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table of contents

8 10 12 14 17 20 21 24 25 26 28 29 30 32 35 36 38 40

Welcome to McAllen Convention Center District Connect with McAllen 10 Most Instagrammable Places in McAllen Eateries: Restaurant Directory Food Park Play Like a Local Seven Great Green Spaces Always in Season: Game Time Shop Like a Local Shopping Guide Create Like a Local Explore Like a Local Arts & Culture Indulge Like a Local: Entertainment A Night Out: Nightlife Listings Hotel Directory Event Calendar

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welcome to mcallen A Message from Mayor Jim Darling

As Mayor of the City of McAllen and on behalf of my colleagues on the City Commission and citizens of our City, I invite you to visit and explore McAllen. McAllen is a thriving community that remains one of the fastest growing and safest cities in the nation.

Our continued focus on quality of life projects such as our Art & Entertainment Districts is what sets us apart. Enjoy one of our wonderful community events such as Art Walk, Music After Hours, Sunset Sessions, Movies at the Park, and visit one of our Farmer’s Markets for some homegrown specialties. McAllen also oﬀers plenty of green space for visitors and citizens to enjoy year round. The addition of the McAllen Sports Park and other ﬁrst-class facilities has positioned McAllen to be one of the premier sports destinations in Texas, and our geographic location makes McAllen the ideal location for international tournaments.

Wildlife watching opportunities are abundant, and unparalleled, here in the McAllen area. Be sure to visit our World Birding Center Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen Nature Park, and Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, all within our city limits. What really sets our city apart is our people. McAllen’s hospitality is unmatched, and we are delighted to share our story with you. Don’t be shy to ask a local where the best Mexican food is in town, or the top spot to listen to live music. We’re all here to make your McAllen experience a memorable one.

Mayor’s Must See

What is the one thing a visitor needs to see in McAllen? Quinta Mazatlan. What’s your favorite outdoor space in McAllen? Town Lake at Firemen’s Park.

What’s your favorite restaurant in McAllen? Too many great restaurants to mention, really. We have great sushi, Mexican, steakhouses, bistros and ItalianMediterranean.

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convention center district

McAllen Convention Center

The McAllen Convention Center specializes in making every event memorable and ensuring every detail of an event is perfectly executed. In addition to meeting the clear-cut needs of today’s event planners, the Center oﬀers aﬀordability, accessibility, and convenience.

Located in Palms Crossing, the 18.5-acre McAllen Convention Center features a 60,000 sq. ft. column-free exhibit hall and more than 26,000 sq. ft. of ﬂexible meeting space. The Center also features Centerplate as the exclusive in-house caterer, advanced audio-visual solutions, complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking. / McAllenConventionCenter

Oval Park

The heart of McAllen’s Convention Center district is its palm-tree lined 2.4 acre Oval Park, which features native trees and pergolas as well as a lively water fountain that feeds into its impressive reﬂective pond. The park is home to festivals and concerts, including a free concert series and McAllen’s annual festival, Fiesta de Palmas.

Shopping & Dining

Palms Crossing is one of McAllen’s premier shopping destinations, featuring 23 retail shops and 20 restaurants, all within easy walking distance of both the Convention Center and Performing Arts Center. 10

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The Shops at 29th, located adjacent to the Convention Center District in Palms Crossing, features a mix of shopping, dining, and retail, including Burlington Coat Factory, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, and Dave & Buster’s.

Attractions

McAllen B-Cycle McAllen is one of the ﬁve Texas cities with a B-cycle bike share program. There are two B-Cycle docks at the Convention Center District.

Performing Arts Center The 1,800-seat entertainment venue hosts everything from Broadway shows to international comedy and concert performances.

Veterans War Memorial Veterans War Memorial of Texas honors Texas veterans who lost their lives serving and protecting our country’s freedom. The beautifully landscaped 5-acre site features the soldiers’ names etched on granite walls. A Visitors’ Center is due to open this year.

Hotels

Embassy Suites McAllen Convention Center 150 rooms, full-service hotel, 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, 10 break-out rooms La Quinta Inn & Suites McAllen Convention Center 114 rooms, full breakfast, full bar Cambria Suites 121 rooms, full-service hotel

Home2 by Hilton 99 rooms, extended-stay amenities

Visit McAllen

Conventions with culture are happening in McAllen. Our team of experts are ready to inspire your next event with our unmatched, personalized service and ﬁrst-class hospitality. To ﬁnd out about our incentive program or to submit an RFP, contact us at visitmcallen.com or call 956-682-2871

McAllen Car Fest

Classic cars to Corvettes, low riders to exotic imports, the annual McAllen Car Fest draws thousands of car enthusiasts to the McAllen Convention Center. mcallencarfest.com 11

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connect with mcallen

When it comes to connectivity, not all cities are created equal

The City of McAllen is one of the Wiﬁ-friendliest cities in Texas. Stream music, make dinner reservations, or buy movie tickets from your smartphone or tablet as McAllen oﬀers high-speed, password-free connectivity for public use in these designated hot spots throughout the city. • • • • • • •

Downtown Convention Center District McAllen Public Library Municipal Park Archer Park Los Encinos Park Transit and Airport Terminals

Happening Hashtags:

#visitmcallen #mcallen #cityofmcallen #valleyite 12

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10 most instagrammable places in mcallen @ninetoﬁveguy

Instagram has 500 million active users, making it one of the most popular social networks in the world. Now, more than ever, people are taking to the popular photo-sharing app to tell you about the concert you missed last night or the perfectly plated meal you’re not eating. I did a little research and got lost in the Instagram abyss, navigating the endless sea of Instagram models, diving deep into the Mariana Trench of memes on my journey to uncover the 10 most popular Instagram places in McAllen.

