Serving as the seat of Collin County, McKinney is a lively historic settlement north of Dallas and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. It is named after Collin McKinney, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence, which created the Republic of Texas in 1836.
Things to do in McKinney
Spend an afternoon exploring Historic Downtown McKinney, which is clustered with buildings dating back to the 19th century. Browse the independent boutiques, galleries and antique stores that line Main Street or relax in one of the alfresco cafes that spill onto the pavement. Be sure to admire the Old Collin County Courthouse and the Old Collin County Prison, which occupies a Victorian Italianate building.
You can take a step back in time at Chestnut Square Historic Park, which features beautifully preserved buildings dating from 1854 to 1930. Wander between the old chapel, school house and general store where costumed characters bring the past to life. In addition to marvelling at the McKinney Monarch sculpture painted by Lynne Hubner, be sure to coincide your visit with one of the demonstrations of traditional skills.
A short drive south of McKinney is the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, which boasts indoor and outdoor exhibits that will appeal to all ages. Kids can get hands-on with mammal skins, minerals and fossils before exploring the surrounding native plant garden and butterfly house. A network of hiking trails winds through the adjacent wetlands, which attract a variety of bird species.
Getting around McKinney
McKinney is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Dallas and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to McKinney and travel throughout the city. Renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the city’s surrounding attractions.