This year’s summer vacation was a trip to Houston. We stayed at The Woodlands Resort, which is a Hilton Hotel. This resort hotel was terrific! We felt at peace and relaxed from the second we entered the lobby to the moment we left. The amenities were excellent. The rooms were clean and beautiful, with great views. They have a 36-hole championship golf course, 21 Tennis courts, 14 pickleball courts, bike rentals, s’mores pits, a waterpark with a 30-ft waterslide and a 1005-ft lazy river, game room, and shuttles to take you to The Woodlands Mall.
Most of our time at the hotel was spent in the pool area. They have an immense pool area with a lily pad type area and a shallow (about 1 foot deep) pool for the little ones, a lazy river, and two other pool areas. Remember, this is not the standard lazy river at your local theme park. Be careful when in this lazy river. The waves can send you straight into one of the side walls. We did try out the waterslide and loved it as well. They have activities for the kiddos and a full restaurant/bar in the pool area for convenience.
The Woodlands
Nestled amidst the sprawling urban landscape of Houston, Texas, lies a suburban oasis known as The Woodlands. This master-planned community, located about 28 miles north of downtown Houston, offers residents and visitors a harmonious blend of natural beauty, modern convenience, and a high quality of life. It has become a prime example of suburban living in the United States with a rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and a wide range of amenities.
History and Development
The area was conceived in the early 1970s by oil magnate George P. Mitchell, who envisioned a community that would balance urban living with the beauty of nature. Mitchell’s vision was to create a sustainable, well-planned suburban haven where residents could live, work, and play. To achieve this, he engaged in a unique approach to urban planning that included stringent land use regulations, strict environmental guidelines, and a focus on preserving the region’s natural beauty.
Natural Beauty and Green Spaces
One of the community’s most defining features is its commitment to preserving the environment. With over 8,000 acres of green spaces, parks, and nature reserves, this community boasts an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. The George Mitchell Nature Preserve, named after the founder, covers over 1,700 acres of dense forest, pristine lakes, and well-maintained trails, providing an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The Woodlands Waterway, a scenic canal that meanders through the heart of the community, offers picturesque views and connects many neighborhoods and businesses. It is a central hub for recreational activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and riverside dining.
Retail and Dining
I cannot imagine passing up an opportunity to visit the local mall. The area is a shopper’s paradise, with several retail centers offering many boutiques, department stores, and specialty shops. The Woodlands Mall is a popular shopping destination, housing significant brands and dining options. Market Street, another upscale shopping and dining district, provides a charming, open-air experience with restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment options.
Cultural and Entertainment Scene
I read and saw that it has a significant cultural and entertainment scene. Granted, we did not experience these types of venues, but it is fantastic to know that this area does seem to have all within a matter of miles. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is a beacon of culture and entertainment in the region’s heart. This world-class amphitheater hosts renowned musicians, theatrical performances, and cultural events year-round. The Woodlands Symphony Orchestra, The Woodlands Children’s Museum, and the prominent public art installations throughout the community further testify to the emphasis on cultural enrichment.
Overall, the Woodlands was a beautiful spot to visit and enjoy a relaxing time, from the food in the area to the sights and scenes. We had a fantastic time here and cannot wait to return to try more!
If you have been in this area, please comment below on what you loved at The Woodlands!
If you want to learn more about where else to visit while in Houston, check out the Summer Scorcher post.