Wilhelmina’s Grove Reopens
A New Chapter for UH’s Arts District
Rear view of the renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
Rear view of the renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
A new water feature at Wilhelmina’s Grove
A new water feature at Wilhelmina’s Grove
If you’ve wandered through the heart of the University of Houston’s Arts District lately, you may have noticed something special taking shape. Wilhelmina’s Grove — that quiet, tree-lined retreat where students have long paused between classes — has reopened, and it’s more inviting than ever.
The grove now boasts an amphitheater with a covered stage, raised seating areas, improved accessibility and a calming water feature. It’s a space designed for connection: a place where music, theater, dance, art and conversation can spill out of nearby buildings and into the open air.
Part of a Larger Vision
The grove is part of UH’s Centennial Construction Project — a bold, $43 million initiative to reimagine the campus core in time for the University’s 100th anniversary. These changes aren’t just cosmetic; they’re about creating spaces that foster community, creativity and pride.
This transformation didn’t happen overnight, and it’s just the beginning.
- University Drive is being transformed into a pedestrian-first promenade lined with shade trees, public art and outdoor rooms. When complete in time for the Centennial in 2027, it will serve as a stunning gateway to campus life.
- Centennial Plaza, anchored by the beloved Cullen Family Plaza and fountains, is getting a fresh design with flexible seating, water features and spaces for traditions old and new. Demolition of Farish Hall began last month to make way for this next chapter.
As UH approaches its centennial, these projects reflect more than construction — they represent a vision for the future: a campus that invites you to slow down, connect and celebrate what makes this community extraordinary.
New native plants surround the newly renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
New native plants surround the newly renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
A new water feature is one of the highlights of the newly renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
A new water feature is one of the highlights of the newly renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
A view from behind the amphitheater at the newly renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
A view from behind the amphitheater at the newly renovated Wilhelmina’s Grove
A rendering of the Wilhelmina's Grove renovation
A rendering of the Wilhelmina's Grove renovation
Construction began on the Wilhelmina's Grove renovation in 2024
Construction began on the Wilhelmina's Grove renovation in 2024
View from the rear of the newly renovated Wilhelmina's Grove
View from the rear of the newly renovated Wilhelmina's Grove
Built with Shorthand