10. Renaissance Casa De Palmas The McAllen landmark, with its unmistakable hacienda-style architecture and sky-high palm trees, is a prime location amongst Instagram lovers. The historic hotel opened in 1918 and served as the social, civic and business center of McAllen. Today, it’s a popular place for brides-to-be photo shoots and teenage girls in search of that perfect quinceañera pic. Rumor is the third ﬂoor is haunted, but you’re going to have to do your own research to ﬁnd out if it’s true.

9. Town Lake at Firemen’s Park Parks are prime real estate on the ‘gram, and Firemen’s Park is one of McAllen’s top green spaces. Tucked away near Business 83 and 2nd Street, the park features a 4-acre man made lake where water lovers rent kayaks, pedal boats or standup paddleboards. Instagram enthusiasts ﬂock to its pier, where scenic views are found and perfect sunsets are captured. 14

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8. Quinta Mazatlan Quinta Mazatlan is popular for its historic charm and seemingly endless photo op spots. The urban bird sanctuary is one of nine World Birding Centers and welcomes nature lovers from around the world, especially during its peak seasons in fall and spring.

7. McAllen Food Park The food truck scene in McAllen is booming, and ‘grammers are more than happy to tell you about the delicious destination, one square-cropped pic at a time. From Taco Tuesday to Food Park Friday, park goers are chronicling their culinary adventures on Instagram. 6. International Museum of Art & Science Sure, you go for the art, but if you go to IMAS and don’t take a picture of yourself looking at the art, it might as well not have happened. Just remember, no ﬂash photography.

5. McAllen Public Library When the city buys a vacant Wal-Mart and spends $24 million transforming it into the largest single-story library in the nation, you have to take a picture to preserve the memory on Instagram. The now-iconic library was named the overall winner of the 2012 Library Interior Design Awards. 4. Suerte Bar & Grill Almost every square inch at Suerte Bar & Grill is instaworthy, but it’s the life-size loteria mural that claims the top spot at this downtown watering hole. Have a couple rounds of $2 Tecate and Fireball shots then try to perfect the famous El Borracho crouch, and make your abuelita proud, via Instagram.

3. Downtown McAllen If you follow the trail of Instagram hearts, it will lead you to Downtown McAllen. Downtown is the best place to ﬁnd vibrant-colored walls, historic buildings and photo-friendly alleyways in one location.

2. Convention Center District McAllen’s Convention Center District is high on the list of most Instagrammed places in McAllen, and the action centers on Oval Park. The stalwart Instagram destination is a prime location for people watching, and its reﬂection pool is the top spot to catch onlookers vying for the best photo.

1. Murals on 17th St What once was called graffiti is now considered public art, and mural enthusiasts will have a field day on 17th Street. Tucked away near Austin and 17th is McAllen’s favorite outdoor art gallery, making it the #1 most Instagrammable spot in the city. Don’t stop there though! Stagger through McAllen’s Entertainment District and you’ll find more street art, adding to the economic vibrancy of downtown McAllen.

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eateries restaurant directory

2nd Street Bistro Bar Market (American) Double Tree by Hilton 956-686-3000 Applebee’s (Classic American) 514 E. Exp. 83, 956-686-8484 4601 N 10th St, 956-618-0600

Bar-B-Cutie (American) 7517 N. 10th St, 956-682-2066

BJ’s Brewhouse (American) 3200 W. Exp. 83, 956-687-2005

Blue Onion (Deli, Pizza) 925 Dove Ave, 956-682-9884

Bodega Tavern & Kitchen (New American) 2901 N. 10th Street Ste. A & B 956-627-0482

Brickstone Grill and Bar Embassy Suites Hotel 800 Convention Center Blvd, 956- 688-8329

Buﬀalo Wild Wings (American) 3520 E. Exp. 83, 956-682-4550 4424 N. 10th St, 956-668-9677

Buﬀalo Wings & Rings (American) 1933 S. 10th St, 956-630-9464 4711 N. 10th St, 956-631-2500

Burger King (Fast Food) 304 Nolana Ave, 956-631-6461 7209 N 23rd St, 956-686-8200 2313 W. Military Hwy, 956-618-5030 1101 S. 10th St, 956-687-4926 700 Nolana Ave, 956-630-6108 3700 Buddy Owens, 956-686-7256 1700 N. 23rd St, 956-630-4594

Callejon De Los Milagros (Mexican) 3300 W. Exp 83, 956-683-0330

Carl’s Jr. (Fast Food) 900 S. Jackson, 956-631-0350

Casa Del Taco (Mexican) 1100 W. Houston Ave, 956-631-8193

Chipotle (Mexican Grill) 3400 W. Exp 83, 956-631-2662 7300 N. 10th 956-618-9851 606 E. Exp. 83, 956-994-8181

City Café & Catering (American) 2901 N. 10th St, 956-682-8737

Corner Bakery Café (American) 4021 N, 10th St, C4, 956-278-8270 3400 W. Exp 83, 956-800-6279

