European settlers arrived in Plano in the early 1840s. While several names were suggested, the new community agreed on Plano, the Spanish word for flat, for its level, unvaried terrain. The city grew rapidly after the construction of the Houston and Texas Central Railway in 1872. Fire devastated Plano in 1881, but the community rebuilt and flourished.
After decades of steady population growth, the 1980s decade was a boom time for Plano. Many leading businesses, including Frito-Lay and JCPenney, built their headquarters in Plano, bringing new jobs and economic prosperity to the area.
Today, Plano is still known as one of the most important business centers in Texas and one of the nation's most livable cities. Whether you're visiting for work or play, you'll appreciate Plano's range of attractions, restaurants, shopping opportunities, and hotels.
When should you visit Plano, TX?
Plano delivers its best weather during the fall. Rain is rare and temperatures are pleasant, ranging from average highs in the high 80s Fahrenheit during September and average highs in the high 60s during November. These temperatures are comparable to those in spring, but fall isn't as windy. While the wind is never unbearable, the calm fall days are much more pleasant than breezy spring ones.
Summers in Plano aren't as scorching as in many parts of the United States, but they are busy. Families who travel only during the long school break typically book accommodations and airfares quickly, and the demand leads to increased rates. While the heat isn't as extreme as in some parts of Texas, the weather isn't as comfortable as it will be only a month or so later. If you're flexible with your travel dates, wait a little longer to enjoy more favorable weather and rates. Rates in late fall are usually substantially lower than those in early fall, a time when summer stragglers tend to linger.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Plano, TX:
Plano, TX: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. rate patterns by star rating class in Plano, TX. Browse these charts to calculate the best time period to make a reservation in Plano for any future trips.
Where are the top luxury hotels near Plano, TX?
4 Star Average Prices: $127.86
Plano also offers several upscale accommodation options for people who enjoy life's little luxuries. Treat yourself to a room at one of the following fine establishments.
Hampton is so confident you'll love staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas/Plano-East, it offers a 100 percent money-back guarantee. It's hard to pick fault, though, with superb facilities and spacious, sophisticated studios and suites. Families love the heated outdoor pool, with a spacious water lounge and AquaPlay area for the kids. Practice your golf game on the putting green or test your body with modern Precor equipment in the fitness center. Start the day right with free breakfast. Linger over the buffet or grab an On the Run bag as you head out the door.
Residence Inn Dallas Plano/Richardson is designed for extended stays, with spacious studio and one-bedroom suites fitted with all the comforts of home including ergonomic work zones, plush sofas near TVs offering premium cable channels, and full kitchens. If you want to prepare a meal in your room or on the outdoor grills, make use of the hotel's free grocery service. Simply leave your list and the Residence Inn's staff will take care of the rest. Don't worry about making breakfast, though; a generous free buffet is included in your room rate. The outdoor pool and fitness center make workouts easy.
What are the most affordable hotels in Plano, Texas?
3 Star Average Prices: $85.32
A Plano vacation can be kind on your wallet when you choose Plano's two-star hotels. The following accommodation options are ideal for frugal travelers.
InTown Suites Plano is a charming budget-friendly choice ideal for people who want a comfortable room but little else from their hotel. While you won't find pools or business centers here, the rooms have everything you need, including wall-mounted TVs, wireless internet, and basic kitchen facilities for self-catering. If you can't be bothered with cooking, good local restaurants are only a short walk away. An on-site guest laundry helps you catch up on your clothes washing.
If you're traveling during the warmer months, Motel 6 Plano Dallas - Plano Northeast #1121 is the smartest budget-friendly choice. Swimming in its outdoor pool feels like luxury after a long day of sightseeing. Its rooms are spacious and modern, although they don't have kitchen facilities. Premium cable channels on your LCD TV should keep you busy, but you can also purchase an internet package. A basic rate is available, but if you love streaming, you'll want the faster premium service. While you'll extra pay for Wi-Fi and laundry, local phone calls and coffee each morning are free.
