5 Must Do Things in The Woodlands

In our series of Must Do Things Around Greater Houston, we take a look at Houston’s vast array of neighborhoods to bring you five fun, tasty, and enticing reasons you should give each a visit. 

About 30 miles north of Downtown, The Woodlands was originally planned as a suburban development for commuters working in the big city. But with the introduction of major corporations, parks and town centers, and plenty of dining and retail shopping, it is quickly becoming a star in its own right.

From a bakery serving up classic French provisions to a waterway reminiscent of San Antonio’s famed River Walk, check out our five Woodlands must-dos.

5 Must Do Things in The Woodlands

1. Break bread at Levure Bakery & Patisserie – Hope you’re not skipping carbs, because this patisserie’s scratch-made pastries, bread, and tarts will have you absolutely craving them. Levure does mean “yeast” in French, after all. Get buttery kougin amman and airy croissants, savory prosciutto-fig tartine and croquet monsieur, and sweetly satisfying financiers and chocolate chip cookies. Get directions.
2. Explore the Waterway – There’s no better way to spend the day than at the bustling epicenter of it all, the Woodlands Waterway District. Start with a little shopping (and later, bar hopping) along Market Street; enjoy a picnic and a kayaking session at Riva Row Boat House; hang out at Town Green Park or Waterway Square; take a leisurely ride on a waterway cruiser; dine at spots like Jasper’s, Grimaldi’s, the Goose’s Acre, and Hearsay on the Waterway; or rock out to a concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, a first-class amphitheater that hosts everyone from the Houston Ballet to Brad Paisley. Though there is plenty to see and do, the Waterway can definitely be explored on foot. Get directions.
3. Shop fresh and local at The Woodlands Farmers Market – This year-round farmers market, held at Grogan’s Mill Center, is open every Saturday from 9am to 1pm. Shop for fresh, in-season produce and locally-raised meats alongside a killer roster of artisan goods, which run the gamut from luxurious soaps and candles to homemade tamales, bread, and pies. Get directions.
4. Splurge on a Chef’s Tasting at TRIS – Part of the spectacular dining options from Hubbell & Hudson, the elegant TRIS restaurant now offers one of the most exceptional Chef’s Tasting experiences in Houston (one that was formerly found only at Cureight). Be amazed as the talented Chef Austin Simmons takes you through a playful and delectable 8-course journey, where each extraordinary plate is more creative than the next. For a more casual experience that is still incredibly tasty, smash oak-grilled burgers and fries at H&H’s Kitchen; or indulge in Chef Simmons’ full TRIS menu, with options from Korean butter poached crab to decadent A5 Japanese Wagyu. Get directions to TRIS. Get directions to H&H’s Kitchen.
5. Take a staycation at The Woodlands Resort – Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at this lush, 350-acre resort, that boasts pristine golf courses, a family-friendly oasis waterpark and lazy river, relaxing spa, club room floors, deluxe rooms and lavish suites, and some excellent dining options, including the stylish and casual Back Table Kitchen & Bar, opened in June 2021. Get directions.