RGV Visitor Guide 2021 by Fox Press

2021-2022 Edition

TIMES

Published By:

Wintenr Texa

Serving Winter Texans From Mission To South Padre Island Since 1987

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Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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WELCOME

To The Rio Grande Valley Whether you prefer nature and the outdoors, historical sites, parks, fishing, boating, or parasailing over the surf at South Padre Island, the Rio Grande Valley has it all. Visitors can enjoy all the Valley has to offer year-round due to the Valley’s mild winter weather. Over 100,000 Winter Texans stay for the winter season to enjoy our warm, subtropical climate with an average temperature of 65-70 degrees. Winter Texans are not the only ones who have discovered the Rio Grande Valley. Birding, butterfly, and nature enthusiasts from all parts of the country come to the Valley every year, attracted by the 545 species of birds and 330 butterfly species that are either native to the area or that migrate through the Valley each year. Because of its neo-tropical climate, the Rio Grande Valley is home to many tropical birds that can be seen nowhere else in the United States. It is also a major bird migration corridor with two major flyways converging here. The Rio Grande Valley is also a place full of history. From battle sites to the only lighthouse on the gulf shores, to museums with artifacts, to chapels, historic homes, and old

stores. Every Valley city has a story to tell. Whether you are a Winter Texan, a family with young children, or just someone that enjoys the outdoors, history and culture, the Rio Grande Valley has something to offer everyone. In our Visitor’s Guide this year you will find something new. We have included beautiful maps that pinpoint featured locations through the Valley. We have broken up the area into eight regions, so whatever area you are visiting, you have a map to see what is close to you. With all there is to see and do in the Rio Grande Valley, we hope you enjoy your stay!

Points of Interest............................................. 6

Top Photo: SpaceX has arrived at Boca Chica. Tours are not available, but visitors can keep up to date with their launches on their Facebook, livestream videos, and website. You can find more information and links at www.sopadre.com/ spacex/. Photo download provided courtesy of SpaceX at www.flickr.com/photos/spacex/. Bottom Photos: The US-Mexican War was fought at several locations in the Rio Grande Valley. This cannon, and others, are scattered along the property at Palo Alto National Historic Park in Brownsville. When visiting the park, you can learn about the war and the role it played for the Valley, along with walking its trails and seeing some of the Valley’s natural habitat and wildlife. Dancing is a big part of the culture of the Rio Grande Valley. Events throughout the Valley highlight the varied cultures and dancing that can be found. Pictured is UTRGV’s Ballet Folklorico – Alegria. The Rio Grande Valley is a popular area for birding and Quinta Mazatlan is just one of the many birding sites open to visitors. This Pine Siskin is one of many species of birds that can be found in the Rio Grande Valley.

Inside this guide

Valley Birding & Nature Events................... 31 Valley Chamber Offices................................ 32 Golfers’Paradise............................................ 33 World Class Birding & Nature Sites........51-54

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide Vol. 24, No. 1 2021-2022 Edition Published by Nexus Publishing, LLC 1217 N. Conway Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 www.wintertexantimes.com

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ABOUT THE COVER

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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Fort Treviño-San Ygnacio For a look into Spanish Colonialism on the north side of the Rio Grande, drive out to San Ignacio and look at Fort Treviño, located at the corner of Uribe and Treviño Streets, from the outside. Built in 1830 this former residence of Jesus Treviño is typical of the homes built during the 1750s to early 1800s. The fort has been called one of the outstanding examples of Spanish heritage and architecture in the Rio Grande Valley. The home is built of sandstone walls, and features troneras, small openings in the walls, where settlers fighting Indians could stick their guns through the walls and shoot without fear of being hit by a roving Indian. There is a stone sundial at entrance to the fort. The courtyard has a well and room for a horse and carriage, a few goats and chickens. Settlers under siege could set up in the fort for long periods of time without fear the Indians could storm the place. The fort is open for viewing only during the San Ygnacio Home Tours held the first Sunday of December each year. San Ygnacio is

the only place left that has this type of Spanish colonial dwellings. Others that existed in the area were destroyed when Falcon Dam and Lake were built. Over 100 buildings in San Ygnacio are listed on the National Register as

BRIDGE OPEN

24 HOURS A DAY 365 DAYS A YEAR Visit Our Southern Neighbor Never been to Mexico? You don’t know what you’re missing! Nuevo Progreso is welcoming and FUN! Visitors can enjoy from a variety of restaurants and artisan vendors or seek services from a number of certified medical and dental professionals. Come Experience the

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Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

LOCATIONS 1 Fort Trevino-San Ygnacio 2 Zapata County Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 3 Falcon Lake & Falcon State Park 4 Falcon Dam 5 City of Roma See Chamber Offices, p. 32 6 Roma Bluffs See Birding and Nature, p. 54 7 Roma National Historic Landmark District 8 Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto 9 Rio Grande City Department of Tourism See Chamber Offices, p. 32 10 La Borde House 11 Fort Ringgold 12 Robert E. Lee Museum

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part of a National Historic District featuring Spanish Colonial Homes. For more info visit www.riverpierce.org or call (956) 765-5784. Falcon Lake & Falcon State Park See Nature Sites on page 51 The Park is located on the shores of Falcon Lake on 146 Park Road 46 Falcon Heights, TX 78545 and FM 2098, off of Hwy 83. Open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; open 365 days a year. For information call the park office, (956) 848-5327.

Mexico and helped influence the distinctive architectural style of the Lower Rio Grande. The district includes an observation deck overlooking the Rio Grande and Mexico. A series of restored buildings on the plaza serve as a visitor’s center and part of the World Birding Center network. Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

Falcon Dam The need for water and electrical power for the growing demands of the Rio Grande Valley and Texas border resulted in a Water Treaty of 1944 with Mexico to build three dams on the Rio Grande River. Construction of the $35 million Falcon Dam began in 1950 and was completed in 1954. The dam and reservoir covered 87,000 acres of land. The dam was dedicated in 1953 by President Dwight Eisenhower, making the first presidential visit to the Rio Grande Valley in history. Falcon Dam is located about 14 miles northwest of Roma on FM 2098. Roma National Historic Landmark District The 19th-century town of Roma, located in Western Starr County, was once an important shipping point for steamboats along the Rio Grande. The site was first settled in 1765 and was named "Roma" in 1848 after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Because of its proximity to the river, Roma prospered during the years between the Mexican War and Reconstruction. The Roma National Historic Landmark District represents an outstanding example of the building techniques of the Lower Rio Grande. These techniques, derived from the 18th-century traditions of northern Mexico, are best exemplified by the finely detailed brick commercial and residential buildings designed and constructed by Heinrich Portscheller. Portscheller, a German immigrant, built in both Texas and

In the early days of the 20th century, life was especially hard in the Rio Grande City area. Like many frontier towns, crime was rampant and diseases like leprosy and tuberculosis were rampant. The French Oblate Cavalry of Christ, circuit-riding priests, rode into the area to establish churches and give people hope for a better life. One of these priests was Father Gustave Gollenbach, who felt the creation of a grotto like Our Lady of Lourdes grotto in France would provide inspiration to the people. The grotto is a replica of the original shrine in France where the peasant girl had a vision of Our Lady of Lourdes. Construction was a community effort with help coming from a local Baptist minister. The shrine is located at 305 N. Britton near the courthouse. It is open daily for public view. La Borde House Founded in 1899 and renovated in 1979, La Borde House was first a trading post where Indians and fur trappers brought their wares. It was located in Rio Grande City because Rio Grande City was the head of navigation for the Rio Grande River. Due to the

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difficult terrain around Rio Grande City, and the fact that traveling by ox cart was the only other method of travel to get to Rio Grande City, almost all trade was done by shipping wares by steamboat up and down the river. In 1917, the trading post was converted into an elegant hotel. Eventually, the hotel fell into disrepair but a local philanthropist, Larry Sheerin, purchased the hotel and began restoration in 1979. When the restoration was finished, the eight hotel rooms restored were authentic examples of turn-of-the century elegance furnished with authentic period antiques. The property is now owned and operated by the Starr County Historical Foundation. They recently completed a renovation project that returned this magnificent site to its original splendor. The hotel is listed in the national registry of historic buildings. La Borde House is located at 601 E. Main Street in Rio Grande City. For more information call (956) 487-5101 or visit www.labordehouse.com. Fort Ringgold (Rio Grande City, Texas) Established in 1848 as a cavalry fort, today most of the old fort is part of the Rio Grande City School District. Several of the old buildings such as the hospital, Officer Quarters, and barracks have been retained along with the parade grounds. The most prominent of its buildings is the old commander's house where Colonel Robert E. Lee stayed when visiting the fort on several occasions before the days of the Civil War. The house has been turned into a museum in his honor. Tours are available via the Bessie III, a trolley bus named after the famed river steamer which visited the city and fort during the riverboat era. Contact City Tourism at (956) 488-0047 for tours and information. Also, visit the Facebook page at Revive Fort Ringgold. Robert E. Lee Museum Located on the grounds of the old Fort Ringgold, now the headquarters for the Rio Grande City Independent School District, the Robert E. Lee Museum is in an old house on the right side of the complex. Lee stayed Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

there while assigned to the fort, sent there to preside over a court martial in 1856. He returned in 1860 when the Mexican bandit, Juan Cortina, was creating havoc along the border. One exhibit describes the activities of Colonel Robert E. Lee during the time he served at Fort Ringgold. Another display honors Major Samuel Ringgold, the first American officer to die in the U.S. war with Mexico in 1846. The fort is named in his honor. A third display honors the Buffalo soldier who served at the fort. Visitors are welcome to drive by and look at the house, but the museum is open by appointment only. Call the Rio Grande City ISD to make arrangements or call the Main Street office in downtown Rio Grande City at (956) 716-6700. Visiting is free but donations are encouraged. Los Ebanos Ferry The Los Ebanos Ferry was first used in the 1740s by Spanish explorers and colonists under Jose de Escandon. This ancient ford was also used by Mexican war troops in 1846, by Texas Rangers chasing cattle rustlers and by smugglers in many eras, especially during the American Prohibition of the 1920s and 1930s. Named after the abundance of ebony trees that flourish around the site, the ferry is the only hand-pulled ferry across the US/Mexico Border. It can transport three cars and several pedestrians across the Rio Grande. You can even help them pull! Located 14 miles west of Mission on Expressway 83, then 3 miles south of the expressway on FM 886 in Los Ebanos. The ferry operates 7 days a week, weather permitting. For more information call (956) 487-1688.

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LOCATIONS La Joya ISD Performing Arts Center Howling Trails Golf Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Chihuahua Woods Preserve See Birding and Nature, p. 51 Palmview Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park See Birding and Nature, p. 53 El Niño Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 National Butterfly Center See Birding and Nature, p. 52 Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery Riverside Dreamer River Cruises La Lomita Chapel Anzalduas Park See Birding and Nature, p. 51 Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Tom Landry Mural Mission Historical Museum

20 The Club at Cimarron

1 Soloman Chapa St La Joya

N Coyote Blvd

See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33

14 15 13

2 4

E 9th St

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18 Mission’s Butterfly Statues (UVAL) 19 Historic Bryan House

Inspiration Rd

See Chamber Offices, p. 32

Bentsen Palm Dr

17 Greater Alton Chamber of Commerce

N Mayberry Rd

Shary Municipal Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 N Conway Ave

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

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La Joya ISD Performing Arts Center La Joya ISD’s Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center is a 1,400-seat auditorium that hosts student performances throughout the academic school year. Audience members will be delighted by talented theatre, mariachi, folklórico, band, orchestra, classical guitar, choir, dance, and conjunto performing groups. Patrons can expect high quality performances by student talent, consistently earning top awards in their respective competitions. From October through February, the school district’s three high school theatre, mariachi, and folklórico groups perform a total of seven productions, with three showtimes for each, at a cost of $8. For more information about Performing Arts Center events, including a current calendar, visit www.lajoyaisd.com/departments/curriculum-instruction/fine-arts/ or call (956) 323-2895.

not required. Minimum requirements for departure: one hour 15 passengers, two hour 25 passengers. Private or group cruises for 25 or more are available upon request. For more information visit www.ontheriver.net.

Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery The Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission is a special place to those in our community who have served their country. The 75-acre Veteran’s Cemetery includes a visitor’s center, a computer system for locating specific graves and an assembly area for special occasions. Located at 2520 S Inspiration Rd., for more info call (956) 583-7227. Cemetery is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Established in 1899 as the first mission of the historic La Lomita Church by circuit-riding Oblate priests, the church was first known as Our Lady of Mission. The church was destroyed in a fire in 1925. The statue of the Blessed Virgin was the only thing rescued from the incident. When the current Church was constructed in 1927, the name was changed to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. In 2012-13 the 1927 Church was renovated and expanded to accommodate the grow-

La Lomita Chapel La Lomita Chapel, the namesake for the present city of Mission, offers an important glimpse into the history of Mission and South Texas. Constructed from adobe, the chapel was built in 1865 by Rene Guyard, a French merchant and devout Roman Catholic, on the Lomita Ranch he purchased in 1845. It continues as a religious shrine and popular site for historians. La Lomita means “little hill” in Spanish, and the small chapel is located at 3601 E. Military Rd. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. There is no admission fee. For more information call (956) 585-2727.

Riverside Dreamer River Cruises Come get a close-up view of the Rio Grande River and the habitat that surrounds it. Take a Riverside Dreamer River Cruise and view the sights and birds that live along the river in Mexico and the U.S. The Riverside Dreamer is a 55-foot U.S. Coast Guard-certified sightseeing pontoon boat with covered, cushioned seating for 49 people. It offers one-hour or two-hour cruises departing from the Riverside Club, located at 214 E. Chimney Road in Mission. Call (956) 581-4477 or (956) 581-1033 for reservations. Reservations suggested but

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ing congregation while maintaining the same sanctuary as well as interior and exterior style. The Church can now seat up to 1,000. The church’s dome was also replaced with a new fiberglass dome replicating the original. The church is currently listed by the Institute of Texas Cultures as having one of the Rio Grande Valley’s most outstanding architectural designs. The church was constructed in a revival architecture style featuring a four-story bell tower, capped by a domed belfry, mission parapets, arched windows and decorative limestone detailing. Well known for their friendly parishioners, "animals around the manger", warm welcome and down-home hospitality, the church is located at Magna (6th) Street and Dunlap in Mission. For more information, call (956) 585-2623. Tom Landry Mural This mural honors Mission native and legendary coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Tom Landry. Born and raised in Mission, Tom Landry led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl titles. The mural

depicts and spans his life and career. His handprints and footprints are also preserved in the sidewalk below. To honor Tom Landry’s legacy in 1993, Mission residents Bill and Gen Long commissioned Manuel Hinojosa to create the Tom Landry Mural. The mural measures 95x18 feet and was dedicated on September 18, 1995 by legendary Coach Tom Landry himself. The Mural is located on the corner of N. Conway and Tom Landry Ave. (Business 83) in downtown Mission.

hibits relating to the development of Mission interpreted as a timeline. The second building, the Old Post Office (200 E. Tom Landry), is temporarily closed due to construction. The museum also hosts several programs for all ages and cultural events for the community to enjoy. Events and programs include lectures, the Mission Quilt Show, winter tours, Day of the Dead Festival and more! Visit the website www. missionmuseum.org or Facebook page for more information. Events and programs are subject to change/cancellation. For more information, please contact the museum at (956) 580-8646. Mission’s Butterfly Statues If you drive around the City of Mission you might notice something a little special. Every once in a while, you might just see a beautiful butterfly sculpture. Being home to the National Butterfly Center, it just seemed fitting for there to be butterflies of giant size around town to celebrate. These butterflies represent some of the 200 or more species that can be found in the area. What started as a small

Mission Historical Museum Located in two adjacent buildings at 900 Doherty Ave. and 200 E. Tom Landry St. in downtown Mission, the Mission Historical Museum offers something for history lovers of all ages. The former John H. Shary office building (900 Doherty) is a recorded Texas Historical Landmark. The two-story, Spanish-style Shary building originally cost $40,000 and was built in 1938. The building has been preserved to retain its historical significance, with the same windows, doors, etc. and features exRio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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project in 2016 by then president of the Upper Valley Art League has now grown to over 40 sculptures throughout the City of Mission. If you drive around downtown Mission, you are sure to see more than a handful of the sculptures. The base of the sculpture is made of fiberglass with intricate details of a branch and leaf. The body of the Queen Monarch is also fiberglass, from which a chrysalis dangles underneath, suspended by a steel cable. The antennae are made of flexible wire to reduce breakage. Sculptures are paid for with donations from the businesses where they are located. Some locations include the Upper Valley Art League, Speer Memorial Library, Mission City Hall, and Lions Park. All sculptures include a leaf that gives just enough room to sit on for a picture. Although the Monarch is the most popular, you will also find sculptures of a Two Barrel Slasher, Malachite, Zebra Heliconian, Swallowtail, Tawny Emperor, and others. And they are not always painted the traditional butterfly colors. There is even one painted Dallas Cowboys colors at Tom Landry and Miller. Historic Bryan House The historic William Jennings Bryan House was built in 1909 as a winter farm home between

Bryan's three runs for presidency and becoming Secretary of State under Woodrow Wilson. The Bryan House was recently purchased and restored by Frank and Ariel King. It now hosts boutique weddings, special events, community events, a seasonal farmer's market, catered ladies’ luncheons, meetings, retreats, historic heritage tours, photography shoots, bird and butterfly watching, and it is also a bed & breakfast. People wanting to tour the house should call Ariel King at (956) 330-7497. The house is listed on Facebook at the William Jennings Bryan House - The Bryan House, the website is www.thebryanhouse.com, and the email address is thehistoricbryanhouse@gmail.com.

Make Us Your Home Away From Home! For Reservations

956-668-7829 www.mcallen-studio6.com

700 Savannah Ave. McAllen, TX

• Nightly, Weekly, and Monthly Rates Available • Fully Equipped Kitchens • Free Wi-Fi • Outdoor Pool • Small Pet Welcome (with fee) • Guest Laundry Service • Walking Distance to the La Plaza Mall And Several Restaurants

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McAllen Convention Center Located near the intersection of Expressway 83 and Ware Road, the McAllen Convention Center hosts many events during the year including symphony presentations, sporting events, trade shows and special events. Opened in 2009, the center offers 174,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space. Call (956) 681-3800 for information or go online to www.conventioncenterdistrict.com. McAllen Performing Arts Center When world-renowned crooner Tony Bennett performed for the grand opening of the brand new, 93,000-square-foot McAllen Performing Arts Center on November 19, 2016, he looked around the new state-of-the-art facility and said, “They don’t build them like this anymore. This is a beautiful theater.” Since opening day, the $44.9 million, 1,828-seat center has been an incredible venue to host the Jersey Boys, Annie, Elf, America, Mamma Mia, Moscow Ballet Nutcracker, Valley Symphony Orchestra and many other exciting shows, bringing the best of the arts to the city of McAllen.

The venue offers unobstructed views and perfect sound with a magical house experience and stage presentation. Commercial development exploded in what is now referred to as the Convention Center District, with five signature hotels, major restaurants chains, dozens of retail shops that entice the entire family and a park featuring a pond that often sees paddle boats and outdoor community events taking place. For information about upcoming shows, go to www.ticketmaster.com. The McAllen PAC is located at 801 Convention Center Boulevard, and the box office number is (956) 681-3800. Veterans War Memorial of Texas The Veterans War Memorial of Texas honors the 1.4 million American military men and women killed in all the wars and conflicts of the U.S.A. This beautiful grass covered and landRio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

scaped five-acre Rio Grande Valley endeavor is located at the east side of the McAllen Convention Center, 29th St. and Col. Plummer Dr. The “American Spire of Honor” is a black granite five-sided 105’ majestic Spire with its silver dome. It rises from the center of the circular configured memorial site. Vertical and circular landscaped pathways with multiple-colored pavers are found throughout the Memorial. In the outer pathway, there are 113 flagpoles each with a fluttering U.S. flag. They encircle the Memorial. The flagpoles stand as symbolic guardians of the American honored heroes and as sentinels far into the distant future. There are many pathways in the interior. All are lined with historical stories engraved on granite walls, plaques, and history of our population as guardians of today. Visitors may obtain a 4” X 8” colored paver with their family or veterans names for $25.00. One of the many histories found in the Memorial, “The Plaza of Liberty”, depicts the beginning of the struggle of the American people to be free. The Daughters of the American Revolution and its 180,000 members brings life to that era with 12 walls of history stories, 6 bronze plaques of war scenes, bronze statues of George and Martha Washington and Patrick Henry with his pre-war speech… “Give me Liberty, or Give me Death!!” with all supported by their historical stories. This is a beautiful site and a photographic treasure. A visit to the Memorial is truly an outing for families, school children, public and foreign visitors. All stories are written for easy understanding. When taken together the stories and supporting material allow a better underP ag e 15

QM-Park Directory AD (5x8).pdf

6/2/21

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LOCATIONS 1 McAllen Nature Center See Birding and Nature, p. 52 2 McAllen Convention Center 3 McAllen Performing Arts Center 4 Veterans War Memorial of Texas 5 Palmview Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 6 International Museum of Art & Science 7 McAllen Heritage Center 8 McAllen Chamber of Commerce

and McAllen Convention & Visitors Bureau See Chamber Offices, p. 32

9 Payne Arena 10 Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum 11 World’s Largest Killer Bee 12 Quinta Mazatlan See Birding and Nature, p. 54 13 Statue of Father Hidalgo

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standing of the struggles and sacrifices of our Nation’s people to capture the dream of freedom and independence. This also allows the people of this era to pass a permanent and unchanging history of the Nation’s Forefathers. The history of this Memorial will pass through generations to the Nation’s children and their children’s children, who are our future leaders. It allows them to better understand our Nations struggles and sacrifices to be free. Free entrance and admission; open 24/7. All are invited to visit our schoolroom of history. There is an abundance of fresh air and distancing for all.

sensitivities. Current admission is $1 (ages 4 & up). Please check the website www.theimasonline.org or call (956) 681-2800 for more information. Also see the IMAS Facebook page. McAllen Heritage Center

