For five consecutive days in October of 1996, a close-knit community in Houston, Texas, rolled up its collective sleeves and built a lasting legacy for its children. Families, neighbors, craftsmen, teachers, students, local businesses, and friends of Houston Heights joined together in a monumental effort to construct what is now The Heights Playground. They worked from early morning until late night. They sawed, drilled, hammered and painted. They served food, tended minor wounds, and provided child care. They gave their time, their skills, and their hearts, yet asked nothing in return.

Donovan Park is the Cinderella story of a formerly underutilized park transformed into a unique fantasy play-space through the power of community involvement. Over a period of nine months, thousands of dedicated volunteers and supporters participated in the fundraising, organization, and building of a dream that became a reality. Today, it is a place that sparks young imaginations, encourages social interaction among cultures, and serves as an inspiration to future generations. Incorporating original ideas contributed by area school children, Donovan Park was designed by community-built architectural pioneers, Robert S. Leathers & Associates of Ithaca, New York. With its railroad theme and Victorian-era turrets, the playground reflects the historic character of its surroundings.

It serves the neighborhood as both a distinctive architectural landmark and as a popular family gathering site where young hearts and imaginations can run free. It stands as a loving tribute to the children who inspired its construction and as a testament to the caring spirit of the Houston Heights community.

We no longer take reservations for the use of this park. It is first-come, first-served. Due to limited volunteer trash pick up, we request parties of five or more to take their trash with them. For the safety of our children, barbecue pits, open flames, and dogs are not allowed.