Where to Walk or Run with a Stroller in Houston

It’s January and the stores are full of exercise equipment so you can accomplish your New Year’s goals… but how are you going to run on a treadmill with a baby?

Grab your stroller and head out to one of Houston’s many places to walk or run behind a stroller!

1. Hermann Park – The Marvin Taylor Trail is a partly shaded, two-mile path, that wraps around beautiful Hermann Park. The wide dirt path is covered in decomposed granite and has room for runners, walkers and bikers. As you loop around, enjoy the art all over the park. Stop along the way, or after the run, to play at the playground, splash in the water, wonder through the Japanese Garden, ride the train or visit the Houston Zoo. There is never a shortage of fun to be had at Hermann Park… and this can include a little exercise for you!

2. ​Memorial Park – This park has a 2.88 mile jogging trail, with mile markers so you know how far you’ve been. If you prefer to bike, there are 6 miles of bike trails along the bayous. Take a lap around and then let the kids play or in the summer, swim in the free public pool. Also in Memorial Park is the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center where you can explore nature while getting a little exercise.

3. Rice University Jogging Trail – Wrapping around Rice University and in the shade of giant live oaks is the popular Rice jogging trail. The gravel path is always busy with students and neighbors, walking or jogging around the campus. The path is narrow, and has the roots of the live oaks as a bit of an obstacle… but this path is so beautiful that it’s easily forgiven. Parking is not available in the neighborhood, but cheap parking can be found in the visitor’s lot. Make a lap around and then explore the campus or cross the street to Hermann Park!

4. Newcastle Trail in Bellaire – Along the side of Newcastle is an extra-wide sidewalk that is popular with runners, bikers and moms with strollers.  As you walk or run down the path, you can stop in the Nature Discovery Center to see the bunnies, walk the trails or play on the playground. Right next door is another great playground (and pool) at Evergreen Park. Get in some exercise by starting at the playgrounds, running to Bissonnet or Beachnut (or beyond) and return for some playtime!

Contributed by Jill of Big Kid Small City