2 Star Average Prices: $63.78
What hotels in Plano offer the best discounts?
Several leading hotel groups offer big discounts to selected travelers. If you meet the criteria, you could enjoy substantial savings at the following Plano hotels.
Discounts for AAA and CAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, government and military personnel, and groups needing 10 or more rooms make the Comfort Inn & Suites Plano East hotel's already affordable rates even more appealing. The hotel has great features for the price, with an outdoor pool and whirlpool that are always popular with guests. The rooms are modern and elegant, with flat-screen TVs, microwave ovens, and coffeemakers for your early morning pick-me-up. If you don't want to brew your own, head downstairs where coffee flows freely as part of the free breakfast buffet.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Dallas Plano West extends special rates to AAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, government employees, and military personnel. These discounts make staying at this recently renovated hotel extra appealing. The rooms have a contemporary vibe, with high-definition flat-screen TVs, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and plug-and-play facilities for your favorite tech devices. Some rooms also have microwaves. After a restful sleep in your triple-sheeted bed, enjoy the Bright Side breakfast, featuring fresh fruit, cereals, and make-your-own waffles. With your belly full, you'll feel ready to catch the local shuttle, which runs weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where are the hotels with the best value in Plano, Texas?
The following Plano hotels deliver all the amenities you need, without charging you for extras you don't. That offering makes them great value for solo travelers, couples, and families.
Offering only spacious suites is one way the Magnuson Hotel Park Suites helps its guests recognize value for their money. These generously sized rooms have a contemporary flavor and all the creature comforts of home. Its proximity to Plano's business district attracts professional travelers who can take advantage of free Wi-Fi and the business center. Leisure travelers aren't forgotten, with an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi to help you forget about the pressures of the daily grind. For added value, the Magnuson Hotel Park Suites doesn't charge extra for parking, kids 17 and younger, or its lavish hot breakfast buffet.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Dallas Plano is another value-packed choice that puts guests first. Its rooms have a clean, contemporary feel with some of the most comfortable pillowtop beds you've ever slept on. After a restful sleep, head to the lobby for fresh fruit, cereal, and waffles, part of the free breakfast buffet. If you're in Plano for business, take advantage of free internet and the on-site event center, the ideal space for your client meetings. After wheeling and dealing, swimming in the indoor pool or sweating it out in the fitness center are ideal ways to end your day.
What restaurants should you enjoy while on vacation in Plano, TX?
If you love Chinese food, you'll adore Plano. It's home to more than 14,500 Chinese residents, the sixth largest percentage of Chinese citizens in a major American city. With such a large Chinese community, it's not surprising to learn Plano has the majority of the Chinese restaurants in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. When you want authentic Chinese cuisine, try the following Plano restaurants.
Taiwan Cafe's prices are so affordable that the restaurant only accepts cash, knowing you can order a feast from your small change. Gather your notes together for authentic Chinese treats like youtiao (a type of doughnut), xiao long bao dumplings, and the enormous scallion pancakes. The restaurant's mostly Chinese clientele speaks to its authenticity.
If you can handle the heat of some liberal spices, you'll love Hunan Taste. This hole-in-the-wall restaurant brings the traditional flavors of the Hunan province to Plano through dishes such as braised duck, steamed spare ribs, and, for the adventurous diners, crispy, spicy intestines. Take advantage of free soy milk to keep the chile hit in check.
For a more upscale dining experience, try Mah-Jong. Its dishes don't stray from tradition, but they're delivered with more refinement. Specialties include the signature Mah-Jong steamed dim-sum trio, the famous Szechuan chicken dumpling, Mah-Jong spicy garlic ocean white fish perch fillet, and Mah-Jong orange beef are among the menu's highlights. Complement the dishes with traditional sake or wine for a special evening out.
Plano may be smaller than neighboring Dallas, but it offers everything visitors look for in a vacation destination. Its exciting attractions, great restaurants, and buzzing nightspots make this city one of the best in Texas.