International Museum of Art & Science

The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) was developed through the efforts of the McAllen Junior League to increase the quality of life for the citizens of the Rio Grande Valley. The mission of IMAS is to promote a deeper appreciation of the arts and sciences through its exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs; and to preserve, expand, and display its permanent art and science collections. IMAS is a Smithsonian Affiliate and fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. IMAS is the premier art and science museum of South Texas and contains over 50,000 square feet of exhibit spaces. The fine art galleries host a number of permanent and revolving international and regional art and science exhibits. The museum houses the McAllen Public Utility (MPU) Science Lab and Ann Moore Art Studio, which host a variety of hands-on activities that change monthly. A must-see exhibit at IMAS is the Science on a Sphere, an interactive theater space with daily presentations on space and weather. The Discovery Pavilion offers an interactive learning space for younger visitors and a display of minerals from the permanent collection. IMAS is located at the corner of Bicentennial and Nolana, at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. Regular hours are Wednesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.; and Sundays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. are reserved for visitors with sensory Page 18

Visit the McAllen Heritage Center to learn about McAllen's vibrant past! You can enjoy displays that show the chronological history of the city in photos and other artifacts, special exhibits about our schools, musicians, businesses, and other historical items. They honor the local talented artists in the "Artist's Corner" where artwork is displayed on a rotating basis. The museum offers various historical videos that visitors can enjoy in the presentation room, a children's coloring area and Book Nook, and hosts various special exhibits throughout the year. Please check the website or Facebook page for updates. The museum store "La Tiendita" which can be found on the website carries many historical books including the Valley Land Fund books along with an array of tee shirts and fun McAllen souvenirs. Items crafted by local glassworks artisan, Yoli Cantu are also available in the store. There is much to see and enjoy at the museum, come visit! Due to Covid19, restrictions apply for museum entry including but not limited to: face mask or covering of mouth and nose required for entry and while inside the museum facility. During this time, tours or field trips are not offered. No admission fee however door donations are gratefully accepted. Limited free parking is available in the rear parking lot. The Center is located at 301 S. Main St., McAllen, Texas. Hours are Wednesday through Friday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more info call (956) 687-1904, or email mcheritage@att.net. Visit the Facebook page or website, www.mcallenheritagecenter.com, for updates as well. Payne Arena The Payne Arena is a multi-purpose complex that features a 6,800-seat arena that will configure up to 5,500 seats for basketball, Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

ice hockey, football and soccer and a center stage concert capacity of 7,000 seats. The arena features 25 suites and 500 club seats. The property also includes 2,200 parking spaces, a lounge with access from outside of the arena, as well as a bar and pro shop. The Payne Arena has featured family and children shows, concerts, sporting events and other entertaining events. The arena is home to the Rio Grande Valley Dorados (Arena Football) and the Rio Grande Valley Barracudas (Major Arena Soccer). The Arena is located at 2600 North 10th Street (Hwy. 336) in Hidalgo. Tickets can be purchased from the box office, Ticketmaster, or other outlets. Visit www.hidalgoarena.com or call (956) 843-6688 for a schedule of events or more information. Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum The Magic Valley’s early 20th Century transition into an agricultural powerhouse is retold at the Old Hidalgo Pumphouse, which¬ also embraces nature conservation as a wing of the World Birding Center. The Old Hidalgo Pumphouse began pumping water to create an agricultural empire north of the Rio Grande in 1909 when the Louisiana-Rio Grande Canal Company installed steam-driven pumps, fueled by mesquite wood to pump the water to irrigate farms. The Pumphouse is on the National Register of Historic Landmarks. The museum exhibits the steam engines and pumps and tells the story of how agriculture was developed in the Rio Grande Valley. The Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum and World Birding Center is a hidden treasure, with beautiful sceneries of its gardens where you can enjoy nature with native trees, native shrubs, and native plants; these features attract birds and butterflies. The Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum and World Birding Center is open 7 days a week. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free to all visitors. There is a charge on scheduled museum and historical trolley tours. The museum tour fee is $3, and the historical trolley tour fee is $5. The trolley tours are every third Tuesday of the month. The Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum and World Birding Center also offers photography sessions, venue rentals, and bicycle rentals. There is an asphalt bike trail behind the Pumphouse, on the levee, that runs just a bit over 4 miles as a round trip. This trail starts by going east from Pumphouse grounds along Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

the Border wall, passing the wetlands to Military Road to a total of 2 ¼ miles. While on this bike trail you may encounter brown and white Pelicans, Cormorant Ducks, Grey Hawks, Turkey Vultures and American Coots. These animals are just a few of many waterfowls that can be seen while visiting the bike trail. The museum is located at 902 S. 2nd St. in Hidalgo. For more information call (956) 8438686 or (956) 843-6523, visit www.cityofhidalgo.net., or www.facebook.com/HidalgoPumphouseMuseumandWorldBirdingCenter/. World’s Largest Killer Bee Fear of bees raged across the United States when aggressive African Killer Bees first entered the United States in 1970 in Hidalgo, Texas. Today a statue next to the Hidalgo city hall at 600 Old Military Rd, marks the city as the place the feared bees first entered the U.S. Statue of Father Hidalgo Located on the grounds of the Hidalgo Municipal Park the statue of Father Miguel Hidalgo, for whom the city and county are named, pays tribute to the Catholic Father known as a champion for human rights. He was influential in starting the Mexican Revolution against Spain while Texas was still part of Mexico. Father Hidalgo issued his famous Grito de Dolores, calling for Mexican Revolution on Sept. 16, 1810. The statue is located at the entrance to the park at the north end of Esperanza Avenue. Page 19

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Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

LOCATIONS The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Division I Athletics UTRGV Patron of the Arts Edinburg Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Ebony Hills Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Museum of South Texas History Bert Ogden Arena Pharr Aquatic Center Tierra Del Sol Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle – National Shrine Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Edinburg Scenic Wetlands See Birding and Nature, p. 53 Los Lagos Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 The Gelman Stained Glass Museum Alamo Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Alamo Museum Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge See Birding and Nature, p. 52 Alamo Country Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33

Tower Rd

Alberta Rd

Lopezville

Tower Rd

Violet Ave W

ket Rd 907

9 13

Pharr

Bus

14 15 S Alamo Rd

S Veterans Bl vd

San Juan

Tower Rd

alez Dr

S Raul Long

N 10th St

W Freddy Gonz

oria Rd

5 1 2 3

10 69C

Farm to Mar

E Schunior St

N Alamo Rd

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

16 Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Division I Athletics UTRGV is the Valley’s NCAA Division I program and the only one in a 145-mile radius. UTRGV hosts contests in basketball, baseball, volleyball, soccer, tennis, golf, cross country, and track & field. UTRGV plays most of its home games on the Edinburg campus, with select basketball games taking place at Bert Ogden Arena and the South Padre Island Convention Centre. On average, UTRGV hosts about 30 basketball games each year. At less than $7 per game, this is one way for UTRGV to thank Winter Texans for their support. Tickets can be purchased online at UTRGVTickets.com or by contacting the UTRGV Athletics Ticket Operations Team of Carlos Munoz (956-665-3747) and Tiffany Ochoa (956-665-3415) or email at tickets@utrgv.edu. For more information, visit GoUTRGV.com. UTRGV Patron of the Arts

The UTRGV Patron of the Arts is the performance and membership series of the UTRGV School of Music that has provided Rio Grande Valley residents and visitors with excellent artistic programs for over 35 years. The program was created in 1984 in Brownsville, Texas to provide the community and students with opportunities for learning and enrichment by attending live events by professional guest musicians as well as visual artists. Patron of the Arts was also intended to provide a venue for faculty and student performances to showcase the considerable talent we have in the Rio Grande Valley. The UTRGV Patron of the Arts has two main venues: Performing Arts Auditorium at 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, and the TSC Performing Arts Center at 90 Taylor Avenue, Brownsville. For up-to-theminute performance and ticket information, please visit the website at utrgv.edu/patron. See page 43 for Brownsville location. P ag e 22

Museum of South Texas History Founded in 1967 as the Hidalgo County Historical Museum in the 1910 Hidalgo County Jail, the Museum of South Texas History (MOSTHistory) has grown over the decades through a series of expansions to occupy a full city block. It was later renamed the Museum of South Texas History to better reflect its regional scope. Today, the museum preserves and presents the borderland heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico through its permanent collection and the Margaret H. McAllen Memorial Archives and exhibits spanning prehistory through the 20th century. MOSTHistory also holds a variety of virtual family-friendly special events and programs throughout the year including Pioneer and Ranching Crafts Day, Dia de los Muertos, Sunday Speaker Series, guided tours and more. FRIENDS of MOSTHistory receive benefits including free admission to all special events and programs and discounts on rental space and in the museum store. The MOSTHistory is located in downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square. Hours of operation are Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about MOSTHistory, including becoming a FRIEND, visit MOSTHistory.org, like us on Facebook, follow on Twitter, find on YouTube or call (956) 383-6911. Bert Ogden Arena Bert Ogden Arena is the largest indoor entertainment venue in deep south Texas and serves as a premiere destination for sports and live entertainment. The venue has over 9,000 seats, luxury and member suites, 78 points of sale, restaurants and more to suit the needs of visitors during shows and other live events. The Arena is home to the RGV Vipers, a NBA G-league basketball team. Upcoming shows include Gabriel Iglesias, Pitbull, Enrique Iglesias, Ricky Martin and more. The Arena is located at 4900 S I-69 in EdRio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

inburg. Call (956) 56-ARENA or visit bertogdenarena.com for more information. Pharr Aquatic Center Located at 1000 S. Fir Street, the Pharr Aquatic Center serves the community with family fun. Designed and managed by the Pharr Parks & Recreation Department, the Pharr Aquatic Center consists of a fan shaped 6,800 sq. ft. leisure pool, which enters from a zero-depth beach area that wades into 3-1/2’. On the shallow end stands a water play structure that features three children’s slides, geysers, water sprayers, misters, spray fans, two giant splash buckets, and ornamental palm

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

tree sprayers. Available to the public is a lazy river that consists of a 200’ raft slide that spills into a 360’ linear ft. 8’ wide meandering river. Other Park amenities include a children’s pool, featuring geysers and a baby slide, and is covered with a shade structure. Also, the center features a Natatorium that encloses a 25-yard x 25-meter, 10 lane competition pool. Admission fees Monday through Friday are children 12 and under and senior citizens for $3 and adults for $5, Saturday through Sunday fees are $5 and $10 respectively. For more information call (956) 4024560 or visit the website www.pharr-tx.gov. Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle – National Shrine Devout Catholics often make pilgrimages to see the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of San Juan de Valle in San Juan. The Shrine got its start in 1949 when Father Jose Maria Azpiazu, OMI, placed a replica of the image of the Immaculate Conception of San Juan de los Lagos in the parish Church at San Juan. Such was the number of pilgrims that in 1954 a new shrine was dedicated to house the image. Disaster struck the first shrine in 1970, when a pilot deliberately crashed his plane

