Frisco may not be as hip as Austin or as charming as the New England town of my dreams, but I do love it for all of the many gems it has to offer. Coffee houses, local eateries, boutique shops, and a variety of entertainment options—Frisco has everything you need. Which is why, to celebrate this great city I’ve called home since 2017, I wanted to put together a running list of my most frequented hotspots. You’ll find them organized by category below for easy browsing.

Frisco is always growing and changing, which is one of the things I appreciate most about it. And it’s not small! There are a ton of areas we have yet to explore, so this post will be a work in progress for as long as we live here. To be as thorough as possible, I’ve also included several businesses in the neighboring suburbs—within reason (no more than 20 miles driving distance)—that have won me over and are unique enough to keep me going back for more. Let’s dive in!

BEAUTY + WELLNESS

Abstra(kt) Studio — The only salon I will be going to from now on, both for cut and color. It’s been eight years since I’ve dyed my hair, so it was time for a change; I went in hoping to add a bit of honey blonde to my mousy brown locks, and the end result looks so natural, like the sun-kissed glow I was envisioning! Ask for Brian. You won’t regret it.

Frisco Athletic Center — Sure, it’s no Lifetime Fitness, but as far as gyms go, it gets the job done (without costing an arm and a leg). We only pay $70 a month for the family membership, and we’re here at least three times a week; I can be found either walking on the treadmill with a book in my hands or knocking out one of my EvolveYou strength training workouts near the free weights. The kids love the Play Depot, which is a huge relief, because it allows me to exercise kid-free. Oh, the luxury! In the summertime, we also take advantage of their incredible water park without paying a cent extra.

Grounded Wellness — Recommended to me by my sister-in-law, this holistic chiropractic suite geared towards mothers and children offers the most relaxing chiropractic care I’ve ever received. (I used to work for a chiropractor in town, and I’ve seen several different ones in town—so this is saying something.) Dr. Christina worked on Ayla and me for a 6-week stint, and we both looked forward to our weekly session. She makes you feel comfortable as soon as you step in the door, and she finishes off every adjustment with a spearmint-scented neck massage. The clinic also houses a holistic esthetician and is cute to boot.

Nails & Lash Room (McKinney) — If you’re looking for a quaint and modern nail salon that doesn’t reek of chemicals, this is it. I took my girlfriends to get pedicures here during our Trio Weekend last year, and the service was excellent. If I was a routine nail salon girl, Nails & Lash Room would be my go-to.

Natural Focus Dental — Dr. Wang has been our family dentist since Jude was born in 2019. When we brought him home from the hospital, he struggled to latch and was not eating as a result. I think it was our pediatrician who referred us to Natural Focus (called Molar Bear at the time) for their holistic approach to oral health. No one just loves going to the dentist, let’s be real, but the entire team here is so accommodating and always puts our minds at ease. Most importantly, Jude and Ayla don’t dread their teeth cleanings, and every appointment has been a pleasant experience for all four of us.

North Texas Healing Center —One of the few practices in the area that offer lymphatic drainage massage. Cristi Paton’s hands are healing! I can’t speak to their other services, but I have met Dr. Brian (the owner and head practitioner) in passing, and he’s a delight.

Our Well House — Dr. Courtney Kahla has essentially created a thriving wellness community in Downtown Frisco, and it all started with the opening of her chiropractic practice. It’s a one-stop shop for massages, fascial care, nutritional therapy, adjustments, and more. (Pelvic physical therapy was what actually drew me to OWH after Ayla’s birth.) They even host an annual Fall Festival that brings hundreds of aesthetically pleasing “beige” mamas and their families together for fun, food, and Christian fellowship. (When Scott and I took the kids in 2021, our Cruella-inspired Halloween costumes definitely made us stand out in the sea of neutrals. Ha.)

The Well Nut — I am a believer in the BEMER technology therapy they offer for optimizing blood flow (I did 12 or so sessions after receiving the Covid vaccine), as well as their zero-EMF infrared sauna for supporting detoxification. Kerri and her two daughters are such a joy, and their practice is warm and inviting.