FAQs about hotels in Plano
How much does a cheap hotel in Plano cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Plano can be as cheap as $63.78 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Plano cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Plano has been $85.32 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a high-end hotel in Plano cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Plano has been $127.86 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Plano
Below are reviews of the city of Plano, TX from an actual visitor's perspective.
"So Clean!"
Score
4.0 / 5
It's cleanliness!
Bradley D., from 27-Sep-2024
"Great location and tons of shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great location and tons of shopping!
Sharon W., from 28-Aug-2024
"Great location and tons of shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great location and tons of shopping!
Sharon W., from 28-Aug-2024
"Central Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Centrally located
Sharon W., from 27-Aug-2024
"Beautiful Area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful area with access to restaurants, quick to go meals; delivery service was excellent. Relaxed atmosphere.
Nancy K., from 25-Aug-2024
"Close to Baylor Hospital"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to Baylor Hospital
Royce L., from 30-Jul-2024
"Wonderful Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
Plano is a wonderful town with parks and things to do.
Eugene V., from 22-Jul-2024
"Nice Area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice area!
William B., from 02-Jul-2024
"Great Breakfasts!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Breakfast staff and the food! LOVED every morning there!
Toni G., from 04-Jun-2024
"Close to Denny's!"
Score
4.0 / 5
We liked that there was a Denny's right up the road from our Studio 6.
Diana G., from 07-Mar-2024
"A Great Location "
Score
5.0 / 5
All the conveniences and amenities that were within easy access.
Larry M., from 03-Mar-2024
"Clean place, wonderful activities and restaurant options."
Score
5.0 / 5
Clean place, wonderful activities and restaurant options.
Joe R., from 07-Nov-2023
"Great Local Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
The staff at the local restaurants were so friendly!! Made me feel so welcomed.
Margaret M., from 15-Sep-2023
"Will Return!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Will have to return!
Yvonne H., from 09-Aug-2023
"Close to North Dallas"
Score
4.0 / 5
It's close to North Dallas but not as congested.
Kellee P., from 02-Jul-2023
"Fine Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
It was fine!
Eric P., from 31-May-2023
"Legacy Shopping Center & Great Food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Legacy Shopping Center was great and food there was great.
Maurice M., from 23-May-2023
"Very Beautiful Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Plano was very beautiful. Easy access to all the stores and places that I needed to go.
Terrina L., from 20-Apr-2023
"Amazing Food Options!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy to get around and lots to do. Food options here are amazing with anything you desire close by.
Jon M., from 12-Apr-2023
"Nice, New Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
New and very nice hotel.
Travis T., from 06-Apr-2023
"Great Hotel & Area!"
Score
4.0 / 5
City of Plano is very nice and the amenities available within the hotel area is awesome!!
Kerry S., from 13-Mar-2023
"Nice Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice hotel!
Jim W., from 05-Mar-2023
"Baylor Heart Hospital"
Score
5.0 / 5
What we did see of the city was clean and nice. Baylor Heart Hospital was off the charts wonderful in taking care of a relative.
Laura C., from 29-Jan-2023
"An Okay Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
The hotel is okay.
Brad M., from 29-Jan-2023
"Very Nice New Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
New and very nice hotel.
Travis T., from 26-Jan-2023
"Great"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great
Judy S., from 04-Dec-2022
"Dog friendly hotel convenient to the highway."
Score
4.0 / 5
Convenient to the highway, allows dogs and the rooms have a mini refrigerator.
Carrie T., from 16-Nov-2022
"Clean Hotel Near Airport, Nice Restaurants & Shops"
Score
4.0 / 5
Not far from the airport, clean rooms, nice restaurants and shops in a lively atmosphere.
Lisa H., from 08-Nov-2022
"Great Service"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were not familiar with the City of Plano & the attendant helped us locate where we needed to go!
Chris K., from 18-Oct-2022
"Balloon Festival"
Score
5.0 / 5
Always enjoy the balloon festival!
