Visiting Forbidden Gardens

Tucked away in Katy, Texas, the biggest little town you'll ever see, is a Chinese history marvel known as Forbidden Gardens.

Wear comfortable walking shoes because the museum is an outdoor venue with scale model replicas of some of China's major historic scenes. Guided tours are mandatory and are scheduled for 11:00 am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm & 3:00pm.

When you tour Forbidden Gardens, you'll be amazed at the exhibits. They have a 1/3 scale of the 3rd century BC terracotta army which was composed of 6,000 clay soldiers. Another of the many replicas is the Forbidden City.

There are benches if you need a rest break, and the park is wheelchair accessible. They also have a limited number of wheelchairs available. (First come; first serve.) Cameras are allowed, but, please, no pets with the exception of service animals.

Essential Information

Forbidden Gardens
281-347-8000
23500 Franz Rd
Katy, TX 77493-2703
Phone: (281) 347-8000 (Closed in bad weather so call ahead if in doubt.)

$3.00 for Children age 5 and under.
$5.00 for Seniors 60+, Students (6-18), Teachers with proper I.D., Groups of 25+.
$10.00 for Adults (19-59).
One child 5 and under allowed in free with each adult or senior admission.

Cash (none over $50.), Visa, MasterCard & American Express. No checks.

Hours: year round Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Arrive 30 minutes prior to selected tour time to view the informational video which runs for 22 minutes continuously throughout the day.

Museum hours are 10:00am -5:00pm. Admission gates close at 3:30pm.

Takeaway Truth

Take advantage of museums that depict faraway lands. They're an exotic treat and a great writer's resource.