Things to do in Dallas > Collin > McKinney
McKinney, TX
On the northern fringes of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, McKinney's historic character and natural amenities draw both tourists and a steady influx of new residents. Specialty shops, art galleries, local eateries, and frequent events are major attractions in McKinney's picturesque downtown. Nature takes center stage at a plethora of parks and the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, while local history is on display at the Chestnut Square Historic Village, a collection of historic homes and replica structures from the 1854-1920 period.
McKinney Texas was built from a 3000-acre land owned by William Davis in 1849. Farmers were given a chance to plant corn and different types of cotton, build churches, schools and banks at the same time so the city was initially built by farmers. After the following years, population, infrastructure and business establishments of all sorts started to grow. Education is also booming in the city of McKinney.
Today, McKinney Texas is recognized as one of the best places to live in. It ranked first place in 2014 by CNN Money Magazine. Today people of different races live together in the city due to the comfort it provides and the feeling of being at home it gives to anyone who moves in.
Things to do in McKinney TX
Since its foundation, they have built tons of sights and interesting places to see, from museums, malls, restaurants, parks to cemeteries. The history and geography of McKinney has so much to offer to both residents and visitors alike. The city’s culture evolved to this colorful state that captures the interest of people into visiting the Arts and theatres. As for the kids, sports and animal sanctuary is a good place to spark their interest and knowledge into science and health.
EXHIBITS AND MUSEUMS
Historic Downtown McKinney
Historic Downtown McKinney offers a vibrant atmosphere and unique retail, office, arts, entertainment, residential, restaurant and leisure opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy. McKinney was designated an official Urban Main Street City by the Texas Historic Commission in 2003 and is nationally recognized. The Texas Main Street program helps Texas cities revitalize their historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts by utilizing preservation and economic development strategies. McKinney Main Street encourages the integration of sound economic development strategies with historic preservation principles. The program emphasizes a comprehensive approach by addressing improvements through economic development, organization, design and promotion to create a positive, distinctive image for downtown. McKinney Main Street strives to promote business, heritage, and tourism along with community identity. This is a community initiated, volunteer driven program.
Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary
1 Nature Place, McKinney, TX 75069
972-562-5566
A mini zoo, a paved walk trail, dinosaur figures and hiking areas are a few of what Heard Natural Science Museum has to offer. With a clean and green surrounding, this museum or wildlife sanctuary is a very healthy place for kids and adults to spend time. The place is simple yet has a camp feeling to it that uses its local flora and fauna to good use.
Chestnut Square Historic Village
315 S Chestnut Street, McKinney, TX 75070
972-562-8790
Just off of McKinney downtown square are a collection of historical homes. If you have nothing to do on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday Morning, take a stroll around the trees and garden pathways in Chestnut Square. Every Saturday in the summer, they offer a Farmer’s Market wherein you’ll have a chance to buy organic yogurt, jam and bread. If you’re an American History enthusiast then the best part is the re-enactment of the civil war and living history days gun fights.
Collin Country Historical Society and Museum
This museum focuses on the history and growth of North Dallas as a whole and lets people see the values, ethics and tradition that grew both from the people and the place itself. You’ll never see history the same way ever again because of how they disseminate knowledge and information to visitors. And if you are confused about the past of North Dallas then visiting their archives would be a great help.
Bolin Wildlife Exhibit and Antique Collection
1080 N. McDonald, McKinney, TX 75069
972-562-2639
Bolin Wildlife Exhibit and Antique Collection in McKinney, TX is one of more than 15,400 museums in the Museums USA directory. Find an exciting museum to visit where you live or vacation today.
Heard-Craig Historic Center
The Heard-Craig Historic Center consists of a 7,000 sq. ft. historic home and carriage house built in 1900. The home contains breathtaking stained glass, original furnishings, personal belongings, family heirlooms, and art collected by the Heard and Craig families. The Heard family was instrumental in the early development of the city of McKinney. Tours at the center tell the story of a fascinating family dedicated to their community and each other.
This one is located at 205 West Hunt, McKinney, TX 75069. They can be reached at 972-569-6909.
North Texas History Center
300 E. Virginia Street, McKinney, TX 75069
972-542-9457
PARKS AND RECREATION
McKinney Parks and Recreation Group
Having a strong and solid sense of community is what this park aims for. By providing diverse recreational programs and camping activities for all ages gives the residents a chance to bond and create a positive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. They too provide athletic programs for sports and health enthusiasts.
McKinney Dog Park
For the dog lovers to enjoy, trails and enclosed areas were built for the pups to run around without a leash on. Trees all around and a water fountain in front with areas according to the sizes of the dogs. Don’t worry about the heat of the sun because shade is provided. The whole area is clean and well maintained throughout the day.
Hardy Eubanks Jr. Park
A 24/7 neighborhood park near an Elementary School.
Address: 1501 Round Hill Rd, McKinney, TX 75070
Al Ruschhaupt Soccer Complex
A great area for playing baseball and soccer.
