Why McAllen is growing
McAllen has grown into the Rio Grande Valley's downtown — the causeway to the island, the international bridge, winter birding and a restaurant scene most Texas cities can't match for the money. The guide below connects the town to nearby parks, signature stops, local food and golf so it can anchor a full weekend instead of a quick pass-through.
Cross the bridge with your passport; the Latin markets are a morning on their own.
Things to do nearby
South Texas · Beaches
South Padre Island
Warm Gulf water, sea turtle rescue, birding boardwalks and a front-row seat to Starship launches.
South Texas · Tech & Space
Starbase & Boca Chica
SpaceX's Starship launch site on the Gulf — rockets on the pad beside wild beaches and wildlife refuges.
South Texas · History
Laredo & the Rio Grande
Seven flags of history, the San Agustín plaza and border food traditions you won't find anywhere else.
Parks & recreation nearby
Connect the city with a trail, lake, historic site or open-sky day trip.
State park · Mission
Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
Explore the landscapes, trails and stories around Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park.
State park · Weslaco
Estero Llano Grande State Park
Explore the landscapes, trails and stories around Estero Llano Grande State Park.
State park · Olmito
Resaca de la Palma State Park
Explore the landscapes, trails and stories around Resaca de la Palma State Park.
Where to eat
Pio Pio's
Peruvian rotisserie chicken, a Valley institution.
Family friendlyEl Norteño Grill
Valley Tex-Mex the whole family knows.
The 10th Street taco trucks
Breakfast tacos and fresh tortillas, Valley style.
Things to do
Quinta Mazatlán
A Mexican-estate bird sanctuary downtown.
Family friendlyWintering Bird Nature Center
Boardwalks over the wetlands.
Family friendlyMain Place & the Latin markets
Border shopping and Valley food.
Family friendly
Thinking of moving here?
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Book experiences in McAllen
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Where to stay
Places to stay near McAllen
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