Convention and Visitors Bureau

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Attractions

Plano is proud of its unique attractions and we would like to invite you to experience our historic landmarks, museums, farmsteads and more. The following attractions are available for spouse activities during your event. Our professional servicing staff can arrange tours for groups of any size.

Amazing Jakes
Collin Creek Mall
831 N. Central Expressway
Plano, TX 75075
972-509-5253
www.amazingjakes.com/plano/

Amazing Jake’s is the newest place to plan your next school field trip, church event, team party or any other group outing you can imagine. This new facility located at Collin Creek Mall features go-karts, bumper cars, miniature golf, bowling, unlimited arcade games, laser tag, rock wall great food and much more. So when planning your next outing remember Amazing Jakes.

ArtCentre of Plano

1039 E. 15th Street
15th Street at K Avenue
(972) 423-7809
http://www.artcentreofplano.org

A "home for the arts" in Plano, this renovated historic downtown building offers something for everyone. Catch a play or enjoy a vocal performance in the ArtCentre Theatre, where the Plano Repertory is permanently housed. Or browse through the art galleries for displays of local artists as well as national shows.

Fairview Farms
3316 N. Central Expy.
Exit 30 US 75, North of Parker Rd.
972-422-2500
http://www.fairview-farms.com

Fairview Farms Marketplace is a unique development created to take you back to simple days of farm life years ago. Life was a lot simpler back then. Visit our Fairview Corral Barn, a country style party facility that can be rented out for your special event. The Corral Barn seats up to 350 people and is a perfect for your next large function. Barnyard Buddies has pony rids, petting zoos, games and much more! Stroll through the Farmer’s Market and experience the great taste of our daily farm fresh produce, closed on Mondays and off-seasons.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
1 Nature Place
5 miles north of Plano in McKinney
(972) 562-5566

http://www.heardmuseum.org/

The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is a 289-acre outdoor preserve and nature museum. Guests encounter various ecosystems along with species of birds, insects, and animals that have found refuge within the rapidly developing Collin County area. The museum features: The Living Lab, an interactive hands-on science laboratory; Venomous Snakes of Texas exhibit; and rotating nature art exhibits. The Heard is open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. and closed Mondays. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for ages 3-12 and 60 . Open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Group discounts and education tours available. Located one mile east of Highway 5 South on FM 1378. The Heard Nature Stores are located at the Museum and The Shops at Willow Bend. For more information, call 972-562-5566 or visit www.heardmuseum.org .

Heritage Farmstead
1900 West 15th Street
15th Street at Pitman Drive
(972) 881-0140
http://www.heritagefarmstead.org/

This four-acre museum preserves a way of life during the height of farm prosperity in the early 1900's. The beautiful Victorian home and 12 outbuildings was the hub of a 360-acre farm operated by a colorful local resident, Ammie Wilson. The museum is open to the public and guided tours are available.

Interurban Railway Museum
Downtown Plano, 901 East 15th Street
(972) 941-2117 http://www.plano.gov/Departments/ParksandRecreation/Parks_Facilities/interurban.htm

Plano transportation history is brought back to life with this interesting exhibit. Once a vital part of the Texas Electric Railway that stretched from Denison to Waco, the Interurban is one of the original electric cars that ran on the tracks through Plano. Also on site is Car 360 which carried mail as well as passengers. Open M-F 10a-2p, Sat. from 1pm-5pm. There is no entrance fee. However, contributions are greatly appreciated. Individual and group tours of the museum may be arranged by calling the above number.

Southfork Ranch
3700 Hogge Road Parker, TX 75002
Parker Road 5.5 miles East from US 75
(972) 442-7800
http://www.southfork.com

Known as the "world's most famous ranch", Southfork Ranch has attracted millions of visitors ever since it became the homestead of the fictional Ewing clan. Although most visitors are aware that J.R., Bobby, nor Miss Ellie never actually lived at the ranch, they are drawn to its sprawling acres in hopes of experiencing a bit of television history and a lot of Texas hospitality.

Shop at "Ranch Round Up" in the Visitors Center, featuring a wide selection of Southfork gift items and Texas collectibles.

Re-live some of the memorable moments from "Dallas" in the "Dallas Legends: Fact to Fantasy" Exhibit. See the gun that shot J.R., Lucy's wedding dress, video clips from the series, interviews with the stars, and other memorabilia that will make you feel right at home with the most infamous Texans of them all, the Ewings.

Tram Tour departs the Visitors Center, taking guests through International Drive, proudly flying flags representing some of the 96 countries where "Dallas" has been broadcast. You will also be able to view Texas longhorns and American quarter horses.

At the famed Ewing Mansion, a tour guide will give interesting tidbits about the years of filming and insight into the character of the Ewings. Guests are given a full-guided tour of the "most famous White House west of D.C.". Yes, even J.R.'s bedroom!

As guests depart the Mansion, they can stroll through the ranch grounds, and stop and visit "Lincolns and Longhorns", displaying Jock Ewing's original 1978 Lincoln Continental. Guests can shop here for Dallas-inspired men's and ladies apparel, decor, and accessories.

