Plano, Texas, isn’t just a city – it’s a destination packed with possibilities for hosting exceptional meetings and events. A group of meeting planners recently had the opportunity to explore the heart of Plano on a memorable familiarization (FAM) trip. From touring Plano’s convention hotels to indulging in the city’s vibrant culinary scene, the tour showcased why Plano stands out as a premier choice for gatherings of all sizes.
With its seamless blend of modern amenities and Texas charm, Plano left a lasting impression. Planners experienced firsthand the convenience of centrally located venues, the allure of unique local attractions, and the warm hospitality that defines the city. Whether it was tasting the diverse offerings at top-notch restaurants, marveling at spacious event spaces, or soaking in the vibrant culture, this FAM trip provided a comprehensive glimpse into why Plano is the ultimate destination for unforgettable events.
Let’s dive into the highlights of the trip and uncover what makes Plano a hidden gem in the world of meetings and events.
DAY 1 – Half Day
Getting to Plano
Plano is conveniently located near both Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field Airport and is within a 30-minute drive to most major attractions, sporting, adventure and entertainment venues throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Travelers also have easy access to DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit). With three (soon to be four) train stations in Plano, DART provides access to 12 different cities in the DFW Metroplex, as well as to and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.
Hotel check-in
Over the course of the combined two full day FAM, Visit Plano arranged for planners to tour Plano’s three full-service conference hotels; for other FAMS, Visit Plano is happy to arrange site visits with other Plano hotels of interest that suit your event needs. With this particular FAM group, Visit Plano was able to secure rooms for all planners at the Hilton Granite Park the first night and for the second night, the group split into two groups staying at the Marriott at Legacy Town Center and the Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West.
Dinner at Legacy Hall
Located in the heart of Plano’s bustling Legacy West district, Legacy Hall is a dynamic three-story food hall, beer garden, and live entertainment venue that has become a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. Known for its unique blend of culinary diversity and vibrant atmosphere, Legacy Hall is more than just a dining spot – it’s an experience.
Home to over 20 artisanal food stalls, Legacy Hall offers an eclectic mix of cuisines, ranging from gourmet burgers and international street food to fresh seafood and decadent desserts. Each eatery is carefully curated, showcasing local chefs and innovative menus that cater to every palate. On the first floor, guests can explore this culinary variety, while the second floor houses dedicated bar areas and a more intimate dining space.
At the heart of Legacy Hall’s appeal is its lively beer garden, a spacious outdoor area perfect for enjoying craft brews, cocktails, and live performances. The Box Garden, a popular feature of Legacy Hall, serves as a stage for concerts, movie nights, and community events, creating a dynamic hub for entertainment in Plano.
Legacy Hall captures the spirit of Plano with its innovative offerings, buzzing atmosphere, and commitment to quality. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s where Plano comes together to celebrate food, fun, and community.
Day 2 – Full Day
Breakfast & Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park Tour
Situated in Plano’s prestigious Granite Park development featuring The Boardwalk, the full-service 299-room Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park conference hotel features a 30,000 square foot conference center with two ballrooms, an Executive Lounge, 24-hour fitness center, resort-style outdoor swimming pool, fresh market, Prairie Fire bar, and Carso restaurant.
Lunch & Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Tour
Experience West of Zen hospitality at the Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel. Anchoring the south end of Legacy West, the Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel is the place to find what you crave. In addition to its premier location, the Renaissance offers a decadent, unique experience enhanced by a generous, hospitality-oriented staff. Upon arrival, guests are fully immersed in the hotel’s West of Zen culture. Gorgeous artifacts are hidden away in every public corner, and the menus for both beverage + food offer a bold take on Asian Fusion. The 15 story, 304-room hotel has more than 35,000 square feet of conference and meeting space. Special features include a high energy lobby and bar, an onsite Asian fusion restaurant, a third floor amenity deck with a pool and cabanas, a bar concierge lounge, fitness center and outdoor event space.
Plano Event Center Tour
The City of Plano’s convention facility, Plano Event Center, is an 86,400 square foot venue providing flexible function space accommodating as many as 5,000 people. The exhibition hall offers 21,600 square feet of column-free, completely carpeted space, a professional master stage, and high dock and street level move-in access. There are also 14 additional breakout rooms available. Amenities include on-site catering and audio-visual teams, free parking, and free public Wi-Fi.
Plano Event Center is currently undergoing a $3.2 million courtyard renovation to significantly expand upon programmable and rentable spaces for outdoor events. The new features will provide extensive shaded areas and expanded hardscape to accommodate receptions, impromptu meeting spaces and live entertainment. The renovation is expected to be in January 2025.
Downtown Plano Dinner Experience
Named one of the top 10 best downtowns in America by Livability.com, downtown Plano offers a charming setting for a simple stroll, an afternoon of shopping, or an evening’s entertainment. Walk along authentic brick streets to discover an eclectic collection of antique shops and boutiques selling everything from handmade jewelry to home décor to pottery. Or catch a show at McCall Plaza, the Courtyard Theater, or the Cox Building Playhouse, and see the artists in residence; and experience the Interurban Railway Museum, a railroad car turned urban museum offering a microcosm of North Texas railroad history right in Haggard Park.
Downtown Plano offers the perfect setting for a group dining experience at a unique-to-Plano restaurant. From Austrian and Italian to buffalo burgers and Texas barbecue, there’s a little something for everyone. For this particular FAM, Visit Plano arranged for a private dining experience at The Rooftop with catering from three exclusive downtown Plano restaurants – Urban Crust, Urban Rio, and Urban Seafood.
Fowl-On at Fowling Warehouse
Enjoy a post-dinner activity at nearby Fowling Warehouse. Fowling is a unique and entertaining game that merges football with bowling and is perfect for small or large groups. It’s as easy as throwing a football at ten bowling pins until someone knocks them all down. Fowling Warehouse’s Plano location near the Downtown Plano Arts District is the first in the south, their largest venue, and the first venue with full food & beverage options.
Day 3 – Half Day
Brunch & Dallas/Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center Tour
The Marriott at Legacy Town Center, surrounded by scenic parks and water features, is a picturesque, upscale and full-service property located at the Shops at Legacy East and is within walking distance to upscale shopping, fine dining and entertainment. Complete with 404 guest rooms and 35,000 square feet of banquet/meeting space, the luxury hotel serves corporate travelers and provides an exquisite setting for conferences, events, and meetings of all sizes. Amenities include a beautiful outdoor heated pool and whirlpool, a full-service Starbucks, a signature restaurant, and a fitness center.
Let the itinerary above be a sample of what you could expect on your own Plano FAM. Contact us if you are interested in exploring what Plano has to offer for your upcoming meeting or conference.
