7 Best Neighborhoods in Plano, TX

October 18th, 2021

7 Best Places to Live in Plano, Texas

Consider moving to one of these 7 best neighborhoods in Plano, TX!

Named the safest city in Texas as of 2021, it is no surprise that the city of Plano is home to an abundance of great neighborhoods. Known to be one of the most affluent big cities in the United States, young professionals, families, and retirees alike are flocking to Plano for its high quality of life and fantastic real estate. As part of Collin County in northern Texas, Plano is found in a desirable location and offers its residents only the best of suburban living. Full of top education opportunities for children and plenty of things to do, if you are moving to Texas then Plano is the place to be. While moving can be stressful in general, finding a neighborhood that meets all of your needs can often be overwhelming. Luckily, this guide was created to help provide you with information about the best areas to live in Plano. With that being said, read on to learn more about the 7 Best Neighborhoods in Plano, Texas!

Lakeside on Preston

Before moving to Plano, make sure to check out the neighborhood of Lakeside on Preston. While it may be known for its high price tag, this also happens to be the neighborhood with the most beautiful scenery in Plano. Featuring five lakes, a 15-acre park, tree-lined streets, well-manicured lawns, and fountains, this neighborhood offers only the best of lakeside living. Not only do most properties back up to the water, but most homes in the area are luxurious estates that were constructed between the years 1992 and 2005.

Featuring walking trails, biking, trails, public pools, and a top-of-the-line fitness center, this is a great neighborhood for any family that loves to spend time outdoors. A true suburban oasis, Lakeside on Preston even offers its residents a variety of fine dining options alongside an upscale open-air shopping center. Plus, for families that are moving with school-aged children, parents will be happy to know that many schools in the area are highly rated including Plano West Senior High School.

Local Favorites:

• Arbor Hills Nature Preserve: Found on the western side of Plano, this 200-acre park features miles of hiking trails, biking trails, a playground, and a covered pavilion

• Bob Woodruff Park: Located off of San Gabriel Drive, this public community park features walking trails, a fishing pier, pond, volleyball court, and playground. This park is also dog-friendly.

• Heritage Farmstead Museum: This historic farm and museum sits on 365- acres and was built in 1891. Now a state landmark, this Victorian-style farmhouse depicts early Texas pioneer life. A great place to bring the family, visit for a tour of the farm, and to see the live animals.

• Lakeside Market: This upscale outdoor shopping center is home to 47 retail stores and restaurants.

Willow Bend

The neighborhood of Willow Bend is one of the most sought-after places to live in Plano due to its prime location and proximity to fine dining, shopping, and entertainment. While the homes here are priced on the higher end, the area is safe and is home to many top-rated schools making this a great place to settle down for families. Since this is such a large neighborhood, many architectural styles and price points are available which makes finding the home of your dreams an attainable goal.

Known as a tight-knit community, the neighborhood hosts multiple fun annual events throughout the year including parades, a fun run, and a holiday party. Beloved for its quiet and secluded atmosphere, most residents can be found outside enjoying one of the many walking trails, lakes, ponds, and green spaces. In fact, Willow Bend has made a name for itself as a popular fishing destination.

Local Favorites:

• The Shops at Willow Bend: Known as the Willow Bend Mall, this shopping center features over 125 stores and is a popular place for retail therapy. Some of the top retailers include Neiman Marcus, Crate and Barrel, and Dillard’s.

• Crayola Experience Plano: A cool place to bring the kids, this attraction is a hands-on experience that blends creativity and technology in a new way. Your children will be creating both art and memories.

• Windhaven Park: An awesome neighborhood hangout and park that includes a public pool, playground, picnic tables, and recreation center. The pool features a lazy river and water slides which makes it a hot spot in the summer months.

• Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve: Located on 800 acres of land, this city park is the largest park in all of Plano, Texas. Featuring miles of walking and biking trails, kayaking on the lake, and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts, this is a great place to spend time outside in nature.

Whiffletree

Considered a more affordable option, the neighborhood of Whiffletree is ideal for families wanting to save a little bit of money. Made up of 459 homes in the area, most residences were built in the 1980s and reflect a mixture of traditional and ranch-style single-family homes. Not only does this neighborhood offer more bang for your buck, but Whiffletree is surrounded by lush landscaping, well-manicured lawns, and well-lit streets. Plus, with easy access to amenities including top retailers, restaurants, and entertainment, residents do not have to travel far to have fun.

Local Favorites:

• Salsa Tex-Mex Plano Texas: Though this spot may be located in a strip mall, this Mexican restaurant is constantly receiving top ratings for its traditional fare and homemade margaritas. There is even brunch on Sundays.

• Scrambler Cafe: Recognized for its outstanding breakfast and brunch dishes, this cafe is a must-try for delicious food and welcoming staff. Enjoy pancakes, omelets, and the fan-favorite hash browns.

• Covino’s Pasta and Pizza: Praised for its amazing food and relaxing atmosphere, this is the go-to neighborhood spot for Italian food. Serving up classic favorites, choose from a variety of pasta dishes and pizza options.

• Densetsu: Get your fix of Japanese food at this local spot serving up only the best and authentic dishes. Enjoy sushi, craft cocktails, and sake.

Kings Gate

Consisting of only around 50 homes, the neighborhood of Kings Gate is a smaller gated community located in Plano. While the real estate market here may be competitive due to its smaller size, the homes here are worth the wait. Known for its large private lots and luxurious homes, the wide-open spaces, and quiet atmosphere that the neighborhood provides are part of what makes it so popular. Even though the homes here may be priced on the higher end, expect to receive up to three acres of land. Since most homes in Kings Gate were constructed around 1996, the neighborhood comes with a variety of home types and architectural styles. There are many amenities nearby as well including walking and biking trails, a private lake, and highly rated public schools.

