nature and not have to go that far from home,” Mansfield says.
“It’s easy to come out here and just forget that you’re in the middle of a large city. That’s really the beauty of it…get a little bit of an escape from the regular routine of things and slow down to the pace of nature.”
Enhancing Your Lifestyle as a Houstonian
In real estate, the agents at Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty might sell homes, but what they’re really selling is a lifestyle. One perk of living near the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is taking advantage of the hundreds of programs offered throughout the year. “Typically we have a wonderful summer camp program,” Mansfield says, “but this year we did things a little bit differently.” By expanding the age range of who they’re able to work with, there are now programs for kids from as young as 18 months all the way up to 17 years old. They offer a lot of family programming and some great events for adults.
Also, the summer’s “Arboretum at Night” series has been a hit. Fun crafts and activities for children and adults alike makes for a fantastic way to spend time, and beverages are available for the grownups. Additionally, other wellness and nature programs include events such as yoga and gardening.
The Future of the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is Bright
Mansfield and the rest of the directorial staff are most looking forward to utilizing parts of the beautiful space for rentals like weddings, baby showers, and galas.
After recently going over their master plan and redoing much of their landscaping to be more drought and flood-resistant, the Arboretum also added multiple new visitor amenities, including increased parking and an updated nature center (which has a discovery room for families to come in and enjoy), plus a new nature playscape that kids are absolutely loving.
“It’s so fun seeing kids out there playing on our playscape,” Mansfield says.
Over 50 Years and Going Strong
“We’re known as either the Bayou City or a concrete jungle,” Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty President, Robin Conner points out. “To have 155 acres of this nature center and arboretum right in the middle of our city is something that everybody needs to know about.”
Despite being a private nonprofit who operates city property, the Arboretum doesn’t receive tax funding, forcing them to rely very heavily on grants, private donations, and income from their wonderful suite of programs. Their website www.houstonarboretum.org shares more information about upcoming events along with opportunities to become a member, volunteer or how to donate.
Robin Conner encourages people in the community to contribute in whatever way they can. “It’s an incredible gem,” Conner says. “We’re so pleased and thankful for people who are keeping the sanctuary sacred and open for all of us Houstonians to enjoy.”
ABOUT MARTHA TURNER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
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