27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Mckinney (TX)

Mckinney is a beautiful city in Texas, it is the third biggest city in Collin County and the seat of Collin County, Texas.

The city is about 32 miles north of Dallas and is a suburb of the Fort Worth metropolitan area.

The United States has acknowledged McKinney as one of the fastest developing cities from 2000 to 2003 and in 2006. 

Despite being a mini-town, it has a lovely char with well-planned and tree-lined streets.  This town comprises numerous attractions, including breweries, restaurants, parks, historical places, museums, etc.

Are you planning an exploration of Mckinney? Here is a list of the top things to do in Mckinney, TX.

Things to Do in Mckinney

1. Explore Main Street Historic Downtown

Main Street Historic Downtown
Credits: Kaitlyn / Flickr
Main Street Historic Downtown

One of the best things to do in Mckinney, TX is to visit the Main Street Historic Downtown; it is one of the oldest downtown areas in Texas and has been a massive attraction for many years.

This destination is a massive spot for meetings, appreciation, and the celebration of the rich cultural heritage of this region.

This destination features old-fashioned shops, an excellent art environment, beautiful restaurants, and fashionable boutiques; tourists and locals can engage in numerous activities associated with different personalities.

Here is a place above a courthouse, currently used as the Mckinney Performing Arts Center. Here should be a must-stop for anyone visiting Mckinney, Texas.

Address: 111 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069,

2. Towne Lake Park

Towne Lake Park
Credits: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock
Towne Lake Park

Town Lake Park is an exciting place to be, especially with friends and loved ones, to have fun-filled moments, and be sure to make this place a must-see.

This destination is a place of abode to grassy fields, a big lake, grand pavilions, lovely walkways, and numerous exciting features for kids and adults.

It also has a fishing pier where people can sit, relax and catch some fish in the lake. For lovers of sports, the park comprises baseball fields, a disc golf course, and volleyball courts.

It has a hiking trail of about one mile and offers guests the opportunity to explore the scintillating views of the lake and enjoy the breezy air. You can also check out the park’s recreation center, playgrounds for children, game rooms, restaurants, and numerous facilities.

Address: 1405 Wilson Creek Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75069,

3. Bonnie Wenk Park

Bonnie Wenk Park
Credits: Rick Ray / Flickr
Bonnie Wenk Park

Another interesting item on our list of things to do in Mckinney, TX is visiting Bonnie Wenk Park, a fun-filled outdoor recreational facility. 

The Bonnie Wenk Park has 216 acres and comprises numerous attractions to make you stay lovely; they include a dog park, a fishing line, a few bikes, walking trails, and an amphitheater.

Be sure to bring the kids along to have a good time playing in the park; there are also children-sized zip lines and swings. There is a pond with a splash area where people can go fishing and play all day.

The park also has an outdoor fitness area for visitors to keep fit, and it is available for all and sundry, not minding your age or skill level. For lovers of nature, there are pathways, so you enjoy the scintillating and peaceful forested areas surrounding the park.

Address: 2996 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75071

4. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Credits: Diann Bayes / Flickr
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

This destination is situated at 1 Nature PI, occupying 289 acres of landspace. This museum preserve is a place of abode for various kinds of fauna and flora species from this part of the county and beyond.

Here is the heart of wildlife protection in this region, as it connects people and nature through varieties of exhibits, events, and programs.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal site for nature enthusiasts. Be sure you will see beautiful gardens, lovely butterfly houses, animal trails, and many other lovely attractions.

The wildlife center has a program geared towards rejuvenating the grasslands surrounding the sanctuary to be in good natural conditions. Visitors can be part of the voluntary service program and be part of a team helping to preserve plants and animal life in this region.

Address: 1 Nature Pl, McKinney, TX 75069

5. Local Produce

Credits: Arina P Habich / Shutterstock

Another essential item on our list of things to do in Mckinney, TX is visiting the Local Produce. Here is an ideal spot to satisfy all your grocery needs, so be sure to stop by when you visit and purchase some of your favorite groceries.

The Local Produce can be otherwise called a Ranch to Market butcher’s store that provides visitors with locally sourced organic products coupled with beef and other products such as milk and bread, cheeses, eggs, and poultry.

Moreover, the Farmers Market is available at the famous Chestnut Square each Saturday from springtime to fall.

