MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY, AN EXPANSIVE RETREAT AWAITS
Since 1967, the Heard has been connecting people with nature through engaging events, educational programs, and immersive experiences across its 289-acre nature preserve and museum. Our premier event space, The Overlook, offers breathtaking views of the preserve, creating the perfect setting for weddings, corporate gatherings, and celebrations of all kinds.
The Heard Museum is the enduring legacy of Miss Bessie Heard (1886–1988), a visionary and philanthropist who devoted her life to enriching the city of McKinney and its people. At the age of 80, she recognized the importance of preserving a space where future generations could connect with the natural world. Thanks to her dedication, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary opened on October 1, 1967, and continues to inspire over 100,000 visitors annually.
Surrounded by vibrant wildflowers and evergreen trees, the preserve stands as a tribute to Miss Bessie’s commitment to conservation, education, and community—a commitment that remains at the heart of the Heard’s mission today.
MCKINNEY, Texas | Seated Capacity: 100 | Standing Capacity: 150
Our Properties
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The Laurel
The Laurel transports guests to the heart of the Texas Hill Country without ever leaving Dallas-Fort Worth. The Laurel combines an elegant Hill Country style with the luxury and craftsmanship of a sophisticated home.
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Cliff House
The Cliff House welcomes you to experience a space tied to history - built with the love of a congregation in the 1930s, and joining the celebrations that have occurred here for almost 90 years.
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Trinity River Audubon
With a state-of-the-art 21,000 square foot center surrounded by wildflowers, forest and wetlands, four miles of ADA-accessible hiking trails, and 140 self-park parking spaces, Trinity River Audubon Center is a unique and welcoming destination for you and your guests.
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Four Corners Brewing
Four Corners Brewing Company is located just south of Downtown Dallas in the Cedars neighborhood. The building was originally constructed in 1916 as the Stables building for the Ambassador Hotel and has been painstakingly restored to its former glory.
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![The Overlook at The Heard]()
The Overlook at The Heard
Since 1967, the Heard has been connecting people with nature. The Overlook sits on 289-acres of nature preserve, offers breathtaking views and creating the perfect setting for weddings, corporate gatherings, and celebrations of all kinds.
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Flying V Ranch
Flying V Ranch has been a cherished part of the Warner family legacy for three generations. Nestled just outside of Decatur, Texas, this 450-acre working cattle ranch offers breathtaking 360-degree views and neighbors the LBJ National Grasslands.
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The Assembly
The Assembly has been a community beacon since 1941. Its walls echo decades of stories—soulful revivals, cultural milestones—and now blend modern hospitality with timeless charm for a vibrant future of gatherings and events.
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400 North Ervay
Originally constructed in 1929, the United States Post Office and Courthouse is one of the most significant architectural buildings in the state of Texas and is a registered historic national landmark.
