Welcome to Plano, Texas! This vibrant city located in the north of Dallas is known for its lively culture, amazing cuisine, and a host of fun activities to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll take you through the ultimate things to do in Plano Texas that will make your visit to this city unforgettable.
Shopping
Shopping in Plano, Texas is a great way to explore the local culture and get a feel for the real Texas. From the high-end boutiques of the Shops at Legacy to the antique stores of downtown Plano, there is a shop for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or just browsing the local stores, this section will cover the best shopping spots in Plano, Texas.
The Shops at Willow Bend
The Shops at Willow Bend is a shopping center located in Plano, Texas. Serving the broader North Dallas community, this popular spot has something for everyone with over 100 stores and restaurants.
The Shops at Willow Bend feature a variety of major retailers such as Macy’s and Dillard’s, so shoppers can find something to suit any budget. The center also hosts several specialty stores like Whole Foods Market and Sephora where customers can stock up on everyday necessities or explore that latest trends. With over 100 shops, there’s something to choose from for everyone.
Dining choices abound with both casual eateries and upscale restaurants to choose from – from national chains to high-end offerings like Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse. Diners can even enjoy movie snacks at the AMC theaters located here at The Shops at Willow Bend. Other entertainment venues include an indoor playground for the kids a luxurious Grand Lux Cafe that serves signature dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
There is always something going on at The Shops of Willow Bend – crafters markets, live music performances, ice cream socials – guests won’t get bored here! This is truly a day’s worth of entertainment – yet perhaps most convenient is its proximity to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – only 19 miles away! So don’t miss out on this premier shopping experience – plan your trip to The Shops at Willows Bend today!
Legacy West
Located in the vibrant city of Plano, Texas, Legacy West Urban Village is a world class shopping, dining and entertainment complex that offers something for everyone. From high-end retail and experiential eateries to popular workplace dynamos, this urban village delivers on its promise of providing a reliable gathering place for the people of Plano. With endless variety and endless options to choose from, Legacy West is one of the ultimate destinations for shopping in Plano.
The shopping venues located in this urban village span multiple categories and interests. High-end luxury retailers such as Hermès, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH are just some of the brand names featured at Legacy West. Those who plan to restock their wardrobe may also visit stores such as Madewell or J Crew Factory or seasonal attractions like Urban Outfitters or Charming Charlie. Additionally, great department stores like Nordstrom Rack offer style and selection under one roof.
From game stores to tech boutiques and furniture galleries to home decor havens, niche markets are wonderfully represented here too. For those looking for specialty items such as fragrance products or sustainable gifts there’s a store at Legacy West that will please everyone’s needs. Movies theaters like Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and AMC Theaters provide entertainment with new releases while residents looking for outdoor activities can find paths to explore in The Shops at Willow Bend across the street from Legacy West’s main area with lush landscaping that welcomes walkers, joggers and cyclists alike.
The Shops at Legacy
Located in the heart of Plano, The Shops at Legacy offers an array of shopping experiences. From upscale fashion and beauty to popular shops like H&M, Sephora, and Barnes & Noble; this is the ideal place for a day of retail therapy.
Not to mention, it’s also one of the most popular spot in Plano for grabbing a bite to eat – there are multiple acclaimed restaurants located around The Shops at Legacy like True Food Kitchen, Edoko Sushi & Robata and Sixty Vines.
Shopping here can be done at all levels – with no budget too small – so it’s a great option for everyone! Not to mention there are regular events hosted around the Shops such as music concerts during summer months or family friendly holiday celebrations during winter months.
No matter what time of year you visit Plano, you won’t be disappointed with The Shops at Legacy.
Food & Drink
Plano has many restaurants, breweries, and eateries that offer a wide range of culinary experiences. From fine dining to casual eateries, readers interested in exploring the food and drinks of Plano, Texas, will be able to find plenty of options. There are also tons of great local spots, ranging from traditional Texas BBQ to creative fusion cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a meal for one or a large gathering, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Plano.
The Fillmore Pub
For those looking for a great place to grab drinks and have some fun in Plano, Texas, the Fillmore Pub is the place to be. This iconic pub offers a cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering pub favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. Take your taste buds on a flavor adventure with their globally inspired dishes such as Pad Thai The Filling Station or Nashville Hot Chicken & Waffles. With a wide selection of draft beer options and wine, there will be something for everyone!
For an extra-special experience, make sure to order from their lineup of award-winning craft cocktails such as the Velvet Fashioned (whiskey, orange liqueur, velvet falernum) or the Plano Mule (vodka, ginger beer lime). There’s live music playing Thursday through Sunday nights adding even more fun to your evening. Enjoy conversation in their laidback atmosphere and challenge your friends to a game at one of their pool tables!
Be sure to stop by The Fillmore Pub next time you’re in Plano!
The Ginger Man
The Ginger Man in Plano, Texas is a beer lover’s paradise. This craft beer-centric pub is located in the heart of downtown Plano and offers an impressive selection of craft beers, ciders, wines and imports.
