(credit: lakeconroe.com)

Houstonians seeking to escape to the lake need look no further than the city’s neighbor to the north, Conroe. Lake Conroe has long been a favorite destination for boaters and fisherman and remains one today. Its close proximity to the city makes it a great retreat, offering a lake and plenty to explore for a couple’s getaway or a day of family fun.

Getting There

Just a short 45 minute trip up I-45 North (or the Hardy Tollway, if traffic is a concern) from downtown Houston, it is easy to find the places to go and things to see around Conroe by taking the Highway 105 exit. Head west on 105 to make the five-minute trip to the southern shore of the lake. Head east on 105 to get into town.

(credit: 7acrewood.org)

7 Acre Wood
4401 N. Frazier St.
Conroe, TX 77303
(936) 890-2326
www.7acrewood.org

Price: $6 per person/free toddlers younger than 18 months

A great family adventure, this family owned site offers hours of outdoor fun. Kids love the petting zoo and may work off pent-up energy in the playground area and old west play town. The whole gang may play a round of miniature golf or have fun on the beach volleyball court. Take a break from the exercise with a picnic lunch from the concession area, or a good coffee drink.

Related: Fun Texas Weekend Getaways

(credit: mctx.org)

Lake Conroe Park
14968 Highway 105 West
Montgomery, TX 77536
(936) 539-7815
www.mctx.org/

Price: $2 per person

Pack a picnic lunch or bring the fishing poles; this popular park is a great destination for a family fun day, whether it involves spreading a blanket under the shade of one of the great oak trees, swimming in Lake Conroe, fishing from a pier on the grounds or playing a game of volleyball or softball. Be sure to bring the sunscreen to this sun-soaked park. The lakefront beach area is perfect for building sand castles in the afternoon sun.

(credit: heritagemuseum.us)

Heritage Museum of Montgomery County
1506 I-45 North
Conroe, TX 77305
(936) 539-6873
www.heritagemuseum.us

Price: suggested donation of $1 per person

Learn about the history of Montgomery County and the story of the birth of the Lone Star flag. Three permanent galleries tell the story of the people and events that shaped the city of Conroe and surrounding area. Among the temporary exhibits, a collection of memorabilia belonging to astronaut Robert Crippen from his days in the NASA program attracts visitors young and old. For buffs of Texas history, this is a must-see stop.

Related: Best Day Trips For Families Around Houston

(credit: kuntrykatfish.com)

Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish
5901 Highway 105 West
Conroe, TX 77304
(936) 760-3386
www.kuntrykatfish.com

This family operated restaurant is a local favorite with an aroma that tempts you before you ever get to your table. The fried catfish is fresh from the lake, and the rest of this homestyle menu is just as delicious. Be sure to save room for delicious desserts including homemade pie.

(credit: pieintheskypieco.com)

Pie in the Sky Pie Co.
3600 North Loop 336 West
Conroe, TX 77304
(936) 760-3301
www.pieintheskypieco.com

Though this café came from humble beginnings — one pie sold from a gas station — the name invites visitors to sample the pies and variety of sweets it now offers. It will be almost impossible to limit yourself to a single choice. The café also offers tasty salads, wraps and sandwiches. The chicken pot pie is so popular it’s served on a first-come, first-served basis only, so get here early.

(credit: latorrettalakeresort.com)

La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa
600 La Torretta Blvd.
Montgomery, TX 77356
(936) 448-4400
www.latorrettalakeresort.com

Prices: suites from $139 per night/villas from $339 per night

This getaway spot on Lake Conroe is family friendly, but it’s truly perfect for a romantic weekend. Beyond their beauty, the facilities were designed to respect the ecosystem of the area. The Aqua Park is home to five distinctive pools, as well as waterslides for the kids. Relax by the pools or boat on the lake, treat yourself to a round of golf on the resort’s scenic course or unwind in the full-service spa.