CHILD’S PLAY

Caring Little Friends of St. Francis — Not an “activity” per se, but this preschool has been such a blessing in our lives that I had to add it. Jude and Ayla have been attending the Kids’ Day Out program since they were two years old, and they both thrive here. The whole staff is amazing, and the community of parents is one that I’m proud to be a part of. You do not have to be members of the parish or even Catholic, but the teachers do incorporate Catholic prayers and tradition into their play-based curriculum.

Eagle Gymnastics Academy — Jude tried his hand at gymnastics classes a year ago, and although he no longer goes weekly (because of time restraints), he’s still a fan of their summer camp. The facility is huge, and the trainers are just the sweetest; it’s obvious that everyone working at Eagle is genuinely happy to be there. Not to mention, the older students are impressive athletes—so you know it’s legit. If your child has dreams of becoming an Olympic gymnast, this would be a gym to consider.

Frisco Public Library — Our local library was moved to an old rocket factory on Dallas Parkway and reopened in 2023, making it is the sixth largest in the state—a far cry from the tiny, outdated public library I grew up going to. (No offense, Tomball.) If my kids aren’t hogging a computer, they’re playing in Tiny Town, a closed-off section of the first floor that includes a pretend veterinarian clinic, construction site, market, and kitchen—with the Ready to Read Railroad running through the middle. Story Time, from 10 to 10:30am and 10:30 to 11am on weekdays, is also a hit!

My Gym Frisco — If I had to pick one activity that both of my kids enjoy more than anything else in our city, it would be My Gym. And as a mom, I love it, too—the staff is so friendly and accommodating, and safety is the #1 priority. It’s a small children’s gym, to be sure (nothing like Eagle Gymnastics), but the size of the space in no way limits the fun! Jude attended their preschool camp occasionally with his buddy Bennett last year, and I’d never seen him so excited for any other camp or activity. When his 4th birthday came around, we knew exactly where to host it. (Not sure we’ll ever be able to top that party.)

Peek ‘n’ Play — Given that it’s about a two-minute drive from our house, this is our #1 rainy day activity. It’s very similar to Play Street Museum, but for whatever reason, my kids tend to prefer Peek ‘n’ Play. Honestly, even I have a hard time resisting the big yellow slide and ball pit. I also love how clean it always is! (Seriously, how do they keep everything so pristine?) Bonus: It’s also the same price as Play Street—about $15 per child—but you only pay once to play all day, which means no annoying time slots to make! Just don’t show up on the weekends expecting to get in; it’s only open for birthday parties on Saturday and Sunday.

Preston Trail Community Church — We discovered this church’s indoor playground years ago, when Jude was probably only two years old, and we still keep going back on days that we can’t play outside. It’s one of the few free options in Frisco! Recommended for ages 3-10, the slides are fast and there are a few features of the playground that are tricky for toddlers. The hours are pretty limited, too, so make sure you check that it’s open before you go. (For example, it’s closed on Fridays, a lesson I had to learn the hard way after hauling two eager-to-play kids on a simmering summer morning.)

Snowy Fun (Little Elm) — The glass box full of real snow is certainly a unique idea, but the thing that makes it worth it are the bounce houses. Jude and Ayla can jump and slide for hours! Ticket prices vary depending on age—for both kiddos, it costs me $50—but each ticket provides all-day access to Jump City and the Snow Room. A word of warning: If you have more than one child in tow, it can be easy to lose track of them in this giant building. Bring a partner or friend so there’s more man coverage when the siblings want to split up.

We Rock the Spectrum (Plano) — Designed for children of all abilities, this sensory-based open floor concept makes free play a blast. There’s literally an activity for everyone, and my kids in particular go crazy for the swings, rock climbing wall, and zip line. It’s $14 per day for the first child, and $12 for any siblings—making it a cheaper option than Snowy Fun or Peek ‘n’ Play.

