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Located at the southernmost tip of Texas, Brownsville is a popular location for Mexican and American beach tourists. It is part of the Rio Grande Valley, a four-county region known for its abundance in citrus fruit production and Winter Texan population. The city features a combination of different climate regimes: Gulf Coast plains and the Great Plains. There is a lot to do in this city: historical museums, art galleries, beaches, birding locations and natural wildlife refuges. As Brownsville is a border town, its culture is predominantly Hispanic.

Understand

Birdwatching is a very popular leisure activity in Brownsville.

Brownsville sits in the southernmost tip of Texas, is a border town and is also bordered by the Gulf Coast. These qualities make Brownsville a thriving city in the manufacturing industry. For this reason, Brownsville adopted the motto, "On the Border, By the Sea" in 1966. Since the early 1990s, the city has experienced a steel boom, leading to fast population growth. The area had around 98,000 residents in 1990, and has grown to 183,000 as of 2016.

Despite being in Texas, Brownsville doesn't live up to the common stereotypes of most Texas cities (western, rural). Instead, it has its own distinct culture. One common thing to notice about Brownsville is that it is influenced by the behavior of South Padre Island residents (laid-back, casual). The presence of an island so near to Brownsville has rubbed off on the locals.

Culturally, Brownsville's residents are predominantly Hispanic. It's common to hear people mix Spanish and English in their speech given the presence of Mexico being so close to Brownsville. For this reason, the city holds many festivals and parades celebrating the traditions from Mexico that have been integrated into American culture.

As you make the drive from Kingsville, you will start to see an abundance in palm trees. The area is known to tourists as "The Green City" for having more lush, green vegetation and plants than other cities in the Rio Grande Valley and South Texas. Sabal palms are dotted all around the city. The city has a strong focus on greener resources. Wind turbines, bike trails and solar panels are becoming more common in the Brownsville area.

The sunrises and sunsets in Brownsville are quite exquisite. Be sure to grab your camera and snap photos of these events. The area is known colloquially as the "Sunrise Capital of South Texas".

A typically morning in Brownsville

History

What many do not know about Brownsville is how rich in history the city actually is. It has been named the second-most historic city in the state of Texas, after San Antonio. Brownsville was part of many significant battles during the Mexican-American and Civil War. The Siege of Fort Texas and the Battle of Palo Alto were both fought between Brownsville and Matamoros. Major Jacob Brown (not to be confused with hero Jacob Brown in the War of 1812) has many sites and buildings dedicated to his name. For this reason, you will find many streets in the Mitte Cultural District named after important figures in American history.

Major Zachary Taylor (who later became the 12th president of the United States), played a crucial role in the Battle of Palo Alto. This marked the first major battle that started the Mexican-American War. Taylor's army successful defeated the Mexican forces on May 8th, 1846, with American troops suffering few casualties, compared to the Mexican side.

The city was also the site of the First Cortina Troubles, a war between Mexican rancher Juan Nepomuceno Cortina and American forces. Fighting emerged after a Brownsville marshal shot a former ranch hand of Cortina's. Cortina then took control of Brownsville for more than two months after many residents in Matamoros urged Cortina to evacuate the whole town. The fighting extended all the way to Starr County, in what is referred to as the Battle of Rio Grande City.

Things were relatively quiet in the city until troops took control of Brownsville, this time by Confederates after they found out the city was smuggling their goods into Mexico. This led to the Battle of Brownsville, during which the Confederates blew up more than 8,000 lbs of explosives. A month later, the Battle of Palmito Ranch was fought and won by Confederates.

Several decades later, the Brownsville Affair occurred. This was a racial conflict between black infantrymen stationed at Fort Brown and white townsfolk. After several white police officers and a bartender were shot, president Theodore Roosevelt discharged the regiment for "conspiracy of silence." During the 1970s, an investigation led by the Nixon Administration found that the black infantrymen were not guilty of the crime and had any dishonorable discharge reversed.

Climate

Sunrise in nearby South Padre Island. Mornings here tend to feature a luminous sky with an array of colors.
Brownsville (Texas)
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The weather in Brownsville can get very hot during the summer months. Temperatures in the low to mid 90s are not uncommon to see. While the city rarely sees temperatures over 100 °F (38 °C), the humidity makes heat indices go up to 105 °F (41 °C). Temperatures will rise above 90 from May through September. Winters are usually not felt with the exception of a short cold snap or cold front that comes by. Usually, these events don't last too long.

As in most of South Texas, snow is a rare event. The previous snowfall that didn't melt right away happened in 2004, which coincidentally occurred during Christmas Eve, making it the first White Christmas in the city, and a similar snow event happened in 2017. Brownsville had not witnessed such a snow event since the late 1800s. The number of days with temperatures below freezing varies from year to year. Some years will lack a freeze event while others will bring several days of ice to the area. Make sure you bring a thin sweater when visiting during January or February, when the temperatures tend to drop more frequently.

While hurricanes tend to be a threat to Brownsville, most come in weaker categories than those that hit other nearby states. This is due to the Yucatan Peninsula acting as a barrier for storms that travel from the south to north. The most recent 'major' hurricane to make landfall in the area was Hurricane Dolly in 2008, which left mostly moderate damage to weak structures and flooding.

Tourism information

Brownsville Convention & Visitors Bureau - Main office at 650 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd. Scale House at 1700 E 6th St. For visitors coming into Brownsville, a good place to first visit would be the Main Office, clearly visible from Highway 77. The roof of the building is shaped to form a pyramid. A representative can assist you with any questions, local hot spots and anything related to Brownsville. If you have further questions about events in the city, look at their website, which is kept up to date with any events for the whole calendar year. Also, for those visiting from Mexico, the Scale House is the perfect place to visit for questions on any attractions in the city. It is across the Gladys Porter Zoo and the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts.

