If you keep driving north on I-45, you’ll find this not-so-secret oasis, The Woodlands. This master-planned community about 30 miles north of downtown first came to life in 1974. Since then, 118,000 people and 2,100 businesses now make up the community. This suburb also has tons of places to eat, shop, walk, and bike. I mean, 151 parks all in one place?! Let’s explore!
Where To Play
Let’s start with the obvious: Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion remains an unparalleled place to listen to live music outdoors. During my freshman year of high school, I watched Gwen Stefani perform live at the Pavillion — my first concert! It was truly B-A-N-A-N-A-S. Another place, where, yes, you will spend your entire paycheck, is the ginormous The Woodlands Mall, filled with more than 160 shops. It’s a great place to get lost. You’ll also want to stop by the weekly farmer’s market at Grogan’s Mill on Saturdays. Sign-up for their newsletter to learn which vendors you’ll find each week.
Where To Eat
Grab some Tex-Mex and a margarita from Goode Co. Kitchen and Cantina. Stop by Schilleci's New Orleans Kitchen for a taste of the Big Easy. For fans of seafood, especially those who aren’t close to the Houston location, try out Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab. Make sure to add Olive Oil, a family-owned Greek restaurant, to your list. For other essential places for a bite, read this full list from Eater Houston.
Where to Explore
There are tons of parks to hike, bike, and walk in around The Woodlands. Fun fact: Every house in this community is located within a 10-minute walk of a park, pathway, or open space. Explore the sprawling 1,800-acre George Mitchell Nature Preserve on foot or on your bike. Check out Texas TreeVentures, an outdoor adventure aerial course. If you’re looking for a water adventure, try the Riva Row Boat House or Lake Edges Boat House for kayaks, paddle boards, and water bikes.