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Costa Messa Restaurant (Mexican) 5248 N. 10th St, 956-618-1919 1621 N. 11th St, 956-618-5449 1801 S. Main St, 956-618-4040 Country Omelette (Tex-Mex/Breakfast) 3420 N. 10th St, 956-534-5607

Cowboy Chicken (Barbecue) 1020 W. Nolana Ave 956-686-7777 3400 W. Exp 83, 956-429-3999 Cracker Barrel (American) 3817 W Exp 83, 956-683-1874

Dairy Queen (Fast Food) 800 E. Hwy 83, 956-682-9501 1501 N. 23rd St, 956-682-9041 4101 N. 23rd St, 956-631-9706

Dave & Buster’s (American) Exp. 83 & 29th St, 956-217-5800 Dejarvis Taco (Mexican) 403 S 10th, 956-631-4827

Delia’s Tamales (Mexican) 4800 23rd St, 956-630-3502 3400 N. 10th St, 956-627-2532

Denny’s (American) 1110 S. 10th St, 956-687-2242 401 E. Nolana Ave, 956-928-0166 Dirty Al’s Bayou Grill (Seafood) 5712 N. 10th St, 956-627-5362

El Pato Mexican Food (Fast Food) 2035 N. 23rd St. 956-618-2829 1609 S. 23rd St. 956-683-1996 3019 N. 10th St. 956-682-1576 El Pollo Loco (Fast Food) 601 Nolana Loop, 956-971-8314 Espi & T’s (Mexican) 2101 N. 10th St, 956-686-7467 Five Guys Burgers and Fries (American) 3701 W. Exp 83, 956-630-5554 7501 N. 10th St, 956-800-5003

Golden Chick (American) 4501 N. 23rd St, 956-631-2544

Grain to Glass (American) 5921 N. 23rd St, 956-322-3315 Green Owl (Deli/Vegetarian) 2109 N. 10th 956-800-4616

Golden Corral (American) 1301 E. Jackson Ave, 956-682-2774

Hacienda Del Patron (Mexican) 4401 W. Exp 83, 956-322-5336

Hooter’s (American) 401 E. Exp 83, 956-971-9464

House of China (Fast Food) 4008 N. 10th St, 956-631-0188 2001 S. 10th St, 956-687-5130

House Wine & Bistro (New American) 1117 Bus 83, 956-994-8331

IHOP (American) 4321 N. 10th St, 956-682-4467 1900 S. 10th St, 956-682-5913 18

IL Forno A Legna (Italian) 3817 N. 10th St Ste. 5 956-688-9528 Infusions Eats & Drinks (New American) 701 N Main St, 956-627-2905

Jason’s Deli (Deli) 1308 E. Exp 83, 956-664-1700 4100 N. 2nd St, 956-664-2199

Johnny Rockets (American) 3300 E. Exp 83, #150 956-630-6094 Khan’s Grill (Mongolian) 529 E. Nolana Ave 956-687-8881 Koko’s Mexican Café (Mexican) 6100 N. 10th St, 956-630-5656

Kumori (Asian) 400 Nolana, Ste E, 956-618-5677 4500 N. 10th St #50, 956-631-2822 1424 E. Ridge Rd., 956-994-9664 3300 W. Exp. 83, 956-630-5551 Kusina Restaurant & Market (Filipino) 6700 N. 23rd St, Ste. A & B 956-664-0044 La Costa Grill (Seafood) 3300 Exp. 83 Ste. 1235 956-630-9928

La Jaiba Mexican Seafood Grill (Seafood) 400 Nolana, Ste O, 956-618-5172

La Playa Fajita Grill (Mexican & Seafood) 4400 N. 10th Street 956-928-1555

Le Peep (American/Breakfast) 7700 N. 10th St. Ste. C 956-661-9200 Longhorn Steakhouse (American) 3600 Exp 83, 956-630-6426 7401 N. 10th St, 956-664-8315 Luby’s Cafeteria (American) 2200 S. 10th St, 956-928-1853 1215 S. 10th St, 956-682-3115 4901 N. 10th St, 956-687-9568 Major Health Foods (Deli) 1001 S. 10th St, 956-687-7759

Mambo Seafood Restaurant (Mexican & Seafood) 4817 Exp 83 Ste 100, 956-682-2231

McAllister’s Deli (Deli) 3620 W. Exp 83, #100 956-972-0505

McDonald’s (Fast Food) 3700 Pecan Ave, 956-631-2044 1901 S. 10th St, 956-687-7707 1217 E. Hwy 83, 956-994-8911 1200 E. Jackson, 956-618-0580 2808 N. 10th St, 956-687-5898 7320 N 10th St, 956-972-1476

Ms. G’s Tacos (Mexican) 2263 Pecan Blvd, 956-668-8226

New York Deli (Deli) 829 W. Dove, 956-631-8787

Nothing Bundt Cakes (Bakery) 3400 W. Exp 83, Bldg 700 Ste 740 956-631-2324

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Olive Garden (Italian) 222 Exp 83, 956-618-1188 7812 N. 10th St, 956-618-9886 Palenque Chicken (Mexican) 1050 S. 10th St, 956-994-8181

Palenque Grill (Mexican) 606 E. Exp 83, 956-994-8181 421 E. Nolana Ave, 956-631-2632

Souper Salad (Deli) 4129 W. Exp 83 956-627-2492 Spanish Room (Southwestern) 101 N. Main St, 956-631-1101