Get in

By plane

1 Brownsville/South Padre Island Airport (BRO  IATA), 700 Emilia Earhart Dr, ☏ +1 956 542-4373. It is serviced by the following airlines:
American Eagle (Non-stop service between Dallas and Brownsville)
United Express (Non-stop passenger service to/from Houston)
The city is planning to replace the passenger terminal with a new one by 2020. Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (Q3385055) on Wikidata Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport on Wikipedia 

By bus

The main bus station for local public transportation and intercity buses is at the 2 La Plaza Brownsville Terminal at 755 International Blvd which is along International Blvd & S Adams in downtown:

Intercity bus services

  • El Expreso, Tornado, 755 International Blvd, ☏ +1 713 325-8010, toll-free: +1 800 601-6559. Connects Matamoros/Brownsville to Houston and Dallas (updated Mar 2018)
  • Greyhound, Autobus Americanos and Valley Transit Co (VTC), 755 International Blvd, ☏ +1 956 546-2264, toll-free: +1-800-231-2222. They have an additional location 215 E Monroe St in Harlingen. Goes up towards San Antonio via Harlingen, McAllen and Falfurrias. Some variations of the route continue north towards Dallas-Ft Worth from San Antonio via Austin. Another route goes up towards Houston through Harlingen, Raymondville, Riviera, Kingsville, Robstown, Corpus Christi, Odem Sinton, Refugio, Victoria, El Campo, Wharton, Rosenberg and SW Houston. Some of their buses going towards Houston may make fewer stops. (updated Mar 2018)
  • Omnibus Express, toll-free: +1-800-923-1799. Goes up towards Dallas via Harlingen, Robstown, San Antonio, San Marcos, Austin, Temple and Waco. Another route goes up towards Houston through Harlingen, Refugio, Victoria and Hillcroft. Some of their buses going towards Houston may make fewer stops. Passengers going towards Florida change buses in Houston and those going into Mexico change buses in Matamoros. (updated Mar 2018)

Regional transit agencies

The following services provide rides to most cities in the Rio Grande Valley:

  • Brownsville Metro, ☏ +1 956-548-6050. Operates local public transportation in and around Brownsville on 13 routes from La Plaza Terminal. $1 per boarding, $0.25 additional for a 2hr transfer ticket; $2.50 for a day pass. (updated Mar 2018)
  • Metro Connect, ☏ +1 956 681-3550. local bus service acting as an intercity and regional bus. Routes stretch from Hidalgo and Cameron Counties. There are three bus lines: Green (McAllen to Edinburg), Red (McAllen to Brownsville) and Blue (Brownsville to South Padre Island). Free Wi-Fi is also provided. 
  • The Wave, ☏ +1 956-761-3864. provides rides from South Padre Island to Brownsville, Port Isabel and Laguna Heights. Service runs from 7AM through 9PM. It is avaiable Monday through Sunday and is free of charge. 

By car

The main office of the B&M International Bridge, which connects West Brownsville to Matamoros

The highway system in the Rio Grande Valley is complicated. Most interstates have multiple number names, confusing first-time travellers. It is strongly advised to research the geography and transportation routes before flying/driving here.

  • Interstate 169 leads to SH 48, the main road towards South Padre Island. The road partially splits sideways, then meets with SH 550, then splitting into two routes: one leading to the Port of Brownsville and SH 48.
  • Interstate 69E connects with Harlingen and Corpus Christi. Shares part of their highway with US 77/83.
  • US Highway 77/83 a co-signed road that goes to Harlingen, where it splits into US 77 heading toward Dallas and US 83 towards Laredo. The road is also known as Interstate 2, going west from Harlingen.
  • US Highway 100 is a road connected with US 77 leading to Los Fresnos. One of the two main roads leading to South Padre Island. F.M. 803 is another road that is being constructed to attach with Highway 100, in order to decongest incoming traffic and provide an alternative route for tourists driving east for the SpaceX monthly rocket launches.
  • US Highway 281 leads to Hidalgo County and then San Antonio. This road is also known as Interstate 69C, as one drives north of Hidalgo. It is referred to as Interstate 2 when driving west towards McAllen.
  • SH 550 is a new toll-road in the outskirts of the city leading to SH 48. It is the only toll road operating in the Rio Grande Valley. While 18-wheeler trucks tend to use this road, tourists can also use this as a way to reach Padre Island Hwy at a faster rate.
  • Mexico's Federal Highway 180 is easily accessible across the Veterans International Bridge into Matamoros, Tampico, and leads to Tampico and eventually to Cancún.

International bridges

The Veterans International Bridge is the only bridge connected with a highway in Brownsville
  • Brownsville & Matamoros International Bridge meets at Mexico Blvd and into Palm Blvd, bridge is intended for passengers travelling from the West of Brownsville.
  • Gateway International Bridge connects to International Blvd, eventually leads to US Highway 77. It is next to the Mitte Cultural District.
  • Veteran's International Bridge at Los Tomates connects directly to US Highway 77. Easy way to cross into Mexico. Informally called Los Tomates or Veteran's by locals.

The addition of a fourth international bridge has been proposed with local government officials.

Every bridge sees traffic ranging from the average family car to freight trucks on a daily basis. Freight trucks are usually more common during weekends when shipments are released from factories in Brownsville.

By boat

You can arrive by boat on South Padre Island. Though there are no ferries to take you to the island, if you own a boat, simply direct yourself to the southernmost Texas coast. When arriving, there should be buses that can take you to Brownsville. The distance between the island and Brownsville is not that far apart so you should arrive no later than 25 minutes to the city.

Get around

Map
Map of Brownsville (Texas)

By car

The best way to get around Brownsville is by car. If you don't have a car, there are multiple rental car agencies dotted around the city.

By bus

Brownsville Metro (B-Metro) - Main bus service providing rides within thirteen different routes throughout the city's major arteries. The system operates M-Sa 6AM-8PM. The terminal center, called La Plaza at Brownsville, is at 755 International Blvd close to the Gateway International Bridge. The center was completed in 2013 and also provides several restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating.

By taxi

There are several taxi services provided right outside of the Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport. They are easily accessible once arriving here (by plane). Prices depend on type of cab service.

  • ABC Taxi, 1124 Taylor St, ☏ +1 956-504-0105. 
  • American Taxi, 355 W Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 956-544-6630. 24 hours. Only accepts cash, no debit cards. Also known as Brownsville Cab. 
  • Longoria's Taxi, 355 W Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 956-541-4626. 24 hours. Bilingual taxi drivers serving Brownsville, South Padre Island, the Mexican city of Matamoros and bus stations. 
  • The RoadRunner, ☏ +1 830-463-7499. Provides rides to tourist attractions, wineries and the airport. Department also has a limousine service. 
  • Valley Taxi, 147 Palm Blvd, ☏ +1 956-541-3030. 
  • Yellow Express Taxi, 2254 El Brillo St, ☏ +1 956-542-9001, +1 956-320-8294. 24 hours. Provides taxi service to Los Fresnos, Rancho Viejo and across the border to Matamoros, Tamaulipas. Accepts payments in Visa, Mastercard. 