The bar has not just any ordinary beer list either – their menu changes regularly to offer the newest and most exciting concoctions available. Aside from their rotating list of specialty beers, cold favorites like Heineken, Dos Equis and select Budweisers are sure to turn your head. All beer is served in special 22oz pints for maximum quaffability!
The Ginger Man also features board games, darts and trivia nights for an evening full of fun with friends. Plus, there’s always delicious snacks available from their menu like chicken wings, nachos and hummus plates – so you can have a delicious snack with all that wonderful brew!
Stop by The Ginger Man with your friends or by yourself for an evening filled with great drinks and entertainment in the heart of Plano.
The Holy Grail Pub
Pay homage to the legendary King Arthur at The Holy Grail Pub. Located in the downtown district of Plano, this pub offers a selection of both creative and classic drinks including beer, wine, and cocktails made by experienced bar staff.
With a rotating beer selection you can sample the freshest brews crafted in Texas. In addition to beverage choices, there is also a great food menu offering everything from dishes inspired by traditional British pub grub to comfort food with a modern twist.
Enjoy your favorite pint while watching your favorite sports game on one of their many big screens! The Holy Grail Pub is truly an experience where friends and family can come together for drinks, fun, and entertainment.
Entertainment
If you are looking for something entertaining to do in Plano, Texas, you are in luck! There are plenty of exciting activities that you can take part in. From arts and culture to outdoor fun, here is a list of the top 17 ultimate things to do in Plano, Texas that are sure to be enjoyable for all.
Plano Super Bowl
Plano Super Bowl is the ultimate entertainment destination for families and friends in Plano, Texas. Boasting 78 lanes of bowling, this state-of-the-art center offers a great atmosphere and a range of activities to suit all levels of bowlers. Guests can take part in open and league play on their ten intricately detailed lanes, or challenge friends to a game of video games or air hockey in the arcade.
Plano Super Bowl also offers fantastic food options to grab a refuel while they’re playing. Its full menu features finger foods like pizzas, wings, mozzarella sticks, and more. Guests can even opt for its unique new creations like the Pico De Gallo Roll stuffed with chicken/veggie blend or the Carolina Pig Fries topped with pulled pork and BBQ sauce. Finish up with treats from its sundae bar for the perfect end to an afternoon of bowling!
Cinemark Movies 10
Recently renovated, Cinemark Movies 10 is a great movie theater located at Park Lane in Plano, Texas that offers an affordable, fun night out for locals. This theater features 10 screen auditoriums and wall-to-wall screens with high-back rocker chairs for a comfortable experience. Concession prices are the same as most cinemas and offer favorites like popcorn, candy and soda. As a bonus, there’s a café area where you can enjoy food before or after your movie.
Some of their upcoming films include: The Aeronauts, Jumanji: The Next Level and Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker. Broadway shows and family events are also scheduled throughout the year. It’s worth checking out what’s on the schedule when you visit Cinemark Movies 10 at Park Lane in the East Plano area of Texas!
The Escape Game Dallas
The Escape Game Dallas provides an immersive, high-energy adventure for groups of 2–8 players. Located in Plano, Texas, this real life escape game offers a unique way to challenge your mind and experience the thrill of victory with friends or colleagues. You must work together as a team to solve puzzles, riddles and clues within the hour to “escape” the game. If you’re looking for an exciting group activity that delivers on a promise of adrenaline and companionship, The Escape Game Dallas is an ideal choice.
This top-rated entertainment venue offers four different escape room experiences: The Heist (Difficulty Level 6/10), Plano Conspiracy (Difficulty Level 6/10) Classified (Difficulty Level 8/10) and Gold Rush (Difficulty Level 7/10). Each game is set in its own custom-designed atmosphere featuring stunning detail. Find your courage and team up with friends to unlock a world of discovery while working together against the clock!
Outdoor Activities
There are plenty of outdoor activities in Plano, Texas to keep you busy. From walking trails, parks, kayaking, and golfing, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you are looking for a place to go camping with the family or a stroll through a nature preserve, there are plenty of outdoor activities to explore in Plano.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the outdoor activities available in Plano.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200 acre natural landscape area that includes several trails, picnic areas and pavilion shelters. From easy walking trails and primitive trails to mountain biking routes, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve has something for every outdoor enthusiast. The preserve also includes two incredible observation points, allowing visitors to take in panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
The park offers park-goers a chance to appreciate nature firsthand. Whether you’re simply admiring the beauty of the wildflowers, watching birds or picnicking with friends, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. Enjoy nature in a peaceful setting as you take in up close glimpses of animals like soaring hawks and grazing deer.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a great place for outdoor recreation throughout all four seasons as there’s always something new and beautiful to observe. Tourist-friendly amenities include numerous pavilions and covered grills for lunching outdoors without getting wet or overheated during the hot Texas summers or cut short by unexpected rain showers! Observation decks allow visitors an impressive view of the countryside complete with ample seating and signage detailing information on local landscapes.
Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve
Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve is a popular outdoor recreation destination located in Plano, Texas. The park covers 806 acres of natural land, dissected by creeks, marshes and woodlands. This makes it a great place to hike, bike or take a nature walk. There are also several trails that wind through the park, including six miles of paved trails perfect for biking or jogging.
