Town Center The Woodlands, TX

Dubbed as the "Downtown in the Woods," Town Center is the go-to destination for shopping and dining in the Woodlands area. Home to hundreds of stores and shops, the Town Center emerged in the early 90s, about 20 years after the Woodlands was founded. Created as a way to promote economic growth, the Town Center has thousands of businesses. A premier destination for tourists and residents, Town Center represents a large portion of the Woodlands economy. Over the years, the area has experienced significant growth in population and now operates under a governmental unit known as the Woodlands Township. The Red, Hot and Blue Fireworks Festival, held annually on the 4th of July, attracts people from all over. Entertainment includes face painting and live performances and vendors sell food and beverages. The Woodlands Children's Festival, held every year in November, encourages children to be themselves and use their imagination. It features several showcases and activities for kids of all ages.

Most restaurants and bars are located around the waterway, allowing easy transition between locations.

The Cheesecake Factory and Perry's Steakhouse and Grill are popular chains in the Town Center area, but the locally-owned establishments keep the residents coming back. Located right off the Boardwalk, The Goose's Acre has all the characteristics of an authentic Irish Pub. With menu selections ranging from spinach dip to cod fish and chips to potato leek soup, there are a variety of options that even the most pickiest of eaters can choose from. Try the shredded corn beef nachos, loaded with corned beef (chicken, steak or pulled pork can be substituted), jalapeños, pico de gallo and chipotle ranch, or enjoy a juicy, tender grilled pork chop with whipped potatoes and brussel sprouts. Sit on the patio while you eat your meal to take in a beautiful view of the surrounding area. Hot pita bread, flavorful fotoosh, sweet lady fingers and tender lamb shank are just a few of the dining options at Dimassi's. This buffet features dozens of entrées and desserts, making it a great option for feeding a large group. Located near the lake, the restaurant offers catering and party rooms for special events. Though it is one of the most popular bars in the area, 1252 Tapas Bar is a restaurant as well. Serving lunch and dinner throughout the day, it's a great place to hang out into the night. Open until 1 a.m. on Saturday evenings, the drink selections are diverse and a great substitution for the normal vodka and punch found at other bars. Indulge in a signature cocktail, such as the Party on the Patio martini.

Town Center could be considered the heart of the Woodlands. Located minutes away from I-45 between Spring and Conroe, the Woodlands Town Center allows residents to never have a reason to leave their community. A car drive to Houston takes just 45 minutes. Residents who work in the city have the option of the Park and Ride through Metro, Houston's public transportation services or of traveling via the HOV lane, which significantly shortens commute time. Although most residents and visitors choose to drive around the area, Uber and cab services are available. Free parking lots are located in the Town Center and throughout the boardwalk. Many visitors who are staying in one of the local hotels, however, have no need for a vehicle. Most destinations can be reached via a short walk or bike ride.

Nearby parks include Central Park at Market Street and Town Green Park. These parks surround Town Center, but there are other parks a little further out. During the winter months, the Woodlands Pavilion opens its outdoor ice skating rink daily in the winter.

Surrounded by shops and restaurants, Central park is home to the Christmas Tree every year. This park allows shoppers to stop and relax during their outing so pets are uncommon here. This park does not provide a place for residents to run, but most runners enjoy a jog around the water way.

Town Green Park is the location of several annual events including the Fourth of July festival, Red Hot and Blue, and the Trick or Treat Trail in October. Complete with a children's labyrinth and next to a public library, Green Park is the perfect place for a family to spend a sunny afternoon.

The cost of living in the Town Center can be pricey. Being that the area is considered the Downtown of the Woodlands, increased prices apply. A one-bedroom apartment on the water way starts around $1200, with some one-bedrooms costing as much as $2000 per month. This high-end living attracts young professionals who work in the nearby businesses.

Whether you're school shopping for the kids or looking for an anniversary gift for your in-laws, the shops in Town Center have something for everyone, including yourself. Though largely consisting of chain stores, a walk through the area reveals home decor stores, clothing boutiques, and even some antique and consignment shops. The Woodlands Mall consists of department stores such as Macy's and JCPenney and specialty stores such as Victoria's Secret and Build-A-Bear workshop. You can find clothing stores like Ann Taylor and Madewell among those in the Market Street shopping center. Also at Market Street, Maggies Boutique was nominated as the best gift shop in the area and named one of Houston's top retailers. Furniture, jewelry, clothes and other trinkets make this store a great option for shopping for any occasion. Purchase the Lady Primrose body creme, or try out a new home fragrance such as the botanical blended potpourri. This boutique has so many things to try, you could spend hours just browsing. Local grocery stores include Texas-only chain HEB, Randall's and Kroger.