Whether you’re planning a quiet walk, looking for a space to let your kids run free, or needing a break from the everyday stress of work and caregiving—urban parks are stepping up in more ways than one.
According to a groundbreaking new report by the Trust for Public Land, parks aren’t just green space—they’re connection space. A national poll revealed that more than half of Americans had a conversation in a park with someone they didn’t know—and who came from a different background. That kind of human connection is becoming rarer in our divided world.
“Parks are among the least polarized spaces in this country right now,” said Will Klein, Director of Parks Research at the Trust for Public Land. “People of all backgrounds love parks, making them natural venues for mixing.”
The newly released 2025 ParkScore® Index ranks the 100 largest U.S. cities based on how well they deliver parks to the people—measuring things like access, amenities, investment, equity, and total park acreage.
And while some cities are leading the charge, others—including major ones in Texas—have some catching up to do.
Where Does Houston Stand?
Houston, along with other Texas cities, is part of a mixed performance picture. According to the ParkScore data:
- Plano ranks highest in the state at #17,
- followed by Dallas (#34),
- Frisco (#37),
- Arlington (#46),
- and Austin (#54).
Houston didn’t place in the top 55, and that matters—especially for moms, caregivers, and women who rely on public spaces for safe recreation, social engagement, and mental wellness.
Nationally, Washington, D.C. took the top spot for the fifth year in a row, followed by Irvine, CA and Minneapolis, MN.
“Cities that have better park systems have more social connections between people of different income groups,” Klein noted. “They have more volunteers, and more civic leaders and civic organizations.”
Parks Are Lifelines for Women and Families
From birthday parties to baby yoga, parks have long been essential for women juggling family, career, and personal care. But experts say that they are even more critical in underserved communities.
Yvette Lopez-Ledesma, a Greening America’s Cities Fellow based in Los Angeles, emphasized that parks are “not just for recreation,” but lifelines in communities—particularly for Black and Brown families.
“If you have a park in your neighborhood, you may have access to food distribution events, child care programs, or just a safe place to breathe,” Lopez-Ledesma said. “An investment in parks… provides a huge return.”
A Mother’s Movement in Atlanta
One of the most inspiring examples came from Atlanta, Georgia, where schools and the city partnered to make schoolyards accessible as neighborhood parks after hours.
“Now all of the schools, playgrounds, and fields are open for our neighbors after hours,” said Justin Cutler, Atlanta’s Parks Commissioner. “It saves the school district over $500,000 in potential use fees and gives families more places to go.”
Thanks to this program, Atlanta’s “10-minute walk score” jumped from 79% to 82%, and the city climbed from #51 to #21 in the national rankings.
Cutler also spoke about Cook Park, a once-flooded area in Vine City that was transformed into a stormwater-absorbing, family-friendly oasis. “During Hurricane Helene, the park absorbed the extra water that would’ve traditionally flooded the neighborhood,” he said. “Three days later, it looked like there had never been a rainstorm.”
Los Angeles: A City Falling Behind
Los Angeles, meanwhile, has dropped to #90 in the rankings. According to Guillermo Rodriguez, California Director for the Trust for Public Land, that’s due to outdated planning and lack of equitable park distribution.
“The last time the City of Los Angeles updated its Park Master Plan was in 1973,” Rodriguez said. “And there are about 1.5 million Angelenos who do not have a close-to-home park.”
Still, women-led community groups are pushing back. “We want parks funded, we want them maintained, and we want more of them,” said Lopez-Ledesma. She and Rodriguez are part of the city’s new Park Needs Assessment, a public process aimed at restoring funding and fairness to LA’s park system.
Why Women’s Voices Matter
With looming federal budget cuts and economic uncertainties, many city leaders are worried that parks could once again be underfunded. Historically, parks are among the first services slashed during a budget crisis.
“It took us nationally 17 years for parks to recover from the 2007–2008 Great Recession,” said Klein. “Now is the time for cities to rally together and protect these spaces.”
Women, especially those raising families or caring for elders, know how vital these spaces are. Whether it’s pushing for funding, joining a local “friends of the park” group, or simply showing up and being visible—every bit counts.
And as Lopez-Ledesma reminded everyone: “A park can really be a lifeline in communities. It’s about access, connection, and ultimately, dignity.”
