The Woodlands began as a thought in 1964 with the purchase of 50,000 acres by George Mitchell. He then set aside 2,800 of those acres to become part of what is now known as The Woodlands. After more than 300 transactions were completed between 1964 and 1974 by others like Mitchell, the original acreage increased to 17,455 acres.
Through the 1970s, there was much construction that included the first public elementary and high schools, the first church, and supermarket. In 1974, The Woodlands celebrated its grand opening.
The 80s brought The Woodlands Hospital, YMCA, another school, and more businesses, which brought more residents adding to the growth of the community.
The 90s were a very busy time with the opening of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, The Woodlands Mall, Montgomery College opened, along with The Woodlands High School.
Jobs were on the increase and topped 15,000 in 1995 and the population, which was 30,000 in 1990, increased to 40,000 in 1994, and exceeded 50,000 in 1997. By 2012, The Woodlands population grew to over 100,000 residents.
On October 19, 2014, the 40th anniversary of the establishment of The Woodlands was celebrated.
When to Visit The Woodlands, TX
You're in The Woodlands where the sun shines big as Texas. The area receives approximately 203 days a year of sunshine with temperatures topping out at around 95 degrees in July. Winter can be brisk with temperatures in the high 30s. Rain is a factor when planning time in The Woodlands with the area averaging 45 inches of precipitation per year. Humidity is high with a comfort index rating of 21 out of 100. The U.S. average for cities is 44. The higher the rating, the better the comfort level.
Two of the best times to visit the area is from February to April and again from September to November. Because of the closeness to the Gulf, temperatures stay warm and rates are reasonable. During the spring and fall seasons, temperatures are still at a comfortable level with plenty of activities, events, and festivals to enjoy. Summer time high temperatures bring excellent hotel deals but the humidity and heat can make for an uncomfortable visit. The winter is relatively mild compared to other cities and there is a chance of snowfall.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in The Woodlands, TX:
The Woodlands by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in The Woodlands, TX. You can use these charts to determine the least expensive months to stay in The Woodlands for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in The Woodlands, TX
4 Star Average Prices: $144.80
The Woodlands Resort and Conference Center takes luxury and customer service to another level of excellence and guest satisfaction. When entering a guest room, you're immediately enveloped in beautifully detailed rooms with soft colors and lighting. Each room is equipped with an in-room safe and a refrigerator. Relax with a cup of coffee then step out on your patio terrace, or connect with complimentary Wi-Fi. Many activities await including hiking, golf, tennis, and The Spa at The Woodlands. Swim in refreshing swimming pools, or have fun at the Forest Oasis Waterscape™ on water slides and floating lazily down the river.
Embassy Suites by Hilton The Woodlands at Hughes Landing is convenient to George Bush Intercontinental Airport and downtown making it a choice location for travelers. Two-room suites provide a spacious living room and bedroom each with its own HDTV. Accommodations provide the comforts of home with a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker for pleasing the taste buds and complimentary Wi-Fi to stay connected. At the 24-hour convenience store, stock up on goodies and necessities. Breakfast, your way, starts each day and cocktails are served during the Evening Reception. The hotel also offers a business center, fitness center, and rooftop pool.
Affordable Hotel Options in The Woodlands, TX
3 Star Average Prices: $89.02
Candlewood Suites Houston (The Woodlands) lights up any vacation or business trip. Conveniently located to area businesses and Bush Intercontinental Airport, relax and enjoy your stay without being in a hurry. Comfortable suites ensure comfort and hotel amenities take care of down time. Relax at the fitness center, go for a swim, or use the outdoor gazebo grill. The pet-friendly hotel welcomes four-legged pals, and full-service housekeeping and self-laundry facilities add to the overall convenience offered by Candlewood Suites. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, and choose a free movie from the hotel library for in-room entertainment.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Houston The Woodlands offers an exceptional stay and superior value. Just minutes from The Woodlands Town Center, Lake Conroe, and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion adds to the convenience of your stay. Each morning begins with a complimentary breakfast before heading out for a day of business or pleasure. Rooms are comfortably appointed with deluxe bedding, work areas, modern furniture and accessories, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. A refreshing indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center take care of relaxation. Added conveniences include a same-day dry cleaning service or the use of the guest laundry facilities.
2 Star Average Prices: $62.62
Best Discounts in The Woodlands, TX
Residence Inn Houston The Woodlands/Market Street offers the ideal extended-stay experience whether traveling for business meetings or group events. The group rating for the hotel is 8.7/10 and the average group discount is 15 percent. Guests enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and Monday through Friday enjoy socializing at The Mix. All-suite accommodations are nicely furnished and feature a full kitchen. Stay refreshed at the sparkling indoor pool, unwind at the outdoor patio, or take advantage of the fitness center for a vigorous workout. With its convenient location you're within walking distance of attractions, shopping, and businesses.