Solomè On Main (Modern Interior Mexican) 1409 N. Main 956-267-1150

Pizza Hut (Pizza) 2101 N. 23rd St, 956-682-1521 2000 S. McColl St, 956-630-5581 2121 N. 23rd St, 956-687-7859 404 S. 10th St, 956-682-4115 3609 N. 10th St, 956-686-9701 739 W. Dove, 956-971-8282

Subway (Deli) 100 S. 15th St, 956-688-6343 1209 S. 10th St, 956-630-1948 310 E. Pecan Blvd, 956-631-2490 2000 S. McColl Rd, 956-683-8514 3300 Exp 83, 956-992-8818 7600 N. 10th St, 956-683-1621 3624 Auburn Ave, 956-992-0737 2200 S. 10th St, 956-683-8320 3732 Pecan Blvd, 956-618-4635 3512 N. 23rd St, 956-994-8710 1600 S. 23rd St, 956-664-9086 618 N. 10th St, 956-630-4376 808 S. Jackson Rd, 956-664-1938 105 W. Nolana Ave, 956-630-0298 5200 N. 10th St, 956-618-0813 2021 La Vista Ave, 956-928-0686 5429 N. 23rd St, 956-630-0388 2200 Trenton Rd., 956-994-0480 2901 N. 10th St, 956-661-9193

Poncho’s Restaurant (Mexican) 601 W. Exp 83, 956-630-2237 4300 N. Col Rowe Blvd, 956-627-5146 1501 S. 10th St, 956-631-1531 2200 S. 10th St, 956-630-9818

Taco Palenque (Fast Food) 1000 S. 10th St, N, 956-994-8950 3020 N. 10th St, 956-227-4736 601 W. Houston Ave, 956-630-6787 2200 S. 10th St, 956-682-0001

The Patio on Guerra (Southern) 116 S. 17th St, 956-661-9100 Fine dining located in the heart of the 17th Street Entertainment District. Peter Piper Pizza (Pizza) 1620 N. 10th St, 956-682-5251 3620 Nolana Ave, 956-331-2478

Pepper’s At Uptown (American) 4620 N. 10th St, 956-618-5533

P.F. Chang’s (Asian) 3100 Exp 83, 956-664-1516

Red Lobster (American Seafood) 7617 N. 10th St, 956-682-6877 701 W. Exp 83, 956-687-7323 Republic of the Rio Grande (New American) 1411 S. 10th St, 956-994-8385 RGV Cupcakes (Sweets) 3300 E. Exp 83, 956-618-9979

Rodizio Grill (Brazilian Steakhouse) 4013 W. Exp 83, 956-627-6520 Romano’s Macaroni Grill (Italian) 3500 W. Exp 83, 956-687-3500 Roosevelt’s at 7 (American) 821 N Main St, 956- 928-1994

Russo’s New York Pizzeria (Italian) 7017 N. 10th St, 956-686-5522

Saltgrass Steakhouse (American) 3000 Exp 83, 956-682-4652

Salt- New American Table (American Cuisine) 210 N. Main St, 956-627-6304 Award winning eatery features local steaks and drinks to envy with an open kitchen and bar situated around the kitchen to enjoy the show.

Santa Fe Steakhouse (American) 1918 S. 10th St, 956-630-2331

Seoul House (Korean) 1210 Pecan Blvd, 956-686-5273

Sweet Temptations (American) 5401 N. 10th St, 956-630-0307

Taco Rico (Fast Food) 3716 Pecan Blvd., 956-668-1660 Taqueria El Zarape (Fast Food) 901 S. 10th St, 956-994-8833 4401 N. 23rd St, 956-686-6622 Tilted Kilt (American) 4117 W. Exp 83, 956-687-5458

Thai Red Chili’s (Thai) 3507 N. Ware Rd, 956-683-0515 Tony Roma’s (American) 2121 S. 10th St, 956-631-2121

Whataburger (Fast Food) 1000 E. Nolana, 956-668-7410 1419 S. 10th St, 956-682-5597 7101 N. 10th St, 956-686-4242 4017 N. 23rd St, 956-682-8933 1412 E. Jackson Ave, 956-682-0166 3520 N. 10th St, 956-682-4155 2225 W. US Hwy 83, 956-686-6546

Which Wich Superior Sandwiches (Deli) 7700 N. 10th St, Ste B, 956-687-9424

Wingstop (American) 2901 N. 10th St, 956-683-8888 1308 E. Exp 83, 956-971-0220 3721 Pecan Blvd, 956-631-9464 3700 N. 10th St, 956-683-0085

Yoko’s Sushi (Asian) 7001 N. 10th St, 956-683-1285

Zoe’s Kitchen (Mediterranean) 3400 W. Exp 83, 956-618-3728

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food park

The McAllen Food Park is McAllen’s ﬁrst and ﬁnest park for foodies and food truck enthusiasts.

You can enjoy ﬁrst-class, restaurant-quality grub served up by local chefs in a thriving downtown location conveniently centered between McAllen’s Art and Entertainment Districts. With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, the park is the perfect outdoor dining experience for families, friends and even your favorite four-legged companion. Often you can also ﬁnd homegrown musicians showcasing their acoustic talents.

