In 1872, Allen was named after Ebenezer Allen, a former Texas attorney general who promoted the railroad. A post office was constructed in 1876. Several years later, Allen received the dubious honor of being the first town in Texas to experience a train robbery. By 1884, Allen had established of a few churches, a flourmill, a school and a chair factory and was home to approximately 350 residents.

Allen’s proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex provides residents with a multitude of entertainment, recreational and educational opportunities. The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Six Flags over Texas and Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge are just a few area attractions. Residents enjoy learning about the area’s history at the Heritage Farm Museum and Interurban Railway Museum in Plano. The Allen Arts Alliance and Allen Philharmonic Symphony give locals a taste of cultural arts. Shopping enthusiasts consider the Allen Premium Outlets to be one of the best retail centers in the area.

Recreational opportunities abound in and around town as well. Lavon Lake is located to the east of Allen and Lake Lewisville is located to the west. These lakes, each spanning over 20,000 acres, are perfect spots for anglers. Allen’s natatorium houses two indoor pools, a fitness area and a climbing wall. The senior center host’s luncheons and programs including line dances and card games for older residents. Adults can get involved in plenty of sports leagues like softball, golf, volleyball and basketball. The Joe Farmer Recreation Center hosts youth programs including fencing, hula dancing, Tae Kwon Do, horseback riding and guitar. Locals hike and bike along Allen’s 20-plus miles of paved trails, which are part of a six-city network. At 14 miles, the Allen Parkway Loop is the city’s longest trail.