Kingsville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Kingsville, TX with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, we've got you covered!


Kingsville, Texas is a vibrant city located in the South Barrier Coast region of Gulf Coast in the United States of America. This charming city is home to a diverse range of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and scenic views that make it a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Kingsville has something to offer you. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Kingsville, as well as practical travel advice to help you plan your trip.

Introduction to Kingsville

Founded in 1904, Kingsville is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to Texas A&M University-Kingsville, the King Ranch Museum, and the Naval Air Station Kingsville. Kingsville is also known for its warm climate, delicious food, and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Kingsville

From museums and historical places to natural attractions and outdoor adventures, Kingsville has an abundance of places to visit. Here are some of the must-see attractions in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • King Ranch Museum: This museum is located on the historic King Ranch and showcases the history of ranching in South Texas. The museum features exhibits on cowboy culture, horse breeding, and wildlife conservation.
  • John E. Conner Museum: Located on the campus of Texas A&M University-Kingsville, this museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the natural history of South Texas and the Gulf Coast region.
  • Henrietta Memorial Center: This center is a converted convent that now houses a collection of religious artifacts and artwork.

Natural Attractions of Kingsville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Baffin Bay: This bay is a top destination for fishing, birdwatching, and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy scenic boat tours and kayaking trips.
  • Riviera Beach: This pristine beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and fishing.
  • King Ranch: Visitors can explore this historic ranch through guided tours and learn about the history of ranching in South Texas, as well as the wildlife and vegetation that call the ranch home.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kingsville

Kingsville is a great place to explore the great outdoors, with a range of biking and hiking trails to suit all fitness levels. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Santa Gertrudis Creek Trail: This 4-mile trail is perfect for hiking and biking, and offers scenic views of the Santa Gertrudis Creek.
  • King Ranch Wildlife Management Area: This vast area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and javelinas. Visitors can explore the area by foot, bike, or car.
  • Baffin Bay Hike and Bike Trail: This 9-mile trail offers stunning views of Baffin Bay and is a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing.

Best Things to Do in Kingsville: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to see and do in Kingsville. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Take a guided tour of the King Ranch to learn about the history of ranching in South Texas.
  • Explore the exhibits at the King Ranch Museum to discover the rich cowboy culture of the area.
  • Visit the Texas A&M University-Kingsville campus and check out the John E. Conner Museum to learn about the natural history of the region.
  • Go fishing or birdwatching at Baffin Bay or Riviera Beach.
  • Take a scenic boat tour of Baffin Bay to enjoy stunning views of the water and wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kingsville

If you have a week to explore Kingsville and its surrounding areas, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit the King Ranch Museum and take a guided tour of the ranch.
2 Explore the natural history exhibits at the John E. Conner Museum.
3 Go fishing or birdwatching at Baffin Bay.
4 Visit the Henrietta Memorial Center and explore the religious artifacts and artwork.
5 Take a scenic boat tour of Baffin Bay.
6 Visit the Texas Brewing Company and sample some of their local beer.
7 Relax at Riviera Beach and enjoy the sun and sand.

Food and Drink Scene of Kingsville

Kingsville is known for its delicious food and drink scene, with a range of local specialties to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your food itinerary:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue brisket: This slow-cooked meat is a Texas classic, and Kingsville has some of the best barbecue joints in the state.
  • Chorizo and egg breakfast tacos: This breakfast staple is a must-try when in Texas, and Kingsville has some of the best.
  • Fried catfish: With its proximity to the Gulf Coast, Kingsville is a great place to try freshly caught catfish.

Local Beverages

  • Texas Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a range of craft beers, including their flagship beer, the Mesquite Smoked Porter.
  • Margaritas: This classic cocktail is a Texas favorite, and you’ll find some of the best margaritas in Kingsville.

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

Kingsville has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kingsville: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including free breakfast, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
  • Executive Inn & Suites: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and spacious rooms and a convenient location near downtown Kingsville.
  • The Inn at Kingsville: This charming guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat.

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

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift to bring home from Kingsville, here are some local products to consider:

  • King Ranch Saddle Shop: This shop offers a range of authentic Western-style clothing, accessories, and home decor items.
  • Mesquite smoked meats: Kingsville is known for its mesquite-smoked meats, which make a delicious and unique gift.
  • Artisanal crafts: Kingsville has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with a range of local products to choose from, including pottery, woodworking, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Kingsville

Kingsville is a friendly and welcoming city, with a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its cowboy and ranching history. The locals are proud of their heritage and are happy to share their traditions and customs with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Kingsville

The best time to visit Kingsville is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and humid, and the winter months can be chilly and windy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kingsville

Here are some things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit to Kingsville:

Do:

  • Visit the King Ranch Museum and take a guided tour of the ranch.
  • Sample some local barbecue and mesquite-smoked meats.
  • Go fishing or birdwatching at Baffin Bay.
  • Try a margarita or craft beer at a local bar or brewery.

Don’t:

  • Forget to wear sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
  • Leave without trying a chorizo and egg breakfast taco.
  • Overlook the charming small-town feel of downtown Kingsville.

Safety and Health

Kingsville is a safe and welcoming city, with a low crime rate and a friendly community. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings and locking your car and hotel room.

Safety in Kingsville

Kingsville is known for its warm weather, but it’s important to stay hydrated and cool during the summer months. Visitors should take precautions against sunburn and insect bites when spending time outdoors.

Health in Kingsville

Visitors should be aware of the potential risks associated with heatstroke and dehydration during the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated and avoid spending prolonged periods of time in the sun during the hottest parts of the day.

Getting to Kingsville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kingsville is easily accessible by road and air, with a range of transportation options to suit all budgets and preferences.

Airports Near Kingsville

  • Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP): This airport is located approximately 40 miles from Kingsville and offers a range of domestic and international flights.
  • McAllen International Airport (MFE): This airport is located approximately 100 miles from Kingsville and offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Kingsville

  • Greyhound: This bus station is located in downtown Kingsville and offers a range of domestic and international bus routes.

Other Options

  • Rental cars: Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in downtown Kingsville to explore the surrounding areas at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Kingsville

Kingsville is a small city that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. Visitors can also use a taxi or rideshare service to get around town.

Where to Go Next from Kingsville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kingsville is located in a great position to explore the surrounding areas and nearby cities. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Corpus Christi: This city is located approximately 40 miles from Kingsville and offers a range of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and entertainment options.
  • South Padre Island: This island is located approximately 100 miles from Kingsville and offers some of the best beaches and outdoor adventures in Texas.
  • San Antonio: This city is located approximately 140 miles from Kingsville and is known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene.

Conclusion

Kingsville, Texas is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. With its range of museums, natural attractions, and delicious food scene, there’s something for everyone in Kingsville. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, use this comprehensive tour guide to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming city.

Henrietta M. King High School, Kingsville, Texas Henrietta M. King High School, Kingsville, Texas