Thomas M., from 27-Sep-2022
"Excellent Variety of Restaurants!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The restaurants! The variety was excellent!
Gary H., from 21-Sep-2022
"Excellent Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
The restaurants and the variety were excellent.
Gary H., from 18-Sep-2022
"Clean Area!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Clean area and many businesses in area that would assist travelers in vicinity.
Ronald S., from 08-Sep-2022
"Great shops and restaurants near hotel."
Score
5.0 / 5
Great shops and places to eat close to hotel!!!!
Helen B., from 06-Sep-2022
"A lot of great places to eat"
Score
4.0 / 5
A lot of great places to eat
Rick M., from 28-Jun-2022
"Top Notch!"
Score
4.0 / 5
My Lasik eye doctor recommended the hotel which was FANTASTIC and so close by, and steakhouse was SO CLOSE and Super Target and a WalMart were close by. Convenience was top notch!
Kathy H., from 07-May-2022
"Dining Choices!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Choice of places to eat!
Chandra M., from 14-Apr-2022
"Conveniently located with highway access."
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy access to highway.
Pido T., from 04-Apr-2022
"Great location."
Score
4.0 / 5
Great location.
Randy W., from 18-Mar-2022
"Plano has everything you could want! "
Score
5.0 / 5
Plano has everything you could want! Shopping, restaurants, and lovely accommodations!
Carl F., from 16-Mar-2022
"Excellent location from airports."
Score
4.0 / 5
Excellent location from airports.
Mary W., from 02-Mar-2022
"All was good!"
Score
4.0 / 5
All was good!
Phyllis B., from 26-Feb-2022
"Atmosphere!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Atmosphere!
Bianca L., from 25-Jan-2022
"The shops & restaurants!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Various shops & restaurants!
Janene W., from 17-Jan-2022
"Nice"
Score
5.0 / 5
Very clean.
Alice G., from 24-Oct-2021
"Great dining"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great dining options in Legacy area
Roger C., from 10-Dec-2019
"Great restaurant"
Score
4.0 / 5
Plano was good we didn't get to do much but go to soccer games. we ate at restaurants right there by the cambria but they were very good.
Robin J., from 08-Dec-2019
"Visit"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Phantoms downtown and Lockhart Smokehouse has great ribs.
Diana S., from 18-Oct-2019
"Fantastic Stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
City of Plano was beautiful.
Sandra M., from 02-Apr-2018
"Great Stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of shops, food and parks.
Amanda S., from 03-Dec-2017
"Great Stay!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very clean and pretty rooms.
Kathy W., from 13-Nov-2017
"Everything Is There"
Score
4.0 / 5
Every business in the world seems located here. Capital One, Fannie Mac, soon the International headquarters of Toyota in Colony nearby, Ferrari dealerships, Trader Joe's and every specialty store around I've never heard of seem to be located here. Thousands of nice restaurants too. Very nice area! Traffic at the usual times of 6-9am and 4-7pm STAY AWAY!!!
James G., from 15-Jan-2016
"Fun"
Score
4.0 / 5
They love Bison fans!
Unknown U., from 10-Jan-2016
"Exceptional"
Score
5.0 / 5
We attended The Gift of Christmas at Prestonwood Baptist Church that was most exceptional.
Stanley Y., from 14-Dec-2015
"Everything was Perfect"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were involved in a Worship Conference at Bent Tree Fellowship Church so we didn't have much time in Plano, but we did appreciate the closeness of the Walgreens and the ability to take a quick walk over to Chili's late Friday night.
Linda L., from 05-Oct-2015
"Nice Place Close to Two Major Cities: Dallas and Fort Worth"
Score
4.0 / 5
Not too much traffic in the city. Lots of choices of things to do. The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a beautiful spot to visit for a scenic nature walk, hike, or bike ride. I would also recommend checking out the historic downtown area with nice small shops and eateries.
Lee M., from 01-Jun-2015
The average traveler rating of the city of Plano, TX shown above is
4.4 out of 5 based on 56 reviews