Allen, Texas, is a fast-growing town just north of Dallas. With nearly 80,000 residents, and growing, Allen existing and soon-to-come attractions make it a nice spot to visit.
Historically, Allen has been a community since before the 1840s. Incorporated by the Houston and Texas Central Railroad in 1872, it was the site of Texas’s first train robbery just six years later, when Sam Bass and accomplices held it up. Since then, the city has only seen steady and considerable growth, a trend which continues through today.
Evidence of this amazing growth is the just-completed, 7500-seat Allen Event Center. Inaugurated on November 4th with a special performance by Reba McEntire, it is the home to the Central Hockey League’s newest franchise, the Allen Americans. The Center features two full-sized ice rinks, and will host concerts, trade shows, festivals, and community ceremonies, in addition to professional sporting events.
Another special attraction for Allenites and visitors is the Chase Oaks Gulf Club, located just south of Allen city limits. Residents get discounted fees at this 27-hole championship golf course, making it a public golf course with country club amenities. Beautifully laid out with trees, creeks, lakes, and hills, it’s definitely an important stop for the golf enthusiast.
To see the best of Allen’s historical offerings, the Allen Heritage Guild, in cooperation with the City of Allen, the Parks and Recreation Department, and the Texas Historical Commission, has designed a 15-stop historical driving tour of the town. It includes sites such as the Allen Cemetery, the Old Stone Dam, and even the earliest homesteads and businesses of the area.
For young people and families looking to burn excess energy, The Edge @ AllenStation Park is a must-see. It is the largest outdoor facility of its kind, featuring an immense concrete skate park (with every prop imaginable for doing your best tricks), two roller-hockey rinks, a large BMX track, and even a visitor/youth center with a media room, game room, and computer lab. A year-long membership for non-residents is $20 – but even for a day’s visit, is well worth the entry price.
Despite its relatively small size, Allen has over 700 acres of parks – and over 40 miles of paved hike and bike, scenic park trails. The city is currently working with nearby municipalities to connect their trail systems and create even more options for the outdoor enthusiast.
Finally, Allen also caters to specialty shoppers. At Allen Premium Outlets, you’ll find mid- and high-end boutiques from Banana Republic, Nike, J. Crew, and Ann Taylor, to Coach, Calvin Klein, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors – among many others. Combined with delicious café and restaurant options, you’ll want to plan on spending a full day here. If traveling with a large group (15 or more), book online to receive a free VIP coupon book.
Where to stay in Allen? There are many five-star hotels in Dallas, just 8-10 miles away, but if you want to stay in Allen itself, there are several fine options, including the Hilton Garden Inn, the Hampton Suites, and La Quinta Inn and Suites, with prices ranging from $100-125 per night.
Be careful if you travel to Allen – you may just find yourself wanting to stick around! Read all about Allen apartments.
