Top Attractions in South Texas
See Where the Mexican War Began
Address: 7200 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville, TX 78526, USA
Phone: +1 956-541-2785
Palo Alto Battlefield, located just north of Brownsville, is the historic site of the first battle of the Mexican War, fought on May 8, 1846. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and a National Historic Site in 1978, this expansive 3,400-acre battlefield is the only National Park Service unit focused primarily on the US/Mexican War.
Spend a Day at the Gladys Porter Zoo
Address: 500 E Ringgold St, Brownsville, TX 78520, USA
Phone: +1 956-546-7187
The Gladys Porter Zoo is acclaimed as one of Texas and the United States’ premier zoos. Opened in 1971, this 26-acre zoo is home to over 1,300 animals and draws nearly 400,000 visitors each year.
Go Bass Fishing
Location: Falcon International Reservoir
Although known as one of Texas’s driest areas, South Texas features exceptional freshwater fishing opportunities. Notably, it hosts two of the nation’s best bass fishing lakes—Falcon Lake in Zapata and Choke Canyon Reservoir near Three Rivers—making it a premier destination for anglers.
Celebrate Culture Along the Border
Address: 704 Ramon Ayala Dr, Hidalgo, TX 78557, USA
Phone: +1 956-843-2286
Borderfest, celebrated each March in Hidalgo, is the oldest cultural art and music festival in the Rio Grande Valley. The festival embraces diverse cultural themes each year and showcases performances from leading musical artists across the country.
Hear Tall Tales
Address: 400 Nueces St, George West, TX 78022, USA
Phone: +1 361-449-2481
During the first weekend of November, George West becomes a hub for storytelling, attracting some of Texas’s most talented storytellers. The annual Storyfest features live performances, music, a car show, and a quilt show, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
Celebrate Charro Days
Address: 455 E Elizabeth St, Brownsville, TX 78520-5300, USA
Phone: +1 956-542-4245
Charro Days, an annual event in Brownsville focusing on “two-nation cooperation,” has been celebrated since 1938. This vibrant festival includes dances, a flour tortilla eating contest, folkloric performances, and much more, uniting communities across the border.
Play a Round of Golf
With its mild climate year-round, South Texas is an ideal golfing destination. Numerous quality golf courses are spread across the region, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley, known for its excellent golfing opportunities from Harlingen to Mission.
Watch Birds
Address: 2800 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission, TX 78572-4848, USA
Phone: +1 956-584-9156
Birdwatching has surged in popularity, and South Texas stands out as an exceptional destination for bird enthusiasts. With its diverse wildlife, it hosts some of the best birding facilities and scenic locations across state parks and wildlife refuges.
Visit the ‘Cradle of Texas Independence’
The small town of Gonzales played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, famously known as the site of the first battle of the revolution, which has earned it the title of the “Cradle of Texas Independence.”
Attend the Peanut Festival
Address: Floresville, TX 78114, USA
Held annually in Floresville, the Peanut Festival celebrates the town’s status as the Peanut Capitol of Texas. Typically taking place in the second week of October, the festival features enjoyable family activities and festivities, all set against a backdrop of delightful autumn weather.
