If you drive just 30 miles north of Dallas, you’ll find that the city of McKinney has made itself a cozy spot on the map, enticing visitors with its cultural attractions. McKinney’s roots began in the late 1840s, functioning as a small rest stop for settlers who had come far in search of fertile land. During the railroad boom, McKinney blossomed when farmers began to reap huge profits from their cotton crops.
This tiny settlement eventually grew into the bustling city of McKinney and has become known for its many historical sites, flourishing art scene, and a variety of mouthwatering restaurants from which to choose your next meal.
Here are some highlights of what makes Historic Downtown McKinney so special today:
Historic Downtown McKinney Attractions
Chestnut Square Historic Village
Located right outside of downtown McKinney, Chestnut Square is a prime feature. It hosts six well-preserved historic settlement homes with antique pieces taken straight from the 1850s, a reception house, miniature models of schools, a chapel, and stores. No village is complete without a local blacksmith, and Chestnut Square Village does not disappoint. It’s well worth a visit to experience life as a settler and step into their shoes.
Arcade 92
What happens when an entrepreneur decides to combine their love for video games with their inner foodie? You get an interactive eating spot called Arcade 92! Owner Michael Lepsch has managed to turn his passion for gaming into an attraction for people of all ages that fits perfectly into downtown McKinney’s historical and cultural theme.
The Arcade hosts big old-time boxy games that would delight the ’90s kids in all of us. While you’re sipping on a beer and reliving your high-score glory days, the kids can scoot on over to the other side, decked out with modern consoles. The venue has been a booming success with locals and vacationers alike, attracting crowds to the perfect inter-generational entertainment spot that you can only find in McKinney.
Shopping Downtown McKinney
McKinney downtown is home to all sorts of trinkets and shiny things. Furniture stores, home décor shops, apparel boutiques, and antique stores fill the streets and make downtown McKinney an experience you don’t want to miss. Its historic influence runs deep through the shopping district, with over 120 shops and more than two dozen restaurants.
The result? Dozens of rustic ware shops adorn McKinney Square. Birds and Words is one such store offering unique memorabilia. It is stocked floor-to-ceiling with eye-catching décor to elevate your interior design game to the next level.
If you’re looking to feed your thirst for an antique hunt, look no further than Miss Henny Penny’s Groovy Coop. It covers all your nostalgia needs – vintage records, video games, and an endless assortment of novelty items. We all have someone who loves vintage things in our lives, and this is the best place to stock up on their holiday gifts!
LAST Art Gallery
With a constant drive for historic preservation and cultural infusion, it’s no surprise that McKinney has a thriving art community. You can’t turn a street corner without bumping into an art gallery.
If you’re a general art appreciator, then the LAST art gallery is for you. It showcases every imaginable art style, featuring the work of budding artists from the local area. It was founded by the award-winning artist Gail Delger, who made it her mission to promote the local art community. They even rent out studio spaces to local artists, so if you’re lucky, you might get to sneak a peek at the next Picasso at work!
Are you looking for a great couple’s activity? They offer a wide range of classes in many different art forms. But don’t just stop here; there’s an art store for every mood and emotion. Go out there and explore!
Unique Downtown McKinney Favorites
Whether you’re a foodie or not, after a day exploring the busy streets of downtown McKinney, anyone would be hungry enough to eat a horse! Although horse isn’t actually on the menu, there really is no end to the restaurant options.
If you’re craving a great cheese pull, Cadillac Pizza will not disappoint! They source their ingredients locally, and you can really taste the difference in their wood-fired pizzas. Pair that with a nice glass of wine and chat the night away to the live music.
The Mom and Pop Corn company covers your snacking needs with its vast assortment of gourmet-flavored popcorns. It’s a candy shop where the candy takes a back seat; the popcorn is just that good!
To wrap up the night, visit Cocktail Creamery. Full disclosure: this is an adults-only creamery… unlike any other! They create all sorts of concoctions from your favorite cocktails with the creamiest ice cream base to make a dessert you will likely never forget.
If you are looking to buy or sell a home in McKinney, Texas, give us a call at 214-597-2985. We’d love to show you around!
About Judi Wright – Trusted Real Estate Expert
With over 50 years of experience in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and 23 years as a Real Estate agent, Judi is one of North Texas’ most trusted and accomplished real estate professionals. As an award-winning Top Realtor, she has built a reputation for excellence, integrity, and personalized service throughout Collin, Dallas and Denton counties (and beyond). Judi treats every client like family and works hard to deliver an experience worth recommending. References and testimonials are available upon request and Judi would be honored to earn your business.
