Get to Know McKinney with These 6 Things to Do
We love the excitement of making dreams come true by connecting people with the homes they want to build their life in. The new home experience is often one of the most exciting times in someone’s life. Not only is there this amazing new space to make your own, but there’s a whole world out there to explore in your new community.
At Taylor Morrison, we take as much pride in the communities we build in as we do the homes themselves. McKinney, Texas, home to our Willowcreek at Auburn Hills community, is no exception. With small town charm and big city Dallas flair, McKinney is a town that you’re going to love calling yours.
If you’re new to McKinney, or considering it as the location of your new home, here are six things to do in McKinney that deserve the top spots on your list of adventures.
Take a Stroll Down Mainstreet
If you really want to immerse yourself in the culture of McKinney, devote an afternoon or evening to exploring downtown Mainstreet. McKinney is home to one of the oldest historic downtown areas in Texas.
The thriving district is lined with more than two dozen options for enjoying local cuisine and more 120 shops to browse. The atmosphere is that of a quaint small town, but it’s nuanced with hints of a larger city.
Lovers of historic architecture will really enjoy the downtown district as they admire the local works, some of which are at least 165 years old. There’s always something going on, from festivals and dances to unique gallery showings. It won’t take long for this historic district to work its way into your heart.
Visit Chestnut Square Historic Park
A quick jaunt just a couple of blocks south of the downtown district will land you in Chestnut Square Historical Park. The park features ten preserved buildings that were all constructed between 1854 and 1930.
Volunteers help bring the past into the future by dressing up in period costumes and providing demonstrations on life activities from that period in McKinney history. A tour of the park will transport you back in time, giving you a sense of what McKinney was like long before you became so enamored with it.
Relax with a Brew
When the heat of the Texas sun gets to be too much, step inside one of McKinney’s two famous local breweries to cool off and enjoy the tastes of the local craft. McKinney is home to Franconia Brewing Company and Tupps Brewing.
The Franconia Brewing Company produces Bavarian style brews with a commitment to green practices. Their lineup includes seasonal specialties like Full Steam Ahead and the Chicken Dance.
Tupps offers up classic, Texan style charm and brew. They say right on their website that they want you to put your feet o the tables, write your name on the walls and have a good time. If that doesn’t spell McKinney adventure, we don’t know what does.
Explore a Wildlife Sanctuary
There are some great walking trails all throughout McKinney, but in our humble opinion, nature lovers are going to swoon over the trails at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary offers 6.5 miles of self-guided nature trails that will carry you through diverse habitats and introduce you to species of wildlife and birds that you don’t normally have the opportunity to view in their natural environment. The sanctuary also makes a great day adventure for birding enthusiasts.
While the wildlife sanctuary is a humbling experience on any day, keep an eye on their schedule for an extra special experience. Their exhibits include a butterfly house, their Moth Migration Project, Animals of the World and many other not-to-miss showstoppers.
Enjoy a Slice of Life
Have you ever heard that Texans are as sweet as pie? Head over to Emporium Pies in McKinney and find out for yourself if it’s true. Emporium Pies has earned a devoted cult following, and if you’ve got a sweet tooth that needs to be satisfied, a stop here should be priority number one on your list.
Maybe you’re in the mood for a slice of Mellow Yellow – a lemon chiffon creation with a gingersnap crust. Or, it could be you’re up for something more decadent, like the Drunken Nut – a rich bourbon pecan pie with a shortbread crust. We could go on, but our mouths are watering. You’ll just have to go discover it for yourself.
Third Monday Trade Days
What better way to spend a leisurely day than perusing one of the largest flea markets in North Texas while hoping to spot that one special piece for your new home? The McKinney flea market, which is one of the oldest in the areas, has become known as Third Monday Trade Days.
Don’t worry, if you’ve got other obligations on the third Monday of every month, you’re not going to miss a thing. The Flea market actually takes place the weekend before the third Monday, lasting from Friday to Sunday.
What you’ll find while strolling the market will bel the goods and treasures of more than 450 vendors, featuring all the standard flea market fare, like antiques, one of a kind pieces of art and hand crafted home décor.
Also, worth the mention is the McKinney Farmers Market at Chestnut Square. Stop by every Saturday morning to stock up on farm fresh, locally sourced produce, free range meats, cheeses and other specialty items to pique your culinary curiosity. Activities like pony rides and face painting help make the farmer’s market and adventure that’s enjoyed by all ages.
A Premier Community in Northern Texas
Our homes at Willowcreek at Auburn Hills are built with luxurious, spacious floor plans that make a house a home. We know you’re going to love this community as much as McKinney itself. At Taylor Morrison, we’re committed to providing the ultimate lifestyle experience in our communities.
From the gourmet kitchen to the gorgeous Texan view out your window, Willowcreek at Auburn Hills embodies the Texas lifestyle. We’re excited to introduce you to this McKinney new home community. Contact Taylor Morrison today for more information.
