Armand Bayou Nature Center

One of the largest urban wilderness preserves in the country, just outside Houston, with gators regularly seen along the bayou from the nature center's trails and pontoon boat tours. Warmer months bring the most basking activity along the banks. The boat tour is a good option for a closer, guided look without walking near the water yourself. Trails stay back from the bayou edge in most spots; keep it that way and don't feed anything you see.