{"id":108666,"date":"2023-01-13T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-13T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/free-things-to-do-in-allen-tx\/"},"modified":"2024-03-30T18:53:40","modified_gmt":"2024-03-30T18:53:40","slug":"free-things-to-do-in-allen-tx","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/free-things-to-do-in-allen-tx\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Free Things to Do in Allen, TX"},"content":{"rendered":"

Allen<\/a> is a large suburb of Dallas<\/a>, Texas, with many exciting things to do as an addition to your itinerary.<\/p>\n

Part of Collin County, Allen has a large population, making it a haven for city attractions.<\/p>\n

Many of the most popular attractions in Allen are free to visit, which makes this one of the best places near Dallas.<\/p>\n

They have many commercial districts, creek trails, and city parks that add variety to your trip.<\/p>\n

To get you started, here\u2019s a list of the free things to do in Allen<\/a>, Texas: <\/p>\n

Visit the Allen Depot Museum<\/h2>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

Jphill19<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Allen Depot Museum<\/a> offers more history at no cost.<\/p>\n

While only a small museum, Allen Depot Museum makes up for it through its exhibits, spearheaded by a vintage locomotive called \u201cThe Ebenezer.\u201d<\/p>\n

This train, situated right along a neighborhood that makes it seem operational, makes for a fantastic photo souvenir during your stay in Allen.<\/p>\n

Besides Ebenezer, Allen Depot Museum also hosts various documents and photos that tell the city’s history.<\/p>\n

A visit to this center is well worth it, as you won\u2019t need more than an hour to appreciate its significance.<\/p>\n

You can find the museum conveniently along East Main Street in the city\u2019s downtown area.<\/p>\n

Have a Picnic at Allen Station Park<\/h2>\n

One of the best parks in Allen is Allen Station Park<\/a>, located along North Cedar Drive, close to the city\u2019s Central Expressway.<\/p>\n

There are a lot of activities to do here, as the place is a congregation of several other landmark attractions that deserve their mention.<\/p>\n

However, Allen Station Park can be purely enjoyed for its scenic beauty, as Cottonwood Creek\u2014famous among locals\u2014runs across this large park.<\/p>\n

As a large area where you can stroll around or do picnics, the picturesque greenery of Allen Station Park makes it one of the best places for families.<\/p>\n

If you want to fill a hole in your afternoon, visit Allen Station Park for relaxation and tranquility.<\/p>\n

Do Tricks at the Edge Skate Park<\/h2>\n

Allen Station Park has several other landmark attractions, such as the Eagle Stadium, Hydrous Wake Park, and an aquatic center.<\/p>\n

All of these attractions will require a fee, but one more is free to use: The Edge Skate Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n

This place is one of the best skateparks in Dallas\u2019 suburbs.<\/p>\n

The Edge Skate Park offers several ramps and rails for skaters of all levels.<\/p>\n

Even if you\u2019re not into skating, the Edge Skate Park has a lot more in store, particularly a BMX track and street hockey courts which is a hit among the locals.<\/p>\n

The Edge Skate Park also has a lively ambiance, often with music and concession stands, making this one of the most fun areas in Allen.<\/p>\n

See the Historical Homes at Allen Heritage Village<\/h2>\n

Just across the area of Allen Station Park lies Allen Heritage Village<\/a>, along St. Mary Drive.<\/p>\n

Allen Heritage Village is an excellent addition during your visit to the city, as this is its historical area where you can learn about the rich past of Allen.<\/p>\n

Best of all, it\u2019s free, with passionate volunteers running it.<\/p>\n

You can see many glimpses of the past as you explore this area, which also acts as an outdoor museum.<\/p>\n

Dating as far back as the mid-1800s, the village is home to several old houses, some of which still have vintage 19th Century farming equipment.<\/p>\n

Pay Allen Heritage Village a visit for its historic beauty.<\/p>\n

See the Wildlife at Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve<\/h2>\n

Allen isn\u2019t only known for its urban culture, as it\u2019s also packed with several natural attractions like the Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve<\/a>.<\/p>\n

This nature preserve is one of the best places to trek and photograph wildlife or observe along the way.<\/p>\n

