Weslaco Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and experience in Weslaco, TX - from cultural attractions and natural wonders to local customs, transportation and logistics.


Introduction to Weslaco

Nestled in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Weslaco is a charming city in Texas that offers visitors a perfect blend of warm hospitality, rich history, and natural beauty. Conveniently located close to popular local attractions such as Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge and South Padre Island, Weslaco is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Weslaco

Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, or tasty eats, here’s a roundup of the best places to visit in Weslaco:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Weslaco Museum: Housed in the old City Hall, the Weslaco Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past with exhibits on local history, culture, and art.

  • Estero Llano Grande State Park: Once a ranch and now a state park, this beautiful destination features plenty of hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and interactive exhibits.

  • Frontera Audubon Society: Home to several endangered bird species and native plants, this birding oasis offers visitors self-guided nature trails, birdwatching hikes, and family-friendly events.

Natural Attractions of Weslaco: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Valley Nature Center: A great place for families, this nature center offers interactive exhibits, walking trails, and live animals to observe.

  • Resaca de la Palma State Park: This state park features a 1,200-acre lake, hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and even horseback trails.

  • Weslaco City Park: This park has plenty of amenities for all ages, including a recreation center, pool, and walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Weslaco

  • Weslaco Trails: Perfect for a quick outdoor escape, Weslaco Trails is a 5-mile trail system that’s great for hiking, biking, and nature walks.

  • Valley Active: Connects Weslaco Trails to other regional bike trails, including Harlingen, McAllen, and Mission.

Best Things to Do in Weslaco: Activities and Tours

  • Golfing at Tierra Santa Golf Club: This scenic, 18-hole golf course features rolling hills, sandy bunkers, and plenty of water hazards.

  • Shopping at Weslaco Downtown: If you’re looking for some retail therapy, take a stroll around the beautiful downtown area where you’ll find a variety of specialty shops, antique stores, and art galleries.

  • Visiting the local Farmers Market: Enjoy locally-grown produce, handmade crafts and homemade baked goods while supporting local farmers and artisans.

Week-Long Itinerary for Weslaco

Day 1: Get oriented with a visit to the Weslaco Museum and Weslaco City Park. Day 2: Nature discovery day at Estero Llano Grande State Park and The Valley Nature Center. Day 3: Shopping and eating day in the downtown area. Day 4: Adventure day at Frontera Audubon Society and Resaca de la Palma State Park. Day 5: Golfing day at Tierra Santa Golf Club. Day 6: Water recreational day at Weslaco City Park or South Padre Island. Day 7: Rest, relax and enjoy a local farmers market.

Food and Drink Scene of Weslaco

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tex-Mex cuisine: Everywhere you go, you’ll find Tex-Mex cuisine, including delicious tacos, burritos, and fajitas.

  • BBQ: Whether you’re looking for brisket, ribs, or sausage, you’re sure to find some delicious BBQ joints in Weslaco.

  • Tamales: A local favorite, tamales can be found at many local food establishments and vendors.

Local Beverages

  • Margaritas and beer: Enjoy a cold margarita or local craft beer while taking in the local scenery.

  • Homemade lemonade: Perfect for those hot summer days, try some homemade lemonade from a local street vendor.

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

Visitors to Weslaco can choose from a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly motels, luxurious hotels, and cozy bed and breakfasts. Some popular options include:

  1. Holiday Inn Express Weslaco
  2. Motel 6 Weslaco TX
  3. Texas Inn Weslaco

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

Want to bring home a piece of Weslaco? Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Cowboy boots and hats: Take home some traditional Texan apparel from the J.B. Boot Corral.

  • Mexican pottery and glassware: Browse through an assortment of beautifully crafted pottery and glassware from the Mexican markets in downtown Weslaco.

  • Local honey: Savor the taste of nature by enjoying local organic honey from El Pinto Beekeeping.

Local Culture and Customs of Weslaco

Weslaco has a unique blend of cultures and customs, with a strong Hispanic influence. Visitors to Weslaco should take note of the following customs:

  • Always greet someone with a handshake or a hug, depending on the relationship.
  • It’s common to speak Spanish in public places along with English.
  • Sunday is a family day, and most shops and businesses are closed.

Best Time to Visit Weslaco

The best time to visit Weslaco is during the fall and winter months (October to March), when temperatures are mild and comfortable, and the skies are clear.

Do’s and Don’ts of Weslaco

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and cultural diversity
  • Visit the local farmers market
  • Try the Tex-Mex cuisine, tamales, and BBQ

Don’t:

  • Litter on the streets or public places
  • Pet the local animals, including birds or squirrels
  • Forget to pack sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun

Safety and Health

Safety in Weslaco

Weslaco is a generally safe city, but visitors should take usual precautions, including locking their cars and belongings. Do not leave your belongings unattended in public places.

Health in Weslaco

There are no major health concerns in Weslaco, but it’s always recommended that you drink bottled water and practice good hygiene.

Getting to Weslaco: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Weslaco

  • McAllen Miller International Airport (16 miles)
  • Valley International Airport (40 miles)

Bus Stations Near Weslaco

  • Greyhound Bus Station (5 miles)
  • La Feria Bus Station (8 miles)

Other Options

  • Car rental or hiring a local cab/taxi

How to Get Around in Weslaco

The best ways to get around Weslaco are by car, bike, or walking. Public transportation is not widely available. Visitors should consider renting a car or driving their own to reach local attractions.

Where to Go Next from Weslaco: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Looking for nearby destinations and excursions to explore? Here are some popular options for visitors to Weslaco:

  • Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge (5 miles)
  • South Padre Island (85 miles)
  • Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park (15 miles)

Conclusion

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Weslaco, Texas, offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, Weslaco has something for everyone!

DownTownWeslaco DownTownWeslaco A resaca in Estero Llano Grande State Park, Hidalgo County, Texas, USA (13 April 2016) A resaca in Estero Llano Grande State Park, Hidalgo County, Texas, USA (13 April 2016)