Rainy days don’t have to put a damper on your trip! McKinney, TX, offers a variety of indoor activities perfect for families, art lovers, music enthusiasts and those looking for a fun night out. Whether you’re entertaining kids, seeking cultural experiences or wanting to unwind with live music and drinks, McKinney offers plenty of things to do indoors.
Let the Kids Play & Explore Indoors
If you're looking for things to do on a rainy day with the kiddos, McKinney has several fantastic spots.
Play Street Museum provides a hands-on, interactive play area that encourages creativity and imagination, allowing young kids to explore miniature town replicas, build structures and engage in sensory activities. Meanwhile, Urban Air Adventure Park is a high-energy indoor trampoline and adventure park with obstacle courses, climbing walls and more to keep kids of all ages active, no matter the weather.
Step into McKinney’s Rich History
If you love history, McKinney’s museums and historical attractions provide an enriching way to spend a rainy day.
Check out Heard-Craig Center for the Arts, a historic venue offering art exhibits, guided tours and cultural programs. You’ll also want to add to your list the Collin County History Museum, located near the historic downtown square. This museum provides a deep dive into the region’s past with engaging exhibits, artifacts and interactive displays that showcase the evolution of McKinney and its surrounding areas.
Immerse Yourself in Art Scene
For those who love visual arts, McKinney's gallery scene is just as exciting.
Located in the heart of downtown, McKinney Art Gallery brings a fresh perspective to the local arts scene with rotating exhibits and a vibrant selection of work from regional artists.
Over at the Cotton Mill Arts & Design District, the creative community is thriving. MillHouse McKinney provides a membership-based collaborative workspace for women creatives, regularly hosting exhibitions and events that highlight the diversity and talent of its members. Also located at the Cotton Mill is LX Artworks Gallery, the studio and gallery that houses the work of artist Lindsay Ekstrom. While at the Mill, grab a cup of craft coffee at White Box Roastery, which prioritizes sustainability and craftsmanship.
Beyond the Cotton Mill, other standout galleries continue to shape McKinney’s vibrant art landscape. The Cove serves as a collaborative space where artists present unique works and interactive exhibits. There's also the Last Art Gallery, which features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and mixed-media pieces by talented artists.
Rainy Day & Night Activities for Adults
McKinney offers a vibrant mix of bars, craft breweries and entertainment venues that provide the perfect way for adults to enjoy a rainy day—and keep the fun going into the night.
Live Entertainment & Comedy
For a night filled with laughter, the Comedy Arena is a top choice, featuring stand-up acts and high-energy improv shows that keep audiences entertained. If you prefer live performances and cultural events, head to the McKinney Performing Arts Center, where concerts, theatrical productions and special events take center stage.
Bars, Breweries & Live Music
For a nostalgic gaming experience, Arcade 92 blends retro arcade classics with modern gaming, making it a fun spot for both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts. Looking for something more interactive? Try your hand at axe throwing at The Horses' Axe, where you can test your skills in a thrilling, competitive setting.
If a laid-back evening with great drinks is more your style, The Pub McKinney offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with an excellent drink selection. For a taste of Ireland, Celt Irish Pub delivers an authentic pub experience complete with live music, hearty food and a fantastic selection of beers and whiskeys.
Downtown McKinney is a haven for wine lovers, with four unique wine bars—Landon Winery, Baron's Creek Vineyards, 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery, and Lone Star Winery—each offering their own blend of tastings, live music, and inviting ambiance.
Throughout downtown and surrounding areas, talented musicians, cover bands and up-and-coming artists perform at various restaurants, wineries and venues, adding a lively soundtrack to the city’s nightlife.
Shop, Dine & Explore McKinney’s Districts
Beyond specific attractions, McKinney’s districts offer a variety of indoor shopping and dining experiences.
Adriatica Village is a charming European-inspired village with boutique shops, cozy cafes and dining options. The Historic Downtown McKinney Cultural District is a hub of artistic and cultural experiences, featuring galleries, performances and creative spaces. Hub 121 and District 121 are modern entertainment districts with a mix of restaurants, breweries and shopping experiences.
Don’t Let the Rain Stop You—Enjoy McKinney Indoors
McKinney, TX, has countless activities to keep you entertained on a rainy day. Whether you’re exploring a new museum, catching a live show or enjoying a glass of wine, there’s always something exciting waiting for you here.
