HOUSTON -- In just a few months, there will be a new place to eat and play in downtown Houston. A park, Discovery Green, is set to open by March, KPRC Local 2 reported Wednesday.

The 12-acre park will have everything from entertainment and restaurants to playgrounds and ponds.

Workers are still laying the groundwork, which will be located in front of the George R. Brown Convention Center.

"They'll be able to enjoy this scenic area, which combines a little of our nature along with the beauty of our downtown skyline, which is one of Houston's great features," said Susanne Theis with Discovery Green.

The development is modeled after places such as Bryant Bark in New York City and Millennium Park in Chicago. But Discovery Green will be uniquely Houston.

"We have a one-acre lake that will have model boats for rent in the summertime and will be converted into an ice skating rink in the wintertime," Theis said. "We'll have places to play Bocchi ball, putting greens and games that you can rent like chess and checkers."

Two restaurants will also be featured in Discovery Green. The Grove will have outdoor seating overlooking the trees.

Executive chef Ryan Pera created the menu from scratch.

"I'm very excited to be a part of it -- to create a Houston restaurant with great civic appeal," he said.

The park is designed to appeal to both Houstonians and tourists.

More Information:

www.discoverygreen.com