The food truck scene is booming in McAllen, and the Food Park is the perfect place to ﬁnd a variety of food trucks aimed to satisfy any appetite. On the Menu

Que Chevere is a Venezuelan cuisine food truck that serves a broad array of menu options of traditional Venezuelan cooking. One of the most popular plates is Chicken and Cheese Arepa, a delicious corn gordita. Food for the People! Que Cheveré! 956-739-8950

Looking to eat… / mcallenfoodpark / mcallenfoodpark 20

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play like a local

Tiﬀany Kersten McAllen Parks and Rec

Step foot onto Firemen’s Park...

and you quickly realize why this unique addition to McAllen’s ever-growing parks system has become a local favorite to ﬁsh, bike, hike and play.

The centerpiece of the park is Town Lake, a two-acre manmade lake complete with a beach-like entrance and ﬁshing pier. The lake is home to a variety of wildlife and the palm tree-lined backdrop is ideal to experience the outdoors. Saturday mornings the park is host to the Grow’n Growers Farmers’ Market where you can shop a variety of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables from local growers and farms.

“It’s been great to see park usage grow– visitation has increased four-fold in the last few years. The versatility of the park is amazing – folks can enjoy boating, running, bicycling, picnicking, fishing, geocaching, rent the pavilion for a gathering, attend a guided overnight camping program or fishing program, and more. In an area with such limited open water to enjoy, this little three-acre lake is a real treasure to the local community and visitors alike,” said Tiffany Kersten, Recreation Supervisor, McAllen Parks and Recreation.

The lively location also has a pavilion and Pumphouse available to rent for that one-of-a-kind venue for your next special occasion. An on-site H2O Hut even has kayak and pedal boat rentals.

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seven great green spaces

Fish, hike, bike, play or relax...

you can do it all at Town Lake at Firemen’s Park. The on-site H2O Hut even has snacks and kayak and pedal boat rentals. The 2nd Street Hike & Bike Trail is the perfect place to burn calories while taking a tour of the city on foot. The urban trail system spans north and south through town.

Your favorite four-legged friends want to play, too, and McAllen’s Dog Park is made just for them. The oﬀ-leash park is divided into sections for small and large dogs.

Bill Schupp Park is ideal for family gatherings with its picnic areas, and park-goers can enjoy the many swings, slides and merry-go-rounds or exercise on the ﬁtness trail and sand volleyballs courts.

One of the newest additions is Daﬀodil Park where you can take in 9-holes of disc golf. Quickly becoming a local hot spot, the par-3 course is perfect for beginners.

Cool oﬀ at one of McAllen’s two Splash Parks, located at 4901 North 33rd Street at Zinnia Park and at 3401 Jordan Avenue at Palm View Park.

Oval Park The heart of McAllen’s Convention Center district is its palm-tree lined 2.4 acre Oval Park, which features native trees and pergolas as well as a lively water fountain that feeds into its impressive reﬂective pond. The park is home to festivals and concerts, including a Sunset Live Series, Taste McAllen and Palm Fest.

Explore the outdoors / mcallentownlake / mcallenparks

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always in season game time

McAllen is set to become the premier sports destination in Texas...

with its new parks, upgrades to existing ﬁelds and new projects underway.

The McAllen Sports Park features nine full-size multi-use fields, including a championship field. The Sports Park has first-class amenities, manager’s offices, dancing fountains, playground equipment, a concession area, and a box office along with plenty of parking. The new McAllen Youth Baseball Complex is comprised of 11 fields on 51 acres. Because of McAllen’s proximity to Mexico, competitions and tournaments hosted here become international events. The newest additions to McAllen’s variety of sports venues are 6 softball fields now under construction.

Disc golf is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, and McAllen is equipped with two parks for different skill levels. The 18-hole, championship-quality Green Jay Disc Golf Course features long fairways and challenging holes, while the 9-hole Daffodil Disc Golf Park is perfect for leisure players or beginners looking to refine their skills.

Sports tourism in McAllen is on the rise. Combined with family-friendly restaurants, premium shopping, ﬁrst-class accommodations, a lively entertainment district and moderate year-round temperatures, it’s no wonder why McAllen is “Always in Season.”

Come race with us

If you’re a runner the McAllen Marathon is a can’t miss event. The course is flat, fast, and the weather is perfect in December. The USATF-certified course is the ideal Boston Qualifier. Visit the website mcallenmarathon.com to register. / mcallenmarathon

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shop like a local

McAllen is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation, and with thousands of Mexican Nationals visiting on a daily basis that make it all of Mexico’s number one U.S. retail destination, it’s no wonder that McAllen is the mecca for shopping in South Texas.

La Plaza Mall, the city’s retail core, has more than 150 specialty retailers, including high-end stores like Michael Kors, Armani Exchange, Kendra Scott and BCBGMAXAZRIA. The mall is also home to big-name fashion house carrying designers Valentino, Burberry, Tory Burch and Jimmy Choo, to name a few.

If you want to shop like a local then look no further than McAllen’s locally owned boutiques. The Shops at Village Oaks shopping center on 10th Street is notorious for carrying must-have merchandise. The center is anchored by Sylvia’s and Uniques which have been local favorites for decades, and stores like Carat’s Jewelers and OH Kay’s with the latest outfits or accessories to ensure your style is one-of-a-kind.

North McAllen is also a fashionable shopping destination, with locally owned stores like Jones & Jones, Mariposa Boutique and Shop 112 which has become a Valley favorite and was recently voted best boutique by The Monitor.

