Allen, Texas
Things To Do in Allen, Texas
Allen punches well above its weight when it comes to entertainment, recreation, and quality-of-life amenities — the local's guide to what makes this city genuinely fun.
Shopping
Allen Premium Outlets & Watters Creek
Allen Premium Outlets
Spanning nearly 900,000 square feet, it's one of the largest premium outlet centers in Texas. Anchored by Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Restoration Hardware, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, J.Crew, and dozens more luxury brands. The center's outdoor layout, thoughtful landscaping, and generally high standard of maintenance make it a pleasant experience beyond just the shopping itself.
Watters Creek
Allen's most unique retail and dining destination — a walkable mixed-use development with boutique retail, restaurants, a movie theater, and green space along a scenic creek corridor. Sixty Vines, Snappy Salads, and a dozen other dining options make this a genuine community hub. Residents can walk or bike here for dinner and entertainment without ever touching a car.
Entertainment
Things To Do in Allen
Topgolf Allen
One of Allen's premier entertainment destinations. Multi-level driving range with auto-tracking tech, full bar and restaurant, great for corporate outings, date nights, and group gatherings. Reservations strongly recommended on weekends. One of the busiest Topgolf locations in DFW.
Andretti Indoor Karting
One of the best entertainment venues in north DFW. Multi-level go-kart tracks, arcade, bowling, laser tag, and dining under one enormous roof. Perfect for birthday parties, family outings, and corporate events. The kind of place kids ask to go back to every week.
Allen Americans Hockey
Allen is home to the Allen Americans, an ECHL professional hockey team playing at the 7,000-seat Allen Event Center. Games are affordable, accessible, and genuinely fun — the kind of live sports experience that becomes a family tradition. The Allen Event Center also hosts concerts and major events throughout the year.
Stars Center
The Stars Center is the official practice facility of the Dallas Stars NHL team and a world-class hockey complex open to the public. Public skating sessions are available regularly, youth hockey programs are extensive, and the facility's quality is top-notch. It's a real source of community pride that Allen has an NHL-caliber practice facility as a public amenity.
Celebration Park
Allen's crown jewel park — a massive multi-sport complex with athletic fields, playgrounds, aquatic facilities, and event space. The city's investment in Celebration Park reflects Allen's broader commitment to parks and quality of life. Summer programs, youth leagues, and community events fill the calendar year-round.
Allen Community Ice Rink
One of the best public ice facilities in north DFW. Year-round skating, hockey leagues, figure skating programs, and learn-to-skate classes. A genuine community institution that draws families from across Collin County. The rink is home ice to both Allen Americans practice sessions and multiple youth hockey associations.
Twin Creeks Golf Club
An 18-hole championship course woven through the Twin Creeks neighborhood. Open to the public, the course offers a quality playing experience with the added appeal of playing through one of Allen's most beautiful master-planned communities. Corporate memberships and event packages available.
Parks & Outdoors
1,000+ Acres of Parks & Trails
Allen's parks system is one of the city's most underappreciated assets. From creek trail networks to sports complexes, there's always something to do outside.
Cottonwood Creek Trail
A multi-mile trail system following Cottonwood Creek through central Allen. Connected greenway for cyclists, joggers, and dog walkers. The backbone of Allen's pedestrian trail network.
Molsen Farm Park
A beautifully preserved natural area in north Allen with walking trails, wetlands, and mature trees. A quiet respite from suburban development — perfect for nature walks and wildlife watching.
Allen USA Celebration
One of the largest July 4th celebrations in Collin County, drawing families from across the region. Live music, fireworks, food, and community spirit on a scale that reflects Allen's genuine civic pride.
Lights at Celebration Park
A beloved holiday lights display that draws families from across the region each December. One of Allen's most popular seasonal traditions, transforming Celebration Park into a festive destination for the holiday season.
Allen Running Events
Multiple organized runs throughout the year using Allen's trail and park system. From 5Ks to longer distances, Allen's running events draw participants from across Collin County and celebrate the city's excellent outdoor infrastructure.
Allen Arts & Crafts Festival
Annual community arts festival featuring local and regional artisans. A showcase of the creative community in Allen and surrounding Collin County, with a family-friendly atmosphere and a wide range of handmade goods.