During your visit to Mickinney, stop by the farmers market and fill your kitchen with everything fresh, from homemade cheeses to poultry products, and fresh vegetables.

Address: Mckinney, Texas, United States

6. Oak Hollow Golf Course

Credits: pisitnamtasaeng / Shutterstock

For golf lovers, one of the best things to do in Mckinney, TX is to check out the Oak Hollow Golf Course, which should be a primary item on your list of fun places to visit.

Oak Hollow Golf Course is famous and has been acknowledged by several notable organizations because of its fascinating course, unique gameplay, and the services they offer. 

The golf course is available for everyone to play some golf on a challenging but fascinating course.

Despite being open to the general public, the Hollow Golf Course has maintained its magnificent status quo of providing top-notch services, programs, and amenities. Be sure to make reservations before you visit.

Address: 3005 N McDonald St, McKinney, TX 75071,

7. Adriatica Village

Adriatica Village
Credits: AmateurArtGuy / Flickr
Adriatica Village

The Adriatica Village has a lovely atmosphere that can be likened to a small European town. It is a beautiful place to check out, and it should be on your to-do list of fun things to do in Mckinney, TX.

The Adriatica Village accommodates the Sanctuary Mckinney, numerous restaurants and shops, and an events center. The essential things to find in this destination are the Cobblestone streets and house

The Adriatica Village was designed to match a Croatia Village so that you can feel the lovely Mediterranean atmosphere all over the place. The village features old-fashioned houses, the Bell Tower, peaceful waterways, and chapels.

Here is a perfect destination to take lovely photos and videos to post on your social accounts. Everything about this destination seems different because your friends will think you have traveled to a foreign land.

Address: 6602 Mediterranean Dr, McKinney, TX 75070,

8. Chestnut Square Heritage Village

Chestnut Square Heritage Village
Credits: Chestnut Square Heritage Village / Facebook
Chestnut Square Heritage Village

Be a part of history in McKinney for over a century by visiting the Chestnut Square Heritage Village. It features preserved houses that have a history stretching back to 1854.

This destination provides visitors with its fascinating history to explore and admire. Be sure you find inns showing how people inhabited Collin County over time, stores, and churches.

This destination also organizes a casual market day where visitors can buy unique and fresh produce cultivated in this region. Other items to see here aside from farm products include jewelry, soaps, woodwork, and various homemade items produced by locals.

Address: 315 S Chestnut St, McKinney, TX 75069

Also check out our list of things to do in Seguin , things to do in Cypress and things to do in Katy,  for a fun vacation in Texas.

9. Crape Myrtle Trails

Crape Myrtle Trails
Credits: Rick Ray / Flickr
Crape Myrtle Trails

Another interesting item on our list of things to do in Mckinney, TX is exploring the Crape Myrtle Trails. If you want to gain a fascinating experience that can be likened to the season of Cherry blossom in Japan, do visit this place.

The trees blossom between June and August, making the trails of the Park look colorful with magnificent colors of Fuschia, purples, lavender, and pinks.

The different beautiful colors to find here are the contributions and efforts of the Crape Myrtle Foundation, whose primary goal was to make this destination a place of abode for various kinds of Crape myrtle.

Visitors will be able to find benches and picnic tables, so be sure to relax, have a taste of delicious snacks and gaze at the gorgeous flowers. The flower petals can be seen dropping on the ground, and it is a lovely sight to behold.

Address: 6452 Collin McKinney Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75070,

10. Franconia Brewing Company

Franconia Brewing Company
Credits: Jag_cz / Shutterstock

The Franconia Brewing Company has been providing visitors with top-notch beer since the arrival of a German brewer, Dennis Wehrman, from Bavaria in 2008.

The Brewing Master has a family descent that has over 200 years of beer production experience and was able to start up Franconia due to their much knowledge in the brewery.

During and after your tour through the facility, visitors can learn a handful about the malt market; yeast and water are fermented together to produce Mckinney’s local signature beer.

The staff to meet here are friendly and welcoming and readily available to help you tour the facility.

Address: 495 McKinney Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75071

11. McKinney Performing Arts Center

McKinney Performing Arts Center
Credits: QuesterMark / Flickr
McKinney Performing Arts Center

The McKinney Performing Arts is a multi-complex facility perched in the center of downtown Mckinney.