Whether you’re in the market for ﬁne furnishings, one of a kind jewelry or when the prescription just calls for some retail therapy, McAllen has got it all! 26

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shopping guide La Plaza Mall 2200 South 10th St. Major retailers include Dillard’s, Macy’s, Banana Republic, Victoria’s Secret, Amani Exchange, Hollister, Michael Kors, Steve Madden and more. Las Tiendas Shopping Center Area 708 E Expressway 83/I-2 Retailers include Forever 21, Bed Bath and Beyond, Pier One, Target, Academy, and several restaurants including Wallbangers. Uptown Plaza 4500 North 10th St. Retailers include Merle Norman Cosmetics, Jones & Jones, Spa La Posada and several restaurants including Kumori and Pepper’s. Downtown McAllen The Central Business District Includes Main, Broadway, 15th, 16th, and 17th Streets from Business 83 to Houston Ave. and provides many local specialty retailers and restaurants. Northcross Shopping Center North 10th St. & Nolana Ave. Retailers include Barnes & Noble, Corner Bakery Café & Vitamin Shoppe. Palms Crossing Area McAllen Convention Center District Retailers and restaurants include Cavender’s Western Wear, Academy, Ulta, DSW, Barnes & Noble, P.F. Chang’s, Macaroni Grill, and more. New 29th St. Shopping Center featuring Burlington, and Dave & Busters. Trenton Area North 10th St. & Trenton Rd. Retailers and restaurants include Russo’s Pizza, James Avery, Coldstone Creamery,Kolache Factory, Starbucks, Hobby Lobby, Best Buy, Target, Kohl’s, Le Peep, and many more. Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets E. Expressway 83/1-2 Mercedes, TX Located 15 minutes east of McAllen, the outlet mall is home to 140 stores, a food court with live entertainment in the summer and a child care center.

Retail sales per-capita

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Houston McAllen Austin Dallas El Paso San Antonio

McAllen is Mexico’s #1 U.S. shopping destination.

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create like a local

Local poet Victoria Lopez at the Creative Incubator

The arts in McAllen are as eclectic as the city itself.

The Creative Incubator is at the heart of McAllen’s Arts District, and is home to a variety of local creators. The venue offers low-cost studio space for start-up artists and is meant to foster the creativity of the tenants and provide emerging artists and organizations with the support they need. The three-story building includes a performance stage, art gallery, exhibit space, classrooms and the newly added TechPlace which is a collaborative space that encourages interactions and collaboration among the tenants. The Creative Incubator also offers a series of weekly classes on several different arts related topics including painting, guitar, voice, acting, and more.

Stay connected

/ Creative.Incubator

TechPlace

A hip, inviting environment, TechPlace encourages innovation and collaboration among its tech-savvy tenants. / TechPlaceMcAllen

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explore like a local

Colleen Hook, Manager, Quinta Mazatlan

Picture an oasis of greenery and tranquility amidst the frenetic daily activity of a dynamic city... Add historic appeal and cultural color, and you’ll have an idea of the charm that draws locals to Quinta Mazatlan. Built in the 1930’s, this Spanish Revival Style adobe mansion sits on 20 acres of lawn, gardens and forest, complete with walking trails. It serves both as a nature center and a special event venue.

The original owners built much of the home themselves, fashioning the adobe bricks by hand. Cedar beams in the home were purportedly a gift to the owner from the King of Lebanon to thank him for ﬁghting alongside Lawrence of Arabia during Lebanon’s War of Independence.

Today Quinta Mazatlan is an urban sanctuary working to enrich people’s lives by sharing knowledge about birds, plants and environmental stewardship in South Texas. As part of the World Birding Center Complex, it attracts many wildlife watchers. It is also a popular location for special events such as weddings and quinceñeras, and features an art gallery, wildlife sculpture and permanent popular Mexican art display. Colleen Hook, Manager, Quinta Mazatlan says, “Trails, birding feeding stations, exhibits, gift shop and more make the destination a ‘must see’ on your bucket list.”

Get inspired 30

/ McAllenQuintaMazatlan

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arts & culture Cultural Arts District McAllen’s vibrant TCA designated Cultural Arts District is centrally located in the heart of the city, along Main Street. Home to dozens of art galleries, the area is anchored by the McAllen Creative Incubator, with artists’ studios, art classes, a tech collaboration space, and art gallery, and by the Art Village, a 30,000 square foot Tuscan-style facility housing art galleries, studios, and restaurants. Downtown McAllen. Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle San Juan’s Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle averages more than one million visitors a year (20,000 a weekend), making it one of the most visited shrines in the United States. 400 N. Virgen de San Juan Blvd., San Juan; 956-787-0033 www.olsjbasilica.org; www.facebook.com/BasilicaOfOurLadyOfSanJuanDelValle

International Museum of Art & Science IMAS is one of the nation’s few Smithsonian aﬃliate museums. World-class exhibits, cultural events, and the country’s largest collection of Mexican folk art make IMAS a great educational experience for the entire family. 1900 Nolana Ave.; 956-682-0123 www.theimasonline.org; www.facebook.com/imasmcallen

Creative Incubator (McA2) McAllen’s Creative Incubator supports local artists and promotes the community’s artistic culture by providing low-cost studio space for emerging artists, rotating exhibits and live performances throughout the year. 601 N. Main St.; 956-687-ARTS (2787) www.mcallenart.com; www.facebook.com/Creative.Incubator

McAllen Nature Park McAllen’s Nature Park is a city-sponsored botanical garden and nature preserve located in West McAllen with walking trails and programs daily. Admission is free. 4101 W. Business 83; 956-681-3333 www.mcallen.net/departments/parks/mcallen-nature-center; www.facebook.com/McAllenNatureCenter

