Whether you want to enjoy an afternoon outdoors with your little one or you want to spend the weekend with your family, you’ll find plenty of great things to do in McKinney, Texas. The city boasts of an array of tourism and sightseeing activities for both kids and adults. After a long day of touring the galleries, parks, wineries, and more, you can enjoy a meal at one of the countless barbecue powerhouses.
Erwin Park
Located on a vast property of 212 acres in McKinney, Texas, Erwin Park features three picnic pavilions and 10 designated campsites. The area is naturally wooded with several playgrounds and expansive open space. The park contains 10 miles of mountain bike trails managed by the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association if you enjoy biking. If you are interested in renting one of the three pavilions for a weekend day, it is recommended to make a reservation. Pavilions can be reserved up to six months in advance (three months for non-residents) for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Any other day is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The COOP
Located in the nearby town of Frisco, Texas, this modern play space is a perfect indoor activity for both kids and adults. Containing 3,600 square feet of indoor space, the COOP has plenty of activities to entertain the whole family. Once you arrive, you can have fun in the massive ball pit filled with colorful balls that your little ones can immerse themselves in. The hall has an electronic dance floor where everyone can bust a move. Kids can slide down the giant spiral or test their strength on the rope climbing tube.
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
History and animal lovers will enjoy visiting this museum in McKinney, Texas. The 289-acre establishment features five exhibits that cover natural history, native animals, rocks, archeology, and minerals. You can cycle or trek on the 6.5-mile nature trail. There is also a museum in the park with science exhibits and a native plant garden. While on the track, you can also raise your adrenaline levels by going zip-lining. The park’s mission is to connect its visitors with nature, and they hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the environment. The attraction is kid-friendly and has both indoor and outdoor elements. This also makes a great date idea for couples.
Celebration Station
Image via Flickr by chinogypsie
What better way to celebrate your family than taking them to this fun-filled station located in the nearby town of Mesquite, Texas? You can start your enjoyment at the arcade featuring over 100 video and redemption games. At Celebration Station, you’ll find air hockey, prize cranes, and driving games. Take your game to the next level by visiting the batting cages with slow, medium, and fast pitches to help you practice your home runs. Make a splash with bumper boats and enjoy the high-energy tubes as you slide into the pool. If your kids like jumping, consider taking them to the EuroBungy, where they can see the park from 24 feet in the air. There is more fun to be had at the laser tag station and the mini-golf course for kids.
LAST Art Gallery
If you and your family members are art lovers, you’ll love visiting the LAST art gallery. Located in downtown McKinney, Texas, the gallery was founded by Gail Delger. Gail is an award-winning artist who is passionate about creativity. The space is dedicated to showcasing work from talented artists ranging from eclectic to traditional types. It became a co-op gallery in 2019, and today it features over 50 artists. You’ll see the work of many original artists as well as new artists. If you want to revamp your walls with a fresh art piece, this is the perfect place to visit.
Towne Lake Recreation Area
Families looking for a relaxed afternoon can opt to visit the Towne Lake Recreation Area. The facility is locally maintained and covers a vast area, including a 22-acre lake. You can enjoy breaking records at the 18-hole golf course with extensive tee pads and lots of shade. Try this challenging course while your kids are playing on the many play structures in the park. There is also a fishing pier within the property to relax, take a walk, or go fishing. If you want to relax by the pavilion, you can reserve space for your family between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Lockhart Smokehouse
There is no better treat for meat lovers in the McKinney area than this smokehouse in Plano, offering tasty barbecue cuts. They operate daily and are one of the few regions where Kreuz Market sausage is served on original butcher paper. They also have mouth-watering brisket, ribs, sausage, and other meats smoked over Texas post oak. The menu also features locally made beers and brews to satisfy your thirst. You can also indulge in refreshing cocktails alongside your Texas barbecue.
Grapevine Vintage Railroad
If you are looking for a fun day with your family, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad should be at the top of your list. The visit will take you back in time to the 1920s for loads of history and fun. Spending your day at the oldest continuously operating steam engine in the South is a great way to bond with your family. You can take a trip in the Victorian coach and travel down memory lane to the Fort Worth Stockyards. The coaches have been restored for comfort and are pulled by two vintage locomotives.
McKinney, Texas, offers a range of fun and entertaining activities for your family. Whether you are looking for things to do over a weekend getaway or over the long holidays, this comprehensive list features some of the best spots to consider. From theme parks to historical sites and cinemas, there is something for everyone. Did we miss one of your favorite activities in McKinney? Let us know, and we can add it to our list!