Different groups host theater musicals and plays, jamborees, national and local band shows, and music concerts in this destination.

Be sure to see their website to check their schedule for the week so you can meet up with whatever show you intend to watch. In addition, this destination is open for special events, birthday parties, weddings, etc.

If you intend to host any special event here, visit the McKinney Performing Arts Center.

Address: 111 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069

12. Antique Company Mall

 Antique Company Mall
Credits: Antique Company Mall / Facebook
Antique Company Mall

The Antique Company Mall is a state-of-the-art mall in Mckinney, Texas; you sure do not want to miss out on it if you are an antique lover, and it should be on your to-do list.

The Antique mall has various collections of antique items, collectibles, and vintage products. Explore their vast shopping space, where you will see handcrafted furniture made by local carpenters, home items and accessories, and numerous knick-knacks.

This destination has a landmass of 15,000 square feet for visitors to explore. There are lots of significant items and treasures that will catch your fancy. As you go through the many things in their well-planned collection of antique items, find that particular piece you will take home.

Address: 213 E Virginia St, McKinney, TX 75069, United States

13. Hutchin’s BBQ and Grill

Hutchin's BBQ and Grill
Credits: Hutchins BBQ McKinney / Facebook
Hutchin’s BBQ and Grill

Another essential item on this list of things to do in Mckinney, TX is visiting the Hutchin’s Bar and Grill. A visit to this beautiful city is incomplete without visiting the restaurants in this area.

This restaurant provides visitors with delicious and unique American foods. It uses locally grown and fresh ingredients to prepare meals that will satisfy your taste buds.

It would be best if you tried out their favorite barbeque, ribs, and briskets, which are popular in Texas. Here is an ideal place to spend good quality time with loved ones and friends and should be considered on your list of places to visit. 

Address: 1301 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069,

14. Breweries

Breweries
Credits: Cherries / Shutterstock

If you are a lover of good liquor, one of the best things to do in Mckinney, TX when you visit, especially if you are not bringing the kids along, is to check out the various local breweries in Mckinney.

Mckinney has different taverns in various areas, including the Choice Beverage Craft Beer and Fresh Wines, TUPPS Brewery, and Franconia Brewing.

These different pubs are unique as most of them feature different classic refreshing beers for your consumption.

You can check out their various taprooms, have an exciting tour of their facility, and learn the different brewery processes.

You can also bring a favorite beer back home or a jug to fly your special meetings and parties.

Address: Mckinney, Texas, United States.

15. Collin County History Museum

Collin County History Museum
Credits: Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
Collin County History Museum

For history buffs, one of the best things to do in Mckinney, TX is to check out the Collin County History Museum, and it should be considered on your list of fun places to be as this destination offers you the opportunity to dig into the rich history of Collin county and its neighboring area.

This destination is a place of abode for photographs, diaries, newspapers, memorabilia, artifacts, and various items that shows how life was in this region over the years.

The Museum also features permanent and rotating exhibits, showcasing Mckinney’s past and present life. As a result, there is a lot to learn from this city’s rich history and how it positively affected and redefined the region.

The Museum can be easily accessed by both locals and visitors as it is perched in the iconic downtown area.

Address: 300 E Virginia St, McKinney, TX 75069,

Are you considering more exploration of Texas, here is our list of things to do in Grand Prairie , things to do in Alpine and things to do in Grapevine, and  for a fun vacation

16. Lewisville Lake

Lewisville Lake
Credits: BoJack / Shutterstock

The Lewisville Lake is perched on the borderline of McKinney and provides a beautiful ambiance that gives you life from the ferocious summers in Texas.

Village Lake has 233 miles of borderline, having twists and turns. The lake attracts many people who visit here for water sports activities such as boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, and its waterfront.

Here is a great spot to have a great party with friends and loved ones; boat rental services are available on weekends, so be sure to have a great time partying all night on the water. the 

Address: Mckinney, Texas, United States

17. Lone Star Wine Cellars

Lone Star Wine Cellars
Credits: Africa Studio / Shutterstock

If you are a fan of delicious wine, one of the best things to do in Mckinney, TX is visiting the Lone Star Wine Cellars, and it should be a must-see for you.

It is no longer news except for a few that Texas city has an incredible wine industry growing each year and when brewing can be traced back to the early years of Spanish settlement in the 1600s.