Page 23

the collection consists of works from Tiffany Studios, John LaFarge, Lamb Studios, Mary Tillinghast, and pieces from the German Munich styles by Franz Meyer and F. X. Zettler. This museum has also rescued other religious relics such as antique altars, baptismal fonts, statues, etc., thus giving a sacred churchlike ambiance for the public to experience. The museum is scheduled to open in Fall 2021. Please visit www.gelmanmuseum.org or call (956) 603-7608 for more information, purchase timed tickets, and/or schedule your next event. into the building. The faithful continued to make pilgrimages to the shrine, and the church grew in strength from the ashes of the old one. On April 19, 1980, the present shrine was dedicated. On June 12, 1999, the shrine was designated a “Minor Basilica” through official notification from the Vatican. The Basilica is located in San Juan, at 400 N. Virgen de San Juan Blvd. It is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. There is a Hotel and Café on the Basilica grounds. For information or tours call (956) 787-0033 or visit www.olsjbasilica.org. The Gelman Stained Glass Museum The Gelman Stained Glass Museum in San Juan, Texas, is located across from the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle and is home to the most comprehensive collection of stained-glass windows in the United States. This 16,000 square foot state-of-theart museum, replicates the Latin-cross cruciform architecture of European medieval cathedrals, providing a sacred setting for these antique stained-glass windows salvaged from deteriorating churches around the country. The windows on display represent the most renowned manufacturers of 19th and 20th Century American and European stainedglass art. With over 140 antique windows,

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Alamo Museum The history of Alamo is being collected, preserved and displayed at the City of Alamo Museum, 130 South Eighth Street in the City of Alamo. It is a history of early development of Camp Ebenezer with a railroad depot in 1902 as a ranching and shipping operation. Colonizing followed when the Alamo Land and Sugar Company purchased 32,000 acres and excursion trains brought prospective farmers to the area, housed temporarily at the camp between 1914 and up until the 1930s. Still in its infancy, permanent displays include a Galleria of Angels, the tragic 1940 truck-train collision, the history of the Alamo Fire Department and a collection of every Alamo News issue from 1928 to 1982. Revolving and traveling exhibits take place, on average, every three months. They usually honor local families that have contributed to the city by displaying photos along with vintage and unique heirlooms. Traveling exhibits of loaned items have included Madonna and Child figurines, Nativity sets, Singer child sewing machines, 1900’s-1920’s Dress Collection and a barber chair that sat John, Bob and Ted Kennedy. Phone is (956) 961-4398; website: www.alamotexas.org (under Departments link); hours are 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. weekdays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Follow the Facebook page and find out how to "Discover Your Past" at the City of Alamo Museum.

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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San Ygnacio

Zapata

Roma Rio Grande City Los Ebanos

Rio Grande Valley Regions San Ygnacio to Los Ebanos

Donna to Mercedes

La Joya to Mission

Harlingen to San Benito

McAllen to Hidalgo

Los Fresnos to Brownsville

Edinburg to Alamo

Port Isabel to SPI

69C

Edinburg

Alton Palmview Mission

McAllen

Pharr

Hidalgo

Raymondville 69E Edcouch

Alamo Donna Weslaco

Mercedes

South Padre Island

Harlingen 2

San Benito Rancho Viejo

Los Fresnos

Brownsville

Port Isabel Boca Chica

Christmas Bird Counts The Christmas Bird Counts are sponsored by the National Audubon Society and are done throughout the Americas. The counts are done from December 14 to January 5 every year. For more information visit https://www.audubon.org/conservation/ science/christmas-bird-count or call your local state park for more information: in Weslaco - Estero Llano Grande State Park, (956) 565-3919; in Mission - Bentsen - Rio Grande Valley State Park, (956) 584-9156. Fourth of July Butterfly Counts The North American Butterfly Association holds annual Fourth of July butterfly counts all over the nation. The Mission-area count is coordinated by the National Butterfly Center and Bentsen-RGV State Park. To learn more or register to participate, please call (956) 583-5400. Ocelot Festival The Ocelot Festival returns to South Texas every year at the beginning of March. Events are held in several locations including South Padre Island, San Benito, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, and Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville. The event is held to share information about the ongoing conservation effort to keep the ocelot population growing and safe, and to raise money to help with that conservation. Visitors learn more about ocelots, the work underway to conserve them, and how they can help when attending events such as the Afternoon with an Ocelot. There is also an Ocelot 5k/One Mile Run that is held at the zoo on Ocelot Conservation Day. The 2021 Festival is a virtual event and will include many of the traditional activities. For more information about the events, email friendsoflagunaatascosa@gmail.com or call (956) 832-3905. Information may also be found on the website: https://www. texasocelots.com/ Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival Birders will flock to the Valley in search of the specialty birds of the Rio Grande Valley for the 27th annual Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival. The festival begins on November 10th and runs through the 14th, with Page 31

field trips, keynote speakers, afternoon presentations, a trade show, a silent auction, a souvenir booth, and local art and photography. The website, www.rgvbf.org, will have information on field trip destinations and registering. Online registration will begin August 1st. For more information, call (956) 423-5565 or email info@rgvbf.org. The Great Texas Birding Classic The Great Texas Birding Classic, coordinated by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, takes place every year from April 15 through May 15, with a registration deadline of April 1st.With more than 40 tournament categories based on age, region of the state, length of time birding, and more, there is truly something for everyone. It is the biggest, longest, wildest bird watching tournament in the United States! For information and dates, visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/events/great-texas-birding-classic/ or call (512) 389-4500. Texas Butterfly Festival The 25th Annual Texas Butterfly Festival will be held October 30 through November 2, 2021 in Mission. The festival includes educational workshops and field trips across the Rio Grande Valley for anyone interested in learning more about butterflies, dragonflies, and birds. This 4-day festival features expert guides, speakers and instructors. Free community day is Saturday, October 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Online registration opens May 1. For more information visit www.texasbutterflyfestival.com, or call the National Butterfly Center at (956) 583-5400. Texas International Fishing Tournament The 81st annual Texas International Fishing Tournament will be held July 28 through August 1, 2021 in the Port Isabel-South Padre Island area. For information go to www.info@tift.org or call (956) 943-8438. Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Alamo Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 715 US Business 83 • Alamo 78516 956-787-2117 www.alamochamber.com Greater Alton Chamber of Commerce 509 S. Alton Blvd. • Alton, TX 78573 956-432-0760 www.alton-tx.gov Brownsville Chamber of Commerce 1600 University Blvd. • Brownsville 78520 956-542-4341 www.brownsvillechamber.com Edinburg Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 85 • 602 W. University Dr. • Edinburg 78539 956-383-4974 www.edinburg.com Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce 311 E. Tyler Ave. • Harlingen 78550 956-423-5440 www.harlingen.com Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau 311 E. Tyler Ave. • Harlingen 78550 956-622-5053 www.visitharlingentexas.com Los Fresnos Chamber of Commerce 520 E. Ocean Blvd. • Los Fresnos 78566 956-233-4488 www.losfresnoschamber.com office@losfresnoschamber.com McAllen Chamber of Commerce 1200 Ash Ave. • McAllen 78501 956-682-2871 www.mcallen.org McAllen Convention & Visitors Bureau 1200 Ash Ave. • McAllen 78501 956-682-2871 www.visitmcallen.com Mercedes Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 37 • 320 S. Ohio Ave. • Mercedes 78570 956-565-2221 www.mercedeschamber.com Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce 202 W. Tom Landry St. • Mission 78572 956-585-2727 www.missionchamber.com Palmview Chamber of Commerce 400 W. Veterans Blvd. • Palmview 78572 956-432-0330 www.palmviewchamber.com Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce 421 Queen Isabella Blvd. • Port Isabel 78578 956-943-2262 www.portisabelchamber.com director@portisabel.org Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Raymondville Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 746 • 700 FM 3168 • Raymondville 78580 956-689-1864 Rio Grande Valley Partnership Regional Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1499 • Weslaco 78599 322 S. Missouri Ave. • Weslaco 78596 956-968-3141 www.rgvpartnership.com Rio Grande City Department of Tourism 101 S. Washington St. • Rio Grande City 78582 956-487-0672 www.cityofrgc.com City of Roma P.O. Box 947 • 77 Convent Ave. • Roma 78584 956-849-1411 www.cityofroma.net San Benito Chamber of Commerce 223 S. Sam Houston Blvd. • San Benito 78586 956-361-9111 www.chamberofsanbenito.com info@chamberofsanbenito.com South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce 610 Padre Blvd. Suite A • South Padre Island 78597 956-761-4412 www.spichamber.com info@spichamber.com South Padre Island Visitors Center 321 Padre Blvd. • South Padre Island 78597 Toll free: 800-SOPADRE (1-800-767-2373) Local: 956-761-6433 Mexico: 001-800-767-2373 www.sopadre.com info@sopadre.com South Padre Island Convention Centre 7355 Padre Blvd. • South Padre Island 78597 Toll free: 800-SOPADRE (1-800-767-2373) Local: 956-761-3000 Mexico: 001-800-767-2373 www.sopadre.com info@sopadre.com Texas Travel Information Center 2021 W. Harrison Ave. • Harlingen 78552 956-428-4477 www.txdot.gov Weslaco Chamber of Commerce 956-968-2102 Chamber@weslaco.com www.weslaco.com Zapata County Chamber of Commerce 601 N. US Hwy. 83 • Zapata 78076 956-765-4871 • 800-292-LAKE (5253) www.zapatachamber.com Page 32

With winter temperatures averaging 65-70 degrees and over 200 sunny days, Rio Grande Valley premier golf courses can be enjoyed year-round. Alamo Country Club 438 Country Club Dr., Alamo (956) 787-0907 Brownsville Golf Center 180 W. San Marcello, Brownsville (956) 541-2582 Ebony Hills Golf Course 30 W. Palm Dr., Edinburg (956) 292-2144 El Niño Golf Course 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview (956) 585-5551 Howling Trails Golf Club 1910 Hole in One Dr, Mission (956) 323-2165 Los Lagos Golf Club 1720 S. Raul Longoria Road, Edinburg (956) 316-0444 Long Island Village Golf Course 33840 S. Garcia St., Port Isabel (956) 943-7520 Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club 2919 N. Kenyon Road, Edinburg (956) 381-0964 Palm View Golf Course 2701 S. Ware Road, McAllen (956) 681-3444 Rancho Viejo Resort and Country Club 1 Rancho Viejo Drive, Rancho Viejo (956) 350-4000

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Raymondville Municipal Golf Course 13839 Emma Ross Road, Raymondville (956) 6904068 River Bend Resort & Golf Course 4541 US281, Brownsville (956) 548-0192 Shary Municipal Golf Course 2201 N. Mayberry St., Mission (956) 580-8770 South Padre Island Golf Club 1 Golf House Road, Laguna Vista (956) 943-4653 Stuart Place Golf Course 155 Highland Drive, Harlingen (956) 428-2000 The Club at Cimarron 1200 S. Shary Road, Mission (956) 581-7401 Tierra Del Sol Golf Course 700 E. Hall Acres Road, Pharr (956) 402-4545 Tierra Santa Golf Club 1901 Club de Amistad, Weslaco (956) 973-1811 Tony Butler Golf Course 2640 Golf Course Dr., Harlingen (956) 216-5970 Treasure Hills Golf Club 3009 N. Augusta National Dr., Harlingen (956) 425-1700 Valley International Country Club 301 McFadden, Brownsville (956) 548-9199 Village Executive Golf Course 3300 S. International Blvd., Weslaco (956) 968-6516

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Frontera Audubon

Estero Llano Grande 3301 S. International Blvd. Frontera Audubon 1101 S. Texas Blvd. Valley Nature Center 301 S. Border Ave.

