Conroe, Texas

After several epidemics and two major fires early in its history, this city’s fortunes changed in 1931 when the discovery of oil lifted it from the Great Depression. Unique displays and a general store filled with activities for children bring history to life at the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County. Downtown, the 1934 Crighton Theatre, built for vaudeville productions and then converted to a movie theater, stages live local and touring shows. Though only one square mile, nearby Shenandoah is a significant community that is home to the Footprints in Courage Museum, which tells the story of David “The Boy in the Bubble” Vetter among other history exhibits. Events in the area include the Montgomery County Fair & Rodeo, Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival, Bull Mania Championship Bull Riding, Conroe Americana Music Festival and Sounds of Texas Music Series.