Located just 5-10 minutes from the Plano Centre, Southfork is open daily, year 'round for guided tours, private parties, special events, shopping and more! For more information, call 972-442-7800, or visit the web site at http://www.southfork.com .

Walking Tour of Historic Plano

Visit more than a dozen restored historic homes, the Interurban museum and the charming downtown area with its brick streets and unique shops. Most of the properties designated as local historic landmarks are located within walking distance of the downtown area. A visual guide of the tour can be printed off of your computer from the City of Plano’s web site by clicking here .

Biblical Arts Center
7500 Park Lane
(214) 691-4661
http://www.biblicalarts.org

A museum of inspiring art. This museum’s sole purpose is to utilize arts as a means to help people of all faiths more clearly envision the places, events and people of the Bible. Your tour of the museum includes the "Miracle at Pentecost" mural. Measuring 124 feet wide by 20 feet tall, the mural is an interpretation of the day of Pentecost. It’s a sight to be seen!

Billy Bob's Texas
2520 Rodeo Plaza
(817) 624-7117
http://www.billybobstexas.com

"The worlds largest country music - honky tonk." The Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music has named Billy Bob's Texas the best country music nightclub in the world! See professional rodeo cowboys do their stuff in the indoor arena. They also host the biggest stars in country music every weekend, in addition to private parties and special events. Kids under 17 are always welcome with a parent or guardian.

Cavanaugh Flight Museum
4572 Claire Chennault
(972) 248-0907
http://www.cavanaughflightmuseum.com

Texas’ newest aviation museum in Addison features 50,000 square feet of warbirds on display restored to their original condition. An aviation gift shop, aviation art and memorabilia gallery and snack shop are also featured. The museum is located just outside of Dallas, Texas on the grounds of Addison Airport and is open Monday through Saturday from 9AM to 5PM and on Sunday from 11AM to 5PM.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
8525 Garland Road
(214) 327-8263
http://www.dallasarboretum.org

Visit the largest collection of azaleas in the Southwest! The Arboretum features 66 superbly landscaped acres of trees, gardens and lush lawns nestled beside beautiful White Rock Lake. Stroll through the gardens on your way to the 21,000 square foot DeGolyer Mansion. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Mansion is recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark.

Dallas Museum of Art
1717 North Harwood Street
(214) 922-1200
http://www.dm-art.org

Art from around the world. The collections of the Dallas Museum of Art are as diverse as the interests of the community it museum serves. The major holdings are in ancient American, African, Indonesian and contemporary art, as well as American decorative art. The museum serves as a cultural center for the Dallas/Fort Worth Area. After your tour, stop by one of two restaurants or visit the Museum Store and take home a souvenir.

Dallas World Aquarium and Rainforest
1801 N. Griffin
(214) 655-1444
http://www.dwazoo.com

Features 80,000 gallons of saltwater exhibits including sharks, stingrays and hundreds of reef fish, all living in coral reef ecosystems. The immersion rainforest exhibit features plants and animals from Venezuela, along the Orinoco River. Hours: 10AM - 5PM, seven days a week.

Dallas Zoo
650 R.L. Thornton Freeway (I-35E)
(214) 670-5656
www.dallaszoo.com

The 95 ­acre Dallas Zoo features the ExxonMobil Endangered Tiger Habitat with rare Sumatran and Indochinese tigers; the Lacerte Family Children's Zoo with interactive, educational exhibits for toddlers to pre­teens; and the 25­acre Wilds of Africa with the Kimberly­Clark Chimpanzee Forest and Jake L. Hamon Gorilla Conservation Research Center. Don't miss the new Endangered Species Carousel in the Entry Plaza! Hours: 9am­4pm, daily except Christmas. Average tour time: 2 to 3 hours.

Fair Park
1300 Robert B. Cullum Boulevard, at Grand Avenue
(214) 670-8400
http://www.fairparkdallas.com

This 277-acre National Historic Landmark is home to the State Fair of Texas every Fall and is visited by over seven million people annually. Year round at Fair Park you will also find the African American Museum, Dallas Aquarium, Age of Steam Railroad Museum, The Cotton Bowl, The Science Place, TI Founders IMAX® Theater, The Science Place Planetarium and much more.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District
131 E. Exchange Avenue Metro
(817) 626-7921
http://www.fortworthstockyards.org

The area was designated as an historical landmark in 1976, and is considered one of Texas' most popular tourist attractions. In the Fort Worth Stockyards you will find everything you need from holiday fun to Texas history. Shopping, nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment will give you a taste of the old west.

Fort Worth Zoo
1989 Colonial Pkwy.
(817) 871-7050
http://www.fortworthzoo.com

Visit the Fort Worth Zoo and see more than 5000 exotic and native animals in beautifully landscaped natural habitats. The Fort Worth Zoo, established in 1909, is the oldest continuous zoo site in Texas and one of the top zoos in the nation. Hours: M-F, 10a-5p, Sat & Sun, 10a-6p. On Wednesdays throughout the year, zoo offers half-price admission to all guests all day.

GameWorks
3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Suite 525
(972) 539-6757
http://www.gameworks.com

GameWorks Grapevine is the quintessential entertainment destination in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and the best place to hold your next group event! Inspired by the genius of Steven Spielberg, GameWorks is owned and operated by Dreamworks SKG, Sega Enterprises and MCA Universal. Spanning 34,000 square feet, GameWorks offers the latest technology and great food in a friendly, interactive environment.

Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth
3333 Camp Bowie Blvd.
(817) 332-8451
http://www.kimbellart.org

The Kimbell Art Museum's holdings range in period from antiquity to the 20th century, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Monet and many others. The Museum is also one of the few institutions in the Southwest with a substantial collection of Asian arts. Tours are offered every Wednesday at 2PM and Sunday at 3PM. Special interest tours can be arranged at least two weeks in advance. Enjoy lunch, dinner buffet or Sunday brunch at The Buffet Restaurant in the museum.

Medieval Times, Dinner & Tournament
2021 N. Stemmons Freeway
(214) 761-1800
http://www.medievaltimes.com

Enjoy an exciting evening of quality, family entertainment based upon the glory of the Middle Ages. Guests will experience spectacular pageantry, dramatic horsemanship, breathtaking swordplay, falconry, sorcery and an authentic jousting tournament between the six brave knights of the realm. During the festivities a four-course meal is served in true medieval pre-silverware fashion. Show times: Tuesday through Sunday; hours vary. Reservations required. Average length of show is approximately two hours.

Old City Park
1717 Gano Street
(214) 421-5141
http://www.oldcitypark.org

Step back in time when you visit Old City Park. With 35 restored structures and four reproductions, the 13 acres of Old City Park is now an American Association of Museums accredited institution. Old City Park is a museum of architectural and cultural history, interpreting Dallas and North Central Texas, 1840 - 1910. The Brent Place Restaurant is located on the park site and is open on a daily basis, featuring a menu of "home-style" meals as well as "gourmet" entree's.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not/The Palace of Wax
601 E. Safari Pkwy.
(972) 263-2391
http://www.palaceofwax.com

The Palace of Wax features over 175 lifelike wax figures representing Hollywood, history, religion and horror. All created by resident wax artist. Ripley’s Believe It or Not: Experience the beautiful and bizarre world of Robert Ripley and his collection of oddities from countries all over the world. Hours: Monday through Friday, 10AM to 5PM; Saturday & Sunday, 10AM to 6PM.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
1800 E. Lamar Blvd.
(817) 265-3356
http://www.sixflags.com

Enjoy acres of watery fun at Hurricane Harbor. The park offers cool pools, giant slides and thrilling rides for a full day of fun and relaxation. Other features include a special water playground for children, a gift shop with souvenirs and swimwear and snack bars. Picnic coolers allowed (no alcohol or glass). Seasonal days and hours: open daily through summer: open weekends through September.

Six Flags Over Texas
2201 Road to Six Flags
(817) 640-8900
http://www.sixflags.com

Enjoy thrilling rides, family rides, water adventures, concerts, games, shows and special attractions just for the little ones. Six Flags handles theme parties, private parties, special events, meetings, trade shows, spouse/youth/guest programs, product introductions, consignment tickets and much more, all surrounded by a multi-million dollar theme park. Hours: Seasonal. Vary. Please call for information. Summer: Open daily. Spring & Fall: Weekends only. Average tour time: one half day.

The Sixth Floor Kennedy Museum
411 Elm Street
(214) 747-6660 (888) 485-4854
http://www.jfk.org

"History, after all, is the memory of a nation." Little did JFK know that his quote would come to life with his death. In November of 1963 President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas and thus began the memory of a nation. Housed in the former Texas SchoolBook Depository Building, the museum examines the life, death and legacy of President JFK.

SpeedZone
11130 Malibu Dr
(972) 620-757
http://www.speedzone.com

A unique 12-acre racing park dedicated to speed and competition. Includes four types of racing, miniature golf, game room and private rooms/event areas. SpeedZone is also the ideal place for group events and corporate meetings. And the tempting menu at the SpeedZone Cafe has something for everyone. Hours: Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 1a.m.; Saturday, 10AM to 1 a.m.; Sunday, 10AM to 11PM.

West End Marketplace
603 Munger Avenue, Downtown Dallas
(214) 748-4801
http://www.dallaswestend.org

You have reached the shopping and entertainment center of the West End of Downtown. Eat and mingle with the stars at Planet Hollywood! And for dessert, satisfy your sweet tooth and tempt your taste buds at The Fudgery. Enjoy and entire day or evening all under one roof browsing specialty shops and getting caught up in all the action! Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11AM to 10PM: Friday and Saturday, 11AM to midnight: Sundays, noon to 6PM.

Attractions

Movie Theaters

Area Pro Sports Teams and Attractions

Beauty and Day Spas