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McAllen Heritage Center This museum focuses on McAllenâ€™s 100 year history, hosting story-telling sessions and other special events. Memorabilia, historic photos, and artisan work of local artists are displayed. Admission is free. 301 S. Main St.; 956-687-1904 www.mcallenheritagecenter.com/ ; www.facebook.com/pages/category/HistoryMuseum/McAllen-Heritage-Center-museum-of-historyculture-134445056614976

McAllen Performing Arts Center The new McAllen Performing Arts Center is a state of the art auditorium with 1800 seats. It hosts theatre productions, concerts, dance performances, and many special events. Convention Center District; 956-681-3800 www.mcallenconventioncenter.net/eventplanners/facilities/performing-arts/; www.facebook.com/McAllenPAC

Museum of South Texas History The museum preserves the past with its vast collection of works of art, records, documents, displays, historical items, and helps with the preservation of local sites. 200 N. Closner, Edinburg; 956-383-6911 https://mosthistory.org/; www.facebook.com/MOSTHistory Nuevo Santander Gallery Nuevo Santander Gallery is the place to visit when looking to acquire museum quality Old West arms, antiques, and ďŹ ne Mexican collectibles. 717 N. Main St., McAllen; 956-618-4959 www.nuevosantander.com; www.facebook.com/nsantandergallery/?rf=132198786831195

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indulge like a local entertainment

From sports bars to nightclubs or line dancing and salsa stepping...

the entertainment options in McAllen are seemingly endless. You can start on 17th Street, McAllen’s Entertainment District, or venture uptown and discover one of the many lively entertainment oﬀerings in the city.

The rise in popularity of alehouses has caught on in McAllen. Led by McAllen’s original pub house, Roosevelt’s at 7, others have followed suit, including Grain to Glass and The Quarter. Each is unique in its own way, but one thing is for sure, you won’t leave thirsty.

Handcrafted cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing regional ﬂavors are also increasingly popular. Stop by Infusions where it infuses its spirits in-house or SALT, where the Paloma features tequila, Valley lemons and homegrown Ruby Red grapefruit. El Divino is another popular cocktailery for indulging in specialty concoctions along with Bodega, which are both located in Uptown McAllen.

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a night out nightlife listings

Uptown

23rd Street Bar & Grill 3301 N. 23rd St. Alberico Fine Wine 401 N. 10th St. Bodega Tavern & Kitchen 2901 N. 10th St.

Bourbon St 4800 N. 10th St.

Casa Petrides Tobacco 735 W. Dove Ave. Cigar Bar 2200 W. Nolana Ave. Coast Asian Bistro 7100 N. 10th St.

Deloreans 2200 W. Nolana Ave. Eddy’s Billiards 400 W. Nolana Ave. El Divino 5001 N. 10th St.

Grain To Glass 5921 N. 23rd St.

Havana Club 500 E. Nolana Ave.

Oﬃce Bar & Grill 1116 Pecan Blvd.

OMG Shot Bar* 202 S. 17th St.

The Quarter New Orleans Kitchen & Tap Room 100 E. Nolana Ave.

Peacocks* 209 S. 17th St.

Simon Sez 2007 Orchid Ave.

Downtown

Avenue 1704* 1704 Dallas Ave. Birdie Bistro 301 N. Main St.

Brickhouse* 10 S. 11th

Buddy V’s Restorante 2200 S. 10th St. Cantina Lomax 101 N. Main St.

Praga Nightclub* 1106 Austin Ave. Roof 324* 324 S. 17th St.

Roosevelt’s at 7 821 N. Main St.

Salt 210 N. Main St.

Soﬁe’s ‘SS’ Saloon 6801 S. 10th St.

Suerte Bar & Grill* 301 S. 17th St.

The Flying Walrus* 204 S. 17th St.

Centennial Speakeasy* 1410 Austin Ave.

Thirsty Monkey* 1613 Chicago Ave.

Flying Walrus* 2014 S. 17th St

Whiskey Barrel Bar & Grill 1101 W. Bus. Hwy. 83

Cine El Rey* 311 S. 17th St.

Tres* 323 S. 17th St.

Hillbilly’s 6000 N. 10th St.

Grande Grill Steakhouse & Bar 5112 W. Exp. 83

Yacht Club 2200 S. 10th St.

London Grill & Tavern 129 E. Nolana Ave.

Mezzanine on 17th* 109 S. 17th St.

Yerberia Cultura* 613 S. 17th St.

Limelight Lounge 400 W. Nolana Ave. Metropolis 2021 Orchid Ave.

Infusion Eats & Drinks 701 N. Main St.

Midnight Club* 118 S. 17th St.

Party like a local… / valleyite

Local Tip

Patio On Guerra* 116 S. 17th St.

/ valleyite

Food truck lovers, make plans to grab a bite at McAllen’s Food Park, home to a dozen mobile eateries located on 10 N. Broadway in the downtown district. Food trucks are known to stay open til 2:00 am or later on weekends.

Yard House 2200 S. 10th St.