Other activities available at Oak Point Park include fishing in its seven ponds, disc golfing on one of the 18-hole courses, playing tennis at the tennis courts and camping overnight at the campground area. Picnicking is also popular here with several sheltered pavilions throughout the park as well as two playgrounds for kids to enjoy. The spring and summertime offers plenty of opportunities for bird watching as many migratory species stop in Oak Point Park during their annual treks northward in search of food and shelter for the journey ahead.
For those looking for adventure in nature, Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve should definitely be top on your list when it comes to activities you can enjoy in Plano.
Bob Woodruff Park
Bob Woodruff Park lies at the eastern edge of Plano, Texas, and has long been a staple of local outdoor activities. Retaining its natural habitat, the 2,112-acre park offers pristine views from some of its highest points. It is home to a wide range of wildlife—from raptors to turtles—making it perfect for leisurely strolls or bird watching.
The park’s star attraction is the 33-acre Fishing Borrow Pit which is stocked several times throughout the year. Visitors may catch crappie, bass, catfish and brush perch while they take in the sun setting across its tranquil blue water. Spending some time paddling on these waters will give visitors an up close and personal look at over 20 species of birds calling this oasis their home.
For those looking for more activity, Bob Woodruff also offers access to miles of trails (with 22 miles being available for mountain biking) as well as picnic sites with grills and playgrounds. To ensure safety while in this expansive space, visitors can access shelter stations that include first aid supplies and call boxes in case of an emergency. There are pavilions available for rental which provide easy access to restrooms equipped with running water during select hours. Hours vary by month so please remember check their website before planning your visit for up to date information about availability any restrictions that may be in place due to seasonal closures or weather conditions.
Arts & Culture
Plano, Texas is a great destination for those looking to explore the arts and culture scene. From museums and galleries to performing arts shows and festivals, there’s something for everyone. Browse the art galleries, catch a show at the Eisemann Center, or catch a movie at the Angelika Film Center.
Below are the top things to do in Plano to have a great time:
Interurban Railway Museum
The Interurban Railway Museum in Plano, Texas is the perfect way to explore some of the state’s most visually stunning artifacts. This museum is an outdoor railway display and is visited by train enthusiasts and sightseers alike. It depicts the history of the Interurban Railway system used to connect cities in Texas almost 100 years ago.
Opened in 2008, the Interurban Railway Museum offers a plethora of activities such as its scenic walking trails, its interactive exhibit halls and its vintage photo galleries of interurban cars. Visitors can also discover a number of vintage railroad cars that have been restored to their original working order during their visit. A gift shop offers souvenirs and trinkets inspired by past railway journeys for those looking for unique reminders from their trip.
For those seeking out a more educational perspective on interurban railroading, the Museum also hosts narrated train rides on Saturdays, as well as monthly activities that range from quilting seminars to antique car parades. An audio tour is offered to refresh older memories or educate younger minds about the fascinating history of this railway system. The audio tour highlights several points along their walk with stories from individuals in Plano whose lives were affected by these trains throughout their travels. For true rail fans, this museum is sure not to disappoint with two distinct railcars open for touring – both replicas of authentic 1900’s-era craftsmanship!
Plano Children’s Theatre
Plano Children’s Theatre (PCT) is a local nonprofit theatre company dedicated to providing children, teens and families with high quality live theatre productions. Located in downtown Plano, Texas, PCT offers performance opportunities for students from grades Pre-K through 12th grade and produces plays for families to enjoy.
The mainstage season consists of 4-6 shows on the main stage each year. Companies are formed that range from free introductory classes to large summer theatre production camps, workshops and classes. All productions are designed with young actors in mind and the direction is tailored to the age range of each cast.
In addition to performing arts courses, PCT provides professional mentorships with master acting coaches and industry pros who lead round table Q&A sessions as well minicianships such as theatrical makeup workshops and working backstage in costume design or set construction. These unique mentor projects expose students to different facets of theatre making while allowing them hands on experience within the production process.
PCT also offers outreach programs where members give guided tours of their facility and travel to local elementary schools providing educational theatrical experiences with their ‘theatre on wheels’ program complete with actors telling classic stories through interactive skits and dynamic acting exercises.
For over 30 years, Plano Children’s Theatre has provided a fun way for children, teens and families alike to connect with one another through live entertainment making it an ultimate Plano must do!
ArtCentre of Plano
The ArtCentre of Plano is an interactive art center for locals and visitors to enjoy. This one-of-a-kind creative space provides everything you need to explore and express your creativity. From visual arts classes, calligraphy workshops and music lessons to painting sessions, canvas art sessions, and exclusive photography opportunities, this family friendly attraction offers something fun for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, the ArtCentre has something interesting for you.
The ArtCentre also hosts galleries featuring exhibitions by critically acclaimed artists from around the world as well as art sales showcases. Explore the works of painters, sculptors, photographers and other creatives while learning more about the artistic process that goes into creating these incredible pieces. Stroll through their outdoor sculpture garden or enjoy a leisurely day shopping from nearby local artisan vendors in their outdoor market. The ArtCentre is a unique destination for those interested in discovering Plano’s arts and culture scene first hand!
