20 Things To Do In Plano

Plano is an affluent, leafy city in Texas, just north of the vast metropolis of Dallas. With its sprawling parks and nature preserves, an abundance of family-friendly entertainment and hospitality, and an overall laid-back vibe, Plano is an ideal alternative to the hustle and bustle of Dallas. A distinctly residential city popular with young families and professionals commuting into Dallas, Plano has a much more local feel, but you’ll still find plenty of things to do in Plano to keep you interested.

Rather than a hub of tourist traps and commercial attractions, Plano has quirky museums, luscious green spaces, and eclectic shopping and entertainment locations. Of course, in addition to all there is to enjoy in Plano, you’re right on the doorstep of Dallas and all the larger city has to offer. Between the two, you certainly won’t have to worry about running out of things to do.

Plano, Texas

20 Best Things To Do In Plano

1- Ride Through History At The Interurban Railway Museum

One of Plano’s top attractions is the Interurban Railway Museum.

Housed in a historic train station building, the museum is a must-visit for any railway enthusiast or trainspotter.

Model train fans will also enjoy the elaborate miniature train set.

Within the museum, you can browse the various artefacts and railway memorabilia on display.

There are plenty of interactive exhibits to enjoy, too, for those who prefer hands-on learning.

There’s even a virtual reality headset experience to try out.

Outside, you can climb aboard and explore an old train carriage, including the driver’s cabin.

Hop aboard at 901 E 15th St, Plano, TX 75074, United States.

2- Step Back In Time At Heritage Farmstead Museum

Dating back to 1891, this historic farm offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in Plano, with various attractions and exhibits spread across its buildings and yards.

The exhibits change each year, covering many aspects of the area’s history, so it’s always worth a return visit.

Exhibits range from period furnishing and lifestyle items to farm equipment and crafting tools. There is even a functioning blacksmiths workshop providing demonstrations.

Of course, the animals on the farm are its most popular attraction.

Visitors can greet a menagerie of adorable residents, including goats, donkeys, and pigs.

Head over to 1900 W 15th St, Plano, TX 75075, United States.

3- Wander Historic Downtown Plano

Get in touch with Plano’s history by walking through the historic Downtown area.

The vibrant area has charming 19th-century storefronts and buildings from the pioneer era.

Along with its historic atmosphere, Downtown Plano is also the city’s artistic heart.

You’ll find plenty of unique shops, local galleries, and small performing arts theatres showcasing the talents of Plano’s creative community.

Start exploring at 1021 E 15th St, Plano, TX 75074, United States. Join this historic walking tour to learn all about the city.

4- Treasure Hunt At High Street Antiques 

If you like to pick up unique souvenirs from your travels or just enjoy bargain hunting, head over to High Street Antiques and Design.

The massive store is packed with antiques, collectible items, and unique arts and design pieces curated by over 250 dealers.

You’re sure to find something to love among the varied collection.

Hunt for bargains at 800 Central Expy, Plano, TX 75074, United States.

5- Relax At Granite Park

If you’re looking for a laid-back dining experience with an edge of refinement, consider heading to Granite Park.

A selection of restaurants and gastropubs curve around an artificial pond with water fountains.

Outdoor seating lines the boulevard along the water, making it the perfect location for a dinner date.

There’s a great variety of cuisines and you’ll easily find something tasty to suit your palate.

Go to 5601 Granite Pkwy, Plano, TX 75024, United States.

6- Splash About In The Texas Pool

Summers in Texas get pretty scorching, so if you’re visiting in the warmer months, you will definitely want somewhere to cool off.

There’s no better way to escape the heat than by taking a refreshing dip in a pool.

The Texas Pool is a public swimming hole with a twist.

The unique pool is in the shape of the state of Texas.

The quirky pool has a diving board, water slides, and even a volleyball net, so there’s plenty of fun.

Cool off at 901 Springbrook Dr, Plano, TX 75075, United States.

7- Ride The Waves At Hawaiian Falls

If you prefer your pool days with a bit more excitement, head over to the Hawaiian Falls waterpark west of Plano.

The thrilling park has a wide range of waterslides, splash pads, pools, and aquatic toys and games to suit all ages.

It’s the perfect day out for the whole family, especially when it gets too hot to hit the hiking trails or shlep around museums.

You can even book a private cabana for those who prefer to relax away from the crowds.

Enjoy the fun at 4400 Paige Rd, The Colony, TX 75056, United States.

8- Explore Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Covering 200 acres (80 ha) of forests and parkland, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is perfect for when you need fresh air.

With miles of walking trails, you can spend hours exploring amongst the trees.

Playgrounds and picnic pavilions provide plenty of space for family-friendly afternoons.

The stone observation tower perched atop a hill at the heart of the preserve is worth seeking out for the wonderful views across the park and surrounding city.

Head into the preserve at 6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093, United States.

9- Escape Into Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve

To escape the urban bustle, disappear into the wilds for a day at Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve.

It covers around 800 acres (323 ha) and is four times the size of Arbor Hills, with 13 miles (21 kilometres) of hiking trails winding through forests, lakes, and over streams.

Keep your eyes peeled to spot the abundance of wildlife that’s made their home in this natural haven at the heart of the busy city.