Spanning 72 acres, it\u2019s a fantastic place if you\u2019re looking for a quick way to enjoy the wildlife and nature of a Texas suburb.<\/p>\n

Beautiful wetlands here make it a popular place for birds, reptiles, and all sorts of rich flora.<\/p>\n

Located along Alma Drive, you won\u2019t have to venture away from the city to go to Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve.<\/p>\n

Go Trekking at the Trail at the Woods<\/h2>\n

Because Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve isn\u2019t vast, you can continue your trek with another nearby nature attraction: The Trail at the Woods<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Just a few blocks southwest of the preserve, the Trail at the Woods features expansive walking trails that require no entrance fee for you to enjoy.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s more human activity in this area compared to Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve, as there are some paved walking trails and information boards.<\/p>\n

This makes the place famous for large families as it\u2019s easy to explore.<\/p>\n

Full of lush woodlands and local flora, don\u2019t miss out on the Trail at the Woods during your visit.<\/p>\n

Check Out Celebration Park<\/h2>\n

Perhaps the most popular place in the entirety of Allen is Celebration Park<\/a>, a recreational space that stays true to its name.<\/p>\n

As one of the biggest public areas in Allen, Celebration Park is home to all sorts of free amenities like soccer fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a splash pad.<\/p>\n

This makes it a go-to place for public events, so stay on the lookout during your visit dates for fun occasions.<\/p>\n

Celebration Park also has a duck pond, picnic areas, and walking trails, allowing you to enjoy its serenity during an early morning visit.<\/p>\n

As a symbol of Allen\u2019s local community, Celebration Park can be found along Angel Parkway.<\/p>\n

Ride a Bike along Cottonwood Creek Trail<\/h2>\n

You can enjoy Cottonwood Creek in many ways, but if you want a more rustic experience, try the Cottonwood Creek Trail<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The trail offers two trailheads, north and south.<\/p>\n

If you want to follow its entire length, the northern section of Cottonwood Creek Trail begins along Starcreek Parkway, just beside its namesake playground.<\/p>\n

The unspoiled environment is best experienced by bringing your bike, as the trail is quite long, spanning around 7.5 miles that reach into several neighborhoods.<\/p>\n

Of course, this attraction’s best feature is Cottonwood Creek, which includes some exciting rock formations along its bank.<\/p>\n

When you get to the southern section of Cottonwood Creek Trail along Cabela Drive, you\u2019ll already be close to Allen Station Park.<\/p>\n

Take Photos of the Historic Allen Old Stone Dam<\/h2>\n

Located within the southern section of Cottonwood Creek Trail, Allen Old Stone Dam<\/a> is your reward for trekking along the creek trail.<\/p>\n

The Allen Old Stone Dam is a haven for history buffs and those looking for a quirky stop during their trip.<\/p>\n

The place is full of historical information boards and vintage aesthetics that immerse you in the history of this water station built in 1874.<\/p>\n

The centerpiece of Allen Old Stone Dam is its bridge suspended over a stone spillway, along with a railroad track that\u2019s been weathered over time.<\/p>\n

As one of the coolest places to explore in the city, Allen Old Stone Dam is a must for the curious adventurer.<\/p>\n

Take the Kids to Watters Creek Village<\/h2>\n

Teeming with all sorts of restaurants and retail stores, Watters Creek Village<\/a> is the premiere shopping center of Allen.<\/p>\n

While its shops and restaurants headline its popularity, Watters Creek Village doubles as a park, offering one of the best play areas for young children.<\/p>\n

They have large open spaces here with several exciting play statues and a picturesque garden, making it one of the best places to spend time with your family.<\/p>\n

The gardens also have large, decorative ponds that become even prettier with the lights at night.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re lucky, Watters Creek Village also has live music performances from time to time in their green spaces to complete the family fun.<\/p>\n

You can find Watters Creek Village along Garden Park Drive.<\/p>\n

See Local Art at Blue House Too<\/h2>\n

Within Watters Creek Village lies an underrated spot that\u2019s a must-visit for art enthusiasts: Blue House Too<\/a>.<\/p>\n

