• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
Destinations.ai

Destinations.ai

We make it easy to find the perfect travel destination

  • Where
  • When
  • Destinations
    • New York City
    • Boston
    • San Diego
    • San Francisco
    • Los Angeles
    • Chicago
  • Blog
  • Show Search
Hide Search

15 Best Things To Do in McKinney, Texas

Picture of McKinney, Texas

About McKinney, Texas


It might come as a surprise to some people, but McKinney was once one of the best places to live in the country.

Even today, it’s a reminder of the region’s history, especially with Victorian houses lining the city’s streets and the Collin County Historical Society & Museum, which still has documents signed by the man - Collin McKinney - who instigated the 1835 Texas Revolution.

The Main Street has a small-town vibe that’s quaintly matched with the cute boutiques and galleries. Moreover, the city sees art festivals and the region-wide famous Oktoberfest that attracts thousands of participants.

Meanwhile, the Lone Star Wine Cellars is an ode to the Texan wine industry that has flourished significantly in the past few years. East Virginia Street has live music, wine tastings, and eateries - basically everything you need to have a good time.

Current Conditions

Weather in October


0.7" of rainfall
66.7 ° average temp
0" of snow

Ratings

Active Life
Arts
Food
Hotels / Travel
Local Flavor
Nightlife
Shopping

McKinney, Texas is a charming and vibrant city with plenty of activities to do and places to visit. Whether you are looking for a fun day trip or an extended weekend getaway, there are many things to do in McKinney that will keep you entertained. Here are the best things to do in McKinney, Texas.

Exploring Downtown:

people flock at a fair in McKinney downtown
Tripadvisor

One of the best things to do in McKinney is exploring its downtown area. This picturesque district offers a unique shopping experience with its cobblestone streets lined with locally owned boutiques, antique shops, and galleries. In addition, visitors can enjoy delicious cuisine from renowned local eateries as well as craft beer from several microbreweries.

McKinney Performing Arts Center:

courtroom theater at the McKinney Performing Arts Center
MckinneyTexas.org

The McKinney Performing Arts Center (MPAC) is one of the most popular attractions in town. Located on the historic downtown square, MPAC provides high-quality entertainment such as music concerts, theatrical performances, standup comedy shows, and more. The theater also features art galleries and rotating exhibits that showcase local artists’ work.

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary:

entrance signage at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Wikipedia

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place for nature lovers. This wildlife sanctuary offers up close encounters with native wildlife while providing educational programs and interactive exhibits designed to help visitors learn about animals and their habitats. There are also walking trails throughout the sanctuary where visitors can explore the surrounding wetlands and woodlands at their own pace.

Harbor View Marina:

beautiful view of the marina at mckinney texas
Clearwater Tours / Viator

If you’re looking for some outdoor recreation then head over to Harbor View Marina located just north of town on Lake Texoma. This marina offers boat rentals, fishing charters, guided tours around the lake, kayak trips through coves and bays, camping sites along with other water activities like swimming or paddle boarding. With so much to offer here it’s easy to see why this spot is one of the top places to visit in McKinney Texas!



McKinney Weather by Month


Looking for a potential month to visit McKinney? The following graph illustrates the monthly highs, lows and averages of temperature, rain and snow in McKinney.



Places to Stay in McKinney


Use the interactive map to find lodging and a place to stay during your visit to McKinney. The interactive map includes hotels, vacation rentals, BnBs and more.



Best Tours in McKinney


Fill your day with these top-rated tours in McKinney.



Best Things to do in McKinney, TX


These are the best things to do in the greater McKinney area listed by outdoor activities, arts and museums, restaurants and nightlife.


Outdoor Activities in McKinney


Rohr Balloons

Rohr Balloons

Based on 29 Reviews
Discover Kayak

Discover Kayak

Based on 22 Reviews
Bicycle Evolution

Bicycle Evolution

Based on 13 Reviews


Museums in McKinney


Wild Brush Studio

Wild Brush Studio

Based on 40 Reviews
Painting with a Twist

Painting with a Twist

Based on 25 Reviews
Caudalie Crest Winery

Caudalie Crest Winery

Based on 23 Reviews


Restaurants in McKinney


TJ's Dawg House

TJ's Dawg House

Based on 149 Reviews
Not Just Q

Not Just Q

Based on 92 Reviews
Ogi's European Bakery & Deli

Ogi's European Bakery & Deli

Based on 81 Reviews


Nightlife in McKinney


Rye

Rye

Based on 301 Reviews
Filtered

Filtered

Based on 180 Reviews
Vee Hookah Lounge

Vee Hookah Lounge

Based on 134 Reviews


Similar Destinations to McKinney


If you enjoy the weather, attractions and the things to do in McKinney, check out these comparable destinations as potential alternatives.

Atlanta, GA

Picture of Atlanta, GA

Ever heard of a phoenix rising from the ashes? That’s exactly what Atlanta is, in terms of cities, since the city was rebuilt after most… Read More

Modesto, CA

Picture of Modesto, CA

Staying true to its name, Modesto has a modest number of attractions for occasional travelers who’re looking for an agricultural hub with… Read More

Baton Rouge, LA

Picture of Baton Rouge, LA

The capital of the Louisiana State, Baton Rouge, is a picturesque city sitting on the side of the famous Mississippi River. While the city… Read More

Cary, NC

Picture of Cary, NC

Often ranked as one of the best cities to live in the US, Cary catches the eyes of tourists for its stunning greenery, parks, and artistic… Read More

Denton, TX

Picture of Denton, TX

Let’s tell you about a city that has a delectable cuisine scene, a happening arts culture, and two universities. Situated in Texas, Denton… Read More



Other Activities in McKinney


Prime Limo & Car Service

Prime Limo & Car Service

Based on 173 Reviews
APV Studios

APV Studios

Based on 46 Reviews
Discover Kayak

Discover Kayak

Based on 22 Reviews

Destinations.ai

Copyright © 2023 · Destinations.ai