Address: 1986 Park View Ave, McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: +1 972-547-7500
Hours: 24/7
Alex Clark Memorial Disc Golf Course
Address: 1986 Park View Avenue
Mostly short, flat, shady and tight through tall trees with a winding creek. Challenging, technical, fair and fun, especially from the pro tees.
Erwin Park
Address: 4300 Co Rd 1006, McKinney, TX 75071
Phone: (972) 547-7480
212 acres of mountain bike trails, playgrounds & picnic spots, plus areas for camping & fishing.
Bonnie Wenk Park
Address: 2996 Virginia Pkwy
Phone: (972) 547-7480
Dog Park with Splash pads for dogs, restrooms and an outdoor amphitheatre
The Crape Myrtle Trails
Address: 212 McMakin St, McKinney, TX 75069
Website: crapemyrtletrails.org
A playground, baseball field & basketball court are features of this 3.2- acre city park.
Finch Park
A park perfect for walks!
Address: 321 N Central Expy, McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: (972) 542-1550
Towne Lake Recreation Area
Address: 1405 Wilson Creek Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone: (972) 542-4865
Hours: Open Daily from 9am-5pm
Park boasting a large lake with a fishing pier & paddleboat rentals plus trails & a playground.
CAFÉ AND RESTAURANTS
Below are the best restaurants in McKinney as recommended by TripAdvisor users along with some of their reviews.
The Celt McKinney
Have a taste of British or Irish food and drinks that is accompanied by service that is of that of the Irish. The excellent atmosphere brought by the acoustic music in the background and friendly service is one for you to experience. You can even choose in joining the rowdy and joyful people hanging out in the pub upstairs or eat peacefully with the family on the 1st floor.
Spoons Café
“Always enjoy the breakfast here. Lunch is usually decent but the one time I went for dinner I was not impressed. Stick with going here for Breakfast.”
Address: 213 E. Louisiana, McKinney, TX
Hours: 7:30am – 3:00 pm
Spoons café is a breakfast, brunch and catering café. Waking up late and feeling lazy to eat wouldn’t be a problem for they serve breakfast all day. The servings are worth every penny and may surprise you due to its quality and amount.
Rick’s Chophouse
“One of the few real gems around the area. Great ambiance and food. The service is always excellent and the servers will accommodate most special requests if possible.”
Address: 107 N Kentucky St, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone Number: 214-726-9251
Website: http://rickschophouse.com
Hours: 11am to 9:30pm
Hutchin’s BBQ and Grill
“They have the best BBQ in Dallas! Their brisket is amazing. Also, I love their mac and cheese. It's for sure in my top 5 ever.”
Address: 1301 North Tennessee Street, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone Number: 972-548-2629
Website: http://hutchinsbbq.com
Hours: 11:00am – 9:00pm
Harvest
“The welcoming ambiance creates a beautiful marriage between feeling like you are eating at home with a high end restaurant. The fresh ingredients used to create each dish is full of flavor and makes you want to return to try new dishes. The deviled eggs are to die for so be sure to try those!”
Address: 112 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone Number: (214) 726-0251
Website: harvesttx.com
Square Burger
“Some of the greatest burgers around in a fun atmosphere. Not the same old Burger selection. Truly accommodating servers. The portions are large so you won't leave hungry.”
Address: 115 North Kentucky Street, McKinney, TX
Phone Number: 972-542-0185
Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm
The One and Only Burger and Fries
“This is probably the best burger in the DFW area and definitely a good secret although more and more people are showing up. Try to eat there once a week, greatness keep up the good work.”
Address: 1330 N McDonald St, McKinney, TX 75071
Phone Number: 214-973-5360
Hours: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Cadillac Pizza Pub
“Hand tossed fresh ingredients Pizza is very good they often have live music and the people are great. Small venue. They serve beer and wine and Pizza Yum Yum.”
Address: 112 S Kentucky St, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone Number: 972-547-3833
Website: cadillacpizzapub.com
Hours: 11:00am – 11:00pm
Sicily’s Pizza and Pasta
“We've been going there for several years and have never been disappointed. My favorites are their loaded pizza (they're big) and the linguine with red clam sauce. However they have a full menu so don't be afraid to try anything. You won't leave hungry or disappointed.”
Address: 1502 W University Dr, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone Number: 972-542-9365
Website: sicilyspizzamckinney.com
Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm
Patina Green Home and Market
“Love this restaurant. We have eaten here several times a d always love our choices. I love how they use local ingredients in their dishes. Great place to eat.”
Address: 116 N. Tennessee, Suite 102, McKinney, TX 75069
Phone Number: 972-548-9141
Website: patinagreenhomeandmarket.com
Hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Gregory’s Bistro
“Food was excellent, served attractively. Good variety. On the pricey side but well worth it.”
Address: 111 West Virginia Street, Adriatica Village, McKinney
Phone Number: 19725481920
Website: gregorysbistro.org
Hours: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
| ||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||
 | ||||||||||||||
