The Woodlands is a master-planned community in South Montgomery County, Texas, about 28 miles north of Houston. Founded in 1974 by oil and gas executive George P. Mitchell, the community was designed to integrate development with the natural environment. Today it's one of the most successful master-planned communities in America, featuring ten villages, excellent schools through Conroe ISD, world-class shopping at The Woodlands Mall and Market Street, and major employers including Anadarko, Huntsman Corporation, and Woodforest National Bank.
118,000PopulationMontgomery County / Harris CountyCountiesThe Woodlands TownshipGovernment28.4 sq miArea1974FoundedCentral (CT)Timezone
What Makes The Woodlands Unique
Master-planned community governed by The Woodlands Township
Ten distinct villages, each with unique character
Served by Conroe Independent School District (Conroe ISD)
Over 220 miles of hike and bike trails
Home to Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (amphitheater)
Major retail hub: The Woodlands Mall, Market Street, Hughes Landing
History
The Woodlands was the vision of George P. Mitchell, who purchased 2,800 acres of piney woods in 1964 and grew it into a 28,000-acre planned community. Development began in 1972 with the first residents arriving in 1974. The community was planned using the principles of Ian McHarg's ecological design.
1964: George P. Mitchell purchases initial land
1972: Construction begins on first village (Grogan's Mill)
1974: First residents move to The Woodlands
1985: The Woodlands Mall opens
1994: Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion opens
2007: The Woodlands becomes a Township
2010: Town Center officially opens
2015: Hughes Landing development begins
Economy & Major Employers
The Woodlands has evolved from a residential community to a major employment center. Town Center and Hughes Landing host corporate headquarters, while The Woodlands Mall anchors regional retail.
Lakefront park with playground, splash pad, and event pavilion
2505 Lake Woodlands Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381
Daily 7am-10pm
Culture & Events
The Woodlands is home to The Woodlands Arts Council, The Glade Cultural Center, and regularly features public art installations along The Waterway and throughout Town Center.
Annual Events
The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival
April · Premier juried fine art festival along The Waterway
Red Hot & Blue Festival
July 4th · Independence Day celebration with fireworks at Town Center
Lighting of the Doves
November · Official start of the holiday season with lighting ceremony
Wine & Food Week
June · Week-long culinary celebration
The Woodlands Marathon
March · Annual marathon through the community's scenic trails
Sports
Conroe ISD Athletics (High School): Football, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Swimming, and more. The Woodlands Country Club (Golf): Palmer, Player, and Tournament courses