Most of the Dallas Metroplex including Plano seems to be a sprawl of new suburbs and housing developments without much personality, so I was surprised to find the downtown of Plano to still retain its historic character and architecture. Many of the buildings appear to date back to the 1880s. We were here to enjoy some excellent BBQ at the Lockhart Smokehouse.

My hotel was located in Plano, and I decided to check out more of this municipality. There was free three (3)-hour parking on the streets, and I browsed throughout the downtown by foot. It was a very pretty and laidback downtown area with many nice lofts, restaurants, and shops. I felt very safe.

This is a brand new suburb which grew up rapidly. Most of the city is sparkling and new, so it was a pleasure to find this vestige of old Texas. It's the original center of town and has a lot of charm, some shopping and eating. Take a little stroll.

Around Dallas area there are not too much of these kind of downtowns. It is not so wide but for few hours you will spend well here.

Plano was first settled in the 1840's, with downtown taking shape by 1852 and then incorporating in 1873, the historic district along sections of 15th street still gives it a nice old time feel. There is Haggard's Park, a railroad museum, shops, McCall's plaza for music and events along with a host of cool bars and restaurants in this area. We enjoyed the unique architecture of the historic buildings, had a great lunch at the old school Fillmore Pub and easily found parking. Would like to visit again. It's a shame they don't have a historic inn or hotel in the downtown area.