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The Woodlands is a master-planned community of about 115,000 people about 30 miles north of downtown Houston, built from the 1970s inside a pine forest. Developer George Mitchell designed it to keep as many trees as possible, so neighborhoods, offices and shops are tucked into the woods and linked by more than 200 miles of hike and bike trails.
The heart of town is The Woodlands Waterway, a landscaped canal lined with restaurants, hotels and offices, where water taxis glide past herons and fountains. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is one of the busiest outdoor concert venues in the country, and Market Street and The Woodlands Mall offer shopping and dining, with a free trolley connecting the area.
Lake Woodlands is popular for paddleboarding and kayaking, with rentals at Riva Row Boat House, and Northshore Park has lakeside lawns and a playground. The George Mitchell Nature Preserve protects forest along Spring Creek, and the town's pathways make it easy to explore by bike.
Canal running through the town center with landscaped walking paths, fountains, restaurants and hotels along its banks. It links the mall, Market Street and Waterway Square. Walk it in the evening when the lights come on, and stop at Waterway Square to watch the fountains.
Large man-made lake at the center of The Woodlands, surrounded by homes, parks, restaurants and walking paths. Visitors kayak, paddleboard and fish, and some restaurants have lakeside patios. Rent a kayak on a calm morning, and stay for a sunset dinner on the water.
Large outdoor amphitheater in the town center that hosts major concerts and is the summer home of the Houston Symphony. Seating includes a covered area and a large lawn. Bring a blanket for the lawn, check the bag policy, and plan to walk to restaurants on the Waterway after.
Large shopping mall in the town center with department stores, many chain and specialty shops, restaurants and a food court, connected to the Waterway. It is a top shopping spot north of Houston. Park near the Waterway side so you can walk to dinner after shopping.
Open-air shopping and dining district with upscale shops, restaurants and a central park lawn for events, concerts and seasonal activities, including an ice rink in winter. It is pleasant for a stroll. Visit on a weekend evening for live music and busy patios.
Mixed-use area on the west shore of Lake Woodlands with a restaurant row, offices, apartments and a lakeside plaza. It is a popular evening spot for dining with water views. Walk the lakeside promenade after dinner, and look for events on the plaza in warm months.
Park on the north shore of Lake Woodlands with a playground, picnic pavilions, a gazebo and shaded walking paths with lake views. It hosts some community events. It is ideal for a family picnic, and the paths connect to the township's long network of trails.
Large park in the Creekside area with an aquatic center, sports fields, a playground, trails and a recreation center. It is popular with families, especially in summer. Check aquatic center hours, and bring sun protection, as Texas summers are hot and humid.
Open lawn park next to Waterway Square in the town center, used for festivals, outdoor movies, fitness classes and holiday events. Nearby Waterway Square has dancing fountains. Check the township event calendar, and visit Waterway Square when the fountains run.
Large wooded preserve along Spring Creek with trails through pine and hardwood forest, popular for hiking, trail running and mountain biking. It is one of the wildest areas in The Woodlands. Wear bug spray, check trail conditions after rain, and bring water on hot days.
Small hands-on museum for young children with play exhibits about science, art, community helpers and nature, plus regular themed activities. It is best for toddlers and early school age kids. Visit in the morning, and check the schedule for special programs and story times.
Boat rental spot on The Woodlands Waterway offering kayaks, paddleboards and other small boats for exploring the calm canal. It is a fun way to see the town center from the water. Go on a weekday or in the morning for fewer crowds, and check rental hours, which vary by season.
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Log in to add photosPhoto: Anders Lagerås, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: WhisperToMe, Wikimedia Commons, CC0
Photo: Social Woodlands from USA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Photo: Philcomanforterie, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Anders Lagerås, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Philcomanforterie, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: WhisperToMe, Wikimedia Commons, CC0
Photo: Social Woodlands from USA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Photo: Anders Lagerås, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Anders Lagerås, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Anders Lagerås, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Social Woodlands from USA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Photo: HowardHughesCo, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Thewayne11, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Woodlands Pavilion, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Anders Lagerås, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