By foot or bicycle

The city is known as the "Bicycling Capital of the Rio Grande Valley" so there will be several trails spanning long distances of the city. They connect to major arteries and other commercial areas. There are seven bike trails you can take to explore Brownsville (listed in the Do section of the article).

A BikeShare Program by Zagster has six bike stations around Brownsville, including several in the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Other locations include La Plaza Terminal, CityPlaza, Linear Park, Washington Park, Dean Porter Park and the Belden Connect. Membership for the program costs $35 per year, $15 per month and $2 an hour.

Brownsville and nine other cities in Cameron County have developed a hike-and-bike network plan to connecting these cities with one another. Paddle trails will be included connecting Brownsville to other cities near the coast.

See

Brownsville is home to many historic homes, battlefield sites, state parks, museums, art galleries and even a zoo. The presence of SpaceX has pushed the area to focus more on educating the public on the aerospace industry, which has dedicated several sites for locals to use to heighten their knowledge on rockets and space exploration.

Battlefield sites are sporadic in the city: you will find some to be in the outskirts and others in the center of highly commercial areas. These locations blend in with its surrounding areas.

One of the most important battles of the Mexican-American War was fought in Brownsville

The state parks are included here because they are preserved by the state of Texas, thereby restricting major developments from occurring in the area. They also resemble sanctuaries for endangered wildlife and marine life that are only common in Brownsville.

Aerospace facilities

  • 1 SpaceX South Texas Launch Site, 54298 Boca Chica Blvd (get off ramp on Boca Chica Blvd, drive straight until reaching the end of the street, which meets several feet near the ocean), ☏ +1 310-363-6000. Aerospace facility launching rockets from Boca Chica State Park. The project is expected to be completed by late 2018, with rocket launches occurring monthly. 
  • 2 Spacecraft Tracking and Astronomical Research into Gigahertz Astrophysical Transient Emission (ALSO known as Stargate), 52448-54298 Boca Chica Blvd, ☏ +1 956-882-5131. In collaboration with SpaceX, this will be a radio frequency technology park directly across the SpaceX facility which is expected to commence construction in 2018. The facility will be used by researchers for technology and scientific research. 

Art galleries and studios

  • 3 Galeria 409, 409 E 13th St (get off ramp on Highway 77 past Boca Chica Blvd, turn right on E 13th St, stop after passing Elizabeth St), ☏ +1 956-455-3599. Art gallery showcasing work from artists in the Rio Grande Valley. It is a two-story building with multiple doors painted in green. Windows are also painted in said color. 
  • 4 Rusteberg Art Gallery, Gorgas Dr (within the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley), ☏ +1 956-882-7097. Gallery with monthly installations and exhibitions. Primarily used by local artists. Most artwork draw influence from the Spanish culture that is integrated in the city. 
  • 5 Puente Art Studio, 741 E Elizabeth St (near the Palm Lounge), ☏ +1 956-592-4390. M-Sa 10AM-6PM. Studio used to teach art classes to children. Admission for this is $20. Also has a gallery with exhibitions. To its exterior, windows and doors are paint in brown, a similar trend with galleries and bars in this area. Free. 

Museums

Champion Hall, one of many historical buildings near Fort Brown.
  • 6 Brownsville Historical Association, 1325 E Washington St, ☏ +1 956-541-5560. Main office in charge of operating five historical buildings in Downtown Brownsville. Buildings include the Heritage Museum & Preservation Center, Stillman House, Market Square Research Center, Old City Cemetery Center and The Historic Alonso Building. 
  • 7 Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts, 660 E Ringgold St, ☏ +1 956-542-0941. Beautiful arts museum focused on the works of local and Latin American painters. 
  • 8 Children's Museum of Brownsville, 501 E Ringgold St #5 (take US Highway 77, get off ramp on Boca Chica Blvd, turn right at E 6th St and turn right at E Pierce St), ☏ +1 956 548-9300, fax: +1 956 504-1348. Museum involving hands-on activities, events and workshops for children. $8; free for children 1 and under. 
  • 9 Commemorative Air Force Museum, 955 S Minnesota Ave (Drive along Boca Chica Blvd and turn at Billy Mitchell then right towards Minnesota Ave), ☏ +1 956-541-8585. Air force museum displaying collections of aircraft from World War II. Hosts the annual AirFiesta in mid-February. Adults: $6, seniors (55+): $5, kids 12-18: $3, kids under 11: Free. 
The sandy dunes on Boca Chica State Park.
  • 10 Costumes of the Americas, 501 E Ringgold St #5 (drive south on Highway 77 and take the 6th St exit), ☏ +1 956 547-6890. Museum housing one of the largest collections of traditional clothing worn by indigenous people in Latin American countries. $2 per person, children under 10: free. 
  • 11 Fort Brown (Fort Brown Memorial Center), Fort Brown St (take International Blvd and enter at Texas Southmost College). A military post used during the late 19th century and early 20th century. It is regarded as one of the most haunted sites in the city. Free. 
  • 12 Historic Brownsville Museum, 641 E Madison St, ☏ +1 956-541-5560, fax: +1 956 435-0020. Museum displaying the history of Brownsville up to the first half of the 20th century. It uses pictures, maps, along with other visuals to document different aspects of the city from street views to education. Adults: $5, seniors: $4, students: $2, children under 6 and BHA members: free. 
  • 13 Market Square Research Center, ☏ +1 956-541-5560. The predecessor to La Plaza at Brownsville, the current terminal center in Brownsville. It used to be a terminal center for buses and an open air market. The building was constructed in 1850 and provides many photographs, costumes and an art collection. It is undergoing a multi-million renovation that will include a walkable street, life-size chess boards, fountains and bike stations. 
A Hummingbird in Sabal Palm Sanctuary.
  • 14 Old City Cemetery Center, ☏ +1 956-541-5560. One of the oldest cemeteries in the city. This was the burial location for many soldiers during the Civil War and Mexican-American War as early as the 1830s. Ghost tours are available. Free; tours: $7 (for groups of 14 or less), $4 (for groups 15 or more). 