Estero Llano Grande State Park Valley Nature Center

Tower Theater

Weslaco Museum 500 S. Texas Blvd. Tower Theater 120 S. Kansas Ave. Weslaco Museum

Page 34

Texas Onion Fest

Texas Onion Fest March 26, 2022

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

LOCATIONS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Donna Historical Museum Tierra Santa Golf Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Valley Nature Center See Birding and Nature, p. 52 Rio Grande Valley Partnership See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Villa de Cortez Weslaco Museum Weslaco Visitors Center Weslaco Chamber of Commerce, See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Frontera Audubon Society See Birding and Nature, p. 51 Village Executive Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Estero Llano Grande State Park See Birding and Nature, p. 53 Delta Lake Park Raymondville Municipal Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Raymondville Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Rio Grande Valley Livestock Showgrounds Boots on the Ground - Mercedes, Texas Mercedes Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Texas Blvd

Bus

5 4 6

13 14

S Kansas Ave

S Border Ave

7 8 Bus

E 5th St

Monte Alto

Weslaco

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Bus

Mercedes

16 S Texas Ave

S International Blvd

Miller Ave

S Texas Blvd

N Main St

Donna

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Donna Historical Museum Located in the historical Donna News Building at 129 S. 8th Street, The Donna Historical Museum has memorabilia of early pioneer days in Donna. Named for the daughter of one of Donna's founders, the museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Closed during lunch. Admission is free, although donations are welcome. For more information, contact the museum at (956) 464-9989. Villa de Cortez

Those who love to visit old buildings and get a feel for the past should be sure and stop by the renovated Villa de Cortez. The facility is now open with the old hotel lobby, a gift shop, barbershop, and children’s bookstore. There is also Jose’s Cafecito Mexican Restaurant. Built in 1928, the building now includes a restored ballroom, which can be rented for group events. Tours are also available. The hotel is located on the corner of Business 83 and Texas Boulevard in Weslaco. For information on the building or to book an event, call (956) 969-3100 or visit www.villadecortezweslaco.com. Weslaco Museum Located at 500 S. Texas Blvd., the Weslaco Museum features art and/or historical exhibits monthly in the Gallery. A collection of historical artifacts from the early years of Weslaco and surrounding Rio Grande Valley areas are on permanent exhibit in the static portion of the museum. The historical exhibits feature information about the history of the families who settled in Weslaco and the Rio Grande Valley. There is an extensive collection of artifacts from early businesses and tools used by homesteaders in the area. Special items include a 1904 Cannon safe used in Weslaco’s first bank, and an oxen cart used to haul salt from El Sal del Rey. The museum pays tribute to many local veterans, such as Harlon Block. Block was a hometown young man who was immortalized in a P ag e 3 6

Pulitzer Prize-winning photo taken by war correspondent Joe Rosenthal of the flag raising on the Pacific Island of Iwo Jima during World War II. Block was one of six who raised the American flag. Block is the man crouched to place the flag and is depicted at the Iwo Jima statue in Harlingen. However, many of our citizens have served our great country, and as many as we have information on, we will honor them, as well. Other areas of the museum include a dedication to the Texsun Juice plant and the agriculture that helped to grow this area. The Weslaco Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located at 500 S. Texas Blvd. For more information and a list of upcoming events contact the museum at (956) 968-9142, visit http://www.weslacomuseum.org/ or follow the Facebook page. Weslaco Visitors Center Visit Weslaco! Stop by the Weslaco Visitors Center for information on where to shop, eat and stay in Weslaco! During your visit you’re invited to sit, relax and watch one of the historical films, from local sugar cane production in the RGV to historical ranches of South Texas! Call for more information! (956) 968-2102. Delta Lake Park Hidalgo County Commissioner David L. Fuentes invites you to Delta Lake Park. Located in eastern Hidalgo County, this park has a pavilion, barbecue facilities, and picnic tables along the lake shore. It is a perfect place for birdwatchers to spend a day watching the water ducks and geese who call the lake Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

home while in the Valley. The lake is on FM 88 north of Elsa, three miles north of Monte Alto. Hours: 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset. For more information call (956) 968-8733. Rio Grande Valley Livestock Showgrounds The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Showgrounds are home to the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and other events held throughout the year. The Livestock show started being held in 1939 and was moved to the current location at 1000 North Texas, Mercedes, in 1949. The Livestock Show is a chartered non-profit educational organization with a board of directors representing the four southmost counties of Texas. The show has grown from showing animals in tents, to now having a rodeo arena for events, a multi-purpose event center, open barns, and other covered areas where animals are kept and shown during the monthlong event held during the month of March. The event promotes the youth of south Texas through leadership development, agricultural education, and competition with a goal of creating the leaders of tomorrow. The events give an opportunity for FFA and 4-H students/exhibitors to shine showing their animals and products. It is

estimated that millions of dollars have been paid to the exhibitors during the show’s existence. For more information on the history of the grounds, show, and events, visit rgvls.com. Boots on the Ground - Mercedes, Texas Nothing says Texas more than boots; and no one knows that more than the quiet community of Mercedes in the Rio Grande Valley. Boots have been a staple of the western lifestyle for generations and the spirit of the cowboy is alive and kicking as the City of Mercedes promotes the fact that it is home to several custom boot makers. The term “boots on the ground” has a

(956) 968 - 8567 • www.KnappMed.org Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

P ag e 3 7

whole new meaning with 30 five-and-ahalf-foot tall custom-made aluminum boots adorned with college logos throughout the town. This is a way to promote a college-going culture in the community with an old symbol of Mercedes, the cowboy boot. Mercedes is home to the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show & Rodeo. The community is also visited by almost six million people every year who shop at the Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlet Mall, located on the Expressway. A list of universities represented and locations can be found at https://mercedesedc.

com/live-in-mercedes/fun-things-to-see-anddo/boot-locations/.

VACATION RENTALS AVAILABLE! P ag e 3 8

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

LOCATIONS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Stuart Place Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Texas Travel Information Center See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Tony Butler Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Harlingen Municipal Auditorium Harlingen Community Theatre Historic Downtown Harlingen, A Designated Texas Main Street District Harlingen Chamber of Commerce and Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau See Chamber Offices, p. 32

8 Iwo Jima Monument and Museum 9 Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum Harlingen’s Arroyo Colorado See Birding and Nature, p. 53 Treasure Hills Golf Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Callandret Black History Museum San Benito Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Freddy Fender Museum San Benito Museum Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame & Museum

69E

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Jackson Ave

NR ea

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r Fai

yD r

n Jefferso

ley Val

rce

are

yS t

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Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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Harlingen Municipal Auditorium The Harlingen Municipal Auditorium has hosted hundreds of famous musicians, speakers, circuses, and plays since its opening in 1928. Renovated and expanded in 1993, it remained a venue for concerts and dramatic performances, and serves as headquarters for the city’s signature events. Renovated again after being devastated by Hurricane Dolly in 2008, the auditorium hosts dramatic performances, concerts and other special events. Located at 1204 Fair Park Blvd., call (956) 216-5990 or visit www.myharlingen.us for information. Harlingen Community Theatre Musicals, comedies, concerts and dance performances are regularly scheduled at Harlingen Community Theatre, located at 1209 Fair Park Blvd., Harlingen. Call (956) 4127529 for information on upcoming events or to make reservations. You can check out the website at www.harlingencommunitytheatre.org and follow the Facebook page. Historic Downtown Harlingen, A Designated Texas Main Street District Come visit historic Downtown Harlingen, a designated Texas Main Street District, and experience art, history, unique shops, restaurants and popular events among historic architecture, towering palms and unique vistas. Downtown Harlingen has it all featuring Jackson Street Market Days (every first Saturday of the month) one of the valley’s largest outdoor venues featuring vendors, food, music, handmade crafts, plants, collectibles, and one-of-a-kind treasures as well as the local downtown businesses offering everything from antiques, barbershops, records, jewelry, fashion, dining and much more. Experience Downtown Harlingen in the evening with art exhibition openings, artist receptions, gallery walks, live and original music and enjoy our larger-than-life size murals celebrating valley history and culture during our Harlingen Art Night (last Friday of

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the month). Drop by the Downtown Harlingen Office and pick up a directory and map and enjoy what Downtown Harlingen has to offer. For more information, call the Downtown Harlingen Office at (956) 216-4910. Or visit the website at www.downtownharlingen.com. Iwo Jima Monument and Museum

Iwo Jima Memorial Monument is located on the grounds of the Marine Military Academy. The memorial depicts the six Marines (Sgt. Michael Strank, Cpl Harlon H. Block, Cpl Harold Keller, Pfc Ira H. Hayes, Pfc Harold H. Schultz, and Pfc Franklin R. Sousley) shown in a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph as they struggled to plant an American flag atop Mount Suribachi on the Pacific Island of Iwo Jima Feb. 23, 1945. The island had been taken by the Japanese in the early years of the war and the planting of the flag was a symbol to the free world of the struggle going on in the Pacific to preserve freedom. Dr. Felix W. De Weldon, a sculptor serving in the Navy at the time, created a scale model, which was used for the final war bond drive of the war. After the war, De Weldon worked almost 10 years to prepare a working model for the memorial to be cast in bronze and set in Arlington National Cemetery. When the bronze statue was completed, it was dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954. The original model remained in De Weldon's possession until 1981 when he gave the work of art to the Marine Military Academy. The Iwo Jima War Memorial Museum is located at 320 Iwo Jima Blvd., next to Valley International Airport in Harlingen, and also houses a gift shop. The museum honors the efforts of Marines everywhere but concentrates on the Battle of Iwo Jima. The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed on Sunday. There are no admission charges, but donations are appreciated. Call (956) 421-9234 or 1-800-3656006 or visit www.mma-tx.org/museum.htm. Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum History comes alive through tours of the Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood, across from Texas State Technical College and Valley International Airport. Step inside the Paso Real Stagecoach Inn built at the end of the 19th century. Marvel at the vintage medical equipment on display in the city’s first hospital. Take a glimpse at daily life in the house of city founder, Lon C. Hill, which features many original family possessions. Enjoy photos of Harlingen’s history as an air base and exhibits of railroad and ranching history in South Texas and enjoy temporary exhibits of art and history in the main museum building. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. There is no admission fee, but donations are encouraged. Guided group tours are $1 per child and $2 per adult; tours must be arranged 14 days in advance. Call (956) 216-4901 or visit http://www.myharlingen.us/page/museum.home for information. Callandret Black History Museum The Callandret Black History Museum is the first museum south of Houston that is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of African Americans in South Texas and beyond. It is named for Joe and Fannie Callandret who came to San Benito in 1908 and established their family farm. In 1949, Fannie donated land on which the district could build a proper school building for the black children of the area and so her children could have a school to attend during the days of segregation. The school opened in 1952. The San Benito Historical Society opened the museum, part of the original school, in February of 2020. The museum features exhibits of the Callandret family as well as other family that settled in the area. For hours and more about the Callandret Museum, visit callandretmuseum.com. The museum is located at 305 Doherty St. in San Benito. Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Freddy Fender Museum Texas Folk-life Resources calls “Freddy Fender an icon and the most significant Mexican-American singer, writer and musician in musical history.” The Freddy Fender Museum gives those who love Freddy Fender’s music a rare glimpse at his roots and what made him such a significant entertainer. Freddy Fender's music career was ignited in the late 1950s when he recorded Spanish-language versions of “Don't Be Cruel” and “Jamaica Farewell,” which were chart-topping hits in Mexico and South America. He first recorded and had regional success with “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” in the 1960s, but in the 1970s the song, along with his signature, “Before the Next Teardrop Falls,” propelled Freddy to international stardom. In 1975, he won the Academy of Country Music's Best New Artist award. This was the first of many major awards that Freddy would receive throughout his life. In more recent years, he co-founded the Texas Tornados with Flaco Jimenez, Augie Meyers and Doug Sahm, toured as a solo artist, and as part of Tejano super group, Los Super Seven. A multi-Grammy Award winner, Fender performed for U.S. presidents, governors and sold-out audiences worldwide. With music awards in 4 decades, numerous movie and TV credits, he continued to perform to sell out audiences from Vegas to Amsterdam until 2005. Freddy was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999 for his contribution to music. See his Grammy awards, his Harley Davidson and costumes worn in various performances. The legend and the spirit of Freddy live on in San Benito, Texas. San Benito Museum Step back in time and see how San Benito came to be. From the natural formation of the Resaca (an old course of the Rio Grande River) where Indians and Spanish land grant ranches flourished to the arrival of the railroad and diverse ethnic pioneers hungry for cheap and fertile land, a small community grew and prospered. Page 41

