Just north of Dallas, McKinney, Texas is a fast-growing city with a lot to offer. Every year, thousands of new residents decide to call McKinney their home – not to mention the visitors that travel, looking to enjoy everything McKinney has to offer. Whether you’re new here or you’ve called it your home for years, people are always looking for things to do in McKinney, TX.
As a plumber in McKinney, we live and work here. With so much to choose from, we’re here to help you out. This is our list of the top ten BEST things to do in McKinney.
#10: Collins County Historical Society
McKinney has been around since the early 1900s – it’s a place rich with history and folklore to explore! If you’re new to the area, or even if you’ve lived around McKinney your whole life, the Collins County History Museum is the perfect place to learn about what went into building this great and historic community. The museum’s permanent collection of maps, manuscripts, and newspapers give you a great feel of what it was like living in Texas over the last century, making this one of the most interesting (and educational!) things to do in McKinney.
#9: Heard-Craig Center for the Arts
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind museum experience in McKinney, the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts is the place to be. Housed in one of the oldest and best preserved historical homes in Texas, the center is the perfect day trip for history and art lovers alike looking for fun things to do in McKinney. Tours of the home are available, as well as various events and workshops throughout the year – and the tours come with free tea and dessert!
#8: Heritage Village at Chestnut Square
Hop in your wayback machine and travel back in time to the simpler days in McKinney with a visit to Heritage Village. The village, located in Chestnut Square, is one of the most family-friendly and fun things to do in McKinney, and is full of unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Jump aboard a trolley tour for a taste of yesteryear, or book a private village tour for an intimate village experience, and don’t forget to visit the farmer’s market!
One of the most unique things to do in McKinney, TX is browsing the amazing (and extensive) vintage collection at the Antique Company Mall. They’ve been around for over 25 years, and are a must-visit location for full-time residents and travelers alike! You’ll pour over relics and antiques that can’t be found anywhere else, hosted by over 100 different vendors – there’s truly something for everyone.
Historical activities are aplenty, but here’s something for those of you with a more artistic spirit looking for the best things to do in McKinney. Prepare for an interactive, artistic adventure like you’ve never experienced before! Painting with a Twist provides you with the chance to express your inner Picasso while celebrating a birthday, date night, or just a fun family night out. Local artists give personal instruction on how to create over 5,000 works of art – and feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks while you create your masterpiece!
#5: Erwin Park Bike & Hiking Trails
One of the best things to do in McKinney is taking in all that nature has to offer, and there’s no better place to do that than scenic Erwin Park. Whether you’re into mountain biking, get your kicks off hiking, or fancy some trail running, you’ll find the perfect scenery at Erwin Park. And with over seven miles of gorgeous trails, you can easily spend a full day here. The best part of the trails? Most run alongside nearby rivers, giving you a chance to check out some wildlife up-close and personal!
With a 7,300 square foot clubhouse, more than 150 gorgeous trees, and picturesque scenery, Oak Hollow Golf Course is the best destination to get in a few rounds while you’re in McKinney. Oak Hollow is more than just your standard links course – if you’re not up for playing 18, head over to the indoor swing room, complete with a launch monitor and high-speed cameras so you can work on your game. Kill some time on their two deluxe putting greens, or perfect that power drive at their 300-yard driving range.
#3: Tupps Brewery
Beer lovers looking for things to do in McKinney won’t be disappointed by the huge selection of craft beer Tupps has to offer. Tupps offers everything from free brewery tours to tasting flights inside their historic tap room, you might even catch a fresh batch of beer being made right before your eyes. Tupps does an awesome job immersing their visitors in that old Texas charm. Our personal favorite is the Evil Dankster IPA, but you can’t go wrong with anything this craft brewery has to offer.
#2: Historic Downtown McKinney
No list about things to do in McKinney would be complete without a mention of the historic downtown district. McKinney’s Main Street is one of the oldest, and most robust downtown areas in Texas. Downtown is home to more than 120 unique shops and over two dozen restaurants for you to explore and enjoy. Depending on the time of year, you can find classic car shows, holiday celebrations, and festive parades. Downtown McKinney is the ideal blend of both new and old-school, and is an absolute must-see attraction in the historical Texas town.
#1: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Everything on this list is worth a visit, but our top thing to do in McKinney is a trip to the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. This 289-acre sanctuary is home to many plants and animals that are unique to the area, so even native Texans visiting from out of town are sure to see something new. The museum is loaded with fun events throughout the year, including zip line days, night hikes, and plant sales. Admission is affordable, making the museum the perfect option for family fun – and plenty of repeat trips!
What are your favorite sites to see in McKinney? Do you agree with our list? Hackler Plumbing would love to hear your thoughts below!
