“Summer fun” and “Texas” are words that just go hand-in-hand, which is something you already know if you’re a long-time (or even a short-time) resident. While top destinations like Austin, Houston and El Paso are big draws for many throughout the state (and country), there are plenty of fun things to do just outside your door in McKinney, Texas.
“Because McKinney is so close to Dallas, a lot of times the ‘top things to do’ lists gloss over what’s available here and focus instead on the larger city and attractions down the road,” says Doris Lea, Executive Director of Hidden Springs of McKinney. “That means people searching for fun events and activities miss out on some of the best experiences our great state has to offer. McKinney is packed with history, attractions, activities, events and so many enjoyable ways to get out and enjoy the summer months.”
If you’re planning your summer fun in McKinney, Texas, this year, here are some definite must-dos:
Go shopping on Main Street.
For that small-town, quaint vibe that belies McKinney’s urbane attitude, head to Main Street for a dose of nostalgia. You’ll see locals relaxing at the cafe, people dining on the porch of the restaurants and historic storefronts and buildings that house clothing boutiques, art galleries, antique shops and more. Depending on when you visit, you may find yourself in the middle of an art festival, parade or other community event.
Pick up some of the area’s best farm-to-market foodstuffs.
Foodies will love spending their time (and money) at the Local Yocal, McKinney’s “Farm to Market” organic butcher’s shop that sells beef, eggs, cheese, poultry, produce, bread and milk – all produced right here in the area. On Saturdays during the summer, head to historic Chestnut Square and fill your basket with artisan cheeses, fresh vegetables, grass-fed meat, jams and jellies and all sorts of other delicacies.
Visit the area’s history.
Texas has a rich and multicolored history, and McKinney definitely shares a part of that. History buffs will delight in going back in time to see the town’s earlier years at these historic locations:
- Chestnut Square Historic Village transports visitors back to McKinney’s humble beginnings to show how early settlers played, worked and lived. The Village consists of 10 preserved buildings from a chapel, a boarding house, a schoolhouse, a general store and a handful of homes. Volunteers decked in period garb are on hand to entertain, educate and demonstrate what life was like in 19th-century Texas.
- Collin County Historical Museum, located in the historic 1911 Post Office building, contains a plethora of documents, artifacts, photographs and records of McKinney. Exhibits such as Then and Now allow visitors to learn about the early days of McKinney as well as learn more about Collin McKinney, an early Texas settler and politician who was instrumental in instigating the Texas Revolution in 1835. The museum also houses a huge genealogical record and holds educational events for lecturers, researchers, schoolchildren and visitors.
Sit and sip some of Texas’ finest offerings.
When you think of Texas, do you think of “fine wines?” If you don’t already, then it’s high time you visited and sampled what McKinney has to offer.
- Mitas Hill Vineyard & Winery, located just north of McKinney, is a destination in and of itself. The verdant vineyards, surrounded by woodland, grow everything from Tempranillo to Zinfandel to Cabernet Sauvignon and a few other grape varietals that are at once surprisingly familiar and completely unexpected. Take a tour of the grounds and enjoy a relaxing meal or tasting at the vineyard’s restaurant. If you’re lucky enough to be there in August, you can take part in the annual harvest festival.
- The Franconia Brewing Company may have only been brewing in McKinney since 2008, but its pedigree stretches all the way back to 1800s Bavaria. The brew-house tour is lively, educational and entertaining – and afterwards, you can test your knowledge at a beer tasting.
- For a true Texas-style experience, Lone Star Wine Cellars is a low-key wine bar that’s stocked with locals and has a down-home, welcoming feel. Bring your own food or order from a nearby restaurant and listen to live music on weekends.
- Microbrew fanatics will want to head to Tupps Brewery to sip local brews in the setting of an old cotton mill.
Enjoy the great outdoors.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of places to get out, get moving and enjoy nature:
- At Towne Lake Recreation Area, you can paddleboat around the 22-acre lake, fish off the pier, walk the 108 acres of park and enjoy a picnic lunch in the comfort of one of the two shelters. You can also try your hand on the volleyball courts, take a hike (1.2 miles, exactly) or throw horseshoes with the family.
- Lake Lewisville is one of the largest lakes in Texas, and is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day. With 233 miles of shoreline, this lake is perfect for boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing and simply enjoying the water. For the young and young at heart, Party Cove is the place to go to spend a wild night on the water. But you can also go to the areas surrounding the lake to enjoy parks, golf courses, outdoor activities, campgrounds, biking and hiking trails and more.
- McKinney’s public golf course, Oak Hollow, is just a stone’s throw away from the historic downtown and is great for golf enthusiasts and novices alike. Besides the classic 18 holes, there’s also a putting green, a short game area, a driving range, a pro shop and a pavilion perfect for post-game celebrating.
“Whether you’re here for a visit or if you’re hoping to make McKinney your home, we hope you’ll enjoy everything our unique community has to offer,” says Doris. “If you’re an active senior searching for a place to spend your retirement years, McKinney – with its historic charm and modern outlook – is the perfect destination for you.”
For more information about McKinney, Texas, or to learn about our unique senior living community, please contact us at 972.445.9844.
Luxury Living in North Dallas
At Hidden Springs of McKinney, we understand how important location is to North Dallas seniors who are looking for an engaging, enriching retirement lifestyle. Located in McKinney, Texas, we are close to medical centers, arts and entertainment, outdoor opportunities and everything else you love about this area. Seniors who choose to make us their home can enjoy a range of trips, opportunities and activities while living their very best life.
Active Retirement Living for a Healthy Tomorrow
The secret to a life well-lived awaits you at Hidden Springs of McKinney. Envisioned and developed by Madison Marquette, a company with a 25-year track record of investing in vibrant communities and a stellar reputation for developing luxury residences, you’ll discover all the possibilities your retirement brings … as well as the confidence of knowing your future is secure.
Our beautifully appointed, active retirement living community is created for those who expect more out of life. Luxury living, gracious services, resort-quality amenities, engaging programs and stunning apartments in 15 floor plans are just a few of the benefits awaiting you. And with assisted living and memory care services offered on campus, you can retire with complete peace of mind, knowing that if needs change, the care you deserve is right at home.
To learn more about Hidden Springs of McKinney and discover The Secret to a Life Well Lived, call or visit us today. We’d be happy to schedule a tour and show you just how much our location can make your retirement experience exceptional. Call us today at 972.445.9844.