Battlefields

  • 15 Palmito Ranch Battlefield, Boca Chica Blvd (on the way to Boca Chica State Park). The last battle of the American Civil War. It is close to the US-Mexico border. There is much speculation that the site is haunted. Free. 
  • 16 Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Park, 7200 Paredes Line Rd, ☏ +1 956-541-2785, fax: +1 956 541-6356. The site of Battle of Palo Alto. Indoor museum includes artillery and a gift shop. A tour is provided along a walkway to the actual battle site with replicas of the artillery used in the war scattered throughout the place. Free. 
  • 17 Resaca de la Palma National Battlefield, 1024 Paredes Line Rd, ☏ +1 956-541-2785. The site of Battle of Resaca de la Palma. A beautiful candle-lighting ceremony takes place each year around mid-November to honor the fallen victims of the war. Each candle is place in the parameter of the site. Free. 

Historic homes

The city of Brownsville has an endless list of historic buildings in Downtown. Many buildings include French, Spanish and sometimes a mix of both architecture styles. Take a walk through Downtown and visit these locations. Due to the large number of historic homes in Downtown, not every home is listed on here. For more information, please visit the visitor's website.

  • 18 The Historic Alonso Building, 510 E St Charles St. A French and Spanish influence building popular for rentals and events. Includes an art gallery inside, a pool and tables outside for dining. 
  • 19 The Stillman House, 1325 E Washington St (same address as the Brownsville Historical Association), ☏ +1 956-541-5560, fax: +1 956 435 0028. The home of several important figures in Brownsville and Mexico. Charles Stillman, the settler who founded Brownsville lived here, as well as Mexican presidents and generals. Free. 
  • 20 Old Brulay Plantation (Plantation House No. 1), east of TX 4. A cotton-turned-sugar plantation used during the American Civil War. It closed approximately in 1910 when a Cuban tariff was removed. The home belonged to a French immigrant named George Paul Bruley. 

State parks

Entrance route of Gladys Porter Zoo.
  • 21 Boca Chica State Park. Isolated beach across South Padre Island. It is known for its sandy dunes, quiet atmosphere and scenery. Regarded as a hidden gem by many tourists. Known as Boca Chica Beach to locals. 
  • 22 Brazos Island State Park. Beach north of Boca Chica State Park. Great for camping and fishing. 

Wildlife refuges

  • 23 Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, 22688 Buena Vista Rd. Daily 7AM-7:30PM. In nearby Los Fresnos. Very popular wildlife refuge where many different species can be spotted from the bobcat to the endangered ocelot. The refuge area is protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 
  • 24 Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Clark/W Cantu Rd, ☏ +1 956-784-7500. Situated in nearby La Feria, is a popular birding and wildlife sanctuary with over 90,000 acres (36,000 hectares) of dedicated land for animals and other species to live in. Resacas (or floodplains) can be found throughout the site. Free. 

Other attractions

A view of the popular bridge in the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
  • 25 Sabal Palm Sanctuary, 8435 Sabal Palm Grove Rd, ☏ +1 956-541-8034. Butterfly and birdwatching center. One of the last locations in the Rio Grande Valley with an abundance in profuse grove of Sabal Palms. Adults: $5, Children under 12: $3. 
  • 26 Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 E Ringgold St, ☏ +1 956 546-7187. Popular zoo among locals and tourists. Showcases a variety of species from around the world and features a reptile house and an aquatic center. It is the only zoo south of Corpus Christi and the Rio Grande Valley. Adults: $11, children (2-13): $8, children (under 2): free, seniors (over 65): $9.50. 
  • 27 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, 1 W University Blvd, ☏ +1-888-882-4026. 24 hours. Beautiful campus with a bridge overlooking a resaca (or floodplain) and many palm trees. The bridge is a popular photography landmark for tourists and locals. Campus was founded in 2015 after University of Texas at Brownsville and University of Texas Pan-American merged. There are trails going through the university. Check their website for any events or activities happening around the city. Most events are held in Downtown Brownsville and focus on the arts along with musical performances. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (Q17028121) on Wikidata University of Texas Rio Grande Valley on Wikipedia 

Do

Theater

  • 1 Camille Lightner Playhouse, 1 Dean Porter Park (take same route as Children's Museum of Brownsville), ☏ +1 956-542-8900. Popular performing arts venue featuring plays and musicals. Features adaptations of both local and popular acts. Plays: Adults: $15, Students (with school ID): $10, Children under 12: $5; Musicals: Adults: $20, Students (with school ID): $12, Children under 12: $12; Season tickets: $85; Winter Texan tickets: $50. 
  • 2 Jacob Brown Auditorium, 600 International Blvd (drive along Highway 77, exit off ramp on International Blvd, drive straight until approaching Texas Southmost College), ☏ +1 956-882-7945. Open-floor auditorium with a 1,500-person capacity. Popular for graduation and theater events. Also features concerts involving musicians playing a range of instruments from the cello to the clarinet. Depends on event. 
  • 3 The Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St (Take International Blvd, drive until approaching Texas Southmost College. Building is in back of Jacob Brown Auditorium), ☏ +1 956-295-3704. Performing arts venue belonging to Texas Southmost College. Popular for performances in music and theatre. 

Festivals and events

The city is home to many festivals and events with different variety for tourists and locals. Make sure to search the visitor's website for more information on upcoming events, as some events tend to be held at multiple times during the year.