Best Western Plus The Woodlands offers exceptional customer service, attention to detail, and a focus to making you feel welcome. Near businesses, The Woodlands Mall, and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion means easily mixing business with pleasure. Many conferences have taken place at The Woodlands earning the hotel a 17 percent average group discount and a 10.0/10 group friendly rating. Rooms are clean and spacious with LCD cable TV, free high-speed internet, coffee and tea maker, microwave, and refrigerator. Hotel amenities are impressive and include a business center, guest laundry, exercise facility, free parking, and late check out.
Best Value Options in The Woodlands, TX
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center offers affordable luxury near shopping, fine dining, attractions, and downtown Houston. The convenient Sky-bridge connects to the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion providing quick and easy access. Guest rooms and suites feature fresh, crisp décor, private balconies with views of The Woodlands Waterway, and ensure a peaceful night's sleep with plush bedding. Rooms also feature a work area, coffee maker, and aromatherapy bath products. For overall relaxation, the outdoor pool and hot tub are soothing, and the Spa is invigorating. Pleasing menus tantalize the taste buds at Ristorante Tuscany, Acqua Lounge, and Starbucks.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Houston North-Spring Area is accessible to downtown Houston and George Bush Intercontinental Airport. It is the perfect location for business and group travelers. The hotel is near Market Street Shopping Center, The Woodlands Waterway, Town Center, and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Rooms and suites have an “at home” feel with free Wi-Fi, desk, cable TV, stereo, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and in-room movies for entertainment. Enjoy a buffet breakfast and morning newspaper, take a dip in the pool, exercise at the fitness center, or take advantage of the guest self-laundry, and dry cleaning service.
Things to Do in The Woodlands, TX
Kayaking on Lake Woodlands is the best way to enjoy a lazy afternoon. Rent a canoe or a kayak from the Riva Row Boat House located near just a short way from the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
See a show at Cynthia woods Mitchell pavilion outdoor auditorium for concert venues and performances by the Houston Symphony and the Houston Ballet.
Shopping at Woodlands Mall 200 boutiques, department stores, and specialty shops for more shopping there's Market Street located across from Woodlands Mall. The mall also has dining, park, and an art deco-style movie theater.
The Woodlands Hike and Bike trails features over 160 scenic miles of hiking and biking trails and pathways for outdoor enthusiasts.
For more outdoor beauty, the 1700-acre George Mitchell Nature Preserve has about five miles of trail that wind through impressive pines amid a variety of wildlife and bird species.
The Woodlands Children's Museum keeps children's imaginations creative with its interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining.
End the day on a high note with a leisurely ride along the Woodlands Waterway. A tour along the 1.5-mile waterway passes by scenic makeup of The Woodlands.
It's clear from the many places to go and things to see and do that The Woodlands is a premier vacation or business destination location. With friendly weather and a convenient location less than an hour from Houston, and less than 30 minutes to George Bush Intercontinental Airport, you'll have access to the beauty of The Woodlands landscape, attractions, and Texas hospitality.
FAQs about hotels in The Woodlands
How much does a cheap hotel in The Woodlands cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in The Woodlands can be as cheap as $62.62 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in The Woodlands cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in The Woodlands has been $89.02 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in The Woodlands cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in The Woodlands has been $144.80 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city: The Woodlands, TX
Below are reviews of the city of The Woodlands, TX from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Exceptional"Score 5.0 / 5
Landry's We hosted the rehearsal dinner there and it was EXCEPTIONAL!Food, staff, accessibility. For a Saturday night all was amazingly beautiful.
Philip A., from 19-Nov-2019
"Great Stay!"Score 5.0 / 5
Friendly staff, hot tub, swimming pool, barbecue facilities.
Johan B., from 21-Mar-2018
"Great Stay!"Score 4.0 / 5
Great shopping, restaurants and bars very close to our hotel, and only 30 minutes to the airport!
Mary K., from 13-Feb-2018
"Great hotel and locations!"Score 5.0 / 5
We are a school located in The Woodlands and enjoy all the amenities that our families use during the summer and school year for socializing.During our conference, we all went kayaking together at Riva Row Boathouse and our chosen restaurants were within walking distance.
Karen B., from 12-Jun-2017
"All Around Fun"Score 4.0 / 5
The Woodlands area has everything you need for entertainment, shopping or dining.
Darlene H., from 10-Aug-2015
The average traveler rating of the city of The Woodlands, TX shown above is 4.6 out of 5 based on 5 reviews