Looking for a new outdoor activity? Check out these Allen-area activities for some summer fun. This list is not comprehensive.
1. Pickleball courts at Armor Brewing
Pickleball paddles and balls are available for use, and users must sign a waiver before playing. Armor Brewing offers a 24-tap selection of beers, custom cocktails, and whiskey and bourbon options, according to its website.
- Cost: $20 per hour
- Hours: 3-10 p.m. Mon.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tues.-Thurs., Sun.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.
- 9 Prestige Circle, Allen
- www.armorbeer.com
2. Fishing at Bethany Lakes ParkBethany Lakes Park has several ponds where visitors can fish from the shoreline. Individuals over age 17 must have a valid Texas fishing license, per the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
3. Splash pad at Celebration ParkThe splash pad at Celebration Park offers interactive water features to help visitors cool off during the summer. The park also includes playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas and walking trails.
4. Disc golf at Bethany Lakes ParkThe nine-hole disc golf course is open to beginners and experienced players. The course includes several water challenges and a 200-foot tunnel. Individuals should bring their own discs.
5. Skateboard at The EdgeIndividuals can ride skateboards, scooters, roller skates or BMX bikes at one of the largest skate parks in Texas. The park is open to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Helmets are recommended.
6. Pickleball at Chicken N PickleChicken N Pickle in Allen has covered outdoor pickleball courts guests can rent for 30 minutes to two hours. Guests can also play shuffleboard, cornhole and ping pong. Chicken N Pickle offers a variety of menu items including pulled-pork sandwiches, salads, fries and more.
- Cost: prices vary
- Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Wed., Sun.; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Thurs.; 7 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat.
- 1221 Johnson Road, Allen
- www.chickennpickle.com
7. Play golf at The Golf Club at Twin CreeksThe golf course, which is available for players of every age and skill level, features five lakes and two natural creeks. Individuals can book a tee time for the first nine holes or all 18. The Golf Club at Twin Creeks also has a restaurant.
8. Walk Allen’s trail systemThe city of Allen has more than 100 miles of trails for walking, running and biking. Trails range in length from under 1 mile to over 5 miles. Individuals can find trailhead locations and maps on the city’s website.
9. Go swimming at Ford PoolIndividuals can swim laps, enjoy a 20-foot water slide or rest under a cabana at Ford Pool. The facility also offers bathrooms with showers and pavilions that are available for rent. The pool is open daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend and on weekends during the school year.
- Cost: free (with membership), $3 (Allen resident), $5 (non-resident)
- Hours: 1-6 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., Sun.; 1-7 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat.
- 724 Whitman Drive, Allen
- www.tinyurl.com/ea3a99j9
10. Play with your pup at the Bark YardThe dog park includes dedicated spaces for large and small dogs, drinking fountains, shaded areas, agility features and restrooms. Visitors should follow all dog park rules and pay attention to signage for large and small dog areas.
- Cost: free (admission)
- Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Thurs.-Tues., closed for maintenance on Wednesdays
- 510 S. Jupiter Road, Allen
- www.tinyurl.com/3eu3jmwb
11. Play outdoor hockey at The EdgeThe Edge at Allen Station Park has two full-size outdoor hockey rinks where children and adults can play. Helmets and other protective gear are recommended. Individuals should review park rules before visiting.
12. Visit the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife SanctuaryLocated on 289 acres in southeast McKinney, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary has a native Texas butterfly garden, several outdoor trails and an indoor exhibit and gift shop. Free public parking is available. Admission is free for guests with a membership.
- Cost: $16 (adults), $12 (children), $14 (seniors), free (children under 2)
- Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues.-Sat., 1-4 p.m. Sun., closed Mondays
- 1 Nature Place, McKinney
- www.heardmuseum.org
