Being born and raised in the area, I have discovered the best of it all. I wanted to make it easy for anyone new or old to Collin County to have a great resource of information for all your families needs. So below are a list of my personal Collin County Favorites.
Go-To Grocery Store :: Natural Grocers
There are times Costco is great and there are times when just the thought of pulling your three year old off the giant stuffed bear for the one millionth time gives you a migraine. For the times when you just need a break, I HIGHLY recommend you give Natural Grocers a go. They are a great alternative to the large chain stores.
The store is small, think Trader Joes meets Kim Kardashians walk in closet. But don’t let that fool you, they carry everything you need to stock your kitchen with delicious and healthy food. My favorite part is letting my son pick his own snacks because they are all healthy!
You don’t have to worry about the fruit loop meltdown on isle 14 here. The produce is always seasonal and fresh and the meat is as good as it gets. Just make sure to bring your reusable bags because similar to our beloved Costco they will pack your groceries in recycled boxes.
Go-To Pediatrician :: Shine Pediatrics and Wellness Center
When your little is sick I don’t think anything hurts more. As a mom all we want is to keep our babies happy and healthy. Unfortunately life happens and so do colds, viruses, bumps and bruises. We discovered Shine Pediatrics when my son was about 3 months old after pedi hopping with no luck.
From our first visit with their NP Christie Potter I knew we had found our spot. They have a more holistic approach and truly care about their patients. We have seen almost all of their Doctors and they are all truly wonderful. One of the hardest things you experience as a mother is finding someone that cares about your child’s well being as much as you do and at Shine that’s what you will find. They have a location in Richardson as well as Frisco. Recently they also hired a Doctor for adults as well which is so convenient!
Go-To Family Dentist :: Cantrell Family Dentistry
Cantrell Family Dentistry is located in the heart of Wylie. They are a husband and wife team taking care of both adults and children. Going to the dentist with two kids can be a beating, so if you can get the whole family taken care of in one day it’s a definite plus.
The entire staff is great and the office is very nice and clean. There is an adorable play area for the kids equipped with game stations, movies, and toys galore. Right next to that is a very comfortable adult waiting area always stocked with delicious coffee and tea’s. My son had some pretty extensive work done so when I say we have tested all aspects of this place I mean it! Dr. Sarah is so sweet and gentle your kiddos will be at total ease. I really can’t say enough about how happy we are to have found this fantastic office!
Go-To Family Friendly Restaurant :: The String Bean
The String Bean has become our go to spot (aka only restaurant I will eat at with both children) for great home cooking. If someone told you there was a place where parents can go enjoy food while it’s still hot, have an actual conversation about adult things ALL while your kids are fully entertain in a pretty awesome play area how could you say no?!
Move over McDonald’s because I can assure you that once you try The String Bean you will have a much better option than the dreaded Golden Arches. The chicken fried steak is delicious, even my extremely picky three year old stuffed himself. Top it off with a slice of coconut cream pie and I can almost guarantee your kids will be so busy playing they won’t even ask for half.
Go-To Family Activity :: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Adulting is hard, if you are anything like me you muddle through the week just waiting for the weekend. When Saturday finally gets here the first thing my son asks when he wakes up is “what fun thing are we doing today?!”. Our favorite spot is The Heard Museum in McKinney. From beautiful hiking trails to live action dinosaurs, this place really has it all! There is the cutest play village and even a butterfly garden. Your little explorer will go crazy with both the indoor and outdoor activities.
Go-To Date Night :: Angelika Film Center Plano
When date night rolls around (less often with two kids now) I like to find something outside of the norm to do. My husband and I originally discovered The Angelika Film Center at its Dallas location but have recently found its Plano location to be just as perfect. Sit back, enjoy an indie flick, grab some food and cocktails and enjoy the night! The seats are comfy and the atmosphere is always great. This theatre tends to be much more relaxed than your average chain theatre which is just what date night calls for. When the movie is over you can explore The Shops at Legacy and maybe talk your better half into getting you some new shoes! Perfect end to date night, am I right?!
I hope this guide is helpful for you and your family! If you happen to try any of my suggestions I would love to hear about your experiences!
