Sustainability
THIS IS THE LIFE
The Woodlands was designed to allow people and businesses to thrive in a natural setting. Sustainability was at the heart of founder George Mitchell’s vision, which he developed with intention. One of his passions was to preserve the native pine forest and plant species, striking a careful balance between the urban and natural environment. This care for The Woodlands' natural beauty continues today in several ways.

Town Green Park
Town Green Park is a four-acre green space that features a large lawn that plays host to some of the largest events in The Woodlands like The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival... Learn More
Lake Woodlands
The Woodlands is known as an oasis on the water surrounded by the woods, and Lake Woodlands is a premier spot to experience it firsthand. This 200-acre freshwater lake offers... Learn More
Places to Stay
When you book a room in The Woodlands, you’ll rest easy knowing all of our hotels offer prime locations, amenities and value regardless of where you stay. If that doesn’t... Learn More
Lakes Edge Boat House
The best way to take advantage of the mild weather and abundance of water throughout The Woodlands is to spend the day paddle boarding or kayaking in The Woodlands. Lakes Edge... Learn More
Town Center Trolley
The Trolley provides easy transportation along a 4.1-mile route connecting The Woodlands Mall, Market Street, The Woodlands Waterway, and Hughes Landing. This free... Learn More
Hughes Landing
Hughes Landing is a 66-acre mixed-use upscale “lifestyle” development that features Restaurant Row. Here can you go to enjoy great food, live music, shopping, the arts, boat... Learn More
Visitor Info Center
The Visitor information desk at Market Street offers a variety of services and assistance to visitors of The Woodlands. Through a partnership between Market Street and Visit... Learn More
Market Street
Market Street offers luxury boutique shopping in an open-air main street atmosphere. You’ll love their complimentary umbrellas and on-site concierge with a bag check and... Learn More
The Woodlands Mall
Head to The Woodlands Mall, a distinguished fashion center with more than 160 shops and restaurants under one roof, for unbelievable finds. This luxury mall has fine dining,... Learn More
Riva Row Boat House
The best way to take advantage of the mild weather and abundance of water throughout The Woodlands is to spend the day paddle boarding or kayaking in The Woodlands. Riva Row... Learn More
Swan Boats
Enjoy a fun afternoon pedaling down The Woodlands Waterway on a swan boat. Riva Row Boat House offers a variety of rentals for water recreation including swan boats, water... Learn More
Waterway Square
Waterway Square features a water fountain with synchronized choreography to music, along with a variety of outdoor art. The one-acre public plaza is the home of Waterway... Learn More
The Woodlands Waterway
The Woodlands Waterway can be considered the lifeblood of the city. It winds through the Town Center, spilling into Lake Woodlands and connecting all the attractions along its... Learn More
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
The Woodlands is home to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the most popular places for concerts and live music. Consistently ranked as one of the “Top 10 Outdoor... Learn More
Texas TreeVentures
Texas TreeVentures is an outdoor aerial adventure course that will have you climbing to new heights! Set amongst the trees, this unique course is both mentally and physically... Learn More
Golf
From disc golf with the family or a serious round of PGA approved golf with the gang, The Woodlands area has plenty of options to fulfill all of your golf needs. Area courses... Learn MoreSUSTAINABLE SPACES FOR ALL
Since its inception in 1974, The Woodlands has continued to follow Mr. Mitchell’s plan for the community and maintains approximately 25 - 28% of its green spaces. This allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy amazing outdoor experiences, from hiking through the George Mitchell Nature Preserve, to thrilling days out at Texas TreeVentures and many rounds of golf at championship courses.
According to the National Recreation and Parks Association, The Woodlands has 38.3 acres of open space per 1,000 residents, which is 74% above the national average.
LEED PRECERTIFICATION
In 2022, The Woodlands became the world’s largest master-planned community to achieve a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) precertification by the U.S Green Building Council. Joining a group of elite cities around the world with the same mission, The Woodlands was recognized by LEED for its dedication to sustainability and the high standard of living for its residents.
ONGOING PRESERVATION
THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department has a series of programs designed to support sustainable living in the community.
One of the department’s responsibilities is to educate residents about water conservation. There are free events, classes, and seminars available to raise awareness and encourage people to incorporate conservation techniques into their daily lives.In addition, there are regular clean up events hosted by the department and in association with initiatives such as The Great American Cleanup and America Recycles Day. Other educational programs include waste management, mosquito surveillance and sustainable gardening.
REFORESTATION IN THE WOODLANDS
Over the past several years, approximately 60,000 trees and seedlings have been planted throughout The Woodlands. This is part of The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department's Integrated Forestry Management Plan, which has a goal to plant at least two times the number of trees that are removed each year.
THE WOODLANDS GREEN
The Woodlands GREEN is a charitable organization working closely with The Woodlands Township on their sustainable mission. There are many ways to get involved as a volunteer or participant, including the Arbor Day Tree Giveaway, Earth Day Greenup, 3R Recycling events and the Invasive Species Task Force.
One of the charity’s latest projects is the rain barrels initiative. By purchasing a rain barrel, residents in The Woodlands can reduce their utility costs by collecting and conserving rainwater, which can be used around the home for gardening, watering the lawn or even washing the car.
COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY
As The Woodlands continues to grow, George R. Mitchell's vision for a sustainable community will remain a core pillar that directs and guides the area's development. Thanks to the sustainability and preservation efforts of The Woodlands Township and other local organizations, residents, visitors, and conference attendees will always be able to experience a harmonious blend of nature and modern luxury while enjoying The Woodlands.
Birds, Eagles and Deer, Oh My! Wildlife in The Woodlands
One of the many reasons we love The Woodlands is the access to wildlife just about everywhere you go! Because of the many trees, parks and ponds in our area there is a great opportunity to spot unique birds and...
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Hosting a Green Meeting in The Woodlands
Thinking about going green for your next conference? As a meeting planner you may have noticed that eco-friendly meetings are growing in popularity. Think it’s hard to plan green? Think again! Meeting...
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