Plano, Texas: Your Ultimate City Guide

Welcome to Plano, Texas – a vibrant city in the heart of Collin County, just a short drive from the bustling metropolis of Dallas. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or simply seeking a change of scenery, Plano’s Texan hospitality will make you feel right at home. Storage Depot created a guide to help you get to know the area as you settle in. Call our storage office to see how we can help you organize your belongings during your move!

---

Table of Contents

I. Arts, Culture & Community Events

II. Outdoor Recreation

III. Top Restaurants

IV. Plano Resources

---

Explore the Arts & Southern Culture of Plano, TX

Population: 285,494

Picture yourself in a lively Southern city? Only 20 miles north of Dallas, Plano boasts its own diverse economy, thriving arts scene, and abundance of recreational opportunities. Once a sleepy farming community, Plano—and especially its downtown—has undergone a revitalization in recent decades, transforming itself into a walkable destination with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Here are some key highlights to help you learn a little more about your new home.

Plano’s Historic Downtown

Start your exploration of Plano by strolling through its beautiful downtown district. Lined with beautifully restored buildings, quaint shops, and a variety of delectable eateries, downtown Plano will show off some of the best that the city has to offer.

Dive Into the Culture & History

Downtown is home to a thriving arts scene. Visit the ArtCentre of Plano to be introduced to the work of local and regional artists. You can also keep an eye out for workshops and other learning opportunities at the center. If you’d like to see some local talent take the stage, the Courtyard Theater and Cox Building Playhouse offer a variety of performances. History and train buffs won’t want to miss the Interurban Railway Museum, housed in Plano’s original electric train station. Explore the history of the Texas Electric Railway and learn about the electric streetcars that once connected Plano to neighboring towns. The museum offers free admission and even guided tours of a historic Railway Post Office car. Step back in time at the Heritage Farmstead Museum, a living history museum on a 4-acre site. Explore 13 original historic buildings, including an 1891 Victorian farmhouse. Meet farm animals, wander through recreated Blackland Prairie landscapes, and discover what life was like for early Plano residents. The museum offers self-guided tours and even guided tours of the farmhouse for a deeper dive into Plano’s agricultural past.

Community Events

Plano is a lively community hub, hosting numerous events throughout the year that bring visitors from all over to the city.

• Plano Arts Week: An annual celebration of the arts featuring local artists, live music, food trucks, and family friendly activities.
• Dickens in Downtown Plano: A beloved holiday event that transforms the downtown area into a Victorian Christmas wonderland, complete with carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and festive decorations.
• Plano Food & Wine Festival: A yearly event where attendees can explore over 100 award-winning wines as well as culinary favorites from local restaurants.
• Plano Balloon Fest: A spectacular annual event that fills the skies with colorful hot air balloons, creating a mesmerizing display for spectators of all ages. Held every September, the festival features balloon launches, tethered rides, live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, making it one of Plano’s most anticipated and cherished community celebrations.

Outdoor Recreation That Support an Active Lifestyle

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Plano. The city is home to several parks, where you can enjoy picnicking, hiking, fishing, and boating.

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Spanning 200 acres, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve features a variety of well-maintained trails suitable for hiking, biking, and jogging that wind through the scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy bird watching and wildlife spotting. The preserve also includes a playground and a pavilion for family gatherings and events.

Bob Woodruff Park

Bob Woodruff Park has scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and biking, as well as picnic areas and a large pond ideal for fishing. The park’s interconnected trails link to Oak Point Park, creating an extended network of paths for those looking to explore greater distances. You will also find playgrounds and sports facilities that attract families and groups.

Heritage Farm Museum

The Heritage Farmstead Museum in Plano, Texas is a living history museum that lets you experience what life was like on a North Texas farm over 100 years ago. You can explore a beautifully restored 19th-century farmhouse, see farm animals, and learn about the history of the Blackland Prairie region. There are also special programs and events throughout the year.

Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve

As Plano’s largest park, covering 800 acres, Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve offers a diverse range of activities. The park’s large lake allows visitors to enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Extensive hiking and biking trails give residents opportunities for outdoor exercise, while the park’s ropes course and zip-lining adventures offer thrilling experiences for more adventurous visitors. The Red Tail Pavilion also hosts concerts and events to bring the community together.

Additional Parks & Recreation Areas

• Haggard Park: Located in the heart of downtown Plano, Haggard Park offers a beautiful setting with its gazebo, koi pond, and walking paths. The park also features a playground and hosts various community events throughout the year.
• Russell Creek Park: This park is popular for its sports fields, walking trails, and large pond. It’s a great place for soccer, cricket, and casual strolls. Fun fact: it is the only park in North America to have seven cricket fields in one location, so if you watch the community calendar, you can try to catch a tournament to see players in action.
• Breckinridge Park: Although just outside of Plano, this expansive park offers miles of trails, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for Plano residents seeking outdoor activities.

Our Top Restaurants in Plano, TX

From Tex-Mex cuisine to international flavors, Plano’s dining scene has something for every palate. Indulge in barbecue at Lockhart Smokehouse, savor authentic Italian dishes at Taverna Rossa, or grab a craft beer at Union Bear Brewing Co.

Enjoy these Popular Restaurants in Plano:

Moving to the City: Helpful Resources

Education & Healthcare

Families moving to Plano will appreciate the city’s excellent educational and healthcare facilities. Plano Independent School District serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, with several top-rated public schools in the area. Plano also has a variety of charter and private schools. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano provides comprehensive healthcare services to residents. This state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of medical services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women’s health. Texas Health Plano has been recognized for its excellence, including being named a Magnet hospital for nursing achievement and receiving national recognition for its cardiac surgery program.

Access to the Entire DFW

While Plano offers a plethora of amenities and attractions, its proximity to Dallas adds another layer of convenience and opportunities. Located just 20 miles north of downtown Dallas, Plano residents enjoy easy access to the city’s world-class amenities, including employment opportunities, shopping and dining, cultural and sporting events, higher education, and healthcare. The city’s excellent public transportation options, including the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) system, make commuting to and from Dallas convenient and efficient.

---

Storage Depot for the Greater Plano, TX, Community

Located in nearby Wylie, our facility offers a range of storage options to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for short-term storage or a longer-term solution. We prioritize security, convenience, and affordability to ensure a positive storage experience for our customers. Here are some of the features you can expect when renting at our storage facility:

• Secure Facilities: Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, including 24-hour video surveillance, gated access, and well-lit premises.
• Variety of Unit Sizes: We offer a wide range of unit sizes, from small, closet-sized units to large, garage-sized spaces. Whether you’re storing furniture, appliances, seasonal items, or business inventory, we have the perfect space to meet your needs. Visit our storage calculator to get a recommendation for your load size.
• Temperature-Controlled Units: Protect your sensitive belongings from extreme temperatures and humidity with our temperature-controlled units. These are ideal for storing items such as electronics, documents, and antique furniture.
• Flexible Leasing Options: We understand that storage needs can change over time, which is why we offer flexible leasing options to suit your schedule and budget. Whether you need short-term storage during a move or long-term storage for ongoing needs, we’ve got you covered.
• Convenient Access: Our facility features extended access hours, allowing you to retrieve or store your belongings on your schedule. With drive-up access available for select units, loading and unloading your items is quick and convenient.
• Customer Service: At Storage Depot, our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way. Whether you have questions about unit sizes, need assistance with your lease, or you would like recommendations for packing supplies, we are always happy to help. Your satisfaction is our top priority.

When it comes to self storage in the greater Plano, TX, area, Storage Depot is the name you can trust. We strive to make your storage experience as easy and stress-free as possible. Visit us today to learn more about how we can meet your storage needs and become your trusted storage partner.

Find the space you need to stay organized with our affordable storage solutions in nearby Wylie, TX!

Find More DFW Storage Depot Locations

Aubrey · Fort Worth · Flower Mound

---