Tranquility Park, Houston

Tranquility Park is a unique municipal park located in Downtown Houston. This two-block-long oasis was officially opened to visitors in the summer of 1979 and was dedicated on the tenth anniversary of the historic lunar landing.

The park takes its name from the Sea of Tranquility, where man first landed on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission on July 20, 1969. Interestingly, the spelling of the park's name differs slightly from the actual location on the Moon. Visitors can see bronze plaques along the main entrance of the park that feature the first words transmitted by Neil Armstrong from the Moon, "Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed," written in 15 different languages. Additionally, a replica of one of Neil Armstrong's footprints from his moonwalk is on display inside the park.

Tranquility Park's design is meant to resemble the cratered lunar surface. The park features mounds and depressions that give the impression of walking on the Moon. The park's centerpiece is the 32-level Wortham Fountain, which features towering stainless steel cylinders designed to resemble the Apollo's rocket boosters. This fountain is particularly stunning when illuminated at night.

The park hosts many city functions, art shows, and events each year, including the Children's Festival and the Houston International Festival. It is also a popular spot for downtown office workers to picnic and relax during their lunch hour. In the northern part of the park, visitors can find two memorials, one for each Space Shuttle disaster.