At the Lone Star Wine Cellars, you can visit and be part of their wine tasting session to see the incredible difference between Texan wine’s family-run bar to existing popular foreign labels.

This destination has restaurants nearby where you can buy delicious foods and bring your food. Weekends are fulfilled here as there are music plays at Lone Star.

Address: 103 E Virginia St, McKinney, TX 75069

18. Juanita Maxfield Aquatic Center

Juanita Maxfield Aquatic Center
Credits: Billion Photos / Shutterstock

If you are a water sports enthusiast, one of the best things to do in Mckinney, TX is to check out the Juanita Maxfield Aquatic Center.

Juanita Maxfield Aquatic Center features a recently restored general swimming pool and offers various programs and activities for kids and adults alike.

You can be part of their lessons for swimming, whether as a beginner or amateur, floating rides and additional activities and amenities in this destination.

Have some time off from the heat in Texas by picnicking with loved ones and friends, and even enjoy a good time in the pool. Private rental services are also available.

Address: 1701 N McDonald St, McKinney, TX 75071,

19. Erwin Park

Erwin Park
Credits: Robert Nunnally / Flickr
Erwin Park

Another essential destination worth looking out for is one of Mckinney’s popular parks known as the Erwin Park. It is a lovely place to bring the whole family to have a fun-filled time.

The park is occupied by scenic meadows, easy and accessible paths and trails, campgrounds, towering trees, and other side attractions. Here is a must-see for anyone who wants to be loved by nature.

The park has a wide-open area that contributes to the lovely experience enjoyed in hiking trips, nature walks, great photo ops, and many other outdoor activities.

If you intend to spend a year or two in this destination, you can go camping in any of the campgrounds located in this 212-acre of land area.

There is an excellent spot for bikers, as it has mountain bike trails and two bike maintenance shops. At some specific months, you will surely see numerous flowers blossoming in the picturesque Meadows of the Park. 

Address: 4300 Co Rd 1006, McKinney, TX 75071

20. Plano

Plano is located between Mckinney and Dallas. If you intend to do something unusual other than your regular Park visitations, one of the places you should check out is the Cockroach Hall of Fame.

The idea behind this unusual museum is a local pest controller and its board of a vast collection of exhibits of dead cockroaches.

African cockroach exhibits are displayed in the museum that are still living and hissing. You can also check out the well-maintained Plano Station, over 100 years old and part of the Electric Railway in Texas.

The Electric Railways were in full functionality between 1908 till 1948 and span about 170 miles between Denison in the north and Waco in the South.

Address: Mckinney, Texas, United States.

21. Harvest Seasonal Kitchen

 Harvest Seasonal Kitchen
Credits: Harvest Seasonal Kitchen / Facebook
Harvest Seasonal Kitchen

Another interesting spot to visit and treat your stomach to delicious meals is the Harvest Seasonal Kitchen. This restaurant provides visitors with locally sourced seasonal ingredients to prepare delicious foods.

The result of these foods is the result of their fresh ingredients and flavors which gives guests a lovely dining experience. To get an ideal Texan food experience, try out their crispy ribs, deviled eggs, pork tenderloins, and crab tacos.

If you are a vegetarian, be sure you will have a good time here as this place is vegetarian friendly and provides visitors with cobb salad, beef salad, and lots more.

Their service is excellent, and their staff is fantastic at disposing of their services. It is also a great spot to eat brunch during a tour trip in Mckinney.

Address: 112 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069,

22. Mitas Hill Vineyard

Mitas Hill Vineyard
Credits: Andrew Hagen / Shutterstock

The atmosphere to meet in this vineyard and winery can be likened to a wine country in California. In this destination, you will see lustful grapevines in rows, and these fruits are collected when due and processed in classic wine.

Aside from the quality alcoholic drinks, this destination features a wood-burning pizza oven that bakes delicious dishes.

Here is an ideal spot to enjoy top-notch wines, fresh fruity wines, homemade pizzas, and delicious dishes. This destination is perfect for a lovely dining experience, especially with family and friends.

Address: 2300 Vineyard Hill Ln, McKinney, TX 75071,

23. Sundance Square

Sundance Square
Credits: Carol M. Highsmith / Wki (public domain)
Sundance Square

Texas’s fifth city can be reached in about an hour; during the middle of the 1800s, the town was established as a solid military force, and it still has a feel of the old west.

