Region: Prairies and Lakes
Settled in 1845 and incorporated in 1848, McKinney is the seat of Collin
County. The city and county are named for Collin McKinney, a signer of the Texas
Declaration of Independence and leader in the establishment of the Disciples of
Christ (Christian Church) in Texas.
McKinney's historic downtown square has more than 100 businesses, including
antiques, clothing shops, art galleries, restaurants and more. The centerpiece
of the square is the historic courthouse, built in 1874, which was renovated and
reopened in 2006 to house the McKinney Performing Arts Center. www.downtownmckinney.com.
Shoppers can find more than 900 vendors selling antiques, arts and crafts,
and more at Third Monday Trade Days on the weekend before the third Monday of
the month. U.S. 380 two miles west of U.S. 75. www.tmtd.com.