  • 4 AirFiesta, 955 S Minnesota Ave (takes place in the Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport), ☏ +1 956-541-8585. February 13-14. Professional pilots perform beautiful synchronized flybys in a variety of aircraft dating from the 1950s. Check website one to two months before event for prices.. 
  • 5 Brownsville Beer Fest, 501 E Ringgold St (Held at Dean Porter Park), ☏ +1 956-878-6489. October 1st. Oktoberfest-style festival with many different beers from around the world. Includes a performance from Los Angeles-based group, Metalachi. GA Tickets: $25, pre-sale tickets: $75. 
  • Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival, ☏ +1 956-831-9590. Popular festival created by Latin Jazz legend, Tito Puente, celebrating local artists of the genre. Free. 
  • 6 Charro Days Fiesta, 455 E Elizabeth St (event uses most of the street), ☏ +1 956-542-4245. Unique event celebrating the friendship between Brownsville and its next door neighbor Matamoros. Celebration starts in the end of February and features people dressed in Charro costumes, food, music and a parade. Free. 
  • 7 Christmas Parade, E Elizabeth Street (uses most of the street), ☏ +1 956-542-4245. A longstanding tradition which many schools participate in by making floats and performing songs based on pop culture and traditional Mexican music. Free. 
  • 8 The Color Run 5K, 1000 Sports Park Blvd. December 10, 9AM-noon. The only city in the Rio Grande Valley participating in this event. It is part of the Tropicolor World Tour. Runners are plastered with colors and are required to wear white. The purpose of this event is promote happiness and healthy lifestyles everywhere. Individual: $29.99, team: $24.99. 
  • 9 CycloBia Nights, 1034 E Levee St, ☏ +1 956-547-6531. Event where several streets in Downtown close to allow bicyclists to ride their bicycles around the area. Participants are also allowed to walk, skate, etc. Takes place three times a year: in June, August and October. Free. 
  • 10 Fourth of July Parade, 1000 Sports Park Blvd (same route as Charro Days event), ☏ +1 956-574-6650. Parade starting in Downtown Brownsville and ending with a firework celebration (the largest in South Texas) in the Brownsville Sports Park. Includes food, music and Glow Dash. 
  • 11 Heart of America Shows, 1370 N Expressway (next to Sunrise Mall). Late October through late November. Carnival tour with traditional games, rides, live performances from local bands, a fire show and food stands. The event is held in the parking lot of Sunrise Mall. 1 ticket: $1.25; Unlimited rides bracelet: $20. 
  • 12 Holiday Village, 1 Dean Porter Park. Cottages decorated with lights and live performances celebrating Christmas. Event starts from the first of November until the first of January. Free. 
  • 13 Memorial Illumination, 1024 Paredes Line Rd (held at Resaca de la Palma Battlefield), ☏ +1 956-541-2785. November 14. A beautiful display of 8,000 candles lit up to honor the fallen US and Mexican soldiers of the 1846 battles that took place there. Ceremony begins at sunset. 
  • 14 Zoofari, 500 Ringgold St (Held in Gladys Porter Zoo.), ☏ +1 956-546-7187. October 1st. A live auction event with wine and other entertainment. The Peacock Ticket features a performance from a known country artist. Premiere Ticket: $135, Peacock Ticket: $10. 

Golfing

In Brownsville

In Rancho Viejo (within Brownsville City Limits)

  • 18 Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club, 1 Rancho Viejo Drive, ☏ +1 956-350-4000, toll-free: +1-800-531-7400. Elegant golfing courses including El Angel and El Diablo Course along with a PGA Junior Golf League. Resort hosts wedding and meeting events, and sports entertainment such as tennis, swimming and a fitness center. Varies. 

Gun ranges

  • 19 Massey's Gun Shop and Range, 1 Massey Way, ☏ +1 956-346-6950. Daily 10AM-6PM. In the outskirts of the city. An outdoor shooting range also doubling as a gun shop with a wide selection of guns to shop from. Offers free online courses. Depends. 
  • 20 South Texas Tactical Shooting Range, 2100 Village Center Blvd, ☏ +1 956-350-2047. M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su noon-7PM. Modern indoor shooting range with a shop inside. Offers multiple target ranges with space between each station. Depends. 

Cycling

  • 21 Belden Trail, W 3rd St, ☏ +1 956-542-2064. Mile-long trail connecting West Brownsville to other commercial areas. Pedestrian and family-friendly. Free. 
  • 22 Historic Battlefield Trail, Brownsville Historic Battlefield Hike and Bike Trail, ☏ +1 956-542-2064. 9-mile long trail running north-south in the middle of the city. Free. 
  • 23 Brownsville Sports Park Hike & Bike Trail, 1000 Sports Park Blvd, ☏ +1 956-574-6650. A trail in the Brownsville Sports Park with access to a lake, boardwalk and hiking pathways. Free. 
  • 24 Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge Trails. Trails around the Wildlife Refuge leading to tall, grassy areas. Watch out for any wild animals such as Ocelots and Cougars. Free. 
  • 25 [dead link] Monte Bella Mountain Bike Trail, W Alton Gloor Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-2064. A 6.2-mile long trail in the outskirts of the city. The trail also includes a 21-hole Disc Golf Course. Free. 
  • 26 Paseo de la Resaca Trails, ☏ +1 956 547-6860. A 76-mile-long trail running through over 4 miles of resacas and 128 acres (52 hectares) of parkland. Free. 
  • 27 Resaca de la Palma State Park Trails, 1000 New Carmen Ave, ☏ +1 956-350-2920. 7-mile trail offering binoculars and bicycles for rent. The trail has the largest native habitat part of the World Birding Center. Free. 

Event venues

  • 28 Brownsville Event Center, 1 Event Center, ☏ +1 956-547-6531. Popular center for city events, weddings and other festivities. Rooms are named after important city buildings. The main ballroom has over 1,200 seats in a theater style setting. It also divides into five other rooms which features a classic seating style. Outside features a trail next to a resaca with Victorian-influenced lights. 
  • 29 Venezzia The Venue, 5 Event Center Blvd, ☏ +1 956-455-8259. Lavish venue center used mainly for weddings. This was once a miniature golf course and go-kart place. It has incorporated the miniature golf course as a setting for weddings with an arbor in the center. The building is usually illuminated at night in different colors from pink, purple and blue. 

Parks

  • 30 Brownsville Sports Park, 1000 Sports Park Blvd, ☏ +1 956-574-6650. Sports park with baseball and soccer stadiums. It also has a new fitness center and a volleyball court. Very family friendly. Free. 
  • 31 Dean Porter Park, Dean Porter Park Dr. Clean park with many museums and a playhouse in a walking distance. It includes a pavilion and a playground. Park is next to a resaca. Free. 
  • 32 Lincoln Park, 2100 University Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-2064. Park next to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Great for picnics or family events. A stone's throw from the U.S.-Mexico border. Free. 
  • 33 North Brownsville Park & Tennis Center (Known as the Brownsville Tennis Center), #3 Event Center, ☏ +1 956-547-8326. Park next to a canal. Beautiful trails with Victorian style lights spanning a large portion with small bridges along the way and 16 tennis courts for tournaments. 
  • 34 Southern Pacific Linear Park, E 6th St, ☏ +1 956-542-2064. Family-friendly park next to Gladys Porter Zoo and the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts. Free. 
  • 35 Washington Park, E 7th St (Intersection of E 7th and Madison St), ☏ +1 956-542-2064. Large park in the heart of Downtown. Perfect for strolls at night, bicycle rides and picnics. Features a fountain at the center. Free. 