COFFEE

Gubbio’s Coffee — Positioned smack dab in the middle of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (and my kids’ preschool), this comfy café has become my sanctuary on Wednesdays and Fridays. Impeccably timed, Gubbio’s opened right before the school year took off. Trust me when I say, there was not a soul happier to hear about the creation of this gathering place—and it has surpassed my expectations in every way! I love that I always run into someone I know while waiting to grab an iced coffee after Mass, and time after time, it turns into a party. I come for the coffee, but I stay for the community.

Habitat Plants + Coffee (McKinney) — Frisco has a great collection of coffee shops, but none like this. Habitat is a charming plant store in Historic Downtown McKinney that has a tiny coffee bar nestled inside. I used to come here to work after dropping Ayla off at her nanny’s house 10 minutes a way, and the greenery was the loveliest backdrop to my mornings. Plus, it’s so quiet and rarely crowded—a bonus for someone who needs to focus.

Karmic Grounds — I discovered this coffeehouse during the height of Covid, which meant that I was typically the only one there for the longest time. There’s two locations, one on Ohio and another on Main in Downtown Frisco, and I prefer the latter for its giant windows that bathe the whole shop in natural light. They also have a PopWorks private booth in case you need to take a call or focus on your work or studies.

Lemma Coffee Co. — Hailing from Carrolton, Lemma is local to North Dallas and, if I had to choose, probably my most beloved coffee shop of the bunch. It’s relatively new—having opened its doors here in Frisco in late 2020—but their coffee never disappoints, and the selection of toasts (egg + avocado, peanut butter + banana, Nutella + fruit) is mouth-watering. Plus, cold brew connoisseurs will delight in their cold foam flavors! Maple cream is a personal fave, unless it’s fall: Lemma uses real pumpkin in its house-made Pumpkin Cold Cream Cold Brew sauce. Move over, Starbucks.

Renew Coffee N Bakery — The only coffee shop in Frisco Square, renowned for their sweet and savory croissant sandwiches. The owner is incredibly personable and always remembers my name, even after months of not seeing me. (Pretty sure I can’t say that about anybody else.) Not into coffee? Their hot cocoa is on point (just ask Jude and Ayla), and their superfood lattes look amazing.

Summer Moon — Summer Moon was popular in Austin when I was in college, but I didn’t fully get the hype until moving to Frisco. This was the first coffee shop in this city that I gravitated towards, and I still stand by my opinion that their Moon Milk is the most delicious sweet cream on the planet. We have two locations in Frisco now, one downtown and another on Legacy, and I enjoy both! Just know that with all of its notoriety, you’ll likely be hard-pressed to find a seat at either.

Tulla Patisserie & Café — This French neighborhood café is only a 15-minute walk from our home, and has definitely become a staple in my life. The ham & Swiss quiche is the fluffiest around, the sourdough loaves are scrumptious, and the cold brew is strong—just the way I like it. I come here to blog sometimes, or to sip a cappuccino with a book and pretend I’m in Paris. It’s so popular that there are usually people lined out the door on Saturday and Sunday mornings!

CRAFT BEER + COCKTAILS

3 Flights Up Taps & Tacos | Starting off this list with the unfussiest of tap rooms. We like it for the simplicity: It’s a small, no-frills setting to grab a few tacos, wash it down with a beer (or, in my case, a glass of rosé), and relax. I’ve never seen it at full capacity, and there’s a playground for the kids right across the parking lot.

Bottled in Bond Cocktail Parlour & Kitchen — Sipping on a Champagne Cocktail in this glitzy lounge makes me feel like a flapper during the Prohibition era. The mood of The Parlour is very 1920s glam, which is so my vibe. A sophisticated setting for a special girls’ night!

Cork & Growler | I’m not a beer person, but when my dad’s in town, this is our first choice brewery. With 45 rotating taps—offering both local and big name beers, cider, and wine—there’s something for everyone. I typically go for the local-to-Dallas Bishop Cider, but I’m dying to try Gig Harbor’s Locust Chai this fall.

