Experience More Than Shopping at Watters Creek
Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm is anything but your traditional mall. It is a resort-style shopping center with over 70 luxe retailers and restaurants spread out around a kid-friendly green space. The outdoor experience that Watters Creek offers is more than just shopping and dining. It’s the various post-worthy Instagram spots, unique wall murals, a creek that flows along the shopping center, a playscape for the kiddos, and a hidden trail that spans over 7 miles! And, we can’t forget to mention the great events to add to your calendar and a couple of upcoming features to look forward to that take this center to the next level. All within steps away from Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel where they offer 300 guest rooms, a resort-style pool, an on site bar/restaurant and all the amenities you can ask for. So ditch the crowded indoor malls and take a journey with us to experience the great outdoors at the Watters Creek Shopping Center.
Who doesn’t love big luxury brand names when shopping? But let’s talk about the one-of-a-kind boutiques that make a shopping spree worth it. You can’t leave Allen without a trip inside this southern home goods store - Birds and Words {a Home Boutique}. You’ll find floor-to-ceiling handmade pieces created by the owners, from repurposed and stylish furniture pieces to hand painted signs and woven pillows. It’s almost impossible to walk out empty-handed. And, if you’re wondering what the aromatic smells are as you walk in, it’s the wall of fragrance candles, incense, and diffuser oils for purchase. Fill your home with seasonal scents of heaven, and thank us later!
During any time of the year, you’ll catch families, couples, and groups of friends dining out on any one of Watters Creek’s restaurant patios. From the mouth-watering pastries and French café vibes that capture a certain je ne sais quoi at Edith’s Café to the beautiful view of the pond and waterfall you spot on the patio of Mi Cocina. No matter where you choose to dine, you’re dining with a view.
Grab the girls and indulge in a classy happy hour lunch at Brio’s Italian Grille. Start with the fan-favorite - spinach artichoke dip served with crisp parmesan flatbread. Then opt-in and order the lobster bisque, a salad for a light lunch, and a tropical Cosmo before more shopping and outdoor adventures. But, for dinner, you can’t go wrong with braised short rib and butternut squash risotto at Cru Food and Wine Bar.
Burn off those lunchtime calories on Watters Creek’s hidden trail. Just on the west side of the center behind Village Burger Bar and Firewater Kitchen and Bar is the trailhead that begins a 7-mile journey through some of the best nature scenes that Allen has to offer. This wide concrete paved trail is the perfect escape for walking the dog, riding a bike, or a long nature run through beautiful green trees.
Listen to the sounds of the creek that runs adjacent to the trail, and soak up the sun along with turtles, squirrels, and other small wildlife. Take a shortcut to head back to the shopping center at Bel Air Loop or keep exploring all 7 miles to Allen Dayspring Nature Preserve and beyond.
Add to your experience with an Instagram-worthy moment in front of Watters Creek’s street art. Spread your wings and snap a pic in front of the eye-catching peacock mural directly across from Blue House Too. Or, get your daily dose of inspo where this colorfully painted mural reads, “Can’t buy me love, but you can buy me treats.”
Whether it’s the decoupage mural that gives a nod to musicians or the clever quotes painted near Mi Cocina, any of Watters Creek wall murals are sure to create the perfect backdrop for a mini photoshoot. Be sure to tag @VisitAllenTexas and hashtag #WCStreetArt on Instagram.
Sit out on The Green for a mid shopping spree break where the kids can burn some energy on the treehouse playscape while you lounge on The Green. This multipurpose green space transforms through the year from hosting events and live music to becoming the perfect lit backdrop during the holiday season.
Mark your calendars for the return this Spring of the Allen Arts Festival held at Watters Creek or their ever-popular summer series, Concerts by the Creek. Set out camp with lawn chairs and blankets to listen to local artists perform every Saturday, May 1 - June 19.
As if we needed more outdoor fun at Watters Creek, we can’t wait for what’s to come. This summer, Watters Creek will introduce the long-awaited Mutt’s Cantina, a dog park, restaurant, and bar all in one. Purchase a day pass where your pup can run around leash-free while you soak up the sun on the patio and chow down on a Mutt Burger and Barkarita. If you’re looking to let your hair down, you’ll love the new and coming restaurant, Sugarbacon. A little birdie told us to expect casual nightlife vibes, a large patio, and over 30 different bourbons and local beers on tap. We’ll cheers to that!
What really makes the experience at Watters Creek incredible is the fact that you don’t have to rush to do everything in a day. Just steps away from Watters Creek, is the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel, with 300 guest rooms/suites, a state-of-the-art fitness center, expansive resort-style patio and pool, and they’re pet-friendly! Stay a few days and play without ever having to move your car. Check out their special staycation package rates and book your stay at Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel, just steps away from all the fun.
Whether you’re in Allen for pleasure or business, a couples getaway, or a staycation with the family, there is a lot for everyone to enjoy at Watters Creek.