Brownsville, TX Tourist Attractions
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Brownsville, the most southerly town in Texas, is connected with the Caribbean by a 17 mi. long channel. The American-Mexican War began here on May 8th 1846, as is documented on the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site; and the last battle of the Civil War was fought on the Pallmitto Ranch Battlefield on May 12th and 13th 1865.Within easy reach of Brownsville, beyond the Rio Grande, is the Mexican town of Matamoros.
Gladys Porter Zoo
The Gladys Porter Zoo has plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes and invertebrates from most major ecosystems.
Historic Museum
The Historic Brownsville Museum, built in 1928, offers displays on the history of the town, including items from the Mexican American War.
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site
The first battle, of a two year war, between Mexico and the U.S. was fought here. The site provides information from both countries to reflect their views.
Rio Grande Valley Wing Flying Museum
The Rio Grande Valley Wing Flying Museum features a variety of World War II military aircraft, uniforms and models, as well as antique vehicles.
Stillman House Museum
The Stillman House was built in 1850 by the town's founder, Charles Stillman. The collection includes furniture, heirlooms, books, coins, and pictures.
Surroundings
South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a small resort town on the opposite side of the Laguna Madre (bay) from the mainland. The area offers a wealth of watersports and outdoor activities.
Sea Turtle Inc.
Seat Turtle, Inc., is a research and rehabilitation center for endangered sea turtles. Educational shows on endangered sea turtles are shown and are especially formatted for the age group and educational level of those attending.
South Padre Island Aquarium
The aquarium features aquatic species indigenous to the Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico
Harlingen
Located near the southern tip of Texas, Harlingen (pop. 59,500) is popular for it's subtropical climate. The area produces a variety of crops and is also known as a hot spot for birder's. The town features the annual Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival each November.
Iwo Jima Memorial Museum
On display is the original model of the bronze statue at Arlington National Cemetery, created by Felix W de Weldon. There is also a visitor center with information on WWII, including a short video.
Rio Grande Valley Museum
The museum features exhibits on the cultural and natural history of the area with permanent and changing exhibits.
Weslaco
Weslaco (pop. 28,500) is a popular winter destination for Texans. The town is also in a prime citrus, vegetable and cotton producing area. Of note in the town is the 1928 city hall.
Weslaco Bicultural Museum
The museum features displays on the history of the Hispanic settlers.
Texas Air Museum, Rio Hondo
The museum displays a variety of aircraft and aviation exhibits, including World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and agricultural aircraft.