Pavilion

  • 36 Ringgold Civic Pavilion, 501 E Ringgold St Suite 5, ☏ +1 956-542-2064. Pavilion great for family events and meetings. Next to a clean park, museums and a playhouse. Large: $75/hr, small: $25/hr, barbecue oven: $5/hr. 

Market

  • 37 77 Flea Market, 5955 N Expressway, ☏ +1 956-350-9425. Sa Su 8AM-6PM. Large open flea market with food trucks and vendors selling authentic Mexican goods, ranging from fruits, vegetables, plants, artifacts and other collectibles. Free parking. The number derives from its location on U.S. Highway 77. It is the one of the first attractions one will see when arriving through Brownsville. It is also advised to wear walking shoes, as it tends to get hot when walking through the area. 
  • 38 Brownsville Farmers' Market, E 6th St (inside Linear Park), ☏ +1 956-755-0614. Sa 9AM-noon. Great place to shop for locally grown foods like fruits and vegetables. Vendors set up shop each week of the year every Saturday. 

Tours

  • 39 Island Biplanes, 973 Minnesota Ave, ☏ +1 956-433-9181. Tour operator providing visual tours of South Padre Island and Port Isabel by airplane. 
  • 40 Texas Gulf Trawling Shrimp Boil & Tour, 1430 Everglades Rd, ☏ +1 956-831-7828. Relaxing boat tour around the South Padre Island and Port Isabel waters. The purpose of the tour is for shrimp enthusiasts who want to catch fresh shrimp straight off the ocean. 

Buy

Boca Chica Blvd, a very popular shopping and dining destination in the city.
  • Mitte Cultural District. Has a lot of retail shops and great local restaurants. Though much of the commercial activity has shifted northward due to the devaluation of the Mexican Peso, there is still a thriving scene as the city has taken increasing efforts to revitalize many Downtown buildings and streets. 
  • Ruben M. Torres Blvd is a street that is developing a highly commercial scene in the city. Many shopping centers (or plazas) have set up here in the past couple of years. One portion of the street is commercial while the other half is industrial based. It is the main road, other than the expressway, that leads to Sunrise Mall. With the addition of two hypermarkets at close proximity from each other, several chain restaurants and retail stores have moved into the area.
  • Pablo Kisel Blvd/Morrison Rd is the new commercial hot spot in Brownsville. Many national eateries and retailers have either moved from previous locations or have set up shop for the first time here. There are also many hotels in a short walking distance. Much of the success of both streets is owed to the proximity of the mall and the expressway.
  • Boca Chica Blvd is known regionally as "Four Corners" for its wide street lanes meeting with another major artery in the city. The intersection has shaped all four sides to look like corners. With the arrival of the new SpaceX facility is less than a year, the street will be the main route to see the rockets being launched. The street experienced an economic decline years ago but has been bringing back national retailers and chain restaurants to the area.

Bookstores

The inside of Sunrise Mall. Very popular on the weekends.
  • 1 BookBee, 1757 Boca Chica Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-1902, fax: +1 956 542-1867. Local bookstore selling school accessories such as medical and laboratory equipment. It used to be near the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, until it moved in 2016. 
  • 2 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Bookstore, 83 Fort Brown St, ☏ +1 956-882-8249. Near the entrance from Texas Southmost College. Bookstore sells shirts, souvenirs with the university logo and has a coffee shop serving Starbucks drinks. 

Local stores

Brownsville's proximity to Matamoros introduced a "market" scene in Downtown. Many of the shops are local and sell a variety of items, including jewelry, dresses and shoes. Most businesses have operated in this area for several decades. As mentioned, the northern portion of the city has spurred economic development that has created several small business stores.

  • 3 [dead link] Alex&Raw, 3340 Pablo Kisel Blvd, ☏ +1 956-592-0529. Hip store selling custom-made outfits in dresses and tops. Some of the styles are Spanish-influenced, while others lean towards a more modern style. 
  • 4 Mercado Juarez (Little Mexico), 1008 E Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 956-346-3171. Artisan goods store selling clothes, jewelry and pottery from Mexico. The arts and crafts sold are also authentic. Several Mexican vendors also set up shop at the Majestic Theater. 
  • 5 Craftland, 1100 E Washington St, ☏ +1 956-501-1115. Craft items store selling yarn, ribbons and variety of different home decor items such as wreaths, mason jars and Christmas decorations. The windows of the stores have shiplap, a type of wood used in barns. 
  • 6 The Vintage Furniture, 1018 E Washington St, ☏ +1 956-639-6197. Focused on vintage styles. Most of the items are made of wood, rustic and old. Items consist of tables, chests and chairs. A place for the antique collector. 
  • 7 Jewelry Corner, 1201 E Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 956-544-1786. Sells lavish jewelry, from stones to gold and other valuable relics. Most of the jewelry is made in the form of rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. The store imports jewelry from foreign countries such as Italy, India and Mexico. 
  • 8 Portillo Chic & PC Lace, 4237 N Expressway 77 #2, ☏ +1 956-546-0087. Two joint businesses owned by City Commissioner Deborah Portillo. Chic sells watches, jewelry and other accessories, while Lace specializes in bridal and Quinceañera dresses. 

