Located in what is now referred to as the "Balloon Capital of Texas", the historic downtown of Plano, Texas, has gone through major revitalization projects in order to enhance its historic downtown appeal—brick sidewalks, turn-of-the-century lamp posts, and a new plaza. Undergoing two major fires in its past, both in 1881 and 1895, many of Plano's early buildings have survived and are now part of the Historic Downtown Plano's guide book for those of today to enjoy.
Located as a wealthy suburb in northern Dallas and part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the city of Plano was selected by CNN's Money Magazine as the 11th best place to live in the United States with the lowest poverty percentage in the nation, in addition to being the 9th largest city in Texas. Yearly hot-air balloon races occur the last week-end of every September, accompanied with a huge Arts & Craft Fair at the same time. Catering to kid's activities, local non-profit organizations, and family entertainment, the sponsors of the hot-air balloon races show a serious commitment to the community of Plano.
And when the race is over, visit the
Southfork Ranch outside of Plano where the series "Dallas" was portrayed with J.R. Ewings and family, while touring the Ewing mansion and grounds. If that is not satisfactory then visit the Interurban Railway Museum where the transportation history of Plano springs to life with an exhibit directly from its past. The Texas Electric Railway enveloped this part of Plano's history with open arms, stretching from Denison to Waco.