Eight | 11 Place — When the weather cools down, Eight | 11 is my default for a glass of wine and good company. Indoor seating is available, but the appeal of this Downtown Frisco wine bar is the fireside patio and live music. I celebrated my 29th birthday with Scott and my parents here, and it truly was one of the memories I cherish the most for the carefree vibes and effortless conversation.

Rare Books Bar — Have you ever sipped on an Espresso Martini in a vintage library? I have! Tucked away behind a hidden door in J. Theodore Restaurant is Rare Books Bar, a sultry speakeasy, and together they make the most epic establishment in Frisco. I can think of a number of different occasions spent at RBB—including my 30th. It feels so fancy inside, and the drinks are beyond. (The extra smoky Old Fashioned even got my dad’s seal of approval.) Don’t show up unprepared though! Entrance is only granted to those who will whisper a “secret” password into the receiver of a classic telephone booth in the foyer. (Hint: It’s a classic piece of literature that changes weekly.)

The Owl Bar — I had to include this industrial-style sports bar because it has the largest selection of spirits in DFW. While I personally prefer one of the cocktail bars above for the ambiance, this is a great option for when you want to grab a drink somewhere nice but also watch the game. The pizza’s pretty good, too!

EXPERIENCES

Flix Brewhouse — A brewery and movie theater in one? Count me in. Scott and I have spent so many of our dates here, not only because it’s convenient to get dinner + a movie all in one setting, but because it’s just a really cool environment. The food hits the spot, the beer—cider, in my case—is ice cold, and the vibe is positively cinematic. It also tends to draw in an older crowd, so you’re not competing against large groups of teenagers for a seat.

Frisco Rail Yard — Foods trucks, bar games, outdoor seating. These are the type of watering holes that make life as a parent of littles a thousand times easier. It’s fenced in, for one, and there’s a volleyball court where the kids will play in the sand for hours while us adults socialize.

Haunted Castle Cafe (Plano) — I may be the only person I know who enjoys spooky vibes all year long, but for anyone else out there obsessed with Halloween, this restaurant and bar is worth checking out. The food isn’t the greatest—I’d say it’s comparable to a Chili’s or Applebee’s—but the decor is insanely detailed and the fall-themed cocktails are hard to pass up. (Scott’s Smashing Pumpkin was delish, but my Espresso Martini could’ve been creamier and less sweet. Go with the former.) Not somewhere that I go often, I’ll admit, but I wanted to list it as a novelty date night option for all of my wannabe witches out there.

Grandscape (The Colony) — We’ve had so many family outings and date nights here, it needed to be mentioned. Whether we’re riding the Ferris wheel in Scheel’s, attending a concert on the lawn, or scoping out Nebraska Furniture Mart for home goods, it’s always an adventure. We’re thinking of taking Jude to Immersive Gamebox for his fifth birthday so he can immerse himself in the world of Paw Patrol—followed by pizza at Parry’s and ice cream sandwiches at The Baked Bear, of course. We have also tried and loved: Barley & Board, Windmills Brewery, and Rock & Brews.

PGA Frisco — I am not a golf person (at all), but even I can appreciate this golf lover’s paradise. The Omni Resort is the main draw, but there’s still a lot to do even if you don’t plan on golfing or spending the night at the luxurious hotel. Scott and I usually pop a squat at the Lounge by TopGolf and split an appetizer while the kids play on the butterfly hill. If you want something a little nicer, the patio seating at the Omni’s Lookout Lounge and Bar boasts panoramic views of the golf course, which makes it feels like you’re in the hill country!

Snow Cone Lady — Open from May through August each year, the Snow Cone Lady is a Frisco classic. The little shack serves melt-on-your-tongue snow cones, and even has sugar-free options for the health-conscious among us. I am committed to their Wedding Cake flavor (with cream), but Scott tries a new one every time. And, with so many to choose from, it would take years to sample them all. There’s a grassy area for the kids to run around, and the outdoor benches are shaded with umbrellas—a win in the heat.