Photo Courtesy of San Benito Museum San Benito grew into a social and commercial center in the tropical Magic Valley of Texas. Pioneers built schools and churches, formed clubs and held dances and even put on a "Hog Waddle." Over 100 years have passed since San Benito’s founding and naming by Col. Sam Robertson and his business colleagues. Walk through our small tale in United States history and as the words of a popular song echo, "Reminisce about the days of yore…" For information, call (956) 245-4643 or visit www.sanbenitohistory.org. Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame & Museum The Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame & Museum is a part of the Museums of San

Benito, the birthplace of conjunto music. The museum works to promote, preserve, archive, document, and to permanently display the history of Conjunto regional music and to honor those who created it. Detailed information on the instruments used in conjunto music, its cultural origins, and stories of San Benito’s legendary music institutions – “La Villita” dance hall and the Ideal Records are among featured exhibits. In annual ceremonies, capped with a grand dance, worthy conjunto personnel are inducted into the Hall of Fame. They are highlighted in the biographies and memorabilia featured in the museum. Conjunto music pioneer Narciso Martinez is credited with solidifying the combination of the German and Polish accordion polkas, schottisches and redowas with the Spanish bajo sexto (12-string guitar) and musica ranchera (ranch music). Called the “working man’s music,” conjunto legends’ memories, and their spirit, are kept alive in the Resaca City at the Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame & Museum. For information, call (956) 245-1666.

Discover Brownsville’s History! Visit the Historic Brownsville Museum in the

Mitte Cultural District, The Heritage Museum and the Stillman House Museum located in the heart of downtown.

1325 E. Washington Street, Brownsville, Texas 78520 www.brownsvillehistory.org

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LOCATIONS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Resaca de la Palma State Park See Birding and Nature, p. 54 River Bend Resort & Golf Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Valley International Country Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Brownsville Golf Center See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Historic Brownsville Museum Brownsville’s Historic Places Walking Tours Brownsville Heritage Complex Children’s Museum of Brownsville Gladys Porter Zoo Brownsville Farmers’ Market Costumes of the Americas Museum Camille Playhouse Brownsville Museum of Fine Art Brownsville Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 UTRGV Patron of the Arts See Edinburg entry on p. 22 for full info. Fort Brown/UTRGV Los Fresnos Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park Sabal Palm Sanctuary See Birding and Nature, p. 52 Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge See Birding and Nature, p. 51

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Historic Brownsville Museum Don’t miss the train while in the Valley! The Historic Brownsville Museum’s featured exhibit is a Baldwin wood-burning railroad locomotive, the last one in the world of its kind. The museum is located within the old Southern Pacific Railroad Depot built in 1928 and covers the history of Brownsville from its beginning with emphasis on the War with Mexico and the Civil War, and historical artifacts from Brownsville’s past. The museum is located at 641 E. Madison Street. Admission: Adults $6, Senior Citizens $4, Students $2, and children under 6 and veterans are free. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. For more information contact the museum at (956) 5481313 or visit www.brownsvillehistory.org. Brownsville’s Historic Places Walking Tours The Discover Brownsville’s Historic Places walking tour maps are available (while supplies last) at Brownsville Heritage Complex at 1325 East Washington St. in Brownsville. Call (956) 541-5560 for information or go online to www.brownsvillehistory.org. Tours of the area are often led in winter months. Brownsville Heritage Complex The Brownsville Heritage Complex is comprised of the Brownsville Heritage Museum and the Stillman House Museum. Guests will step back in time to the 1850s as they walk through the house Charles Stillman lived in, one of Brownsville’s founders. In addition

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to artifacts and décor of the time, bilingual interpretive panels introduce guests to the culture, architecture, and early history of Brownsville. Brownsville Heritage Museum allows visitors to explore the history of South Texas and Mexico through interactive exhibits, bilingual signage, and unique artifacts. The Aiken Education Gallery houses an exhibit centered on the Mexican Revolution and displays a 1909 German MAN limo which was allegedly custom made for Porfirio Diaz. The Brownsville Heritage Complex is at 1325 East Washington. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Sundays and Mondays. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for students. Children under 6 are free, veterans are free. A day pass with admission to both the Heritage Complex and the Historic Brownsville Museums is available for adults $10, Seniors $6, students $3, and children under 6 and veterans are free. Children’s Museum of Brownsville Located at 501 Ringgold Street, #5, Dean Porter Park in Brownsville, this non-profit museum is where children can learn and explore through a variety of exhibits, workshops, and programs in a safe and imaginative environment. Admission is $8.50 per person, and children under 12 months are free. The Museum is currently operating on a reservation process and walk-ins (when availability permits). Visitors are required to wear masks and are subject to temperature checks and washing hands upon entering. Signage is posted throughout the museum of capacity limits in certain sections so that social distancing may be properly practiced, and hand sanitizer stations are available. The Children’s Museum is currently operating on a block system, open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays through Wednesdays. For more information, call (956) 5489300 or visit www.cmofbrownsville.org. Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

visit the website at www.brownsvillewellnesscoalition.com, call (956) 465-4178 or email brownsvillewellnesscoalition@gmail.com. They are located at One West University, Brownsville. Costumes of the Americas Museum

Gladys Porter Zoo Explore one of the top zoos in the country, Gladys Porter Zoo. Visit Africa, Asia, Tropical America, and Indo-Australia. Encounter tigers, macaws, kangaroos, Orinoco crocodiles, three generations of gorillas, 337 species of animals and over 225 of tropical plants. Recent additions include El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco, an enchanted South Texas themed playground and Stingray Landing in the Russell Aquatic Ecology Center. On the weekends, take advantage of the opportunity to feed a giraffe, stingray, flamingo, or Galapagos tortoise for a small fee. The Zoo is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors may stay on the grounds until dusk. Admission is $14 for adults, $8.50 for children ages 2-13, and children 2 years and under are free. Admission for seniors, 65 and over, is $11. Memberships are also available. The zoo is located at 500 Ringgold Street, Brownsville. Call (956) 546-2177 or visit www.gpz.org for more information. Brownsville Farmers’ Market Begin your weekend with a stroll at the Brownsville Farmers’ Market to meet friendly farmers selling locally grown, fresh, seasonal produce. The market is open every Saturday morning, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Linear Park. Also found at the Market is local honey, baked goods, coffee, natural smoothies, kettle corn and farm fresh eggs. For more information on the Brownsville Farmers’ Market look them up on Facebook,

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

The Costumes of the Americas Museum plays a vivid role in the enrichment of the Mitte Cultural and Education Center in Brownsville. The museum features yearly rotating exhibits of authentic dress and artifacts, some over 100 years old, from the Americas and beyond. Visit the Facebook page for updated hours. For more information call (956) 547-6890 or visit www.cotam.net. Camille Playhouse In the heart of the Mitte Cultural District, the Camille Playhouse is located across from Gladys Porter Zoo in Dean Porter Park. It is dedicated to bringing the finest in theater performances to Brownsville. Call (956) 542-8900 for upcoming events, times, and admissions, or visit the website at www.camilleplayhouse.net. Brownsville Museum of Fine Art Located in the Mitte Cultural District of Brownsville is the state-of-the-art, 17,000 square foot Museum of Fine Art. Founded in 1935, the museum owns a permanent collec-

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tion of more than 500 works from renowned artists including Mark Chagall, Whistler, N.C. Wyeth, Augustus John, and Alexander Calder. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed Sunday. Group rates and tours are available, minimum of 10 and maximum of 50 people. Regular admission fees are $5 for adults, children 6 to 12, veterans, seniors and students with ID are $2.50; and children under 6 are free. For more information, call (956) 542-0941 or visit www.BMFA.US. Fort Brown/UTRGV As the primary U.S. military establishment at the mouth of the Rio Grande, Fort Brown became a major prize for both sides during the Civil War. The fort was built by General Zachary Taylor in 1846, making it the first major U.S. military post built along the Rio Grande. While most of Fort Brown is gone, some of the old barracks have been converted into classrooms for the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. A frame home where General “Black Jack” Pershing, Charles Lindberg, Abner Doubleday (creator of baseball) and Col. Robert E. Lee stayed at one time or another has been preserved. An old commissary that had a jail in the basement remains on the campus along with a bachelor’s officer’s quarters,

the post chapel, the morgue, and an old hospital. Walking tours are available during the winter months. Check their website, www. brownsvillehistory.org, for upcoming tours. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park Palo Alto National Historical Park occupies the site of the first major battle of the US Mexican War. On May 8, 1846, General Zachary Taylor and his 2,300 men army engaged 3,200 Mexican troops under the command of General Mariano Arista in a fierce cannon battle on the coastal prairie. The Park preserves the battlefield and provides a visitor center, museum exhibits, video presentations and interpretive trails of the battle and the war that followed. The Park also offers a variety of tours and programs throughout the year. The site is also home to a variety of plant and animal life unique to the Rio Grande delta. Visitors often come to view curlew, Roseate Spoonbills, and numerous species of raptors. Palo Alto Battlefield is open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except for major holidays. Admission is free. For more information, call (956) 5412785. The Park is located at 7200 Paredes Line Road, (FM 1847, just north of the intersection of FM 511). For more about the park or upcoming events, visit the website www.nps.gov/paal.

Cameron County Insurance Center, Inc. Coleman Hall & Heinze Insurance

Serving the personal and business insurance needs of individuals, families and businesses.

