Levy Park: An urban oasis hidden in Upper Kirby
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Tucked away between high-rise office buildings and apartment complexes, the redesigned Levy Park is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the community in Upper Kirby.
A 1941 land donation from Houston philanthropist Leon Levy provided the space for the original 5.2-acre park, which re-opened this February after a two-year renovation process that quite literally rebuilt the green space from the ground up.
Now, it's nearly impossible to stop by the park when there isn't something going on. From scheduled fitness classes and musical performances to a booming dog park and children's play area, Levy Park is teeming with activity seven days a week -- and the community is responding. The park hosts an estimated 10,000 visitors weekly.
PHOTOS: Opening weekend at Levy Park
ABC13 caught up with Levy Park director Doug Overman to learn more about the wide range of features in the park, which drew inspiration from none other than Bryant Park in New York City.
Park visitors are also invited to participate in the action at free group fitness classes under the pavilion, ranging from drumming-inspired Pound classes to boot camps and Tai Chai. There are also daily yoga classes, and the park will even provide mats for yogis on the go.
Both fitness classes and live performances are organized in concert with Houston-area cultural institutions and fitness studios like Joy Yoga Center, Prelude Family Music, METdance and the Houston Public Library.
A three-towered fountain sculpture at the center of the area offers young park visitors refreshing relief from the Texas summer heat. A bright green arcing boardwalk overlooks the play area with a panoramic view of the east and west ends of the property. The ADA-accessible boardwalk accommodates strollers and wheelchairs.
Of course, not all children love playgrounds -- even ultra-modern play areas. Several carts in the park offer board games, art supplies, books and newspapers for parents and children alike.
You don't have to wait until the three new venues are open to get your nom on in the park, though -- food trucks are on hand from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
