Welcome to Memorial
A peaceful, established enclave minutes from Houston’s city center
Once upon a time, the town around Memorial Drive was small and quaint, and the titular street itself was but a humble country road meandering its way through wide-open farmland. Today Memorial Drive, from which the town gains its name, is a thoroughfare connecting the now dynamic community of Memorial to Houston, the Buffalo Bayou Waterway, and beyond.
Many homes here are of the new construction variety, with top-of-line amenities, although there has been a resurgence in popularity for mid-century modern homes. You’ll find a stunning selection of spacious Georgian, Mediterranean, and traditional homes that have been completely updated to fit the busy modern family.
With its easy commute to Houston, not to mention the stellar school system and expansive homes, Memorial is the perfect place for young professionals and families. The secluded, sprawling lawns and picturesque homes offer a respite from busy city life, while the close-knit community means you’ll always have a pal to grab coffee with, or a friendly neighbor willing to share a cup of sugar.
What to Love
- Hip restaurant scene
- Thriving boutiques and shopping
- Well-rounded recreation
- Warm, friendly community
- Convenient location
People and Lifestyle
Stroll down Memorial’s tree-lined streets and you’ll witness an idyllic scene, one that harkens back to your grandparents’ America. Kids play in the spacious yards that spill out in front of the picture-perfect homes. Lights flicker on in the picture windows as the sun begins to dip below the horizon — and that’s their cue! Up and down the street, a chorus of goodbyes and thundering feet rings out as little ones rush in for family dinner. Weekends here are for picnics in the area’s pretty parks or maybe a family hike through one of the nearby nature preserves. Whether the day is spent out in the sunshine, at a baseball game, or eating buttery popcorn at the movie theater, one thing stays the same — Memorial is ideal for family life.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Residents of Memorial enjoy the finer things and the town makes sure to provide ample opportunity for retail and culinary specialties. The Mall at Memorial City is a local favorite for a day of shopping and offers top boutiques, restaurants, and shops you won’t find anywhere else. In a nod to the strong family ties for which Memorial is known, there’s even an American Girl Store here — the only one in all of Houston. For upscale shopping and European vibes, visit City Centre, a beautifully landscaped open-air plaza featuring luxury brands and elegant eateries.
Memorial is home to some of the most mouth-watering dining options in Houston and Perry's Steakhouse and Grille is no exception. Offering chops, seafood, wine, and Insta-worthy artisan cocktails, this luxe setting also features a lounge and live jazz. Located in the chic City Centre, Eddie V's Prime Seafood Restaurant is an acclaimed fine-dining chain known for a classic seafood and steak menu, as well as a cocktail lounge featuring live jazz.
Things to Do
Residents of Memorial appreciate the beauty of nature and the importance of conserving it, so it’s no surprise that one of the best-loved attractions in the area is the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center. This 155-acre nature sanctuary provides five miles of walking trails, which meander through an urban wildlife sanctuary forest. You’ll also find family-centric annual events here, as well as educational programs, field trips, and volunteer opportunities. One of the largest urban parks in the nation, Memorial Park Conservancy opened in 1924 and covers almost 1,466 acres. Bring the family for a picnic, go for a scenic hike, play a round of golf, or even don your whites and try your hand at croquet in this picturesque park.
Memorial loves its art and culture just as much as its sunny skies and gorgeous green space, and the Bayou City Art Festival is a beloved event. The leading fine art event in the country takes place every spring and kicks off the Texas art festival circuit. Patriotism runs strong in this Texas town and you’ll feel a swell of pride as you watch the American flag waving in the Villages Independence Festival Parade, held every July to celebrate the nation’s birthday.
Schools
Memorial is home to several excellent schools, including: