City Spotlight: Plano

Have you seen the recent city spotlights we’ve been doing?

Kelly brought you some great information about Richardson.  Krystal shared some of her favorite spots about Carrollton/Farmers Branch, while Desiree gave us some insight to Oak Cliff.

Today, I’m going to tell you about a few of my favorite places in Plano.  I live on the edge of Richardson and Plano and we spend a lot of time at some Plano hot spots.  I feel like this post could be written in several parts, with many places to mention.  But, in an effort to keep things short and somewhat interesting :), I’m highlighting some of my favorite places to take my kids.

1. Willowbend Mall– I LOVE LOVE LOVE their play area.  It can get crowded at times, especially on the weekend, but my boys always have so much fun and I feel comfortable letting them jump, climb, and play.

It’s a roomy and clean play area.  Didn’t think I would need to mention this, but since my 19 month old ran from me down the middle of the mall 3 times within 5 minutes, I should tell you there is not a door to keep them in the play area. 🙂

The other great thing going on right now is Summer Fun Thursdays.  There is a fun show for kids every Thursday at 1pm.  Get there for registration, starting at 12, and maybe even win a giveaway from their sponsors!  This past Thursday, Eddie Coker was on stage and every other Thursday looks to be just as promising!  Check out the link for the full schedule.   Great summer fun!

2. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve– Grab your stroller and enjoy some beautiful scenery while you get your exercise in.  This place is a great walking/running/hiking spot and although it’s getting super hot out there, the park opens at 5am and closes at 11pm.  There’s also a great playground for your kids to enjoy.  Check out the City of Plano’s website for more information about this hidden little gem!

3. Jack Carter Pool– Within the past week, my boys and I have been here three times!  For a pool so great to only charge me $3 and let my boys swim for free, I’ll keep coming back! 🙂

Lauren posted a great review on this baby and family-friendly pool.  The only thing I will add to it is water shoes might be helpful for your walkers.  The concrete area right along the edge of the water gets VERY slick when it’s wet.  My little guy has a nice little knot to prove it. 🙁

Also, weekends are packed and getting a table is a challenge.  Weekdays are definitely the best times to go.

4. Central Market– A grocery store with a playground!  Yes!  A couple of weeks ago, I took my boys there for a playdate with our neighborhood friends.  The playground was so nice {until it got hot}, and the dining area, with lots of amazing food to pick from, inside was perfect for us to cool off in the air conditioning.  The aquarium full of fish was quite a hit with my boys, too!  Sherry, another one of our fabulous contributors told me about how her kids also love “feeding the pig.”  🙂

When you enter the store through the south side, you can give “the pig” 25 cents.  This gets your child a piece of fruit to eat right then!  How many times have you opened something at the store just to let your child eat, immediately?  Genius!

5. Indoor Safari Park– Kali posted a great review for the safari park, here.  This is located at Coit and Spring Creek.  If you can, try to go during school times, or first thing in the summer mornings.  Your kids will love it and hopefully leave exhausted! 🙂

Did I miss your favorite Plano spot?  If so, leave a comment and let us know what we’re missing out on.  

I’m always looking for a fun new place to try with my little ones.