Things to Do in the Smaller Towns Around Dallas, Texas

While Dallas, otherwise known as "Big D", has a lot to offer, don't dismiss some of the smaller towns in the surrounding area. They have their own rhythm going on and I think it's worth your time to take a peek at what they have to offer.

Third Monday Trade Days
Located at 4550 W. University (U.S. Hwy. 380) in McKinney, Texas
Here you'll find over 900 vendors selling just about anything you can imagine. Third Monday Trade Days is one of the largest flea markets in North Texas. Call 972-562-5466 or visit their website for more information.

Southfork Ranch
Located at 3700 Hogge Road in Parker Texas
Fans of the Dallas TV series will truly love this place! The Southfork Ranch was where the Ewings lived. The house used to film the TV series in still intact and they offer tours of the house and the ranch. The ranch also has space for special events, ballrooms, and ranchland that you can rent for private parties. Call 972-442-7800 or visit their website for more information.

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary
Located at 1 Nature Place in McKinney, Texas
The entire family will enjoy visiting the Heard museum. You'll find hiking trails, a native plant garden, live animals, and lots of exhibits both inside and outside the museum. Call 972-562-5566 or visit their website for more information.

Heritage Farmstead
Located at1900 West 15th Street in Plano, Texas
Heritage Farmstead was once a working 360 acre farm, consisting of a Victorian style home from the 1900's and 12 outbuildings. The farm is now a four-acre museum that is open to the public with guided tours available. Call (972) 881-0148 or visit their website for more information.

Chestnut Square Historic Village
Located at 315 S. Chestnut St. in McKinney, Texas
Chestnut Square will enchant the history buff with it's offering of nine historic houses and buildings which date back to the 1850's. Among the oldest buildings are a general store, chapel, and schoolhouse. You can watch living history demonstrations and also take tours on certain days of the week. Call 972-562-8790 or visit their website for more information.

Dallas Area Train Show
Located at 2000 East Spring Creek Pkwy in Plano Texas
This annual event is sponsored by the North Texas Council of Railroad Clubs and features exhibits, home tours, and teaching clinics for the model train and railroad enthusiast. Contact Inge Trost by email at ingeborg@ingetrost.com for more information.

The Zone McKinney
Located on448 N. Custer Rd. in McKinney, Texas.
972-838-1100
The Zone is a huge place that offers entertainment for young and old alike. If you're hungry, they have a pizza restaurant, snack bar, and coffee bar. There are rooms available for parties also. You can choose from over 50 arcade games, bounce houses, and multi-level laser tag. Call 972-838-1100 or visit their website for more information.

Wildflower Festival
Located at Galatyn Pkwy and US 75 in Richardson, Texas
You don't want to miss the annual Wildflower Festival! You'll find a mix of outdoor entertainment featuring arts, music, acrobats, interactive displays, a petting zoo, and a food court. There is also a Singer/Songwriter contest and a Budding Talents competition. Visit their website for more information.

Garland Opry
Located at 115 N. 6th Street in Garland, Texas
You'll find live country and gospel music performances by local entertainers at the Garland Opry. Competition is stiff and the Opry offers prizes and scholarship funds to their contest winners. Country singer LeAnn Rimes got her start at the Garland Opry. Call 972 494-3835 or visit their website for more information.

Forever Free
Fourth of July Celebration in McKinney, Texas
Come and spend the weekend in McKinney as they kick off their annual Forever Free celebration with a Chili and Bean Cook-off and classic car show at Towne Lake Park. Everything wraps up with live entertainment and a great fireworks display at the Collin County Youth Park. Call 214-544-0500 for more information.

Scarborough Renaissance Festival
Located 2511 FM 66 in Waxahachie Texas
This annual renaissance faire will take you back in time to the "days of yore". Strolling performers and artists are dressed in period costumes and will delight all ages as you wander through the various villages and enjoy live entertainment such as singing, dancing, jousting, swordfighting, falconery, and acrobatics. Local artisans are also eager to demonstrate their finely honed skills such as glassblowing, pottery making, weaving, and blacksmithing. Visitors are encouraged to dress up in their own costumes to make their excursion all the more authentic. You'll find something different around each twist and turn of the many courtyards. And when you need to take a rest, you'll find a wide variety of period foods and drink to complete your experience. Visit their website for more information.

Sources:
http://www.cityguide.com