Things to Do in The Woodlands

Things to Do in The Woodlands

Escape to The Woodlands, Texas — a vibrant community brimming with exciting activities for every kind of traveler!

Explore the scenic Woodlands Waterway on a kayak or paddleboard, admiring the luxurious homes and shops lining the path. Catch a live concert under the stars at Concerts in the Park, or test your teamwork at an exhilarating escape room challenge. For family fun, spend a day at Market Street, offering a delightful mix of shopping, dining, and a movie theater.

The Woodlands caters to every interest, from outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers and relaxation seekers. To help you make your The Woodlands itinerary much more fun, check out our guide on the best things to do in The Woodlands.

Exciting Things to Do in The Woodlands – Categorized by Activity

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Fun Things to Do in The Woodlands TX - Outdoor Adventures, Family Fun, & More!

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Quick Summary of the Best Things to Do in The Woodlands

The Woodlands offers a variety of experiences beyond the charming shops and scenic waterways. Immerse yourself in the artistic side of the community with a visit to The Woodlands Sculpture Trail. 

Thrill-seekers can put their courage and teamwork to the test at one of The Woodlands’ many escape room experiences. Escape Hunt The Woodlands and The Woodlands Mall Escape Room are just a couple of options offering these exhilarating adventures.

If you’re traveling with young children, The Woodlands Children’s Museum is a fantastic place to ignite their imaginations and spark a love of learning. 

For the complete list of our top Things to Do in The Woodlands Texas, check out more activities and Woodland events below!

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out. Also, a few links in this article may help HoustonOnTheCheap earn a small commission if you buy something using those links.

This article is on Fun Things to Do in the Woodlands TX. If you want to visit food places, check out our article on Mexican Restaurants in the Woodlands!

Free and Cheap The Woodlands Events

The Woodlands Town Center Trolley 

The Woodlands Town Center Trolley is a free trolley that takes riders on a scenic loop around The Woodlands Waterway and Town Center.

  • Must-do: Hop on the trolley for a relaxing and enjoyable ride to see the sights.
  • Insider tip: The trolley runs every 15-20 minutes, and you can hop on and off at any of the designated stops. 
  • Location: Trolley stops are located throughout The Woodlands Waterway and Town Center. 700 Westridge Dr, Spring, TX 77380
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 3:30 pm & 4 pm – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday 10 am – 4:30 pm & 5 pm – 10 pm | Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
  • How much: Free

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is a unique outdoor performance space surrounded by trees that features live music, theater, and dance shows. It’s a great place to catch a concert or performance under the stars.

  • Must-do: See a show! Check the website for the upcoming schedule.
  • Insider tip: The pavilion offers lawn seating, so you can bring a blanket or picnic basket to enjoy the show.
  • Location: 2005 Lake Robbins Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm | Saturday & Sunday Closed
  • Price: Varies per event but also offers FREE SHOWS.

The Woodlands Children’s Museum 

Best Things to do in The Woodlands - The Woodlands Children's Museum

Image Credit: The Woodlands Children’s Museum FB Page

The Woodlands Children’s Museum is a museum designed for young children with interactive exhibits and imaginative play areas.

  • Must-do: Let the kids explore the exhibits and learn through play.
  • Insider tip: The museum offers story time and other special events throughout the week. Check their website for the schedule.
  • Location: 4775 W Panther Creek Dr #280, The Woodlands, TX 77381
  • Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 10 am – 2 pm | Friday 10 am – 4 pm | Saturday 10 am – 5 pm | Sunday – Monday CLOSED
  • How much: Admission $9

Stuff to Do in Woodlands When Outdoors

Texas TreeVentures

Best Things to do in The Woodlands - Texas TreeVentures

Image Credit: Texas TreeVentures FB Page

Texas TreeVentures is an aerial adventure park with zip lines, ropes courses, and other challenges that take place high up in the trees.