If you are an art enthusiast, you can visit the Kimbell and Amon Carter Art Museums. The Kimbell Art Museum brings you to the time of the old masters. It has a 350 precise splendid collection of art pieces and is also filled with artworks of El Greco, Michelangelo,

Caravaggio, Gauguin, and lots more

Most of the changes and development during the 19 century resulted from cattle rearing. Check out the Historic Stockyard district to find storefronts of the ancient cattle flea market and original corrals.

Address: Sundance Dr, McKinney, TX 75071,

24. North Texas Escape Rooms

North Texas Escape Rooms
Credits: Jerome.Romme / Shutterstock

The North Texas Escape Room was established in 2016 to entertain, draw people together and forge a connection in a world that is becoming lived inside screens.

Becoming familiar with guests and facilitating their bond with each other is the core of what this attraction does.

They make this possible by creating an exciting, fun-filled experience for various groups, from kids to adults, from novices to escape room experts.

North Texas Escape Room has five rooms and six games, 2 of which are created for kids.

This escape room has games for kids and families, making it the perfect choice for team-building events, birthday parties, weekend outings, church group events, and bachelorette parties.

Address: 1717 W University Dr #403, McKinney, TX 75069, United States

25. The Comedy Arena

Comedy Arena
Credits: The Comedy Arena / Facebook
Comedy Arena

 

One of the best things to do in McKinney is to watch a comedy show at The Comedy Arena.

The Comedy Arena is a premier Texas comedy club serving food, drinks, and laughter.

The Comedy Arena is in the business of comedy, particularly improv comedy, where everything is created on the spot.

The Comedy Arena prides itself on making different comedy styles, from stand-up to sketch, but especially improv consisting of short-form, long-form, city style, and competitive style, which has been their specialty over the years.

The Comedy Arena offers different shows and classes throughout the week.

Whether you want to perform in a live comedy show or see one, the Comedy Arena can bring your wish to life.

Besides putting on shows, the Comedy Arena educates students on how to become comedy performers.

Address: 305 E Virginia St, Suite 104, McKinney, TX 75069, United States

26. Arcade 92

Arcade 92
Credits: Atmosphere1 / Shutterstock

Arcade 92 offers over hundred retro arcade games, pinball from the 80s, 90s, and recent ones.

Arcade 92 is a place where you can eat, drink and link up with a community of gamers.

You can visit this place for a date night, guys’ night, family fun, ladies night, or any excuse to enjoy adult drinks while playing retro arcades

Arcade 92 has the latest eSport video games lounge for modern gamers and a robust pinball lineup for pinball lovers.

The arcade also holds weekly old game tournaments on their recent video games, pinball machines, and retro arcades.

Address: 305 E Virginia St, Suite 103, McKinney, TX 75069, United States

27. Heard-Craig Center for the Arts

Heard-Craig Center for the Arts
Credits: Heard- Craig Center for the Arts/ Facebook
Heard-Craig Center for the Arts

Visit the stunning Heard-Craig House constructed in the 1900s opposite Katie’s Garden.

This renovated home accommodates several works of Texas art and artifacts that were owned by the Heard-Craig families, and the works depict the lives of this prominent early McKinney family.

The grounds also have a garden and a carriage house that serves as a well-known wedding venue.

McKinney Arts Organizations hold education programs at the center.

Heard-Craig Center hosts quarterly teas in the Main House. You can book it for wedding pictures, private teas, garden weddings, birthdays, and anniversary parties.

It also hosts events that complement the museum artifacts, exhibits, and art collections.

Address: 205 W Hunt St, McKinney, TX 75069, United States

Explore other cities in Texas, check out our list of things to do in Waxahachiethings to do in Kerrville, and things to do in Sugar Land for a fun time.

Plan a Trip to Mckinney

This destination combines a rich history and a beautiful natural environment; if you intend to have a fun-filled vacation and take your mind off mundane activities and the busy city life, check out this lovely town.

Mckinney city’s very close to the urban area of Dallas-Fort Worth, and this makes it a perfect site for a unique getaway experience.

Mckinney city features lovely parks and numerous attractions that promise to be fulfilled and pleasurable for children and adults.