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McAllen is the largest city in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, a palm-lined border city of about 145,000 people just across the Rio Grande from Reynosa, Mexico. Founded in the early 1900s and named for landowner John McAllen, it grew as a citrus and farming center and is now a lively shopping and cultural hub with strong Mexican-American traditions.
McAllen is one of the best birding cities in the country. Quinta Mazatlan, a 1930s adobe mansion surrounded by native forest, is part of the World Birding Center, and noisy flocks of green parakeets roost in the city's trees at dusk. The Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, a short drive southeast, draws birders from around the world.
The International Museum of Art and Science offers art and hands-on science exhibits, the McAllen Convention Center hosts big festivals and concerts, and the Veterans War Memorial of Texas honors soldiers from every conflict. La Plaza Mall draws shoppers from both sides of the border, the McAllen Holiday Parade lights up December, and South Padre Island's beaches are about 75 miles east.
A 1930s Spanish Revival adobe mansion surrounded by 20 acres of thorn forest, now a city-run World Birding Center site with trails, gardens, sculptures and feeders that attract green jays, chachalacas and other Rio Grande Valley birds. Come early in the morning for the best birding.
A city nature park with walking trails through native brush, cactus gardens and a botanical garden showcasing plants of South Texas. It is a peaceful spot for birding and short walks. Admission is free or low; visit in cooler morning hours.
A 2,000-acre wildlife refuge on the Rio Grande south of Alamo, protecting subtropical forest, lakes and wetlands home to rare birds such as the plain chachalaca and green jay, and many butterflies. Trails and a visitor center are open year-round. Bring water and insect repellent.
Large flocks of noisy green parakeets roost each evening on power lines and trees in parts of McAllen, especially around the busy intersections of north 10th Street and Nolana Avenue. The show is free and loud. Arrive about half an hour before sunset and park safely away from traffic.
A historic small park in downtown McAllen with a gazebo, fountains and shady trees, hosting holiday lights and community events. It sits near the old downtown streets. It is a pleasant place to rest during a walk, and especially pretty during December when decorated.
An outdoor memorial in McAllen honoring Texas veterans of all wars, with granite walls engraved with names and the history of each conflict, plus displays of military equipment. It is free and open daily. Take time to read the panels; visit in the morning for cooler weather.
A museum known as IMAS with art galleries, science exhibits, hands-on activities for kids and a collection of Mexican folk art. It hosts traveling exhibitions and events. It is a good indoor activity on a hot day; allow a couple of hours.
A modern performing arts center hosting touring Broadway shows, concerts, ballet and comedy, with a large main hall. It is near the convention center. Check the calendar for shows and buy tickets ahead for touring productions.
A large modern convention center hosting trade shows, festivals and concerts, set in a district with a park, walking paths and the performing arts center. It hosts the popular holiday parade and events. Check the event calendar when planning a visit.
A large shopping mall in McAllen and one of the busiest in Texas, drawing shoppers from both sides of the border. It has department stores, many brand-name shops, a food court and restaurants. Visit on weekdays to avoid the heaviest weekend crowds.
The historic center of McAllen along Main Street and 17th Street, with shops, bars, live music venues and restaurants in older buildings. The 17th Street entertainment district comes alive at night. Visit in the evening and enjoy dinner and drinks.
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