As a non-profit art gallery dedicated to the artists of Allen, Blue House Too offers year-round exhibits from various local artists that are open and free to the public.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s always an exciting exhibit or event at Blue House Too, one of Allen’s most famous art galleries.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re lucky, a free event might happen here during your visit, so look out for announcements on their social media pages.<\/p>\n

Blue House Too is a haven for art discovery; you can find them on floor 1, right along Village Green Drive.<\/p>\n

Go Fishing at Bethany Lakes Park<\/h2>\n

Bethany Lakes Park<\/a> is one of the biggest outdoor areas in Allen, home to four fishing ponds.<\/p>\n

Home to lots of local fish like trout, Bethany Lakes Park is a popular place for all sorts of anglers, including families who want to immerse their children in the hobby.<\/p>\n

Even if you\u2019re not into fishing, the park has many other fun activities, such as wildlife observation; it\u2019s home to birds like geese and herons.<\/p>\n

Bethany Lakes Park is also famous for picnics and walking, full of picnic grounds and nature trails that won\u2019t cost you a single penny.<\/p>\n

You can find this beautiful park along East Bethany Drive.<\/p>\n

Bring Your Dog to Bolin Park<\/h2>\n

Bolin Park<\/a> is located along Twin Creeks Drive.<\/p>\n

It is one of the more underrated city parks in Allen.<\/p>\n

While parks like Allen Station and Celebration Park are often busy, Bolin Park is less crowded, making this one of the best places to have a soothing stroll.<\/p>\n

Best of all, it allows you to walk with your dog, giving your pet a fantastic place to exercise without too much disturbance.<\/p>\n

Tranquility isn\u2019t the only thing Bolin Park is known for, as it offers one of the most pristine waters in Allen.<\/p>\n

These waters are from Rowlett Creek, one of the major creeks found in the city.<\/p>\n

Explore Dayspring Nature Preserve<\/h2>\n

Another nature preserve in Allen is the Dayspring Nature Preserve<\/a>.<\/p>\n

This is an excellent addition to your itinerary because of Watters Creek, another substantial body of water flowing through Allen.<\/p>\n

Because of Watters Creek, Dayspring Nature Preserve is also home to various wildlife and abundant trees, flowers, and shrubbery.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s one of the more well-maintained nature preserves, boasting paved trails that make it an excellent place for biking with friends or family.<\/p>\n

Dayspring Nature Preserve is a small but serene hidden gem in Allen.<\/p>\n

You can visit this beautiful area along Rainforest Lane.<\/p>\n

Other Things to Do Nearby<\/h2>\n

See Lavon Lake<\/h2>\n

\"Sunset<\/p>\n

Pierre Rebollar \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

When visiting Allen, you might want to stop by Lavon Lake<\/a>, as it\u2019s only 26 minutes away from the city by car.<\/p>\n

Lavon Lake is a freshwater reservoir in Texas, located in the eastern portion of Collin County.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s home to various water sports activities, but simply seeing this huge lake for free is an experience.<\/p>\n

\"People<\/p>\n

Trong Nguyen \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

There are several ways to see Lavon Lake.<\/p>\n

One of the best ways to explore the lake is by driving along East Lucas Road, which follows the lake.<\/p>\n

If you want to experience Lavon Lake firsthand, there are many public parks for free along the shores of Princeton and Lucas, the neighboring cities of Allen to the east.<\/p>\n

Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n

Sprawling with city parks and various creeks that add a scenic touch to it, Allen has all sorts of things you can add to your Texas itinerary.<\/p>\n

The exciting part is that most of the best attractions in the city are free, giving you many options for your travel.<\/p>\n

Check out the free things to do in Allen, Texas!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Allen is a large suburb of Dallas, Texas, with many exciting things to do as an addition to your itinerary. Part of Collin County, Allen has a large population, making it a haven for city attractions. Many of the most popular attractions in Allen are free to visit, which makes this one of the best […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":108671,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[1529,1312,856,2359,1200,1160,1347,45],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108666"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=108666"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108666\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":108670,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108666\/revisions\/108670"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/108671"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=108666"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=108666"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=108666"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}