Texas Business Insurance, Texas Commercial Insurance

Personal Lines - Home, Auto, Boat and Umbrellas

302 Queen Isabella Blvd. Port Isabel, TX 78578 (956) 943-6481 • Fax (956) 943-7086 • www.cameroncountyinsurance.com

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LOCATIONS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Commemorative Air Force Museum – RGV Wing South Padre Island Golf Club See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Port Isabel Lighthouse The Treasures of the Gulf Museum Black Dragon Pirate Cruise SPI Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center Port Isabel Historical Museum Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier South Padre Island Art Trails Long Island Village Golf Course See Golfers’ Paradise, p. 33 SpaceX SPI Convention Center Andy Bowie Park 13 South Padre Island Birding Nature Center 14 and Alligator Sanctuary See Birding and Nature, p. 54 Sea Turtle Inc. 15 16 Sandcastle Village South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce See Chamber Offices, p. 32 South Padre Island Visitor’s Center 17 See Chamber Offices, p. 32 Beach Park at Isla Blanca Isla Blanca County Park

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Commemorative Air Force Museum – Rio Grande Valley Wing The Rio Grande Valley Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (RGV Wing CAF) is located within the Port Isabel-Cameron County Airport and can be accessed by entering Veterans Airport Drive from Buena Vista Boulevard (SH 106). The museum has a unique collection of WWII era aircraft trainers and a collection of WWII artifacts, memorabilia, and photos. The hangar houses flying military aircraft dating back to 1935 as well as military transportation vehicles. The Rio Grande Valley Wing hosts its annual airshow the first weekend in October. The event provides a flying exhibition of WWII era aircraft trainers, fighters, and bombers as well as various world-famous aerobatic performers. Modern military jet teams also participate and exhibit their aerial maneuvers and tactics. The museum is open 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Saturday. November through March winter season hours are 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Special guided tours for groups of 10 or more are available by appointment and can be scheduled by calling David Christopher (970) 397-4604. General admission is free, but donations are accepted. The rate for group tours of 10 or more will be $5 per attendant. Group tours will include an exhibition by one of our pilots as he pre-flights, starts, and flies one of the museum’s vintage aircraft (weather providing). For more information visit our website at www.rgvcaf.org or call Tom Santos at (956) 579-2611.

30 miles north of Port Isabel. Relics from these three shipwrecks are on display. Please call for current hours of operation. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors (over 55) and $2 for students. For more info, visit www.portisabelmuseums.com or call (956) 943-7602. Black Dragon Pirate Cruise

Port Isabel Lighthouse To get a great view of the Laguna Madre, climb to the top of the Port Isabel Lighthouse which was constructed in 1852 to guide ships through the Brazos Santiago Pass and into the Laguna Madre. Opened as a State Park in 1952, it is the only lighthouse open to the public on the Texas Gulf coast. Also on the grounds of the Lighthouse is the Keeper’s Cottage, home to the Visitor Center and the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce. For hours of operation, call (956) 943-2262. Admission prices are adults $5, seniors $4, and students $3. For more info visit www.portisabellighthouse.com or call (956) 943-2262.

This popular tourist attraction is located in the Laguna Madre, headquartered at Pirate’s Landing, 501 Maxan Street in Port Isabel. The two-hour cruise features water gun fights, sword battles, canon firings, and tales of pirates, face painting, area history and lots of fun. In addition to the two-hour cruise, a half-hour pre-show features events such as magic or knife show, or a fire manipulator. For information or to make reservations, call (956) 943-MATE (6283) or go online to http:// www.ospreycruises.com/the-black-dragon-pirate-ship. SPI Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center Devoted to the study of the dolphins and creatures of the Laguna Madre, the Sea Life Center is located at 110 N. Garcia Street in Port Isabel, next to Pirate’s Landing. Many examples of marine animals found in the Laguna Madre can be found in the aquarium exhibits. A children’s exhibit featuring a touch tank is a real hit. The center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dolphin tours by boat are given by George and Scarlet Colley, Dolphin Whisperer on Facebook. She only takes six or less per visit to meet her amazing dolphin tribe. The fee for the center is $3 per person and the fee for the boat trip, which includes a visit to the center, is $25 per person. Call (956) 299-1957 or visit www.spinaturecenter.com for more information.

The Treasures of the Gulf Museum The Treasures of the Gulf Museum, adjacent to the Port Isabel Historic Museum, tells the story of three Spanish ships that wrecked off the coast of South Padre Island in 1554, about

Port Isabel Historical Museum Located in the historic Champion Building on Railroad Avenue, the 1899 building was once a dry goods store and residence and later served as a post office and railroad depot. The facade

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features a fish mural painted in 1906 by a local fisherman. The museum features information about the U.S. Mexican War and houses one of the largest collections of relics from that war. The museum also tells the story of Port Isabel’s development into a major fishing port. Please call for current hours of operation. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors (over 55) and $2 for students. For more info, visit www.portisabelmuseums.com or call (956) 943-7602. Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier No fisherman should miss a visit to Port Isabel. Billing itself as the “Boating and Fishing Capital of Tropical Texas,” a long fishing pier is just the place for anglers to try their hand at catching speckled trout, black drum, whiting and sheepshead. General admission is $9 per pole, $8.50 for seniors, and $2 spectators, plus tax on all admission prices. The pier is open 24 hours a day and seven days a week, weather permitting. For more information call (956) 943-7437 or visit www.piratespier.com. South Padre Island Art Trails South Padre Island is visited year-round for its beaches and climate, but South Padre Island also has a rich art district as well. Their art district is very heavily involved with showing their art through sand, turtle sculptures and galleries. A collection of around 30 sand sculptures is located throughout the island, all sculpted by local, and international, professional sand artists. The lovingly created turtle sculptures serve as an ideal stop on an Island that celebrates, rescues, and works together to protect sea turtles. A full brochure with the information for all the trails can be found at the Visitors Center located just as you come over the causeway, in the blue building to your right. A map can also be found at www.sopadre.com. Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Starship High Altitude Flight Test at Boca Chica. Photo supplied by SpaceX from https://www.flickr.com/ photos/spacex/with/50906488116/. SpaceX Boca Chica is where nature and space combine with the new SpaceX launch site. The site is testing the Starship, a rocket designed for missions to Mars. You can find out more about the Starship at https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/starship/. Find a link to their live stream at https://www. sopadre.com/spacex/. SPI Convention Centre Boasting 45,000 square feet of meeting space and 22,500 square feet of exhibit hall space for presentations and performances, the South Padre Island Convention Centre hosts many special, cultural and sporting events, conferences, conventions and trade shows. The convention center is located at 7355 Padre Boulevard, 4.1 miles north of the Queen Isabella Memorial Bridge. Call (956) 761-3000 for upcoming events or visit www.sopadre.com. Andy Bowie Park The Park features nature trails, BBQ pits, and has a pavilion and picnic area along the beach. The Park is located at 7300 N. Padre Blvd. ¬– about 5 ½ miles from the Queen Isabella Causeway. The entrance fee is $12 per car and hours are Monday through Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information call (956) 761-3704. Sea Turtle Inc. Sea Turtle, Inc. was founded in 1977 by Ila Loetscher, affectionately known as the Turtle Lady of South Padre Island. STI is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of endangered sea turtles living in the Gulf of Mexico. They also rehabilitate injured sea turtles for release to the wild, and aid in conservation efforts for all marine turtle species. The center is located at 6617 Padre Boulevard, across from the Tiki condominiums. Sea Turtle Inc is open Tuesday through Sunday Page 49

(closed every Monday). Admission June 1 through August 15 is $10 for adults, $6 for seniors and military and $4 for children (5-17 years). Children 4 and under are free. Admission hours for the summer months are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Turtle talks are at the top of the hour starting at 11 a.m. with the final enrichment talk at 4 p.m. Admission August 16 through May 31 is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and military and $4 for children (5-17 years). Children 4 and under are free. Admission fee can be applied toward a family membership ($50), providing free entry for a year. Turtle talks are scheduled for 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 2 and a short enrichment at 3. Hours during these months are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. These times are subject to change, so please check in with us the day you plan to arrive. Call (956) 761-4511 for more information or visit the website www.seaturtleinc.org.

HISTORIC PORT ISABEL

LIGHTHOUSE A TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION STATE HISTORIC SITE A TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION STATE HISTORIC SITE

Sandcastle Village Sandcastle Village can be found on South Padre Island on west Ling St., right under the Ferris Wheel. The Village was first erected to be a holiday village for Christmas. Since then, it has grown to feature sand exhibits of other holidays and events. The rotating exhibit can always be viewed by visitors, although might be closed to walk throughs during construction. Live-stream webcams can also be viewed at any time. The founder of the Village, and other sandcastle artists, hold yearly contests, weekly lessons and more. For more information on the Sandcastle Village, visit them online at http:// www.sandcastleisland.com/. They can also be found on Facebook as Holiday Sandcastle Village. Beach Park at Isla Blanca Texas’ most innovative waterpark is nestled between the dunes and wetlands on beautiful South Padre Island. It features two dozen water attractions, including slides, tube chutes, uphill water coasters, the SandCastle water funhouse, and the Surf Rider inland surf attraction. A river links the tube chutes and water coasters with the park’s beaches. There is also a full-service restaurant. The Park is located at 33261 State Park Rd, Hwy 100, South Padre Island, and is open weekends beginning May 21, 2021 until May 28, 2021. Open daily May 29, 2021 to late August. Open weekends late August to mid-September. Water Park Passes are $48.99 for adults 12 and older, $38.99 children 3 - 11 and Seniors 55 and over, children under 3 are free. Call (956) 772-SURF; or visit www.beachparktx.com for more information and full hours. Isla Blanca County Park A favorite destination among island lovers, this park located at the southern tip of South Padre Island has picnic facilities, a full-service marina, a fishing jetty, and sites for RV hookups. The University of Texas-RGV Coastal Studies Laboratory, with examples of marine life from the Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico, is located inside the park. The lab is open from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information on the lab call (956) 7612644. The Park is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. The admission charge is $10 per vehicle or $5 for veterans and $25 for buses. For more information call (956) 761-5494.

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Anzalduas Park Anzalduas Park, located on 96 acres of land fronting the Rio Grande River, is a favorite spot for picnickers. The Park features a boat-loading ramp and a pier for access to water sports, fishing and bird watching. The Park is located on the Anzalduas Dam four miles south of Expressway 83 on FM 1016 and one mile east on FM 494, 6400 Anzalduas Dam Road. The Park is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday. There is no charge for admission to the park on weekdays, and $4 per vehicle on Saturdays and Sundays. A pavilion is available for special events as well as playgrounds for kids, slides, swings, etc. For more info, call (956) 585-5311.

Park entrance is $3 per person for ages 13 and over, free for 12 and under. All day area/overnight facilities have barbeque grills or fire rings. Water only campsites $10, water and electric $16, full hook-up water, electric, sewer $18; screen shelters $25, and A/C cabins $40. The Park is located at 146 Park Road 46 Falcon Heights, and FM 2098 off of Hwy 83. Open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., 365 days a year. For more information call (956) 8485327 or visit www.tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/falcon. Frontera Audubon Society