  • Must-do: Get your adrenaline pumping on the challenging courses.
  • Insider tip: Make a reservation online in advance, especially on weekends. Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing.
  • Location: 6464 Creekside Forest Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77389
  • Hours: Summer: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm | Saturday 10 am – 6 pm; Off-Season | Sunday 10 am – 5 pm; Friday & Saturday 10 am – 6 pm
  • How much: $40 – $45

Pedal Boats at the Woodland Waterways 

This offers a fun and unique way to explore the waterway. These aren’t your average paddle boats – some are shaped like swans, ducks, and other animals!

  • Must-do: Rent a pedal boat and enjoy a leisurely cruise on the water.
  • Insider tip: Pedal boats are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis. They are available for rent near Hughes Landing and Waterway Square.
  • Location: Rental locations near Hughes Landing (2501 Research Forest Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380) and Waterway Square (1000 Lake Robbins Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380, USA)
  • Hours: Saturday 12:30 pm – 9 pm (Last boat out at 8 pm) | Sunday 12:30 pm – 7 pm (Last boat out at 6 pm)
  • How much: $15 – $20

Riva Row Boat House

Riva Row Boat House offers kayak and paddleboard rentals so you can explore The Woodlands Waterway from a different perspective.

  • Must-do: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
  • Insider tip: They also offer stand-up paddleboard (SUP) yoga classes.
  • Location: 2101 Riva Row, The Woodlands, TX 77380
  • Hours: Open Sunday & Thursday – Saturday
  • How much: Starts at $25

The Woodlands Sculpture Trail 

Immerse yourself in art with a self-guided walking tour of The Woodlands Sculpture Trail. Featuring a variety of sculptures by renowned artists, this trail offers a unique way to explore the outdoors and appreciate public art.

  • Must-do: Enjoy a stroll and admire the creative sculptures displayed throughout The Woodlands.
  • Insider tip: Download a map of the sculpture trail from the Visit The Woodlands website for easy navigation.
  • Location: Sculptures are located throughout The Woodlands at various parks and public spaces. See website for details.
  • Hours: Varies by season

George Mitchell Nature Preserve 

George Mitchell Nature Preserve is a large forested nature preserve that offers hiking trails, bike trails, and a lake.

  • Must-do: Go for a hike or bike ride on the trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Insider tip: The preserve is also a great place for birdwatching and fishing.
  • Location: 5171 Flintridge Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381
  • Hours: Monday – Sunday 6:30 am – 8 pm

Fun Things to Do in Woodlands Texas for Families

The Woodlands Mall Ice Rink 

Embrace the winter spirit with a twirl on the outdoor ice skating rink located conveniently at The Woodlands Mall. It’s a perfect seasonal activity, offering?? skate rentals and a festive atmosphere, all amidst the Texas sunshine!

  • Must-do: Lace up your skates and enjoy some wintery fun, even in Texas!
  • Insider tip: Check their website for current hours and pricing as they vary by season 
  • Location: 2005 Lake Robbins Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381
  • Hours: 
    • Monday – Thursday
      • First Session: 4 pm
      • Last Session: 6:30 pm
    • Friday
      • First Session: 4 pm
      • Last Session: 9 pm
    • Saturday
      • First Session: 9 am
      • Last Session: 9:30 pm
    • Sunday
      • First Session: noon
      • Last Session: 5 pm

The Woodlands Mall Escape The Room 

Best Things to do in The Woodlands - Escape The Room at Woodlands Mall

Image Credit: Escape The Room at Woodlands Mall FB Page

Put your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in a thrilling escape room experience located right inside The Woodlands Mall. Choose from a variety of themed rooms, each with its own unique challenges.

Things to Do in Woodlands TX include Food and Drinks!

Republic Grille

Republic Grill is a popular gastropub with a menu of American cuisine, craft beers, and cocktails. They have a large patio which is perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

  • Must-do: Try one of their delicious burgers or pizzas.
  • Insider tip: They have a happy hour with drink specials Monday-Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
  • Location: 4775 W Panther Creek Dr #490, The Woodlands, TX 77381
  • Hours: Monday – Tuesday 11 am – 8 pm |  Wednesday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm | Sunday 11 am – 8 pm

King Wok

King Wok is a popular Asian fusion restaurant serving delicious dishes like pad thai, kung pao chicken, and sushi.

