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Local Attractions
L O C A L A T T R A C T I O N S
There's Always Plenty to Do!
First time visitors to the Rio Grande Valley are captivated by the majestic palm trees that line many of the roads and highways and the lush foliage and colorful flowers that subtly perfume the air. Because of its fertile soil and subtropical climate, the Valley grows many fruits and vegetables year round. The Valley has long been famous for its delicious citrus fruits, most notably the Ruby Red and Rio Red Grapefruit, which are prized internationally for their eye appealing color and their burst of sweet-tart juiciness.
Frequently called “the gateway to Mexico”, The Rio Grande Valley has a number of border towns that share international entry points with towns in Mexico. Visitors can drive their vehicles across the Rio Grande River into Mexico, or they can park and walk across a footbridge to the neighboring Mexican town for shopping or dining. The Valley itself is a delightful blend of “Tex-Mex” traditions, culture, language and food!
Once a parochial collection of scattered, rural communities, the Rio Grande Valley has matured into a vibrant, thriving integration of cities clustered along a bustling expressway corridor that efficiently shuttles traffic from east to west or north to south. Two international airports in McAllen and Brownsville offer flights serviced by multiple airlines to international destinations, while Harlingen provides domestic flights serviced exclusively by Southwest. The Rio Grande Valley now boasts excellent accessibility, whatever transportation a traveler may choose.
Each of the cities along the expressway corridors has its own unique attractions. The local Chambers of Commerce provide online information regarding each city’s “must sees” and a monthly calendar highlighting special events. Edinburg as home to UT-RGV, hosts many university related activities, such as varsity basketball and baseball games, and art, music and drama presentations. There are several multi-purpose complexes in the area that present live concerts, sporting events and other special entertainment venues. McAllen’s Convention Center hosts a number of conventions, expos and other special events throughout the year, drawing large crowds from the entire region. A plethora of museums offer visitors a variety of subjects to pique their interest, including history of the area, maritime and aviation, science and the arts. For nature lovers, the Valley provides numerous opportunities to view the flora and fauna and wildlife that are indigenous to this sub-tropical region via the many local, state and national parks scattered throughout the area. Indeed, there is something to please everyone!
JUST SEVEN MILES FROM THE RANCH
La Plaza Mall
La Plaza Mall is the premier shopping destination in the Rio Grande Valley and features over 1,200,000 square feet of upscale and mainstream retail space with retailers that include BCBGMAXAZRIA, Marciano, Michael Kors and Pandora, as well as more traditional retailers like Express, American Eagle Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret and Aéropostale. Conveniently situated at the intersection of 10th Street and Interstate 2, just 5 miles from the U.S. – Mexico border, La Plaza Mall is home to over 150 specialty retailers. La Plaza Mall is currently under expansion. The project slated to open in the Fall of 2017 will include an additional 245,000 sq ft of retail space that will house up to 50 specialty retailers, 6 first-to-the-market restaurants, 4 junior anchors and 2 parking decks. La Plaza Mall is anchored by Dillard’s, JCPenney, Macy's and Macy’s Home & Children’s Store.
ABOUT SEVEN MILES FROM THE RANCH
UTRGV
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) was created by the Texas Legislature in 2013 as the first major public university of the 21st century in Texas. This transformative initiative provided the opportunity to expand educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley, including a new School of Medicine, and made it possible for residents of the region to benefit from the Permanent University Fund – a public endowment contributing support to the University of Texas System and other institutions. UTRGV has campuses and off-campus research and teaching sites throughout the Rio Grande Valley including in Boca Chica Beach, Brownsville (formerly The University of Texas at Brownsville campus), Edinburg (formerly The University of Texas-Pan American campus), Harlingen, McAllen, Port Isabel, Rio Grande City, and South Padre Island. UTRGV, a comprehensive academic institution, enrolled its first class in the fall of 2015, and the School of Medicine welcomed its first class in the summer of 2016.
JUST THREE AND HALF MILES FROM THE RANCH
IMAS
The International Museum of Art & Science is a Smithsonian Affiliate and fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. IMAS is the premier art and science museum of South Texas and contains over 50,000 square feet of exhibit space. The IMAS galleries host a number of revolving art and science exhibits each year. The museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to participate in hands-on science exhibits and to learn about original works of art while encouraging creativity and innovation. The IMAS permanent collection includes more than 2,000 natural history and geology specimens and 4,500 folk art and textile objects. The 1,500 fine art works in the permanent collection reflect many countries and artistic movements beyond Mexico, dating from the 16th century to the present.
ABOUT FIVE AND HALF MILES FROM THE RANCH
UTMcAllen Convention Center
Located in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, the McAllen Convention Center is the preferred venue in the Region for gatherings. Our flexibility can accommodate virtually any event, from small intimate meetings to large conventions, weddings, tradeshows, sporting events, and concerts with over 174,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. We offer a 60,000 square foot column-free exhibit hall and over 25,000 square feet of meeting space in four ballrooms and up to 16 breakout rooms.
Whether it’s a luncheon for six or a banquet for 2,000, our exclusive in-house caterer, offers a superior food experience for your attendees.
Centerplate, our exclusive in-house caterer, is one of the largest hospitality companies in the world and is dedicated to delivering craveable experiences to our many guests and clients. With their spectacular catered presentations, ranging from an eye opening breakfast to a seven-course extravaganza of food and fun, you won’t be disappointed.
The McAllen Convention Center is fully equipped with the technology designed to facilitate the needs of any group or event.
Not only does the McAllen Convention Center provide the latest in technology services, we also provide special event and production design. From complimentary wi-fi and phone services to event lighting, audio, and video design, we will make your meeting or exhibition an extraordinary event.
ABOUT EIGHT MILES FROM THE RANCH
Quinta Mazatlan
Quinta Mazatlan is a natural oasis in the heart of McAllen. This urban sanctuary is committed to educating visitors on the environment and its conservation. Explore the tropical gardens of this former mansion and admire plants and birds as well as its Spanish Revival style architecture. Join throngs of bird watchers and catch a glimpse of house sparrows and hummingbirds, among over 500 species. Take a walk through the pavilion and photograph rare butterflies in their fascinating glory. They also rents out the venue for various events such as corporate functions and private parties.
ABOUT EIGHT MILES FROM THE RANCH
Testimonials
