Welcome to Oak Forest/Garden Oaks
Set in the northwestern section of Houston, Texas, Oak Forest is a large subdivision community adjacent to the similarly-named Garden Oaks residential neighborhood. Both locations are part of the Central Northwest section of Houston, in Harris County Precinct 4. The residential areas here are replete with pine, oak, and pecan trees, which line the streets and create shade in the yards of attractive, varied homes.
Oak Forest was annexed in the 1940s and primarily developed by Frank Sharp of the Oak Forest Realty Corporation, while Garden Oaks was established in 1937 by Edward L. Crain. Both areas have been steadily growing over the last few years and are becoming increasingly popular with young artists, business professionals, and families looking for affordable yet quality housing in a quaint residential area.
The architecture here includes a variety of vintage homes in styles such as bungalows, plantation-style, and ranch houses. Home values are rising—as is the population—and those with the know-how are remodeling outdated houses and renovating them to fit the neighborhood’s burgeoning style.
What to Love
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Locally-roasted coffee and treats at Slowpokes
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Family-friendly fun and fresh air at T.C. Jester Park & Bike Trail
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Delicious, upscale vegetarian cuisine at Govinda’s
People & Lifestyle
Families and single working professionals can set their roots in these radiant little communities that offer the best of both worlds: space to breathe, an outdoorsy atmosphere, and easy access to Houston’s great amenities. If you value a close-knit community, a variety of activities, and the serene peace of suburban life, Oak Forest and Garden Oaks are the perfect neighborhoods to suit your needs.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Both Garden Oaks and Oak Forest have shopping centers, in which you can find your everyday needs easily met. Additionally,
The Shops at Oak Forest provide everything from nail salons and spas to Starbucks and the lively
Plonk!, a beloved beer and wine bistro. However, for a truly large-scale retail experience, you can make the quick drive to the
Houston Premium Outlet and shop deals on brands such as Versace, Under Armour, and Asics.
Like in the Greater Houston Area, food is one of the core pillars of the Garden Oaks and Oak Forest communities. With a patio space perfect for gathering with friends and loved ones to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and fresh air,
Cottonwood’s laid-back pub fare and craft beers—many of which are locally brewed—is a hot spot throughout the year.
Gatlin's BBQ serves up classic southern barbecue that’s impossible to outdo. For those with a craving for international cuisine,
Les Ba’Get uses locally sourced, fresh ingredients to create mouth-watering Vietnamese home cooking.
Things to Do
In addition to a love of food, Oak Forest and Garden Oaks both have a deep affinity for cultivating strong community ties. One of the biggest sources of activity comes from involvement in the community, such as participating in the
Oaks Dads Club, which is a non-profit dedicated to facilitating sports groups for the youth.
The community all comes together during the holidays, with festive Christmas lights enveloping the neighborhoods. One home, in particular, has put on the
Garden Oaks Holiday Lights show, the proceeds of which went to benefit cancer research.
The areas are also closely located to several large park facilities, including
Buffalo Bayou Park, which has plentiful trails and attractions, like the historic cisterns. For a local favorite, visit the treasured Candle Light Park, which offers several acres of beautiful greenery right in the heart of the residential neighborhoods.
Schools
Oak Forest and Garden Oaks are both home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
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Oak Forest Elementary School, PK-5, well-rated public elementary school
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Garden Oaks Montessori Magnet, PK-8, well-rated public magnet school
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St. Pius X High School, 9-12, highly rated private Catholic School
