Redwood Creek: Top 25 Picnic Destinations

		MEMORIAL PARK: Houston's Hidden Treasure
		THE SETTING An urban oasis in Houston, Memorial Park is a paradise for tennis players, bikers, joggers - and, of course, picnickers. The park is located just west of the city, but once you are there you'll swear you were nowhere near the hustle and bustle of cars, buses and stressed-out businesspeople. Every day, hundreds of visitors come here to get away from it all, whether they're city folks eager to get some fresh air during their lunch breaks or weekenders looking for some exercise or solitude. Dedicated to the memory of the U.S. soldiers who died in World War I, the 1,500-acre park sits on what was once Camp Logan. One of its more tranquil areas is the George and Barbara Bush Presidential Grove, comprised of more than 54 native Texas trees donated by the National Tree Trust. The landscape setting, complete with a rolling waterfall and park benches, makes this an attractive site for a stroll. Nestled next to Memorial Park is the nature and wildlife refuge of the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, where you can find peace and quiet while studying Houston's indigenous plants and wildlife. Although you aren't allowed to picnic on the grounds of the arboretum, there are several great picnic spots within Memorial Park itself.
		WHAT TO SEE AND DO Memorial Park has more than 1,400 acres of bike and jogging trails. On any given day you'll find exercisers of various fitness levels tromping along the 3-mile crushed-granite jogging path. Cyclists can get in some leisurely touring or hardcore mountain biking on six miles of scenic bike trails. The park also boasts a tennis center, croquet court, a pool and fitness center, several sports fields and a golf course. Nature lovers should not miss the Arboretum & Nature Center, whose self-guided trails take you past wildflower gardens, ponds, forests and a recreated Gulf Coast prairie. The arboretum also offers several interactive educational exhibits for the kids.
		HOT TIPS All the trails in Memorial Park are surrounded by dense forest, so bring a detailed map with you before venturing out on your own. When walking or jogging on the paths, watch out for hikers and bikers -- if you're a cycler, be sure to yell out "Rider!" when rounding a blind turn so people know you're coming. Although dogs are welcome in the park (in fact, the Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail is a popular spot for pooches), pets must remain on their leashes at all times. Water is available throughout the park grounds, but be sure to arrive with a bottle to fill up along the way.
		PHOTO OPS From the park you can see the city's Transco Tower; it's nice to photograph at night. Capture the stillness of the pond at the Arboretum with a filtered lens. Memorial Park's scenery includes more than 1,500 native wild flowering trees, so there is plenty of greenery to inspire the photographer within you.
		LOCAL SPECIALTIES Barbecue and chili are two Texas specialties, and the influence of Mexican cuisine has Texans dipping their nachos into salsa and guacamole before many a meal. So be sure to pack something spicy.