Did HOU Know? is Houston City Beat’s quick-hit series of fun facts, hidden gems, and little-known stories about Houston’s people, places, and history. It’s your bite-sized way to discover something new about the city you call home.
As one strolls through Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, the serene calm that blankets this 393-acre sanctuary in Humble is striking. Founded by Thelma and Charles Mercer and preserved as a Harris County park since 1974, this botanical gem feels like a world apart from Houston’s hustle.
The Houston skyline saw a modern transformation that began in the early 1970s and continued through the 80s as several 50-plus story buildings were added in the downtown area. Among them were two supertall skyscrapers, which is considered to be any building 984 feet or taller in height.