Local Favorites:

• Interurban Railway Museum: An electric railway and historic train station that has been turned into a museum. This train station operated between the years 1908 and 1948. Visit today to learn more about this electric railway line.

• Legacy West: This brand new shopping center and cultural hub in Plano is a must-visit for all things shopping and dining. Featuring top retailers, designer stores, and an award-winning dining hall.

• Historic Texas Pool: This historic national landmark is a public saltwater pool that is shaped into the state of Texas. Filled with 168,000 gallons of water, this pool is a popular spot during the summer months and a fun tourist attraction.

• Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park: Located in Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, this zipline and adventure park consists of multiple zipline courses and a treetop rope course for thrill-seekers.

Normandy Estates

Found west of Plano, the neighborhood of Normandy Estates consists of expensive homes and beautiful architecture. Considered one of the most high-end neighborhoods in the city, living in Normandy Estates is perfect for luxury buyers. Even though the homes here sell for millions of dollars, this neighborhood remains a desirable place to live for its prime location and gorgeous European-style architecture. Featuring walking and biking trails, a lake, a fishing pier, and fountains spread throughout the neighborhood. Plus, located next to premium amenities and high-end shopping, it is no surprise that Normandy Estates is such a sought-after area.

Local Favorites:

• Bavette Grill: This intimate bistro is serving small plates and fantastic happy hour specials. With a relaxed atmosphere and nicely priced items, take a seat on the outdoor patio and dine in style.

• The Capital Grille: This upscale steakhouse is serving quality steaks, side dishes, and strong drinks in an elegant setting. This makes for the perfect date night or celebration location.

• Haywire – Plano: Featuring a whiskey bar on the first floor, a dining room on the second floor, and a rooftop patio, this restaurant is one of a kind. Serving amazing Texan southern food and delicious craft cocktails.

• Toulouse Cafe and Bar: This authentic French bistro is serving tasty dishes in an upscale setting. Dine either indoors or on the cute outdoor patio. The Sunday brunch is a local favorite.

Avignon Windhaven

If you are looking for luxurious homes that are over 4,000 square feet then look no further than the neighborhood of Avignon Windhaven. Though the lot sizes in this neighborhood may not be as large as others, the real estate is located in a prime location of Plano. Consisting of over 210 courtyard estates that mix both Mediterranean and European architectural styles, this neighborhood is a popular spot just minutes away from the neighboring city of Dallas. Avignon Winhaven is also next to prime shopping, dining, and entertainment options as well as the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Local Favorites:

• Angelika Film Center and Cafe: Located in the Legacy Town Center, this film center consists of five scream cinemas on the first floor and a gourmet restaurant on the second floor. Serving craft cocktails, soups, salads, sandwiches, and other favorites, movie lovers can take food from the restaurant to the cinema for a fantastic viewing experience.

• Pinstack – Plano: This bowling alley features 28 bowling lanes, a gourmet restaurant, and over 50,000 square feet of fun. A great place to bring your family and friends, Pinstack has arcade games, a rock-climbing wall, laser tag, and even a high ropes course.

• Plano Balloon Festival: This annual festival that takes place every September in Plano is a three-day hot air balloon celebration. Featuring parachute jumpers, inflatable rides for kids, local food, and live music bring the family out to watch up to 45 hot air balloons grace the sky.

• Whisky Cake – Plano: One of the top spots in the city for cocktails and creative bar food, this restaurant is open long hours during the week. From exotic dishes to unique whisky flavors, this is the spot to check out if you are looking for a good time.

Kings Ridge

A great place for families, the neighborhood of Kings Ridge is a fantastic option to consider due to its moderate prices and family-friendly atmosphere. Growing and expanding throughout the years, Kings Ridge is a competitive neighborhood that is continually developing. Full of single-family homes featuring multiple architectural styles, this neighborhood is a tight-knit community close to many top amenities. Residents can be seen participating in the many events and festivals put on by the neighborhood throughout the year.

Local Favorites:

• Kona Grill – Plano: Stop by this restaurant for American fare, steak, and seafood. Make sure to stay for happy hour.

• Bulla Gastrobar: Serving Spanish tapas and cocktails with fantastic service. Make sure to try the Bulla Burger and the chef’s cheese and meat board.

• Bob’s Steak and Chop House: This Texas steakhouse is serving top-of-the-line meat and seafood in a high-end atmosphere.

• Taverna Rossa: Found in Lakeside Market in Plano, this local pub is renowned for its pizza and cocktails. Plus, there are over 24 beers on tap.

The Best Neighborhoods in Plano, TX – The Bottom Line

Making its way up to becoming one of the best places to live in Texas, the city of Plano is a rich area with plenty of things to do. With a cost of living that is slightly higher than living in Fort Worth, Plano has an abundance of safe neighborhoods full of luxurious homes. Before relocating to Plano, make sure to reach out to one of our knowledgeable and experienced Realty Specialists to aid and guide you through the home buying process. With the help of our team, moving to Plano will be a smooth transition. Contact us today to find your dream home and neighborhood in Plano, Texas!

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Ryan Fitzgerald

Hi there! My name is Ryan Fitzgerald, and I am a REALTOR®. My goal is to help you learn more about real estate through our Real Estate Blog! Hopefully, you enjoyed the above blog post and it found a way to provide help or value to you. When you’re ready to buy or sell a home of your own let us know here. Please feel free to join the conversation by dropping us a comment below.