One of the most delightful art spaces near Marquis at the Woodlands, the recently renovated Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts is a museum that's always in transition. Because there are no permanent exhibits, there are always different things to see at the facility. The late Pearl Fincher was a local community leader, and this museum is a great tribute to her legacy. There are three major galleries that so far this year have brought amazing exhibitions, and the Community Gallery features exhibitions from local elementary, middle, high school, and college students. With upcoming exhibits that focus on local art and architecture, there’s always something interesting around the bend. The museum is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays until 8 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free, but a $3 donation per person is suggested.

Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts
6815 Cypresswood Drive
Spring, TX 77379
(281) 376-6322
http://www.yelp.com/biz/pearl-fincher-museum-of-fine-arts-spring

Located in downtown Conroe next to the historic Sadler building, Villa Italia is well known as one of the best restaurants in Montgomery County. Divided up into a number of dining rooms, Villa Italia is perfect for an intimate date, as the ambience is quiet and romantic. The service is absolutely impeccable, with staff treating every diner like an old friend. The food is top-notch, authentic Italian cuisine, prepared with great attention to detail and high-quality ingredients. Every aspect of the meal is phenomenal, from the warm bread with olive oil that greets you at the table to the fantastic pasta dishes. If there’s an Italian favorite you don’t see on the menu, don’t be afraid to ask—the owner and chef are incredibly accommodating. Bring a thirst for wine, too, as they firmly believe that no meal is complete without it and will refill your glass if it gets low. Finish your meal with their spectacular tiramisu and know that you just had some of the best Italian cuisine that Texas has to offer.

Villa Italia
603 North Thompson Street
Conroe, TX 77301
(936) 539-5599

Fine dining can still be casual, especially at the White Flamingo. A perfect place for a tasty lunch or classy dinner, the White Flamingo offers fantastic food in a classy, casual atmosphere. Located not too far away from Marquis at the Woodlands, diners come into the White Flamingo and notice the beautiful tables, all with white linen tablecloths. The lunch sandwiches are hearty and come with a bowl of the day’s soup. Or try a salad, especially the special Ginger Mandarin or Strawberry Avocado salads. For dinner, enjoy a tasty appetizer and move on to outstanding chicken, seafood, or steak entrees. And don’t pass up the dessert cart, which changes every day. Having an event? The White Flamingo is the perfect place for birthdays, anniversaries or larger events. The restaurant is open every day for lunch and dinner, and for breakfast on the weekends.

White Flamingo
24307 Aldine Westfield Road
Spring, TX 77386
(281) 907-0778
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-white-flamingo-spring