You’ll find an amphitheatre within the park that often hosts concerts, shows, and festivals.

There’s also an adventure centre with a zipline and treetop assault course.

Have a wild time at 5901 Los Rios Blvd, Plano, TX 75074, United States.

10- Kick Back At Bob Woodruff Park

Bob Woodruff Park is an excellent option for a quick stroll or a chance to relax on the grass.

Paved trails lead around the ponds and through the trees, offering the perfect walking routes if you’re not up to a lengthy hike.

Alternatively, while away some hours on the public fishing pier.

The popular public park has plenty of open fields and playgrounds to let kids burn off some energy, so it’s ideal for family afternoons.

Find the park at 2601 San Gabriel Dr, Plano, TX 75074, United States.

11- Visit Plano’s Bicentennial Bur Oak

Hidden among the woods at the south end of Bob Woodruff Park is Plano’s Bicentennial Bur Oak, so named because it was once believed to have been about 200 years old, originating close to the date of the signing of the U.S. Constitution.

Newer, more accurate estimates date the tree at between 400 to 500 years old, making it north Texas’ oldest known tree.

Around 90 feet (27 metres) tall and 16.25 feet (5 metres) around, it is also one of the largest trees in the region.

Hunt it down at 3840 E Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75074, United States.

12- Admire The Works At Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art Museum

For an art gallery with a unique twist, head to Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art Museum.

As the name suggests, the museum houses a collection of over a thousand elaborately decorated toilet seats.

Each seat has its own unique design.

The works are influenced by everything from pop culture to surgical equipment and license plates.

The gallery is at 5959 Grove Ln, The Colony, TX 75056, United States.

13- Pay Your Respects At Plano Veterans Memorial Park

You can find Plano Veterans Memorial Park near the very heart of Plano.

The park is lovely, with a tree-lined creek running through the centre and play areas for children.

The park’s focal point is the central monument dedicated to military veterans.

The monument displays several statues and plaques along a white stone platform.

Stop by 2101 Bay Hill Dr, Plano, TX 75023, United States.

14- Zoom Around Andretti Indoor Karting and Games

If you want some fun and thrills, head to Andretti Indoor Karting And Games.

The winding indoor go-kart track is edged with neon lighting, lending the experience a futuristic, cyberpunk vibe.

Along with the go-karts, there is also a packed arcade, bowling lanes, and a laser tag arena.

The centre also boasts several virtual reality games.

There’s a canteen decked out like a food-truck park and a cocktail bar for refreshments.

Head over to 5752 Grandscape Blvd Suite 100, The Colony, TX 75056, United States.

15- Test Your Wits At North Texas Escape Rooms

If you prefer your games a more mentally stimulating, consider heading into an escape room.

North Texas Escape Rooms is particularly highly recommended, located in Headquarters Village shopping centre.

There are various themed rooms to choose from, from fantasy adventures to jailbreaks.

Most of the rooms are suitable for players aged nine and up, so it’s a great way to get older kids working on their puzzle-solving and teamwork skills in a super fun way.

Go to 5752 Grandscape Blvd Suite 100, The Colony, TX 75056, United States.

16- Take To The Air At iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Want to try skydiving but not ready to jump out of a plane?

Enjoy the thrills without the risk at iFly Indoor Skydiving.

Suit up and hop in a powerful wind tunnel to see what flying is like.

Instructors will even teach you tricks and how to control your movements when floating in the air.

Fly over to 8380 TX-121, Frisco, TX 75034, United States.

17- Challenge Yourself At Summit Climbing, Yoga and Fitness

Whether you’re a keen climber or looking to try something new, Summit Climbing offers challenges for all skill levels.

The centre has a range of climbing and bouldering walls, each with a full range of graded routes.

You can head onto the bouldering routes by yourself.

Alternatively, book a lesson and learn the best tips and tricks to scale the various walls.

The climbing centre is at 525 Talbert Dr, Plano, TX 75093, United States.

18- Indulge Your Creativity At The Crayola Experience Plano

Whatever your age, there’s tons of fun to be found at the Crayola Experience.

With 26 activities in the colourful centre, all kids, young or old, will find a way to get in touch with their creativity.

Create personalised crayons and crafty artworks to take home, then commemorate your visit with a creative selfie and head into the Crayola store for some quirky souvenirs.

Head up to floor 1 of 6121 W Park Blvd Suite A100, Plano, TX 75093, United States.

19- Expand Your Kids’ Minds At The Play Street Museum

Need even more ways to keep kids entertained? Try the Play Street Museum.

The museum houses various activities and role-play areas to get kids learning whilst they play.

Kids can solve puzzles, try fun science experiments, and enjoy creative craft activities.

It’s a great way to get little ones to use their brains and burn off some energy.

The museum is at 5964 W Parker Rd #120, Plano, TX 75093, United States.

20- Let Loose At Adventure Landing

Older or more boisterous kids might prefer an afternoon at Adventure Landing.

The little theme park boasts a variety of attractions, from bumper boats to crazy golf.

Batting cages, go-karts, and an arcade broaden the range of activities visitors can enjoy.

Start the adventure at 17717 Coit Rd, Dallas, TX 75252, United States.