Brownsville Landfill One of the most exclusive locations in the United States to observe the Tamaulipas Crow is the Brownsville Sanitary Landfill, located at 9000 FM 802. Drive in and let the scale attendant know you are looking for the crow. The best chance of seeing the Tamaulipas Crow is during the Winter Season. Also look for the Ring-billed Herring and Laughing Gulls. The landfill is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Chihuahua Woods Preserve Birders looking for the Clay-colored Robin or Hookbilled Kite may find them in the “walk-in only” Chihuahua Woods Preserve, located three miles west of the intersection of Expressway 83 and Business 83. Take Business 83 to the west to a point where it curves to the northwest. Go straight on the road that continues west along the railroad. The preserve will be located on the right side of the road. Falcon Lake Falcon Lake is located on the Rio Grande northwest of Roma. The 98,960 surface-acre reservoir is found in Starr and Zapata Counties and is an excellent fishing spot for black bass, catfish and alligator gar. Falcon Lake is one of the state’s top bass fishing lakes nationwide. The lake is accessible from FM 2098 northwest of Roma at Falcon State Park. There is a public boat ramp at Falcon State Park and Zapata County Park. Falcon State Park Falcon State Park is a 572-acre park located northwest of Roma. This is a favorite destination to fishermen, birdwatchers and butterfliers. The Park offers overnight camping opportunities for Recreational Vehicles, primitive area, A/C cabins, and shelters. There is a day use area with picnic tables, plus a three-mile nature hike trail. The Park is blanketed with native plants and offers a butterfly garden that serves as host to a variety of butterflies and birds. Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Frontera Audubon Society (FAS) is an urban nature preserve on 15 acres in Weslaco that features thicket trails, wetlands, butterfly gardens, and a visitors’ center and gift shop. They also feature the Texas Historic Landmark, the Skaggs House, a multi-purpose facility for cultural events and exhibitions. Over 170 kinds of butterflies and over 250 species of birds have been spotted here. Open year-round, hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, 12 noon to 4 p.m. Closed Mondays. Regular admission is $5, Seniors are $4, children 12 and under are free, and students 13 and up are $3. For more information, call (956) 968-3275, like Facebook.com/frontera.audubon, or visit the website at www.fronteraaudubon.org. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge The refuge’s nearly 110,000 acres provides for a wide diversity of wildlife and birds such as Olive Sparrows, Altamira Orioles, and Aplomado Falcons. Fall and spring bring migratory songbirds and winter is the time to see a variety of waterfowl. Visitors can connect with nature through a variety of activities including fishing, hunting, wildlife observation and photography, bicycling, hiking Page 51

and interpretive tours and programs. A Visitor Center with exhibits, restrooms, and a nature store is available. For more information, including hours of operation and tour schedules, visit the website www.fws. gov/refuge/laguna_atascosa or call the visitor center at (956) 748-3607 ext 105, or (956) 244-2019. McAllen Nature Center Originally opened in 1960 as McAllen Botanical Gardens, the site reopened to the public as the McAllen Nature Center in 2013. The Center has one mile of ADA accessible trails, winding through 20 acres of native thornscrub forest. The site is home to over 300 species of animals and 200 species of plants. Amenities include picnic tables, benches, drinking fountain and restrooms. The McAllen Nature Center is located at 4101 W. Business 83. Open daily November through April, 8 a.m. to sunset and May through October, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. to sunset. For more information, call (956) 681-3333. National Butterfly Center (NABA) The National Butterfly Center is open to visitors 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week. The center is the reason USA Today calls Mission, Texas, “The butterfly capitol of the USA.” Hundreds of species have been documented here, where cultivated gardens and trails showcase the nation’s largest botanical collection of native plants that provide breeding and feeding habitat for butterflies, caterpillars and birds. The National Butterfly Center is located on Military Road, between Inspiration Road and Bentsen Palm Road GPS coordinates 26.180243, -98.364973. For hours, rates, and special events, visit www.nationalbutterflycenter.org. For updates on recent bird, butterfly, and wildlife sightings, like the National Butterfly Center on Facebook. For additional information or to schedule group tours and activities, call (956) 583-5400 or email NBC@NationalButterflyCenter.org. Sabal Palm Sanctuary & Historic Rabb Plantation House Sabal Palms once grew profusely along the edge of the Rio Grande in small stands or groves extending about 80 miles upstream from the Gulf of Mexico. Today, only a small portion of that forest remains, protected on 557 acres of this Sanctuary. Sabal Palm Sanctuary offers over three miles of nature trails leading through the old-growth palm grove and even down to the Rio Grande River. There is also a boardwalk and six observation areas. The Historical Rabb Plantation House, which now serves as the headquarters and visitor center for the sanctuary, was built in 1892. The Rabb House is one of the few remaining examples of the Rio Grande’s plantation legacy. The Sanctuary is open daily 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Wednesdays and some holidays). Daily admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children (12 and under). There are also 12-month memberships available, $35 for family and Page 52

$15 for individual. Seasonal guided tours are offered. From U.S. 77/83 turn left on International Boulevard. Then turn right onto Southmost Road (FM 1419). Continue for six miles and look for Sabal Palm Grove Road on right, the Sanctuary is located at the very end of the paved road; 8435 Sabal Palm Grove Road, Brownsville. For information call (956) 541-8034, email gsfinc@ gmail.com, or go online to www.sabalpalmsanctuary.org Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge The Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge has over 2,000 acres of land dedicated to the preservation of native plants and animals of the Rio Grande Valley. Known worldwide as a “birder’s paradise,” bird watchers have documented over 400 species of birds. The refuge has over 12 miles of walking trails with observation decks and photo blinds. The refuge provides habitat for 300 American butterfly species, an equal number of species of dragonflies, and such rarities as the threatened Texas Tortoise and Texas Indigo Snake. The resacas and wetland of the refuge attract a variety of water birds and other wildlife. A visitor center is staffed daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A nature tram takes visitors on 1 ½ -hour tours through the refuge while trained guides give information about the area. The tram operates seasonally from November through the end of April. Walking trails are open from dawn until dusk. Be sure and check out the rope bridge. Check the events calendar on www.fws.gov/refuge/santa_ana for more info. The refuge is located seven miles south of Alamo and one-fourth mile east of the junction of Highway 281 and FM 907. For information call (956) 784-7500. Admission is $5 per vehicle. Valley Nature Center The VNC has an interactive visitor’s center leading into a six-acre nature park. The Park has a mile of interpretive trails through a recreated Tamaulipan thorn scrub forest, with a collection of South Texas native plants. The Valley Nature Center offers a variety of fun and educational programs throughout the year for adults and children. The Valley Nature Center is located at 301 S. Border Ave. behind Gibson City Park in Weslaco. Open Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Closed for major holidays. Admis-

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

sion is $5 for adults, $3 for Seniors (55 and older), $2 for children (12 and under), and free for all VNC members. For additional details call (956) 969-2475, visit www.valleynaturecenter.org, or email info@valleynaturecenter.org. World Birding Center Not just one, but nine unique locations in the Rio Grande Valley. Each site of the World Birding Center has its own attractions for both the first-time visitor and expert birder. Not one season, but all seasons - as more than 500 bird species make the Birding Centers not-to-be-missed nature destinations. From scenic bluffs high above the Rio Grande to teeming wetlands and coastal prairie, the World Birding Center network offers visitors a dazzling array of birding and nature adventures. Visitors will be treated to nature tours, environmental education programs and state-of-the-art exhibits. Visit their website at www.theworldbirdingcenter.com/ for links to each site, hours, locations, special events and calendars for each site. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is a world-recognized birding hotspot and a celebrated location for nature lovers and avid naturalists to explore. This 797-acre State Park has documented more than 360 species of birds and over 200 species of butterflies. The Visitor’s Center has a bilingual (English/Spanish) exhibit hall, park store and meeting room surrounded by butterfly gardens. Visitors can take the transportation shuttle, ride bikes, hike through the park or experience tent camping and fishing. There is an observation tower, enclosed bird blinds, and over seven miles of trails with bird feeding stations and water features. The Park also offers weekly programs, bird walks, tours and hikes. Edinburg Scenic Wetlands is a 40-acre oasis in the midst of an urban area offering observable wildlife yearround. The butterfly gardens between the parking lot and visitors’ center attract millions of butterflies during their migrations. Located at 714 Raul Longoria Road in the Edinburg Municipal Park, the park is known for water birds such as the Kingfisher and a variety of ducks.

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

Water is the magic ingredient for attracting wildlife, and Estero Llano Grande State Park has the largest wetland environment of the World Birding Center network in The Rio Grande Valley. This 235-acre refuge attracts an array of South Texas specialty birds and butterflies. 345 species of birds, 182 species of butterflies, and 61 of the 110 Valley species of dragonflies have been recorded at Estero Llano Grande since its opening in June 2006. Notable rare bird sightings have been the Northern Jacana, Rose-throated Becard, Grey-crowned Yellowthroat, and most recently the first U.S. record for the Red-legged Honeycreeper, and the first U.S. records for White-spotted Satyr, Bromeliad Scrub-Hairstreak and Perching Saliana for butterfly watchers. Exploring the park’s many trails, boardwalks, pavilions, and observation decks you might also find Coyotes, Bobcats, and the American Alligator. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars. The Park also offers Camp Thicket, a camp and conference facility for group rentals. The Harlingen Arroyo Colorado at Hugh Ramsey Nature Park is located near the Valley International Airport on Loop 499, 3/10s mile south of Hwy. 106. The 55-acre park is a welcome center for birders who fly into Harlingen. A former landfill, the park has been reforested with native trees, plants, grasses, and cactus and returned to Texas Ebony Woodland. It is a home for Valley specialty birds such as Green Jay, Great Kiskadee, Chachalaca, Olive Sparrow, Altamira Oriole and both Long-billed and Curve-billed Thrashers. The ponds on the north end of the park are host to Green and Ringed Kingfishers, Least Grebes and various Herons. Guided tours are available by emailing arroyocoloradoaudubon@gmail.com. There is no entry fee for the park.

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and Great Kiskadee. Freshwater habitat throughout the park provides the perfect environment for a variety of waterbirds. During migration, migratory birds join our resident species nesting throughout the park. For the butterfly enthusiast, the park is one of the best places in the Rio Grande Valley to find Blue and Walker’s Metalmark. Bright, showy Mexican Bluewing and Band-celled Sister butterflies may be spotted along the tram road and trails. History and nature meet at Roma Bluffs above the Rio Grande on the old plaza of a once-thriving steamThe Magic Valley’s early 20th Century transition into an agricultural powerhouse is retold at the Old Hidalgo Pumphouse, which also features hike and bike trails. Visitors to the museum can learn about the steam driven irrigation pumps that transformed the Valley into a year-round farming phenomenon. Visitors can wander the museum’s grounds for free, where hummingbird and butterfly gardens are filled with native plants, and where many of the Valley’s amazing bird, butterfly, and dragonfly species are regular visitors as well. Quinta Mazatlan is located just one block South of La Plaza Mall off 10th Street. A historic Quinta Mazatlan adobe home built in the 1930’s is the centerpiece of this 25-acre urban sanctuary. The mansion is surrounded by a native Thornforest with water and bird feeding stations throughout the park. Enjoy the Birding Trails, Historic Adobe Mansion, Forest Sculpture Trail, Art Gallery, Nature Exhibits, Gift Store and more. Brownville’s Resaca de la Palma State Park has 1,200 semi-tropical acres of land along an ancient resaca of the Rio Grande River. The Park features nine miles of trails, and four observation decks overlooking the resaca (Oxbow Lake). The trails may be accessed by hiking, biking, or the park’s nature tram (which is temporarily not running). Bird watchers may spot colorful south Texas specialty species, like the Altamira Oriole, Green Jay,

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boat port. The Bluffs are located in the renovated historic Francisco Margo home, located at 610 N. Portscheller. The home features a traditional Spanish Courtyard with many bird feeders. During winter months many birds come in to feed, making it possible to view them up close. An observation deck located in the old Customs House on the river overlooks the river for viewing of birds. It offers scenic views of the City of Miguel Aleman, in Mexico. The South Padre Island Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, is located at 6801 Padre Blvd. Nearly 400 species of birds have been seen on South Padre Island and many of them, including the colorful Roseate Spoonbills, Reddish Egrets and Clapper Rails, make their homes in the marshes amongst the boardwalk, sharing space with alligators and freshwater turtles. The center features a five-story tower that overlooks the Laguna Madre, a museum style exhibit hall and documentary about the nature of the island.

Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022

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Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2021-2022