Plan To See

ArtCentre in Plano
A "home for the arts" in Plano, this recently renovated historic downtown building offers something for everyone. Catch a play or enjoy a vocal performance in the ArtCentre Theatre, where the Plano Repertory is permanently housed. Or browse through the art galleries for displays of local artists as well as national shows. For more information, call: (972) 423-7809.

The Interurban Railway Station Museum
Plano transportation history is brought back to life with this interesting exhibit. Once a vital part of the Texas Electric Railway that stretched from Denison to Waco, the interurban is one of the original electric cars that ran on the tracks through Plano. Open Saturdays from 1-5 p.m.. For more information, call: (972) 941-7250.

Interurban Museum

JC Penney Museum
Discover the story of America's national department store. Throughout your visit, you will encounter the enduring influence of founder James Cash Penney. For nearly 70 years. the son of an American frontier guided the company by personal leadership and example. Quotations from his many speeches and books introduce each major display and illustrate the continuing power of his vision. FREE Admission. For more information, call: (972) 431-TOUR (8687).

Southfork Ranch
Your tour at Southfork will take you up close and personal with the most infamous Texas ranchers of them all- the Ewings! While longhorns and horses graze in the background, you can tour the "Ewing" Mansion and grounds made famous by J.R. and the clan. Eat a bite at Miss Ellie's Deli and take home some designer western wear or collectibles from the unique gift shops. Admission: $8.95 for adults, $7.50 ages 55+, $6.50 ages 4-12. Group rates available. For more information, call: (800) 989-7800, or (972) 442-7800.

Heritage Farmstead
Step back in time for a visit to a 19th century farmhouse. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 1891 Victorian homestead features gardens, farm animals and antique farm equipment. The Country Store offers handmade crafts and gifts. Open Tues- Fri, 9-3, Self guided tours during those hours cost $2 for adults, free for kids. Tours are conducted by a docent Tues-Wed at 10, and Thurs-Fri at 10 and 12. The guided tours cost $3.50 for adults and $2.50 for children and seniors. Group rates are available . For more information, call: (972) 424-7874.

Tour of Historic Plano
Visit more than a dozen restored historic homes. the Interurban Museum and the charming downtown area with its brick streets and unique shops. Most of the properties designated as local historic landmarks are located within walking distance of the downtown area. For more information, call: (972) 941-7250.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is a 289-acre outdoor preserve and nature museum. Guests encounter various ecosystems along with species of birds, insects, and animals that have found refuge within the rapidly developing Collin County area. The museum features: The Living Lab, an interactive hands-on science laboratory; Venomous Snakes of Texas exhibit; and rotating nature art exhibits. The Heard is open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. and closed Mondays. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for ages 3-12 and 60+. Open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Group discounts and education tours available. Located one mile east of Highway 5 South on FM 1378 in McKinney. The Heard Nature Stores are located at the Museum and The Shops at Willow Bend. For more information, call (972) 562-5566 or visit www.heardmuseum.org.

The Community Credit Union Plano Balloon Festival
The Community Credit Union Plano Balloon Festival, a spectacular three-day event will provide spectators an action packed weekend. This week-end event offers something for everyone; a unique arts, crafts, and gift show, entertainment on the KVIL Field Stage, Saturday evening Fireworks, special kids activities, and of course the Spectacular Hot Air Balloons. The balloons will launch Friday at 6:00pm, Saturday at 7:00am and 6:00pm, and Sunday at 7:00am (weather permitting). This event is organized and designed to provide Entertainment for the entire family. Young and old have much in common when they are enjoying the colorful balloons that will fill the skies over Plano. For more information, visit www.planoballoonfest.org/index.html.