What is the surrounding area like?

The venue is set amongst the greenery of The Woodlands, a 28,000-acre forested community. Based 27 miles north of downtown Houston, it's a beautiful spot with a resort and conference center, a few luxury hotels and a range of good restaurants. There are a handful of eateries within walking distance of the pavilion or you can drive a few miles along the leafy streets.

What is the 'must do' thing in The Woodlands area?

This is a place for nature lovers who'll find more than 7,235 acres of preserved green space to explore. Venture down one of the many trails on foot or bike.

Where are the best places to eat near Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion?

Withina 10-minute walk:

Grimaldi's Pizzeria

We're guessing it's the coal brick-oven that keeps people coming back to this pizzeria. Just as the base begins to darken, the chefs take the pizza out for that crispy bite. The two-story restaurant is located on the waterfront, so you can take a stroll after dinner if you want to work off that extra slice.

Tommy Bahama

Caribbean cookery fills plates at this central, Market Street restaurant. Meat is cooked in a blackberry brandy barbecue sauce for the pork sandwich with crispy fried onions. Then there's a variety of fish - like the bronzed swordfish with jalapen?o-lime butter - and vegetable dishes.

Mi Cocina

Quesadillas oozing with cheese, creamy guacamole, shredded beef inside a crispy taco. And how about a margarita on the side? This nearby restaurant celebrates Tex-Mex cuisine with all the favorites. Dine outside in the covered patio and let the feast begin.

Within a ten-minute drive:

Red Phoenix

Jump in your car and head a few miles north and you'll find this comfortable Chinese restaurant. The menu is flavored with a range of Hunan-style dishes including sweet and sour pork, sauteéd tofu, and Kung Po made with Angus beef.

The Republic Grille

More than worth the drive, this upscale restaurant embraces southern cooking with dishes like Southern-style shrimp and grits, and bacon-glazed quail (there's a good choice of salads, too). The upscale interior reflects its surroundings with plenty of wood, stone and dark iron.

What if people want a trip to Houston?

If you've got an extra day then good for you! Make the drive to Houston for a mix of laidback Texan vibes and the buzzing culture of this sprawling metropolis.

As you'd expect from a city this size, there's a ton to see, from the museum district and Hermann Park with its lake of paddleboats, to the Space Center Houston, home to NASA's astronaut training. Or even a haunted tour around the oldest parts of the city.

View more restaurants near Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

What's the best way to get to Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion?

From downtown Houston, drive up the I-45 and exit onto the Woodlands Parkway. You can then catch the water taxi which stops outside the south entrance to the pavilion. Or else there's the free trolley service that journeys around the town center, along the Waterway and to the pavilion.

What can people expect in terms of food and drink?

A worthy range of fast food including Papa John's Pizza and Texan corn dogs, plus veggie options like the portobello mushroom burger. Vendors try to keep food-miles low with locally sourced produce, too. For drinks, you can look forward to six brands of local craft beers and frozen margaritas. See the full list here.

Visitors can also bring in their own food most of the time (check the details of your particular gig) but no drinks can be packed.

Is there any parking at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion?

Yep and you can book a spot in advance in the Gold Lot (you need to do this ten days before the show). Here's a map of parking areas. There's a certain amount of free parking off Grogans Mill Road and Timberloch Place. But it's limited so you'll need a backup plan.

What time do gates normally open?

You'll have plenty of opportunity to get to the pavilion early with gates opening 90 minutes beforehand.

Any other information visitors should know?

You'd be wise to come prepared for the outdoor amphitheater with sunscreen and hats for the summer months. No lawn chairs are allowed but you can bring beach towels, pillows and umbrellas to get comfy.