Taking a Historical Walking Tour of Conroe, TX

The history, beauty, and stories of Conroe, Texas, go all the way back to when it was founded in the late 1800s. For people who live in or are just passing through Conroe, a historical walking tour is a great way to learn about the town's rich history. This tour is more than just a trip through time: it's an immersive experience that brings Conroe's past to life, with well-preserved buildings, interesting sites, and lots of historical stories.

A Glimpse into Conroe’s Past

Conroe was founded in the late 19th century and named for Isaac Conroe, a Union Cavalry officer from the North. It grew quickly because of its booming oil and lumber businesses. Before you start your walking tour, you should know that Conroe was once called the "Miracle City" because of how quickly it grew in the early 1900s. Many of the buildings and structures from that time are still standing today, giving us an link to the past.

Start Your Journey at the Conroe Central Business District

Your walking tour starts in the Central Business District, which is in the middle of Conroe. It is easy to see how Conroe grew from a small town to a busy city through the many old buildings in this area. Important places include:

• The Crighton Theatre: The Crighton Theatre was built in 1934 and has been the site of many shows and events over the years. The theater was built in the Classical Revival style, and meant to be a grand movie palace built with native Texan stone. As you walk by, you can almost hear the sounds of the past – thanks in part to the theater's excellent acoustics.
• The Montgomery County Courthouse: This beautiful building is only a short walk from the Crighton Theatre. The Montgomery County Courthouse was built in 1936, in a modern art deco style, after the previous courthouse was demolished. The building still stands to this day, with two courthouse wings added after the fact.
• The Owen Theatre: The Owen Theatre is another must-see on your tour. It's right next to the courthouse. Since its construction in the 1940s, the Owen Theatre has served as a cultural hub for many years, hosting plays, musicals, and other local performances.

Step Back in Time at the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County

The Heritage Museum of Montgomery County is a must-see for anyone who wants to learn more about the past of the area. You don't have to walk there, but it's worth the short drive or bike ride from downtown. The museum has displays on a wide range of topics, from the past of Native Americans to the growth of Conroe's industries. These displays give you useful background information for the places you've seen on your tour.

Conroe's Connection to the Arts

There is a strong link between the arts and history in Conroe that can't be missed on a historical walking tour. Along with theaters, Conroe has been home to many artists and musicians. The city's unique mix of Southern culture and industrial growth inspired many of them.

We suggest visiting the Conroe Art League Gallery in downtown Conroe. It is in a historic building and shows off the work of local artists. By visiting the gallery, you have the chance to take in more of Conroe's history while also enjoying the artistic talents of the community. The Conroe Art League also offers art classes and workshops for people of all ages, providing art education scholarships, and sponsoring local shows. Their gallery is absolutely worth a visit.

Practical Tips for Your Historical Walking Tour

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The tour goes for several miles, so be ready to walk a lot.
• Start Early: Conroe can get hot, especially in the summer, so it's best to do it in the morning when it's cooler.
• Bring Water: It's important to stay hydrated, especially if you're traveling during the warmer months.
• Plan Your Parking. There are many places to park downtown, but if you need a safe place to keep your car, check out Lockaway Storage - 105. This storage facility has parking spaces available for short- and long-term vehicle storage.

Wrap Up Your Tour with a Visit to a Local Eatery

After walking through Conroe's history all day, there's nothing better than taking it easy at one of the city's cute restaurants. If you're in the mood for traditional Southern comfort food or something more modern, downtown Conroe has a lot of places to choose from. This is a great way to think about the history you just learned while you eat a tasty meal. Vernon's Kuntry Katfish is especially well-known, since it's not only a source of delicious fried catfish but also a pillar of the local community.

Convenient Storage Solutions for Tourists and Locals

Whether you're a history buff from Conroe or a tourist looking around, you may need a safe place to keep your things while you're on tour. Lockaway Storage - 105 has self-storage units in Conroe, TX that are easy to access and great for both long-term residents and people who are just passing through. We offer various unit sizes and advanced security features to ensure the safety of your belongings while you explore everything Conroe has to offer.