Allen’s Landing Park
Simple park marking the city's birthplace & site of a former port, with a trail & bayou views.Location Description
Allen's Landing Park is located in the heart of downtown Houston. It sits at the junction where White Oak Bayou and Buffalo Bayou meet, making it a great spot for photographers looking to capture the city's historical landmarks alongside the picturesque waterway. The sprawling 4.84-acre park is home to various mature trees and well-maintained flower beds. Photographers can capture nature's beauty as birds and ducks gracefully glide across the water's surface, set against the backdrop of Houston's cityscape. The park also features a beautiful promenade, ideal for portrait photography, and a bronze artwork, the Allen Brothers, which celebrates the city's founders, Augustus and John Allen. With plenty of vantage points, including the Sabine Promenade Bridge and the Houston Aquarium, photographers can get creative and capture amazing shots at Allen's Landing Park.
What to Photograph
For photography enthusiasts, Allen's Landing Park in Houston, TX is a treasure trove of stunning images waiting to be captured. The park is situated at the junction of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou, giving visitors a unique perspective of the Houston skyline. Photographers can capture stunning images of downtown Houston from vantage points dotted around the park, particularly at the bridge that spans the bayou. Additionally, the park is home to beautiful flora and fauna, including stunning blue herons that wade in the waters of the bayou, making for a fun wildlife photography experience. Whether you're capturing the urban landscape or the wildlife inhabiting the park, Allen's Landing is a must-visit location for any photographer visiting Houston.
History
Allen's Landing Park has a rich history that dates back to 1836 when the Allen brothers founded the city of Houston. The park is located at the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou, making it a hub for transportation and commerce in early Texas. In the 1800s, docks were established at Allen's Landing to receive cargo from steamboats, and the park was a bustling center of trade. It was also an important location during the Civil War, serving as a supply depot and a point of embarkation for Union troops. Today, visitors to Allen's Landing Park can appreciate the area's historic significance and enjoy the beautiful views of Buffalo Bayou while taking photographs.
One interesting fact about Allen's Landing Park is that it was once the site of Houston's first skyscraper, the Scanlan Building. This 10-story structure was completed in 1909 and was the tallest building in the city at that time. Unfortunately, it was demolished in 1939 to make way for a parking lot. Another interesting photo opportunity is the many murals and public art that are on display in the park. These pieces feature iconic Houston scenes, such as the Astrodome and oil rigs, as well as abstract and colorful designs. Visitors can also take a ride on the Buffalo Bayou Boat Tour, which departs from Allen's Landing and provides a unique perspective on the city's history and development.
Nearby Festivals and Events
Are you a photography enthusiast looking to capture stunning images of exciting events? If so, you'll be happy to know that Allen's Landing Park in Houston, TX, is the perfect location for you! With its beautiful landscape and vibrant atmosphere, this park hosts several events and festivals each year that attract thousands of visitors. Here are some of the events you won't want to miss:
- Bayou City Art Festival (March): This event is a treat for art lovers. With a range of exhibits and activities, you're sure to capture some amazing shots.
- Houston Italian Festival (October): Houston's Italian community comes together for a weekend of delicious food, lively music, and colorful cultural events. The perfect opportunity to capture the essence of Italian culture!
- Texas Renaissance Festival (September-November): The Texas Renaissance Festival is one of the largest events of its kind in the country. With hundreds of costumed performers and vendors selling traditional goods, the festival is a photographer's dream come true.
- Feast with the Beasts (November): This unique event at the Houston Zoo allows guests to wander through the zoo after-hours, while enjoying some of Houston's best food and drinks. This event offers plenty of opportunities to snap some great shots of your favorite animals.
- Houston Mac and Cheese Festival (April): Who doesn't love mac and cheese? This festival brings together some of the best mac and cheese dishes from around town. Be sure to come hungry and bring your camera!
With these annual events and festivals, Allen's Landing Park has something for everyone. Whether you're snapping photos of art or indulging in delicious food and drinks, don't forget to capture the memories of your fun-filled day in this extraordinary destination!
Notes
HoustonPhotowalks Events Held at this Location
- Photofloat: Downtown on Buffalo Bayou in a Private Pontoon Boat + Photowalk
(April 22, 2023) - Photowalk: Nighttime Downtown on Main Street
(March 8, 2014) - Photowalk: Guided Tour of Allen’s Landing and Downtown
(July 28, 2012)





Navigation
Contact
1005 Commerce StHouston, TX 77002
(20.5 mi / 26 mins)
(713) 752-0314
Links
Hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
Categories
- Establishment
- Intersection
- Lodging
- Outdoors
- Park
- Point of Interest
Season to Visit
Some places are best to visit in certain seasons:- January
- February
- March
- April
- September
- October
- November
- December
Nearby Locations
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