A Road Trip from Brownsville to McAllen: The Best Things to Do
A road trip from Brownsville to McAllen is a great way to explore the beauty of southern Texas. Spanning approximately 50 miles, the route takes you through some of the state's most scenic landscapes and offers numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration. One of the highlights of the journey is the halfway point, Harlingen, which is a charming community known for its rich history and vibrant culture.
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Road Trip
1. National Butterfly Center
The National Butterfly Center, located in Mission, TX is a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts. With more than 200 species of butterflies, visitors will be amazed at the beauty and diversity of these stunning insects. The center offers guided tours of the butterfly gardens and also has a visitor's center with an interactive exhibit about the history of the butterflies.
Fun Fact: The 100-acre site is home to more than just butterflies—it also hosts hummingbirds, dragonflies, and other critters.
2. Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, located near the town of Alamo, is one of the state's most popular natural areas. Covering over 2,000 acres of land, the refuge is home to a variety of plants and animals, including over 300 species of birds. Visitors to the refuge can enjoy walking and biking trails, nature tours, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fun Fact: The refuge is home to the endangered ocelot, a wildcat species found only in south Texas and northeastern Mexico.
3. Gladys Porter Zoo
The Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville is a favorite destination for animal lovers of all ages. The zoo is home to over 1,600 animals and 350 species, representing animals from around the world. Visitors can see everything from big cats to reptiles, primates and birds. The zoo is also a great place for a family picnic or to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Fun Fact: The zoo is one of the few in the country that hosts both Komodo dragons and Andean bears.
4. Quinta Mazatlan
Quinta Mazatlan is a historic mansion located in McAllen, TX that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. The mansion is surrounded by lush gardens and natural habitats and features exhibits and programs that explore the area's past, present, and future. Guided tours are available, or visitors can explore the grounds on their own at their leisure.
Fun Fact: The mansion is located on the grounds of a former citrus orchard and was once known as the "Citrus Palace."
5. The Border Wall Murals
Stretching for miles around the region, the Border Wall Murals are a unique and thought-provoking attraction that highlights the border's impact on local communities. The murals depict everything from political slogans to local history and culture, and visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the art at their own pace. The murals also offer a glimpse into the social and economic issues facing the region today.
Fun Fact: The murals were created in a collaborative effort between Mexican and American artists and community members.
Conclusion
A road trip from Brownsville to McAllen offers a wide range of experiences and activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the natural beauty of the region to immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage, there's something for everyone on this journey. The trip can take anywhere from a day to a few days, depending on how much time you have and how much you want to see. Whatever your schedule, however, you're sure to have an unforgettable adventure on this epic Texas road trip.