McAllen Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to buy, and local culture and customs of McAllen, Texas!


Introduction to McAllen

Located in the Rio Grande Valley, in the Gulf Coast region of Texas, McAllen is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of outdoor attractions. With year-round sunny weather and a welcoming atmosphere, McAllen attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions or enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in McAllen.

List of Places to Visit in McAllen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS): This museum features a wide range of exhibits and displays that cover topics such as science, art, and culture, offering a unique, educational experience for visitors.
  • McAllen Heritage Center: This historic site features exhibits, artifacts, and guided tours that showcase the history of the Rio Grande Valley and McAllen, providing insight into the local culture and customs.
  • McAllen Convention Center: This venue hosts a variety of events and conventions throughout the year, including trade shows, concerts, and sports competitions.

Natural Attractions of McAllen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bicentennial Park: With over 35 acres of beautiful landscaping, trails, and picnic areas, Bicentennial Park is an ideal spot for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
  • Quinta Mazatlan: Nestled among a lush bird and butterfly sanctuary, this historic estate offers a unique, peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with scenic trails and guided tours highlighting the local flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of McAllen

  • Hike & Bike Trails: With over 20 miles of interconnected trails throughout the city, McAllen is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, biking, and jogging. The trails feature beautiful scenery, picnic areas, and access to local parks, making them an ideal way to explore the city’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in McAllen: Activities and Tours

  • Birdwatching: Home to over 500 different bird species, the Rio Grande Valley is a world-renowned destination for birdwatching, with guided tours and special events throughout the year.
  • Shopping: McAllen has a vibrant shopping scene, with a variety of options for both luxury and budget-conscious shoppers, including La Plaza Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Texas.
  • Nightlife: With a vibrant nightlife scene, McAllen offers a diverse range of options for entertainment, including lively bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to all tastes and preferences.

Week-Long Itinerary for McAllen

Day Activities
1 Explore the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
2 Hike & Bike Trails in Bicentennial Park
3 Visit the McAllen Heritage Center
4 Birdwatching and Picnic at Quinta Mazatlan
5 Shopping at La Plaza Mall and Downtown McAllen
6 Nightlife Entertainment
7 Day trip to nearby South Padre Island or Reynosa, Mexico

Food and Drink Scene of McAllen

Must-Try Dishes

  • Breakfast Tacos: A local favorite, breakfast tacos are a delicious way to start your day and can be found at many restaurants throughout the city.
  • Tex-Mex Cuisine: With its close proximity to Mexico, McAllen is known for its authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, featuring dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and tamales.
  • Seafood: The Gulf Coast provides an abundance of fresh seafood options, including shrimp, oysters, and red snapper, making it a prominent feature in many local dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Margaritas: A refreshing and popular local beverage, margaritas come in a variety of flavors and can be found at many restaurants and bars throughout the city.
  • Texas Craft Beer: With a growing craft brewing scene, Texas beer has become a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, with many options available at local breweries and bars.

Where to Stay in McAllen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Drury Inn & Suites McAllen: This hotel offers modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location to all the major attractions in McAllen.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham McAllen Convention Center: This budget-friendly hotel offers modern and clean rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location near the convention center.

What to Buy in McAllen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mexican Folk Art: McAllen’s close proximity to Mexico provides access to a variety of locally made Mexican Folk Art, including pottery, textiles, and ceramics.
  • Traditional Clothing and Accessories: Located in Downtown McAllen, Jalisco Market offers a variety of traditional clothing and accessories, including handcrafted leather goods, embroidery, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of McAllen

  • Welcoming Hospitality: Friendly and hospitable people characterize locals in McAllen, with a melting pot of cultures, everyone feels at home.
  • Showcasing their Natural Beauty and Progress: McAllen is often home to cultural festivals that attract visitors from all over the world. The festivals are themed around the local culture, customs, flora, and fauna, showcasing McAllen’s natural beauty and progress.

Best Time to Visit McAllen

The best time to visit McAllen is between the months of November and April. During these months, you can enjoy mild temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of McAllen

Do:

  • Try local Tex-Mex cuisine, including breakfast tacos and authentic Mexican dishes.
  • Shop at local markets and boutiques, bringing home authentic souvenirs.
  • Visit the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, one of the largest birding events in the world.

Don’t:

  • Visit during the summer months when temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Ignore the border patrol checkpoints, as these are positioned for security reasons.

Safety and Health

Safety in McAllen

As with any city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety while visiting McAllen. Always keep your personal belongings close and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re traveling alone at night. Avoid areas that are known for crime and use reputable taxi services.

Health in McAllen

McAllen has adequate healthcare facilities, equipped to provide standard medical care for both locals and visitors. It is important to have a good travel insurance policy before traveling to McAllen.

Getting to McAllen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near McAllen

  • McAllen International Airport (MFE): Located just five minutes from Downtown McAllen, MFE serves several airlines, including American and United, with numerous daily flights from major US cities.

Bus Stations Near McAllen

  • McAllen Bus Station: Located in downtown McAllen, this station is served by several bus lines, including Greyhound.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Several car rental services are available at McAllen International Airport and throughout the city.
  • Ridesharing and Taxis: Several ridesharing services and traditional taxi companies operate throughout the city.

How to Get Around in McAllen

Public transportation in McAllen is limited, with few options other than traditional taxi services. Renting a car is the best option, as parking is generally reasonably priced and traffic is not typically an issue. Additionally, many of the city’s attractions are located near one another, making self-guided tours and walking an excellent option for exploring the city.

Where to Go Next from McAllen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • South Padre Island: Located just two hours from McAllen, South Padre Island is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches and a lively nightlife.
  • Reynosa, Mexico: Just across the border from McAllen, Reynosa is a popular day trip destination for shopping, dining, and cultural activities.

Conclusion

McAllen offers a unique combination of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Rich history and tradition come alive in our museums and heritage centres while birding and hiking trails, parks, and green spaces make McAllen a nature lover’s paradise. Plan your visit to McAllen and enjoy an unforgettable experience.