  • Must-do: Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
  • Insider tip: They offer lunch specials and a happy hour with discounted drinks. Check their website or social media for details (link: [invalid URL removed]).
  • Location: 4721 W Panther Creek Dr. Suite 100, The Woodlands, TX 77381
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 11 am – 9:30 | Saturday & Sunday 11:30 am – 9:30 pm

Kung Fu Tea

King Wok is a popular Asian fusion restaurant serving delicious dishes like pad thai, kung pao chicken, and sushi.

  • Must-do: Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
  • Insider tip: They offer lunch specials and a happy hour with discounted drinks. Check their website or social media for details (link: [invalid URL removed]).
  • Location: 3091 College Park Dr. Suite 180, The Woodlands, TX 77384
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 8:30 pm | Friday & Saturday 11 am – 9 pm | Sunday 11 am – 8:30 pm

Shopping in The Woodlands Texas

Market Street

Best Things to do in The Woodlands - The Woodlands Children's Museum

Image credit: Shop at Market Street Facebook

Market Street – The Woodlands is an upscale outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex with a variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.

  • Must-do: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, catch a movie, or do some shopping.
  • Insider tip: There is a carousel and a splash pad for children to enjoy.
  • Location: 9595 Six Pines Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
  • Hours: Stores & Restaurants: Monday – Saturday 10 am – 8 pm | Sunday 12 pm  6 pm | Movie Theater – Varies

The Woodlands Mall

The Woodlands Mall is a large shopping mall with over 300 stores and restaurants.

  • Must-do: Do some shopping at your favorite stores or discover new ones.
  • Insider tip: The mall offers free Wi-Fi and there is a food court with a variety of options to choose from.
  • Location: 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr #700, The Woodlands, TX 77380
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am 8 pm | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm | Sunday: 12  pm – 6 pm

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market

The Woodlands Farmers’ Market is a non-profit Saturday market that hosts local vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and more.

  • Must-do: Sample some of the delicious food from the vendors or pick up some fresh groceries.
  • Insider tip: The market is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Location: 7 Switchbud Pl, The Woodlands, TX 77380
  • Hours: October – June: 9 am – 1 pm | July – September (Summer hours): 9 am-noon

Relaxation and Spa Activities

The Woodlands Resort

The Woodlands Resort is a luxurious hotel with a spa, golf course, multiple restaurants, and several pools.

  • Must-do: Relax and enjoy the resort amenities, or treat yourself to a spa day.
  • Insider tip: They offer staycation packages that can include spa treatments, dining credits, and other perks. Check their website for details.
  • Location: 2301 N Millbend Dr, Spring, TX 77380
  • Hours: Hotel – 24/7, Amenities – Hours vary

Waterway Square

Waterway Square is a public plaza located along The Woodlands Waterway that features a choreographed fountain show, public art installations, restaurants, and shops.

  • Must-do: Enjoy the fountain show, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants, or take a stroll and admire the public art.
  • Insider tip: The fountain show runs every evening from dusk until 10 pm.
  • Location: 31 Waterway Square Pl, The Woodlands, TX 77380
  • Hours: Park – Open daily, Restaurants & Shops – Hours vary

Entertainment and Events in The Woodlands TX

Concerts in the Park

Concerts in the Park is a free summer concert series held at various parks around The Woodlands.

  • Must-do: Enjoy an evening of live music under the stars.
  • Insider tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chair and snacks.
  • Location: Various parks around The Woodlands (see Facebook page for details)
  • Hours: Varies; Concerts are typically held on Friday evenings during the summer months.

Cinépolis Luxury Theatres 

Cinépolis Luxury Theatres at Market Street is a movie theater that offers a luxurious movie-going experience with reclining seats, in-theater dining, and an upscale bar.

  • Must-do: Watch a movie in style and comfort.
  • Insider tip: Reserve your seats online in advance, especially for popular movies 
  • Location: 26543 Kuykendahl Rd, Tomball, TX 77375
  • Hours: Varies depending on the showtime

There are always lots of fun events going on in Houston. Check out our weekly updates to Things to Do in Houston this Weekend, and Things to Do in Houston this Weekend with Kids to stay up to date! 

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