Parks
73 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Big Lake Park1.5 mi from downtown
- Clearview Park0.3 mi from downtown
- Shawnee Park0.8 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Plano
5 kinds of free outings in and around Plano.
Good days out in Plano don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Plano Public Library System2501 Coit Rd
- Gladys Harrington Library1501 18Th St
- Ler Schimelpfenig Library5024 Custer Rd
Historic places
5 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Heritage Farmstead MuseumBuilt 1986
- Plano Station, Texas Electric Railway
- Plano Downtown Historic District
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Lavon Lake12 mi east
- Lewisville Lake18 mi west
- Hickory Creek (TX)20 mi west
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Lavon Lake12 mi east
- Lewisville Lake18 mi west
- Grapevine Lake21 mi west
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
How to spend the ultimate weekend in Plano, TX @MyCurlyAdventures
A local activity Short shared by Visit Plano.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
The Boardwalk Granite Park in Plano, TX
A local activity Short shared by Mariasjsanchez.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Plano?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Plano this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.