A Weekend Getaway in The Woodlands, Texas: A Family-Friendly Guide

Nestled just 30 miles north of Houston, The Woodlands is a hidden gem perfect for a weekend getaway. This master-planned community offers a unique mix of nature, shopping, dining, and activities that cater to both adults and kids. Whether you’re looking to relax or dive into an adventure, The Woodlands has something for everyone.

Where to Stay

1. The Woodlands Resort For a luxurious yet family-friendly stay, look no further than The Woodlands Resort. With multiple pools, including a lazy river and water slides, this resort is a hit with kids. Parents can enjoy golf courses, spa treatments, and dining on-site. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and fun, all within a scenic, forested setting.

2. The Westin at The Woodlands: Overlooking the Waterway, The Westin provides modern accommodations with easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. Families will love the rooftop pool and proximity to Market Street.

3. Hyatt Centric The Woodlands For a more boutique experience, the Hyatt Centric offers a modern, chic atmosphere while being centrally located in Market Street. With a rooftop pool and walkability to shops and restaurants, it’s an ideal spot if you want to stay right in the heart of The Woodlands.

Where to Eat

Dining in The Woodlands caters to all tastes, offering everything from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences perfect for families.

• The Kitchen: A laid-back atmosphere with fresh, local ingredients. Their breakfast and brunch options are crowd-pleasers, with everything from pancakes to avocado toast.

• Feildigns Grill: For a more casual, family-friendly option, Feildings Grill serves up gourmet burgers and milkshakes that the kids will love.

• The Republic Grille: A great option for Southern-style comfort food. Don’t miss their chicken-fried steak or blackened snapper. It’s the perfect spot for a hearty family meal.

• Tris: For a more upscale experience, parents might enjoy a special night out at this chef-driven tasting menu restaurant offering fine dining with a local twist. Reserve ahead for this unique experience!

What to Do

Day 1: Explore the Outdoors

• Lake Woodlands and The Waterway: Start your weekend with a boat rental at Riva Row Boat House, where you can explore Lake Woodlands by kayak or paddleboard. For a more leisurely pace, take a family walk along The Waterway, a scenic, pedestrian-friendly area with beautiful landscaping and plenty of space to roam.

• Hughes Landing: After your morning on the water, head over to Hughes Landing for lunch. This lakeside destination offers several dining options and is perfect for an afternoon of relaxation, with great views of Lake Woodlands.

• George Mitchell Nature Preserve: For families that love to hike and enjoy nature, George Mitchell Nature Preserve offers miles of well-marked trails through the woods. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore this beautiful area.

Day 2: Shop, Play, and Unwind

• Market Street: This outdoor shopping area offers a blend of high-end stores and local boutiques. Kids will enjoy stopping by the candy shop or the nearby Central Park area to play, while parents can enjoy some retail therapy.

• Terramont Park: Ideal for kids, the larger park has many different activities to explore including, disc golf, a skate park, and hill to run around on. 

• Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion: If your visit coincides with a concert or event, check out The Pavilion for an evening of live music or a family-friendly show. It’s a great way to wind down your weekend.

Bonus: End your trip with a sunset stroll around Northshore Park, where you can relax by the water or let the kids burn off some energy at the playground.

Final Thoughts

A weekend in The Woodlands, Texas, offers families a perfect balance of outdoor adventure, fantastic dining, and entertainment options. Whether you’re here for a relaxing escape or looking to pack in fun activities for the kids, The Woodlands has something for everyone. So pack your bags, bring the family, and enjoy all that this vibrant town has to offer!