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McKinney is a fast-growing city about 30 miles north of Dallas and the seat of Collin County. Founded in 1848 and named for Collin McKinney, one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence, it grew as a cotton and railroad town, and the grand 1876 courthouse on its square is now a performing arts center.
The historic downtown is the city's centerpiece. More than a hundred independent shops, restaurants and galleries fill the restored brick buildings around the square, which hosts popular events like the Oktoberfest and Home for the Holidays celebrations. Chestnut Square Historic Village preserves homes from the 1800s, and the brick streets and old storefronts give McKinney a feel quite different from the newer suburbs around it.
Today McKinney has more than 200,000 residents and has often been ranked among the best places to live in the United States. The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary protects woodland, prairie and wetlands on the edge of town, Towne Lake and Bonnie Wenk parks offer trails and water, and newer districts like Adriatica Village add Mediterranean-style shops and dining.
Historic Downtown McKinney centers on the square around the old Collin County Courthouse, with brick buildings holding locally owned boutiques, antique shops, restaurants and wine bars. It hosts events such as Oktoberfest and holiday celebrations. Park in the garages and explore on foot.
Adriatica Village is a small development in west McKinney built to look like a Croatian coastal village, with stone buildings, a bell tower, a chapel and a plaza. It has restaurants and cafes and is a popular place for photos. It sits beside Stonebridge Ranch Lake, so walk around the water.
The McKinney Performing Arts Center is in the restored 1876 Collin County Courthouse on the downtown square. It hosts concerts, plays, comedy and community events in an intimate setting. The building itself is a highlight, with a classic courtroom space turned into a performance hall.
Chestnut Square Historic Village is a collection of historic homes and buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s, moved or preserved near downtown McKinney. Guided tours show period rooms, a chapel and a general store. A farmers market is held here on Saturdays in season.
The Collin County History Museum is in a 1911 former federal post office and courthouse building on the downtown square. Exhibits cover the history of Collin County, from Native American life and pioneer settlement to farming and growth. Admission is free, and it takes under an hour.
The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary protects about 289 acres of wetlands, prairie and woodlands south of McKinney. Visitors walk nature trails and boardwalks, see live animal exhibits and a raptor area, and in fall the Dinosaurs Live trail is a family favorite.
Towne Lake Park is a large city park around a lake east of downtown McKinney, with walking trails, fishing piers, playgrounds and picnic areas. Paddle boats and kayaks can be rented in warmer months. It hosts community events and is a good spot for an easy walk or fishing.
Bonnie Wenk Park is a popular community park in west McKinney with a large dog park, a fishing pond, walking trails and a playground. It is known for its spacious off-leash area for dogs. Weekends are busy, so arrive in the morning for parking and cooler temperatures.
Erwin Park is a large wooded park in north McKinney known for its mountain bike trails, which are some of the most popular in North Texas. It also has hiking paths, campsites and picnic areas. Trails close after heavy rain to protect them, so check conditions before you go.
Third Monday Trade Days is a large flea market on US Highway 380 in McKinney, held on the weekend before the third Monday of each month. Hundreds of vendors sell antiques, crafts, tools, plants and food. Wear comfortable shoes and bring cash, as some vendors do not take cards.
Tupps Brewery is a craft brewery near downtown McKinney with a large taproom, a beer garden and an outdoor stage area. It hosts live music and food trucks on many evenings. It is a relaxed place to try local beers, and it is family and dog friendly on the patio.
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