Top Activities and Attractions in McKinney, TX

Last Updated 1 week ago by Jessica Serna | Published: December 13, 2025

Looking for the best things to do in McKinney, TX? This dreamy town, nestled in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, captures the essence of small-town charm. From its cute coffee shops, great parks, old houses of all colors, and the beautiful historic downtown McKinney, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore.

Despite its small size, McKinney has a surprising number of fun activities to offer visitors. Below is a curated guide to the best things to do in McKinney, Texas, organized by interest so you can easily build your perfect itinerary.

Table of Contents

Explore Nature, Parks & Outdoor Attractions

Crepe Myrtle Trails of McKinney

McKinney might just be the crepe myrtle capital of the world! McKinney puts on a colorful show every spring and summer. The city’s crepe myrtles bloom in vibrant shades of pink, white, and red, making neighborhoods and parks feel extra scenic. It’s one of the prettiest free things to do in McKinney, especially if you enjoy photography or relaxed walks.

The best part about this park is that not only do you get to stop and smell the vibrant blossoms, but you can also explore the nearby biking trails.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

This is one of McKinney’s most popular attractions for good reason. The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a nice place where you can easily spend all day with the whole family. For kids, they have a dinosaur trail with a wide variety of dinosaurs that makes learning about them interactive and fun!

When not checking out the dinosaurs, people can hike the miles of different trails that take them through all sorts of terrain and ecosystems. Additionally, they have a wildlife sanctuary and a butterfly garden. As if that wasn’t enough, they even have a zipline course!

Bonnie Wenk Park

Bonnie Wenk Park is perfect if you want to stay active while traveling. Along with playgrounds and walking trails, the park features a full outdoor fitness area. It’s a great stop for families, joggers, or anyone wanting a quick workout in the fresh air.

Discover Arts, Culture & Unique Experiences

Adriatica Village

Adriatica Village is a beautiful little neighborhood in McKinney that takes its inspiration from Croatia. There’s a little church that is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, or you can just walk along the water, grab some great food for a picnic, and feel like you’ve been transported somewhere far away.

McKinney Art House

McKinney Art House is a great environment for all ages who want to explore their artistic side. Be creatively entertained and improve your skills with the help of their outstanding and award-winning teaching artists to create wonderful works of art.

They offer not only art and pottery classes but also summer camps, birthdays and art parties, workshops, and homeschool art classes.

LX Artworks Gallery & Studio

Head to LX Artworks Gallery & Studio for a local art tour. This creative space features immersive, colorful art installations and backdrops designed for photography and content creation. Whether you’re snapping photos with friends or creating social media content, it’s a playful and fun stop.

Comedy Arena

Get a good laugh in at the Comedy Arena! Rather than just your typical comedy show, the actors here perform in different improv games where the audience is involved in what they do! Each show is so different and pretty much made up on the spot!

Experience Historic McKinney

Downtown McKinney Historic Square

Downtown McKinney is the heart of the city. The walkable square is filled with boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, wine bars, murals, and historic buildings. It’s the best place to spend a slow afternoon browsing shops and grabbing a bite.

They also have fun shops like Mom and Popcorn, a fun candy and sweets shop; Red Zeppelin Records; Fair Imports, with all of their fair trade international goods; and Goodies, with whiskey-infused and other great chocolates.

The McKinney Cotton Mill

Once a working cotton mill, this historic landmark now stands as a reminder of McKinney’s agricultural roots. Today, it has been beautifully repurposed as a unique arts, office, and event venue that retains its original industrial charm. It’s a great photo stop and a meaningful piece of the city’s history.

Chestnut Square Historic Village

Step back into the 19th century at Chestnut Square. The village includes preserved homes, a schoolhouse, a large collection of ice cream makers, and rotating events like farm tours, seasonal festivals, and themed experiences. Saturday tours allow access inside the buildings.

There are even weeks where kids get to experience what it was like, like churning their own butter, wearing perlikeclothes, etc.

Shop Local & Find One-of-a-Kind Gifts

McKinney’s shopping scene is one of the city’s biggest draws, especially in and around the Historic Downtown Square. These independently owned shops are perfect for finding thoughtful souvenirs, gifts, and pieces you won’t see anywhere else.

Bird & Words

A beautifully curated shop featuring modern stationery, greeting cards, journals, books, and stylish home décor. It’s the kind of place you pop into “just to look” and leave with several finds.

Fair & Square Imports

This store specializes in globally inspired, fair-trade goods. You’ll find handcrafted décor, accessories, and unique treasures sourced from artisans around the world.

Bay Willow Designs

Known for custom and handcrafted hats, Bay Willow Designs blends fashion with craftsmanship. It’s a standout stop if you want a wearable souvenir that feels personal and well-made.

McKinney Hat Co.

Another local favorite for hat lovers, McKinney Hat Co. offers classic and custom styles with a Western-meets-modern aesthetic. Watching hats being shaped and styled adds to the experience.

Native McKinney

Native McKinney is a family-owned Apothecary, Holistic Wellness, and DIY Creative Space located in Historic Downtown McKinney. It is a center for healing, offering alternative holistic services such as Reiki, Sound Healing, Salt Therapy, Yoga, and Tarot readings.

It also features a DIY Botanical Bar & Workshops where you can handcraft natural products like custom candles, incense, and body scrubs using essential oils. It’s a great place to focus on mind/body wellness and create something unique.