Mall

  • 9 Sunrise Mall, 2370 North Expressway (take ramp off Highway 77 near Pablo Kisel Blvd), ☏ +1 956-541-5302. Popular mall featuring over 100 stores and four department stores (Dillard's, Sears, JCPenney and Bealls). The mall received a multi-million renovation in 2015 which added new tile, restroom signs, an updated light fixture and Dick's Sporting Goods. H&M opened its first location in the Rio Grande Valley at this mall. Sunrise Mall (Q7641099) on Wikidata Sunrise Mall (Brownsville, Texas) on Wikipedia 

Eat

Brownsville's local restaurant scene has seen a surge in recent times, with La Southmost in particular receiving statewide and even national media attention for the quality and diversity of its tacos. Most of the eateries mentioned are newly constructed or have operated for a couple of years. Mexican is the most popular, as is Tex-Mex and seafood but different options have been introduced such as Italian and Thai cuisines. Coordinate points are approximate, not exact. The bold names divide each section based on highly commercial areas in Brownsville.

For tourists in the mood for authentic Mexican food, it is best to locate a restaurant in the Mitte Cultural District or La Southmost. Since those parts of town are closer to Mexico, there is a stronger chance of finding these kinds of eateries, not to mention the countless number of taquerias (or taco stands) in the city. Just be aware that the restaurant staff may not speak much English, and same for the menus. As Boca Chica is the main road leading to Boca Chica Beach, more seafood restaurants tend to be found here. Ruben M. Torres is a central part of the city, which has built several restaurants along its resacas, giving locals and tourists the option to dine by these water bodies. The northern portion of Brownsville, referred to as Pablo Kisel/Morrison, features more fine-dining restaurants, since it happens to be the wealthier part of town.

La Southmost

Good for breakfast before visiting the nearby Sabal Palm Sanctuary, and then lunch afterwards.

  • 1 Vera's Backyard Bar-B-Que, 3915 Southmost Rd, ☏ +1 956 546-4159. Thurs-Fri 5:30 AM-2:30 PM, Sat-Sun 5:00 AM-2:30 PM. The James Beard Foundation recognizes Vera's as an "American Classic," a “locally owned restaurant that [has] timeless appeal and [is] beloved regionally.” It's the only restaurant in Texas allowed to operate a pit barbecue, in which it smokes whole cow heads (barbacoa de cabeza). Note the weekend-only, breakfast-and-lunch hours. 
  • 2 Sylvia's, 1843 Southmost Rd. Stuffed to the gills with Dallas Cowboys memorabilia, Sylvia's is the perfect place for an RGV-style giant breakfast taco. Or perhaps machacado con huevo, scrambled egg with salt pork, a local specialty. Note to gluten-free eaters: their corn tortillas may be contaminated. 
  • 3 Taco El Compadre, 2404 Southmost Rd, ☏ +1 956-542-5727. Famous for its bistek tacos and its fried-potato tacos dorados. Like many Rio Grande Valley restaurants, it serves delicious frijoles charro, beans with bacon, as an appetizer. 
  • 4 Marcelo's Tacos, 3305 E 26th St, but fronts on Southmost Rd. You don't have to be vegetarian to enjoy the tacos with rajas con queso, poblano chile strips slow-cooked in a savory cream sauce. 

Boca Chica

  • 5 C&C Wings, 6550 Ruben M Torres Blvd, ☏ +1 956-831-3460. Very popular local restaurant known for its buffalo chips and unique wing flavors. Has several TVs set up for weekend sporting events. Local bands perform here on the weekends and also host celebrations. $3-8. 
  • 6 Chopstix, 7102 Padre Island Hwy, ☏ +1 956-832-0700. Asian restaurant that provides Japanese, Chinese and Mongolian meals. Serves sushi rolls, rice and is known for its noodles. $2.50-7.25. 
  • 7 [dead link] Mariscos De La Rosa, 7738 Padre Island Hwy (take SH550 and drive until reaching Padre Island Hwy), ☏ +1 956-550-0024. Restaurant serving cocktails, seafood, wine and beer. It is in the outskirts of Brownsville, as one heads towards South Padre Island. The owners were based in Matamoros but ended up migrating to Brownsville after the city experienced violence regarding its drug war. 
  • 8 The Oyster Bar, 153 Paredes Line Rd, ☏ +1 956-542-9511. Long-running seafood restaurant offering common seafood dishes. Two locations in the city. 
  • 9 The Vermillion Restaurant & Watering Hole, 115 Paredes Line Rd, ☏ +1 956-542-9893. Popular local restaurant known for its Tex-Mex meals. The place has operated since the 1930s. 
  • 10 Wing Barn, 3025 Boca Chica Blvd, Suite I-1, ☏ +1 956-541-2276. Barn-style eatery serving burgers, wings and beer. Popular among locals. There are several locations around the city. 

Ruben M. Torres

  • 11 Agave Blue Mexican Grill, 1805 E Ruben M Torres Blvd, Ste A17 (Next to the Northside Transfer Station), ☏ +1 956-542-4283. Modern restaurant serving breakfast and providing live music at night. Serves margaritas and other spirits. 
  • 12 Cobbleheads, 3154 Central Blvd, ☏ +1 956-592-9313. Popular local restaurant known for its live music. Serves an array of meals from Philly-cheese steaks, salads, Mexican and custom-made meals from the region. It also has an outdoor patio next to a resaca. Perfect for night dinners. 
  • 13 Geko's Trattoria Italian, 2155 S Frontage Rd, ☏ +1 956-554-7000. Local Italian eatery serving brick oven pizzas, wines, panini sandwiches and more traditional meals. Every item on the menu is written in Italian. $7-20. 
  • 14 Gio's Villa, 2325 Central Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-5054. Long-time eatery serving Italian meals in an ambient atmosphere. $11-30. 
  • 15 Khan's Grill, 2701 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-8881. The only local Mongolian restaurant in the city. It has an open concept kitchen, where customers can watch their meals be prepared. Noodles, white rice and shrimp are the common plates served here. 
  • 16 La Pampa Argentine Steakhouse, 1655 E Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd, Suite 208, ☏ +1 956-504-5858, fax: +1 956 504-5875. Steakhouse serving Argentine meals and winery. Very elegant setting with a rodeo-influenced decor. Provides big meals at expensive prices. Since the restaurant blends with its surroundings, look out for this place when driving. $7-45. 
  • 17 Zocalo Mariscos & Banda, 2353 Old Port Isabel Rd, ☏ +1 956-243-7574. Upscale bar featuring Mexican recipes. Hosts live music in an outdoor patio. As of 2016, the restaurant re-branded their restaurant to feature more seafood options and performances from Banda musicians. $10-30. 