Team Family Farms (Aubrey) — My favorite family-friendly farm to visit in DFW! I wish I could say that there was a decent farm in Frisco, but I have yet to find one that even comes close. TFF is large, and there are tons of attractions for the kids, including a barrel train ride, hay maze, petting/feeding zoo, a giant pipe slide, human hamster wheels, and more. Their Pumpkin Patch Festival runs from the last Saturday in September through the first Sunday in November, but they also host Christmas on the Farm and Spring Break on the Farm.

Honorable mention goes to: 5G Farm in McKinney, Preston Trail Farms in Gunter, Heritage Farmstead Museum in Plano (Little Farmer Fridays run year-round), and Sunset Trail Farm in McKinney (the blackberry picking in June is highly recommended!).

The Star District — Everyone in the Dallas area has heard of The Star, Frisco’s 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and practice facility. But you don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy all that this entertainment venue has to offer: With more than 35 restaurants, shops, and specialty services to explore, you could honestly never get bored! I really enjoy Ascension’s coffee and the brunch at La Parisienne French Bistro, but there’s so many gems we haven’t tried. That’s not even including the movie nights, makers markets, wine walks, and other events hosted here. Oktoberfest, anyone?

WorldSprings (The Colony) — Who would have thought that, living in Dallas, we’d ever have a mineral hot springs right in our backyard!? Scott and I celebrated our ninth wedding anniversary with a three-hour soak at this new wellness spa, and the experience did not disappoint. One of my favorite parts was the 55 degree cold plunge (I made it to five minutes!), and the hot tubs were the most relaxing follow-up. And with a full bar and café, you could literally spend morning, afternoon, and night here—you know, if the pocketbook allows. I’m looking forward to bringing my girlfriends next time, but I have a feeling I’ll be back again with Scott, too.

FOOD

Berries & Batter Café — Our OG breakfast place used to be The Frisco Diner (their Napa Valley Fig Omelette is boss), and while I do still love it for its mom-and-pop feel, Berries & Batter became our most frequented when Ayla was a babe. The food is comparable, but the space is bigger, bolder, and more family-friendly. (It also doesn’t hurt that we could walk there if we wanted to!) It’s practically a sin to forego their freshly squeezed orange juice—it’s that good, either on its own or in a mimosa—and I would be remiss if I didn’t suggest their Sunshine Sandwich on French Toast.

Best Thai Frisco — The only Thai restaurant you need. I have one word for you: curry. Doesn’t matter if it’s chicken, beef, veggie, or tofu. Just order the Red Curry with white rice, and savor every bite.

Egg Posh — A more recent finding of mine, this family-owned “posh” diner is a no-brainer for those with a sweet tooth for breakfast. Their waffles, French toast, pancakes, and crêpes—complete with any toppings you desire—are the stars of the show.

Emporium Pies (McKinney) — I don’t know who needs to hear this, but…if you have not had Emporium Pies, you have not had pie. Bold statement, I know, but you’ve got to trust me on this! I’ve sampled quite a few of their delectable desserts on multiple different occasions and have not once been let down. Smooth Operator and Drop Dead Gourdgeous stick out in my mind, but Merry Berry and Bonnie + Pie’d are on my list to try next. Regardless of if you prefer fruit-filled, nut-filled, cream-filled, or chocolate-filled—you cannot go wrong with Emporium.

J. Theodore Restaurant & Bar — Let’s just ignore the fact that this eatery houses Rare Books Bar (automatically making it the coolest restaurant on this list), and focus on what it does well on its own: It’s beautiful, for one, with brightly colored murals greeting you the moment you step inside, and an intimate outdoor patio centered around a stone fireplace. The New American cuisine is as close to perfect as you can get, and they don’t skimp on their expertly-crafted cocktails and daily made pastries either. If I had money to burn, I could eat here daily.

La Hacienda Ranch — The king of Tex-Mex in DFW, owned by the inventor of the Frozen Marg himself. Yep, bet you didn’t know that this iconic beverage was born in Dallas! La Hacienda is quintessential Mexican fare, but better: Think homemade tortillas, tender beef fajitas, and chips that are always fresh and crispy. (In my humble opinion, it’s superior to Chuy’s and Lupe Tortilla.)