Eat & Drink Your Way Through McKinney

McKinney’s food scene is one of the strongest in North Texas, with everything from chef-driven restaurants to cozy cafés and inventive dessert spots. For a deeper dive into where to eat, drink, and brunch, check out our full, dedicated guide on Where To Eat in McKinney.

Coffee Shops Worth Visiting

Habitat Plants & Coffee – A plant-filled café that feels like a greenhouse oasis
Collective Coffee – A downtown favorite for creative lattes and cozy vibes
White Box Roastery – Known for specialty drinks, croissants, and matcha
Layered TX – Famous for printing photos directly onto your latte foam

Breweries & Wineries

TUPPS Brewery – A lively space with events, games, and a wide beer selection
Landon Winery – Located downtown with both sweet and dry Texas wines
Lone Star Wine Cellars – Features wines from across Texas

Sweet Treats & Desserts

Pinkitzel – Whimsical cupcakes and colorful décor
Cocktail Creamery – Alcohol-infused ice cream alongside classic flavors; creative, bold, and constantly changing

Restaurants to Try

Sugarbacon – Elevated comfort food and craft cocktails
Hamm’s Meat Market – Known for sandwiches, lunch plates, and special chef-led tasting dinners
Mabel’s African Cuisine & Bar – A family-run spot serving dishes like jollof rice, Naija-style spaghetti, and savory pastries
Page 3 Eatery – Indian street food inspired by Mumbai and Lucknow, with bold flavors and shareable plates

a plate of french toast with different toppings and sauces

Relax & Treat Yourself

Aoki Head Spa

This serene spa focuses on holistic scalp treatments and relaxation. It’s a unique wellness experience that leaves you refreshed and recharged.

Elite Derma Spa

Elite Derma Spa offers advanced skincare treatments, facials, and rejuvenating services. It’s a great option if you want to slow down and indulge during your visit.

Afternoon Tea at The Bingham Estate

Dress up and enjoy an elegant afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and desserts inside the historic Bingham Estate. It’s a refined experience that feels like a step back in time.

Family-Friendly & Just-for-Fun Activities

Arcade 92

Arcade 92 blends classic arcade games, pinball machines, and modern gaming with food and drinks. It’s fun for both kids and adults. One of my favorite things about this place is the whole section dedicated to different generations of games and fun stuff like gaming systems.

McKinney Farmers Market

Held at Chestnut Square, this farmers market features local produce, handmade goods, and seasonal finds. It’s one of the best ways to experience McKinney’s community vibe.

Rohr Air Balloons

See North Texas from above with a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy some of the most scenic views while floating thousands of feet above the ground at Rohr Air Balloons. You can either go with a group or have an extra romantic date with a solo flight in the air!

Where to Stay

Bingham Estate

The Bingham Estate is one of McKinney’s most distinctive places to stay. With multiple historic cottages on the property, including The Margaret Cottage, this estate blends Southern elegance with peaceful garden spaces. Guests can enjoy landscaped grounds, picnic areas, and a setting that feels private yet close to downtown. It’s perfect for travelers who want a refined, historic atmosphere.

Neathery Estate Bed & Breakfast

This historic estate offers a true bed-and-breakfast experience with thoughtfully designed rooms, original artwork, and warm hospitality. Breakfast is served daily, and the outdoor pool and grounds make it easy to slow down and relax. It’s a great choice if you enjoy character-filled stays and personal touches.

The Grand Hotel & Ballroom

Located directly on the Historic Downtown McKinney Square, The Grand Hotel places you steps away from shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Each room has its own style, and the hotel offers romantic add-ons like champagne, chocolates, and dinner pairings with Rick’s Steakhouse. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting to stay right in the heart of downtown.

The Denizen Hotel

For a more modern stay, The Denizen Hotel offers contemporary rooms with a sleek design and convenient access to both downtown McKinney and surrounding areas. Its central location makes it easy to explore murals, coffee shops, and local restaurants while enjoying a comfortable, updated space.

Planning a Weekend Trip?

If you’re turning your visit into a longer getaway, don’t miss our Weekend in McKinney, Texas: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary. It walks you through exactly how to spend a Friday through Sunday, with dining plans, shopping stops, and relaxing experiences already mapped out.

Things to do in McKinney TX: FAQs

What is McKinney, Texas known for?

McKinney is known for its historic downtown, strong agricultural roots, vibrant local dining scene, and creative small businesses. Today, it blends preserved history with modern growth, making it one of North Texas’s most desirable places to visit and live.

Is it expensive to live in McKinney, Texas?

McKinney is generally more affordable than many Dallas neighborhoods, though costs have risen with its popularity. Housing prices vary by area, but many residents feel the quality of life, schools, and amenities justify the cost.

Is McKinney, Texas close to Dallas, Texas?

Yes. McKinney is about 30 miles north of downtown Dallas, making it an easy drive while still feeling removed from the city’s fast pace.

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Things to do in McKinney TX: Final Thoughts

For those visiting for the first time, McKinney, TX, truly has some of the best things to offer. From its charming historic buildings that tell tales of yesteryear to the contemporary hotspots, every corner promises a great time. If you’re looking to make memories, McKinney’s best places are awaiting your exploration.

Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, there’s always something new to discover.