Top 15 Must-Do Activities in McKinney, Texas

McKinney (Texas) is situated less than 30 minutes from downtown Dallas, yet the ambiance and essence are distinctly unique. Recognized as one of the most livable locales in the United States, McKinney boasts a rich history complemented by a burgeoning array of family-owned establishments.

The historic ensemble of preserved 19th-century buildings in McKinney offers an insightful glimpse into Texas life 150 years prior, while the lovely Main Street invites visitors to leisurely explore independently owned shops.

For those who appreciate exquisite cuisine and quality beverages, there are ample opportunities to indulge in farmers’ markets, sample local wines, or participate in guided tours of the town’s craft breweries.

1. Main Street

As the principal avenue for shopping and dining in McKinney, Main Street distinguishes itself from surrounding areas. This charming street exudes a small-town vibe, featuring outdoor seating at restaurants and cafes, complemented by the presence of mounted police patrolling the area.

Many buildings along Main Street are historic, some dating back 165 years, with numerous volunteers dedicated to ensuring ongoing events, such as dances during Oktoberfest or art festivals in the spring.

The shops along Main Street are unique and independently owned, encompassing antiques, galleries, and boutiques.

2. Chestnut Square Historic Park

Located just a few blocks south of McKinney’s downtown area, Chestnut Square takes visitors back to the city’s formative years.

Visitors can explore ten preserved buildings constructed between 1854 and 1930, showcasing the community life of the town.

This historical site includes a chapel, a schoolhouse, a boarding house, a general store, and various residences. Dedicated volunteers, attired in period costumes, engage in demonstrations of skills essential for thriving in 19th-century McKinney.

3. Franconia Brewing Company

Established in 2008, Franconia Brewing Company has been a staple in McKinney, founded by German brewmaster Dennis Wehrman, who brought with him a legacy of over 200 years of brewing history.

A guided tour of the brewery offers insights into the intricate process of combining malt barley, hops, water, and yeast to create local favorites.

Guides are known for their expertise and entertaining presentations, culminating in the highlighting feature of sampling Franconia’s beers at the conclusion of the tour.

4. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

This museum provides children with a hands-on interaction with nature through a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits. Inside, children can explore natural history collections featuring mammal skins, minerals, seashells, and fossils.

Outdoors, they can wander through gardens that preserve fragile ecosystems, allowing future generations to experience the wild beauty of Texas. Scenic walking trails weave through vibrant butterfly gardens, exhibits of native plants, and thoughtfully designed bird gardens.

For the adventurous, the snake exhibit offers an up-close experience with non-venomous snakes and educates visitors on how to treat bites.

5. Towne Lake Recreation Area

This expansive 108-acre neighborhood park is an ideal spot for physical activities. It encircles a serene 22-acre lake, complete with a pier and paddleboats. Throughout the year, visitors can be seen fishing off the pier or simply basking in the sunshine.

The park also features two picnic shelters equipped with electrical outlets, perfect for leisurely days spent with family during the summer months.

For recreational activities, the park includes volleyball courts, horseshoe pitches, and a scenic 1.2-mile hiking trail for a peaceful stroll.

6. Lone Star Wine Cellars

Texas’ wine industry is rapidly expanding, tracing its roots back to the early Spanish settlements of the 1600s. Lone Star Wine Cellars, located on East Virginia Street, offers an excellent introduction to Texan wines.

This inviting, family-operated wine bar provides tasting sessions where visitors can compare local wines with renowned international labels.

With nearby takeout restaurants and the option to bring food, visitors can enjoy delightful weekend performances featuring fine music at Lone Star.

7. Tupps Brewery

This rustic microbrewery exudes a charming, worn-in feel, situated in a historic cotton mill. Tupps Brewery has cleverly repurposed its old farm buildings and equipment for live music events held multiple times a week.

Unique furnishings, such as sturdy cable spools serving as tables and vintage tractor seats as chairs, create an inviting atmosphere. The live music stage resides in a repurposed barn, and visitors can also enjoy games on vintage arcade machines.

Beer enthusiasts will delight in a selection of seven varieties, ranging from a classic Texas wheat ale to a seasonally inspired spiced pumpkin beer crafted for Halloween.

8. Collin County Historical Society & Museum

Collin County honors early Texas settler and politician Collin McKinney, a key figure in the Texas Revolution of 1835, which resulted in Texas separating from Mexico to form its own Republic.

In 2016, McKinney celebrates its 250th anniversary, prompting numerous exhibits highlighting McKinney’s legacy.

Visitors can view documents signed by McKinney, a detailed scale model of his residence, currency from the Republic of Texas, and a collection of photographs documenting McKinney’s later years.

9. Oak Hollow Golf Course

McKinney’s public golf course provides an enjoyable and affordable golfing experience.

The 18-hole, par-70 course is set amidst landscaped forests, offering a putting green, driving range, and short game area, complemented by a pro shop and a newly built pavilion for post-round refreshments.

Intermediate golfers will find Oak Hollow to be an entertaining challenge, while newcomers will appreciate the forgiving layout.

10. Local Produce

For those who prioritize food sourcing, McKinney offers excellent options for grocery shopping. Local Yocal is a “Farm to Market” butcher shop specializing in organic products sourced locally, including beef, poultry, eggs, cheeses, milk, and artisan bread.

Additionally, the Farmers Market operates each Saturday from spring to autumn at historic Chestnut Square.

Visitors renting a vacation home in McKinney can stock their kitchens with fresh produce, handcrafted cheeses, homemade preserves, and a diverse selection of grass-fed meats and poultry.

11. Lewisville Lake

Situated on the western outskirts of McKinney, this water reservoir offers a refreshing escape from the scorching Texas heat.

Its winding shoreline stretches for 233 miles, attracting visitors for activities such as water skiing, fishing, boating, swimming, or simply enjoying the serene beaches and campgrounds.

For those seeking a lively experience, Lewisville Lake features Party Cove, where boat rentals are available for weekend festivities on the water.

12. Plano

Located midway between McKinney and Dallas, Plano presents several intriguing attractions.

For those averse to creepy crawlies, the Cockroach Hall of Fame may not appeal. This unconventional museum, conceptualized by a local pest control expert, showcases an extensive collection of deceased cockroaches alongside live African roaches.

Alternatively, visitors can appreciate the well-preserved Plano Station, a historic rail station over a century old that was part of the Texas Electric Railway, which operated between 1908 and 1948 over a 170-mile stretch from Waco to Denison.

13. Dallas

Located just south of McKinney, Dallas ranks among the top ten cities in the United States, known for its rich cultural and historical significance.

The city is notably recognized as the site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963. The Texas School Book Depository, where his assassin was positioned, has been transformed into the Sixth Floor Museum, providing in-depth context for this pivotal 20th-century event.

Furthermore, it’s hard to overlook that Dallas is home to the renowned Cowboys football team, who play their games in the impressive AT&T Stadium, accommodating up to 100,000 spectators in Arlington.

14. Fort Worth

In less than an hour, one can reach Texas’ fifth-largest city, which originated as a military outpost in the mid-19th century and retains a palpable connection to the Old West.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate a trip to the Amon Carter and Kimbell Art Museums. The Kimbell offers a splendid introduction to timeless masterpieces; while its collection is modest at 350 pieces, it includes remarkable works by Michelangelo, El Greco, Gauguin, Caravaggio, among others.

Fort Worth’s development in the late 19th century was significantly influenced by cattle trading, and the Stockyards Historic District showcases the original cattle market’s corrals and storefronts. A daily cattle drive takes place just before noon, honoring a tradition dating back to the 1800s.