McAllen also offers activities both in the city and in nearby Mexico. Home to over 100,00 residents, McAllen is located just eight miles from the Mexican city of Reynosa, a favorite with families looking for a chance to shop at the traditional mercado. Several hotels offer van service to the International Bridge or you can drive to Hidalgo and park for the day on the Texas side for just a couple of dollars.
McAllen is also a favorite with families looking to enjoy some ecotourism fun, especially birding. About 16 miles southeast of the city, the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge challenges birders with many rare species. Interpretive tram rides are available during winter months.
Attractions:
McAllen International Museum. This museum features a variety of Mexican folk crafts and costumes. Located on Bicentennial Blvd. at 1900 Nolana Loop.
McAllen Nature Center. Trees, birds, and area wildlife are on display. Guided tours are available. From McAllen, 2.5 miles west on Rte. 83 Business.
Reynosa. This border city of 500,000 residents is located eight miles south of McAllen. The city has numerous shops and restaurants for visitors. Many McAllen hotels offer van shuttles to the International Bridge; parking is also available on the U.S. side. From McAllen, 8 mi east on U.S. 83, then 7 miles south on FM 907 and 1/4 mile east on U.S. 281.
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge.This refuge challenges over 100,000 birders annually with many rare species. Birders have the chance to see green jays as well as rare species and feathered visitors indigenous to Mexico–about 388 species in all which have been identified here. Interpretive tram rides are available during the winter months. From McAllen, 8 miles east on U.S. 83, then 7 miles south on FM 907 and 1/4 miles east on U.S. 281.
Festivals and Special Events:
April: Texas Tropics Nature Festival. This event includes seminars with topics ranging from butterflies to hawks. Along with guest speakers, this festival celebrates the bountiful bird and wildlife of the region with field trips, ranch tours, a barbecue, outdoor exhibits, and more.
Map
For More Information: McAllen Convention and Visitors Bureau