As you go through your last year of high school, being a senior means you’re one step closer to getting out of Allen. Before you pack your bags, make it a point to check out these 17 things you’ve probably never considered worthy of your time right here in the place you can’t wait to leave.

1. The Yellow House

You may have seen it while you’re driving on McDermott, but what you may not know is that this little yellow house doubles as a salon and a boutique. The friendly atmosphere makes you feel at home as soon as you walk in, and it is perfect for personalized prom hair or handmade hats or jewelry.

2. Allen Cafe

You may have been going here for as long as you can remember, if you’re like me, you may have just discovered this hidden gem and have dreamed of their french toast ever since. Stop by on your way to the Yellow House for the breakfast of a lifetime.

3. The Heard Museum

This one’s for all you Mckinney kids who make the long voyage to Allen every day. While technically this isn’t Allen, its natural science exhibits  shouldn’t be passed up because of its zipcode. Check out their super realistic dinosaur exhibits or visit them Halloween weekend for “Halloween at the Heard.”

4. Hydrous Wake Park

On a more sporty note, if you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, take a chance at Hydrous. This is the perfect way to spend your last summer here in Allen. Take advantage of the sunny spring and stop by for their tubing hours and wake boarding lessons.

5. Allen Stone Dam

Speaking of water, add the Allen Stone Dam to your bucket list. The dam is accessible by a little bit of hiking and is probably the closest thing you can get to a lake right here in Allen. Some people choose to jump into the dam, which is probably a cheaper adrenaline rush than Hydrous.

6. Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels is a volunteer program where you can spend a few hours delivering warm food to those who can’t get meals. As long as you contact ACO and have a valid license, you can spend a few hours getting to hear and see warm smiles. Some of my favorite memories of Allen are from this program, like when my mom and I talked to a widow for over an hour. If you’re looking for a humbling experience, Meals on Wheels is your go to.

7. Watters Creek

There’s no doubt you’ve been to this gorgeous shopping complex before. Next time you’re there, take the time to sit out on the green with a cupcake from Bonnie Ruth’s on a Saturday night. With all the twinkle lights and occasional live music, you’ll feel like you’re in your own quaint and beautiful little world.

8. Top Golf

Even if you don’t know how to properly hold a golf club, try it. Top Golf is a fun activity for beginners because of its relaxed vibes. Intimidating is the last way to describe Top Golf, where you can simply hit a ball without the worry of a perfect put. Top Golf is perfect for large groups or even a date night. Grab a bite and swing a club while you feel cool breeze from this two-story golfing pavilion.

9. Allen Event Center

The Event Center was built seven years ago but has already been home to incredible artists and games. Only having to drive 10 minutes to see Twenty One Pilots or our town’s semi-pro hockey team is definitely something you need to see before you say farewell. Their website is always booming with events, so make sure to give it a look.

10. Saxby’s

Whether you like coffee or not, go to Saxby’s. Granted, it’s a less mainstream version of Starbucks, but it’s roomy and an optimal environment for personal or group study time. Sprawl yourself and your things over one of their many couches, pop in your earbuds, have a sip of their insanely good coffee and get to work.

11. Moviehouse & Eatery

This state-of-the-art movie theater is a little further west that some of you may be used to, but worth the drive. While it is basically a cheaper version of iPic, what’s wrong with paying less for more? Moviehouse and Eatery opened Sept. 22 , so everything is brand spanking new. Watch a movie premiere in a recliner while you have a warm meal and a cold drink. Make sure to bring your student ID any day before 12 p.m. for a discounted ticket.

12. Allen Antique Mall

The Allen Antique Mall has everything you’d find in your grandmother’s junk drawer and more. If you have an eye for crafting, the antique mall will be your heaven. This little mall is 1000 square feet of some of those most random and unique things you can imagine, with a sprinkle of big ticket items. Who knows, you could even find some good dorm room pieces here.

13. Pinot’s Palette

Pinot’s is a lively environment where even if you have zero artistic ability like me, you can feel comfortable painting in a group setting. The teacher of the session tells you how to recreate a painting at the front. If you go to their webpage, you can find all the times that they do these sessions. Bring your snacks, some water and your friends and get ready to paint

14. Max’s Donut Shop

Like you haven’t had these before. But if you haven’t, the small size of the actual shop is underwhelming to the big love you will have for the fresh, hot donuts. Make sure to stop by on your way out of town for some sausage rolls or glazed donuts for the road.  

15. The Edge Skatepark

This skate park featuring a BMX trail, two roller hockey rinks and a large concrete skate park is just an all around fun place. Professional skater or not, there is a place for you to hang out here.

16. Blu

You probably have already sworn that you will never step foot back into this school after you leave, but you should definitely make an exception for Blu. This student-run restaurant is not actually open to Allen students, but it is the perfect place to catch up with friends when you come home from college. Check them out on the Allen High School website to see what times they’re open and make the familiar drive to the PAC for something delicious.

17. Allen Eagle Stadium

Just to be extra sentimental, you have to christen yourself as a true Allen Eagle by going to the stadium and taking in the spirited atmosphere. Football games here are unlike any other, but so are our other sports. Even if you have pegged yourself as someone who is totally above sports, take advantage of the $60 million piece of architecture that makes Allen feel like nothing less than home.