Summer has officially clocked in, and McKinney is going to be hotter than a Texas BBQ pit! If your kids are already bouncing off the walls and you're fresh out of “fun mom” ideas (we see you), fear not—McKinney is packed with awesome ways to keep your whole crew entertained, cooled off, and grinning like they just heard the ice cream truck on your street.
Grab your shades, your kids, and your cooler. It’s time to turn up the fun-o-meter! 🎉
1. Cannonball into Summer at the Apex Centre
Water slides, lazy rivers, and indoor pools—aka paradise with chlorine. Even rainy days can’t stop the splash party here!
2. Go Wild at the Heard Museum
Lace up those sneakers and explore trails, critter-filled exhibits, and some very judgmental owls. Bonus: sneaky summer learning! Don't miss thier summer "Bugs Live" exhibit,
3. Stroll Through Historic Downtown McKinney
Set off on a feathered treasure hunt to find all the birds in Downtown's newest art installation, Bird Field Guide or go on a magical quest for Tiny Doors! Downtown McKinney couldn't be more family friendly and fun. Ice cream, live music, adorable shops, fantastic restaurants and secret side quests? What’s not to love?
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4. Paint, Sculpt & Get Messy at MillHouse McKinney
Perfect for unleashing your inner Picasso—or just gluing some googly eyes to a paper plate.
5. Become a Mini Ninja at Obstacle Warrior Kids
Inspired by “American Ninja Warrior,” this place is where your kids burn off their Fruit Loops energy in style.
6. Quack Up at Towne Lake Park
Bring bread for the ducks, snacks for the humans, and let the paddle boat arguments commence!
7. Catch a Show at MPAC
Live musicals, movies, and comedy acts in a historic courthouse. Culture + A/C? Yes, please.
8. Get a Pie Fix at Emporium Pies
Flaky crusts, quirky names, and delicious indulgence. Pro tip: take one home and hide it from your kids.
9. Get the Wiggles Out at Play Street Museum
Let the little ones live their playland dreams as you finish your coffee while it's still hot like a civilized adult.
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10. Score Big at McKinney Public Library
Storytime, summer reading challenges, puppet shows—and it’s all FREE. Libraries for president!
11. Pick (and Eat) All the Strawberries at Pecan Creek Farm
Wear clothes you don’t mind staining. Your kids will taste-test more than they actually pick. Worth it.
12. Travel Back in Time at the Collin County History Museum
Who knew Texas history could be this fun? The scavenger hunt is your new secret weapon to getting kiddos into this educational hot spot.
13. Family Fun Nights at Tupps Brewery
Lawn games, music, and beer for the grown-ups. You bring the kids, they bring the chill vibes.
14. Build Stuff at Home Depot or Lowe’s Kids Workshops
Let your kids feel like tiny contractors. You’ll walk out with a birdhouse and probably 12 other things you didn’t plan to buy.
15. Blaze the Trails at Erwin Park
Fresh air, shady trees, and a side of mosquito spray. This park exemplifies why Mckinney is "Unique By Nature". It’s camping lite and close to home, just how we like it.
16. All Aboard the Downtown Trolley Tour
It’s like a history lesson and a sightseeing tour had a breezy, air-conditioned baby.
17. Cool Treat Alert: Drip n Roll Rolled Ice Cream or Magic Cup Bubble Tea!
Customize that cup, pile on the gummies, and let the sugar rush commence.
18. Have a Staycation at The Stix Icehouse
An island-inspired Tiki Takeover and Parrothead Paradise at The Stix all June long
19. Jump Your Heart Out at Urban Air
It’s part trampoline park, part ninja arena, part assurance that bed time will only take 5 minutes. A true gift to summer.
20. Go Full ‘Merica at Red, White & BOOM!
Fireworks, food trucks, live music, and hometown pride exploding in red, white, and WHOA.
McKinney = Family Fun Capital of Summer
Whether your vibe is “nature explorer” or “indoor ninja warrior,” McKinney has you and your wildlings covered. This list is your boredom-proof summer survival kit—no batteries (or extra screen time) required.
So slap on some sunscreen, grab those snacks (like A LOT of snacks), and make some hilarious, happy, possibly slightly chaotic memories!
☀️ You got this, Summer Superstars!
