Walking the streets of McKinney’s unique historic district, lined with turn-of-the-century homes, you’ll find over 100 restaurants and shops, with everything from upscale restaurants that feature award-winning chefs, to delis and neighborhood “watering holes.” The downtown area is also home to the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts, Chestnut Square Historic Village (“where history comes alive), and the North Texas History Center. The McKinney Performing Arts Center (MPAC) is the centerpiece of the historic downtown district and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers not only a 480-seat theater used for top-notch performances, lectures and events, but is also home to several multi-purpose spaces such as a reception hall, auditorium, rehearsal space, audiovisual equipped classrooms, art gallery and executive suites.

Texans, by reputation, love to shop, and the residents of McKinney Texas are no exception! The shopping opportunities in McKinney abound; whether you’re looking for antiques or formal wear, you’ll find what you’re looking for (and even what you’re not looking for!) in McKinney. From Craig Crossing and Eldorado Plaza to Market Street Center and Historic Downtown, shoppers enjoy browsing both unique local boutiques and brand-name stores. Each month, locals flock to Third Monday Trade Days – one of the oldest Trade Day markets in the state. While you’re out shopping, make sure to check out “The McKinney Experiment” – the first environmentally-friendly Wal-Mart super-store in the world!

McKinney is a popular destination for all kinds of sporting events, including baseball, softball, soccer, and golf. The Parks and Recreation Department also offers several youth athletic leagues year-round. At the McKinney Community Center, citizens come together to utilize the fitness club, gymnasiums, meeting rooms, and kitchen facilities. The McKinney Senior Center also offers classes, speakers, activities, and special events especially for the senior citizens of McKinney. For the golf enthusiast, the city offers four municipal courses, and there are several other beautifully-maintained private courses in town that showcase the pristine beauty of McKinney.

With more than 1,000 acres of parks and over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, nature lovers feel right at home in McKinney. In addition, the Heard Natural Science Museum is home to a 289-acre wildlife sanctuary. If fishing is your thing, Lake Lavon is only 15 minutes away and is the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of McKinney. Residents of McKinney love to have fun, which may be why we celebrate with so many festivals and special events every year! Annual events in McKinney include Forever Free, Art & Jazz Festival, Harvestfest, and Dickens of a Christmas. There is always something to do in McKinney!