Layered (McKinney) — Can you tell that breakfast is my favorite meal of the day? Well, hate to admit it, but superior breakfast and brunch can be found in Downtown McKinney. If only this restaurant was located in Frisco, because wowza: The specialty coffee! The bottomless mimosas! The brunch classics! A true masterclass in the culinary arts. I’ve never had a mediocre meal here, and I doubt I ever will. (P.S. If you stick around until nightfall, Layered transforms into a swanky cocktail bar with a time-traveling theme.)

Nerdvana — The ultimate upscale nerd culture experience, according to their website. Get this: Each table has a video game console + controllers so you can play Mario Kart (or whatever floats your boat) while you wait for your food. Genius concept, if you ask me. I surprised Scott with a dinner date here a couple years ago, and he still talks about it. Not a gamer? There are also board games, which is much more my speed.

Pietro’s Italian Bakery & Café — Scott and I have ventured here for the sweets several times, and let me tell you, there is no other cheesecake in Texas that comes close. The cakes are good, too; we ordered the Red Velvet for my brother’s 40th birthday and all had several helpings. But the pastries are not the only thing to write home about: The atmosphere of this café is so quaint, the food is superb (make sure to try their stuffed mushrooms!), and the owner is everything we love about Italy: bold, outgoing, and as hospitable as they come. Oh, and they offer organic wine—bellissimo! We will continue supporting this local business for as long as we live in Frisco.

Pizzeria Testa — If we’re not making our own sourdough pizza at home, we’re indulging in Testa’s Neapolitan pies. It’s hands down the top pizza in the city—the crust is doughy yet thin and airy, with the finest layer of spicy Italian sauce and Fior di Latte on top. Insider tip: Split the Testa Rossa with a salad of your choosing (I like the Pinoli & Prosciutto) and a bottle of Cab, and call it a night.

Platia Greek Kouzina — Scott and I are almost always craving Greek food, and Platia is as authentic as it gets in Texas. We both order the Gyros Platter every time, and so far, we’ve never gotten sick of it. The gyro meat is broiled and thinly sliced right off their vertical broiler, and the Greek potatoes and green beans in tomato sauce are the perfect complement. Don’t forget the side salad, pita bread, and tzatziki!

Rex’s Seafood & Market (Dallas) — This restaurant is right on the cusp distance-wise (about 20 miles south), but it’s listed in my guide for a reason: I have not had fresher seafood in DFW than Rex’s. It’s the only restaurant that I’ll order raw oysters, because they’re fresh as can be. If it wasn’t a 30-minute drive via the Tollway from our house, it’d be our #1 date night spot.

Sake Toro Sushi — Our preferred sushi bar in Frisco. We’ve tried many others, but we just keep coming back to Sake Toro in Frisco Square. It’s clean, it’s fresh, the lighting is dim and romantic…and it doesn’t hurt that it’s a skip and a hop away from a nice movie theater. Sushi and a movie, anyone?

Salsa Tex-Mex — It’s no La Hacienda Ranch, but it is right outside our neighborhood, and the service is lightning fast. Super helpful when you have little mouths to feed! We find ourselves eating at Salsa probably once every couple of months.

Spitz Mediterranean Street Food — If you don’t have time for a sit-down meal at Platia, check out Spitz for their Greek gyro bowls. My idea of good fast food.

Tender Smokehouse — This is the best barbecue in Frisco, and I won’t be convinced otherwise. (Scott might say it’s Hutchins; I strongly disagree.) I get the loaded baked potato with (moist) brisket every time, and it is always mouthwatering. Pair it with a Ranch Water from their bar, and you’ve got yourself a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal.

The Heritage Table — If you appreciate fine dining in a historic slightly-haunted-looking house, you’ll love The Heritage Table. Situated in the middle of Frisco’s Rail District, right next to Eight | 11 Place, is this charming seasonal kitchen serving up locally-sourced comfort food. (You’ve gotta try their Milk & Honey Rolls.) Also worth mentioning: Chef and owner Rich Vana is a 2024 James Beard Foundation Best Chef semifinalist. Can’t argue with that!

