Watters Creek is an upscale outdoor shopping and lifestyle center in Allen, at the intersection of I-75 and Bethany Drive, and is one of our favorite places to hang out as a family! I’ve also been known to sneak over there on my own for a little solo retail therapy. The shopping at Watters Creek is fantastic, and our family especially enjoys the outdoor patio dining options, kids’ play area and local events. Watters Creek is such a fun and family-friendly place to spend the day. Wondering what to do at Watters Creek? Read on!
Shopping at Watters Creek
The shops at Watters Creek hit all my mom-fashion sweet spots. Just a few favorites include Anthropologie, Kendra Scott, Altar’d State, DSW, and Birds & Words, the sweetest home decor shop you ever did see, and so many more! Because the shopping center is outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities for quick pit stops at Pacugio, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt and more treats; therefore, my kids handle store hopping here better than anywhere else.
MOM TIP: For a day at Watters Creek, I always try to get the real reason we’re there— shopping—done first, using the promise of an ice cream and playing at the treehouse as an after-shopping reward for well-behaved children. (Hey, I’m not above the occasional bribe.)
Kid-Friendly Spaces at Watters Creek
And that brings us to another exciting element of Watters Creek: PLAY! My kids love playing on the large turfed area of The Green. The Green features several sculptures kids like to climb on and interact with, a babbling brook full of ducks and ducklings, and plenty of open space to run and play. But the ultimate draw is The Treehouse. Recently reopened, The Treehouse is a giant play area built into and through the trees, complete with multiple levels, bridges, and a zippy slide. My kids could spend hours here! It’s a unique concept that I haven’t seen elsewhere in surrounding areas.
Dining at Watters Creek
Patio dining is where it’s at at Watters Creek! Almost every restaurant in the center has an outdoor patio, with several overlooking The Green and other scenic areas. We love eating crepes on the deck at Frogg Coffee Bar & Creperie, scarfing pizza on the patio at Grimaldi’s, and enjoying chips and salsa while the kids play just off the patio at Mi Cocina. Other fantastic dining options include Village Burger Bar, Edith’s French Bistro, The Blue Fish, and many more.
Events at Watters Creek
Events are back at Watters Creek! From local artisan festivals to live music on The Green, there is always something going on at Watters Creek. You can drop in to a free yoga or Pure Barre class on The Green for Wellness Wednesday. In the mood for live music? This summer, Watters Creek is hosting Creekside Live, weekly outdoor live concerts on The Green every Friday evening. Grab your picnic blanket and a to-go order from your favorite Watters Creek restaurant and enjoy an evening of family-friendly music and fun!
Watters Creek’s FREE Kids Club To-Go Boxes
On the third Thursday and Friday of the month, swing by the Concierge+ Lounge at Watters Creek to pick up your free kids’ activity boxes! These Kids Club To-Go boxes include themed craft materials and a goodie or toy your little ones will enjoy, and are geared toward kids ages two to six.
Watters Creek in Allen really is a one-stop destination that everyone in the family will enjoy. We find ourselves there at least a few times a month, and I know you’ll enjoy it as much as we do!