*denotes places located in McAllen’s 17th Street Entertainment District

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hotel directory

Aloha Motel 301 E. US Hwy. 83. (956) 682-6082

Best Western Rose Garden Inn & Suite 300 E. Expressway 83. (956) 630-3333 Cambria Suites 701 S. Ware Rd. (956) 618-7207 Clarion Inn 1401 S. 10th St. (956)682-8301

Comfort Suites 800 W. Expressway 83. (956) 213-0333 La Copa Hotel 2000 S. 10th St. (956) 686-1741 Courtyard by Marriott 2131 S. 10th St. (956) 668-7800

Days Inn 1421 S. 10th St. (956) 686-1586

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton 1800 S. 2nd St. (956) 686-3000

Drury Inn & Suites 300 W. Expressway 83. (956) 682-3222

Number of rooms 30 92 121 110 56 150 110 73 262 90

Embassy Suites by Hilton McAllen Convention Center 800 Convention Center Blvd. (956) 688-8329 150

FairďŹ eld Inn & Suites by Marriott 2117 S. 10th St. (956) 971-9444 38

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Hampton Inn and Suites 10 W. Expressway 83, (956) 661-1100

Number of rooms

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham McAllen 4801 W Expressway 83, (956) 618-7240 Hilton Garden Inn 617 W. Expressway 83. (956) 664-2900

112 98 104

Holiday Inn Express & Suites McAllen Medical Center Area 1800 S. 6th St. (956) 627-2201 115 Home 2 by Hilton 525 S. Ware Rd. (956) 391-2964

Homewood Suites by Hilton 3801 W. Expressway 83. (956) 630-0500 Motel 6 700 W. Exp. 83 (956) 687-3700

99 114 88

La Quinta Inn 1100 S. 10th St. (956) 687-1101

120

Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport 2721 S. 10th St. (956)682-7234

150

La Quinta Inn and Suites McAllen Convention Center 801 S. Ware Rd. (956) 682-6765 114 Renaissance Casa De Palmas by Marriott 101 N. Main St. (956) 631-1101 Residence Inn by Marriott 220 W. Expressway 83. (956) 994-8626

165 78

Springhill Suites by Marriott McAllen Convention Center 1800 S. Ware Rd. (956) 682-6336 102 Staybridge Suites 620 Wichita Ave. (956) 213-7829

Studio 6 700 Savannah Ave. (956) 668-7829 Super 8 1505 S. 9th St. (956) 686-4401

Texan Guest Ranch 8301 N. Ware Rd. (956) 686-5425

Texas Inn & Suites 6420 S. 23rd St. (956) 688-6666

Wingate by Wyndham 1500 Wichita Ave. (956) 632-2000

Wyndham Garden McAllen At La Plaza Mall 1921 S. 10th St. (956)994-0505

104 111 40 54 40 106 191 39

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event calendar

JANUARY

McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Memorial Run www.mcallenmarathon.com Karaoke Night at the McAllen Food The 4thFriday of the Month- Featuring the best of McAllen and arts and craft vendors www.McAllen.org International Car Fest mcallencarfest.com McAllen International Youth Baseball Tournament www.miyb.net McAllen Food Park Unplugged (January – December) 3rd Friday of the month-Features live entertainment and arts & craft vendors, as well as collectible vendors.

FEBRUARY

Valentine’s Day Getaway www.visitmcallen.com Melba’s Dance Performance www.melbasdance.com

MARCH

Valley Symphonic Orchestra www.valleyorchestra.org Golden Age Olympics www.mcallen.net/parks-recreation/special-events/gao Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show www.rgvls.com Borderfest www.hidalgoborderfest.com McAllen Arbor Day Celebration keepmcallenbeautiful.org/index.php/events/arbor-day Monarch Festival www.quintamazatlan.com

APRIL

Brew-Seum www.brew-seum.com McAllen Crawﬁsh Boil thecrawﬁshboil.com Vida Verde Festival www.quintamazatlan.com Taste McAllen www.facebook.com/TasteMcAllen Semana Santa www. exploremcallen.com/shopping 40

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MAY

Melba’s Dance Recital www.melbasdance.com Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series www.mcallenconventioncenter.net

JUNE/JULY

Fourth of July Concert in the Sky www.mcallen.net Independence Day Parade www.mcallen.net McAllen Open Mic Night 1st Fridays during the summer MXLAN McAllen’s 5-day celebration of Mexican culture at the McAllen Convention Center www.mxlan.com

AUGUST

McAllen Open Mic Night 1st Fridays during the summer

SEPTEMBER

McAllen Art Walk 1st Art Walk is a free, self-guided family tour of art galleries and art venues in McAllen’s Art District. It takes place on the ﬁrst Friday of the month from 6-9pm September through May. www.exploremcallen.com Music After Hours 1st Friday of the month, 6pm-10pm register at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce info@visitmcallen.com Fiesta de Palmas McAllen’s largest folk life celebration features live music, shopping, cooking competitions, cultural display and more at the McAllen Convention Center. www.palmfest.com

OCTOBER

Halloween exploremcallen.com/events/Halloweenweekend-in-mcallen-spooky-season-has-arrived Santa Fe Wine Classic www.facebook.com/events/1781709528726327

NOVEMBER

Texas Butterﬂy Festival www.texasbutterﬂyfestival.com RGV Birding Festival www.rgvbf.org

DECEMBER

McAllen Holiday Parade Christmas in the Park/ Candlelight Posada – The largest illuminated holiday parade in Texas features giant helium balloons, decorative ﬂoats, celebrity guests and kids carnival. www.mcallenholidayparade.com

For an updated list of events visit...

/ VisitMcAllen

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