The Nest Café — Not sure if you’re in the mood for breakfast, brunch, or lunch? You don’t have to choose at The Nest. I almost categorized this stylish eatery as a coffee shop—before I was a mom, it was my preferred place to pop a squat and work for hours with a coffee or matcha—but the menu is extensive, and when I do get food, it’s always satisfying. My advice? Pair one of their Belgium waffles with the espresso beverage of your choice for the heartiest of snacks.

The Rackhouse (The Colony) — There are no bad options at at this warehouse-style scratch kitchen—but go for the Whiskey Rebellion Pot Roast, you won’t be sorry—and the drink list is impressively long. This whiskey connoisuer’s haven is the perfect dinner locale for a large group or just you and your significant other. I can’t wait to visit in the cooler months so we can sit out on the patio and marvel at Lake Lewsiville.

True Food Kitchen (Plano) — Calling all health conscious eaters: True Food is the only restaurant I know of in the area that has switched from using toxic seed oils (think canola, soybean, peanut, and sunflower oil) to healthier alternatives like avocado and olive oil in their cooking. This is a revolutionary move in the food industry today, and I am so here for it. I will throw my support behind any restaurant that cooks with real food (bonus points for those that use lard, tallow, and butter), but it also helps that the dishes at TFK are downright delicious.

Union Bear Brewing Co. — Award-winning beer, upscale pub fare, and a bustling indoor/outdoor communal space located in Granite Park. Scott never turns down their Fish and Chips. It gets really crowded on the weekends, though, so make a reservation ahead of time if you don’t want to wait.

Unrefined Bakery — The first outing I ever took by myself in Frisco was to this gluten-free cake shop. The year was 2016, and Scott and I were still living with his parents while we looked for a house of our own. On the hunt for healthy pastries and a space I could write, I stumbled into Unrefined expecting quality ingredients but not the flavor explosion that was awaiting me. I ordered a strawberry vanilla cupcake to go with my cappuccino, and was instantly blown away by the exceptional taste and texture. I am not normally a cupcake person, but I will go to town on one of theirs. Started by a mother-daughter duo with food allergies, Unrefined specializes in vegan, keto, and Paleo baked goods—but you’d never be able to guess! Let’s just say, I would take an Unrefined cupcake over a Sprinkles cupcake any day of the week.

Zero Gradi — The cutest little gelateria I’ve ever stepped foot in! Complete with mint green walls, a retro espresso machine, and a pastry display case lined with freshly-baked Italian sweets. Their single-shot affogato (with vanilla bean gelato) is my pick, but I bet a cup of cookie butter gelato would also make a wonderful post-dinner treat.

PARKS + NATURE

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve (Plano) — Whether you’re making good use of Arbor Hills’ scenic backdrop for professional photos or taking advantage of the hiking trails, this 200-acre park is lovely all year round. It features a playground, wooded trails, bike trails, a covered pavilion, and a rocky creek that my kids can’t resist swimming in. We’ve done two family photo sessions with Lindsay Pedigo—one in the spring, and another in the fall—and both have come out gorgeous.

Bonnie Wenk Park (McKinney) — I mention this park because it’s one of the few shady ones we have near Frisco, which is unexpectedly so hard to find here. (Why that is, I do not know. We live in TEXAS. We need shade!) And, even better, it’s natural shade from large trees! If it was closer to us (instead of a half-hour drive), we’d be there most weekends. There’s three separate play areas, which can be nice to alternate between when the kids get bored, and all but one utilize turf instead of wood chips. Win!

Harold Bacchus Park — A spacious sports park known for its baseball fields and array of jungle gyms. This has been our chosen meeting site for a thousand playdates with friends, since it’s somewhat central to McKinney, Allen, and Frisco, so it holds some nostalgia for our whole family.

Heard Natural Science Museum (McKinney) — We haven’t yet explored the entirety of the Heard Musum, because there is just so much to do! With 289 acres of wildlife exhibits, gardens, and nature trails, you could pack a lunch and stay here all day. Don’t miss the Dinosaurs Live! exhibit that runs from September through February—it’s a hit with the kiddos, as is the indoor fossil excavation exhibit. General admission is $15 per adult and $11 per kid (ages 3-12); babies two and under get in free.

Hope Park & Splash Pad — Also known as Frisco Commons, Hope Park is a gigantic mecca of outdoor activity. We hosted Jude’s first birthday party under one of the covered pavilions that sits in the center of the main trail encircling the whole park, but if I had to do it again, I’d just decorate a couple picnic tables inside the actual play area (for free). This is where my parents like to take Jude and Ayla when they come to town; aside from the playground, which conveniently differentiates between the Tot Lot (designed for ages 2-5) and a Big Kid Lot (ages 5-12), there’s also a wooded trail, a turtle pond, a veterans memorial, and a community garden.

Kaleidoscope Park — Recently opened near the Frisco Star, Kalaidoscope is a modern concept community space featuring public art, architecture and gardens, a children’s play area, dog park, performance lawns, technology terraces, and shaded promenades. We checked it out on opening weekend and were blown away by the attention to detail in its innovative design: The Play Area alone spans 20,000 square feet and encourages both creativity and movement through climbing, jumping, sliding, and traversing different terrains. Jude was intrigued by the sand-and-water feature while Ayla entertained herself in the suspended rope tunnel. We’ll definitely be making Kaleidoscope a mainstay in our routine.

Little Elm Park (Little Elm) — Looking for a cool outdoor activity during the summertime that isn’t a pool? Little Elm Park is the closest thing that Frisco has to a beach, and the water along the shoreline (within the roped off area) prohibits boat traffic and is safe for swimming. Just a heads’ up: Parking fees are effective on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from April through September every year—so meander over on a weekday instead! Mornings are best for beating the crowds.

McCord Splash Pad (Little Elm) — Don’t want to deal with parking fees or the sticky sand? McCord Splash Park is a great alternative for the sweltering days. This is the only splash pad I know of that has a water slide that empties into a small pool, a simple yet thrilling feature that can keep my kids occupied for hours. It does tend to get busy, though, so be prepared to stand.

Pearson Acres Park — Situated on the historic site of the Pearson family's “milking parlor” (dairy farm), this neighborhood park has a statue of a cow that Ayla loves to “ride.” The playground is super fun, and part of it is covered. Also worth mentioning: there are pavilion-covered picnic tables, a small walking trail, and a basketball court—but no public restrooms.

Tuscany Meadows Park — A sandpit, fitness area, and two separate playgrounds (one for smaller children + another for older kids) make this park a parent’s dream. My sister-in-law and I enjoy catching up under the shaded pavilion while the four cousins build sand castles and climb on the fitness equipment. The only con? No bathrooms, so plan accordingly.

Warren Sports Complex — Come spring, these fields will be covered in bluebonnets! Right across the street from St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, you’ll want to bookmark this park as a photo op hotspot in March and April.

SHOPPING

Frisco Fresh Market — This completely covered(!) market goes beyond just meat and produce. While you will find some vegetable and fruit stands, what FFM specializes in is its sweet treats, international street food, and dried goods. The one vendor I’m sure to visit every time I go? Yiayia’s Coffee House, of course, for a freddo cappuccino reminiscent of our time in Greece. Open every Saturday from 8am-4pm and Sunday from 10am-4pm.

Frisco Rotary Farmers’ Market — A more traditional farmers’ market made up of local growers, ranchers, and vendors offering pastured meats, eggs, local honey, melons, peaches, vine-ripened tomatoes, corn, and greens, and more. Open every Saturday at 9am-1pm, from April to October, at Kaleidoscope Park. We’ve been buying pasture-raised meat and eggs from Scott at K Bar K Meats for years, and I can’t recommend them enough.