Mitte Cultural District

  • 18 Pitti's Ristorante Italian Village, 1400 Palm Blvd, ☏ +1 956-982-1616. Modest eatery known for its extra large pizzas. Serves Mexican meals, pasta and calzones. Small: $7.99, Medium: $14.99, Mega: $26.99. 
  • 19 Spanky's Burgers, 1355 Palm Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-4007. Inexpensive burger joint in a modern, hip setting. Serves custom made meals with such as grilled onions, jalapeños and tomatoes in their burgers. No website. $4-7. 
  • 20 Taqueria Siberia, 2915 International Blvd, ☏ +1 956-542-9357. Popular local eatery known for its unique tostadas. Also serves traditional Mexican meals. Has several locations around the city. 
  • 21 Terra's Bar & Grill, 915 E Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 956-621-0886. Restaurant perfect for a date night. Features live music and is decorated with many art paintings, paying homage to the Hispanic culture. 

Pablo Kisel/Morrison

  • 22 Campero's Bar & Grill, 2500 N. Expressway 77/83, ☏ +1 956-546-8172. Elegant Mexican restaurant providing live music, bar and fine dining. $11-20. 
  • 23 Dirty Al's Seafood Market & Cajun Kitchen, 4495 N Expressway 77, ☏ +1 956-621-3452. Popular bait-style restaurant serving seafood with a tropical atmosphere. Serves burgers and specializes in cajun-style meals. Originated from South Padre Island. $9-13. 
  • 24 [dead link] Fabrizzio's, 3000 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Ste 200E (next to Sunrise Commons), ☏ +1 956-561-4225. Brick oven baked pizzas with traditional Italian seating. Also does catering. $8-19. 
  • 25 Fiŝo Seafood Cuisine, 3101 Pablo Kisel Blvd, ☏ +1 956-551-3878. Expensive seafood restaurant serving steaks, cocktails and martinis. They are known for their ambiance and creative touch in every meal. 
  • 26 Gazpacho's Restaurant, 2451 Pablo Kisel Blvd, ☏ +1 956-546-9200. Elegant restaurant serving a variety of sandwiches from different Latin American and European flavors. Has a cozy atmosphere with fine dining. 
  • 27 Keko's Restaurant (formerly Kaero's), 3090 Pablo Kisel Blvd Ste A (drive on Highway 77, take ramp leading to Pablo Kisel Blvd and drive until reaching Springmart Blvd), ☏ +1 956-350-0592. Healthy eatery offering a selection of subs, sandwiches and smoothies at decent prices. It also serves crepes, soups, wraps and specializes in a "Create your Salad" option. 
  • 28 Madeira Restaurant, 805 Media Luna, Suite 800, ☏ +1 956-504-3100. Upscale, romantic restaurant next to a resaca. Serves Argentine meals and seafood. 
  • 29 Mi Pueblito Restaurant, 3101 Pablo Kisel Blvd,, ☏ +1 956-350-9696. Mexican restaurant serving margaritas, spirits and more. Has an elegant outdoor patio set up with TVs to watch sporting events. 
  • 30 Toscafino Restaurant, 3001 Pablo Kisel Blvd, ☏ +1 956-574-9888. Upscale wine bar with outdoor patio serving Italian dishes. Popular for a weekend hangout. 

Drink

Bars

  • 1 Adolios, 2370 N Expressway (inside Sunrise Mall), ☏ +1 956-982-0491. Upscale local bar with an outdoor patio. Serves traditional Mexican cuisine and spirits. $7-17. 
  • 2 Mynt Bar & Grill, 600 Springmart Blvd #8 (take Highway 77, use ramp near Morrison, take a right at Pablo Kisel, then turn at Springmart; bar is inside a plaza), ☏ +1 956-621-4552. Popular restaurant serving spirits and live music. Reservations are available. Serves tacos, burgers, wings and has its own signature "Mynt Dogs". $7-10. 
  • 3 Public House Brownsville, 3254 Boca Chica Blvd (get off ramp on Boca Chica Blvd, drive south along Boca Chica until reaching Tower Centre), ☏ +1 956-579-2020. Bar specializing in drafts, meals and drinks. Range from $10-20. 
  • 4 The Bar, 1900 N Expressway (take Highway 77, get off ramp on Ruben Torres Blvd, look for Boot Jack Plaza), ☏ +1 956-548-2277. Popular barn-style bar with two floors. Very popular for billiards and music events. 
  • 5 The Palm Lounge, 757 E Elizabeth St (take same route as El Hueso De Fraile), ☏ +1 956-621-0793. Cozy, modern bar also acting as a lounge. Known as Historic Palm Lounge, adopting the name for being in the Historic Downtown District. 

Pubs

Billiard parlors

  • 8 Billiard Room, 2104 Central Blvd (take US Highway 77, then use ramp off Ruben Torres Blvd, turn left on Central Blvd and drive a little further from Rental World), ☏ +1 956-542-4542. Long-standing billiard bar perfect for a weekend hangout. Pool: $7.50/hr, $3.75/hr after 7 PM. 

Coffeehouses

  • 9 7th & Park, 1554 E. 7th St. (to the left of the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts), ☏ +1 956-335-5598. Daily 7 AM-9 PM. Acts as both a coffee and bicycle shop. Great for tourists looking for an active transportation plan. Location is situated next to a bicycle lane as well. 
  • 10 Bubbly Brew TeaHouse, 3340 Pablo Kisel Blvd (in Morrison Plaza), ☏ +1 956-621-0211. The only teahouse in the city. Serves bubble tea and smoothies. Popular for young locals and students. 
  • 11 El Hueso De Fraile, 837 E Elizabeth St #D (take Highway 77, turn at 6th St, then make a right turn at Elizabeth), ☏ +1 956-372-1415. One of the most popular local eateries in the city. Popular with locals and tourists. Serves Latin American meals and provides soothing, live music at night. Specializes in a variety of coffee and tea flavors. 
  • 12 Fina's Coffee Shop, 435 Old Port Isabel Rd (take Boca Chica Blvd, then turn right on Old Port Isabel Rd), ☏ +1 956-541-7550. Local restaurant serving Mexican dishes and coffee. Layout is very traditional with other eateries. 
  • 13 The Roast House, 1393 E Alton Gloor Blvd Suite 5. M-Sa 7:30-10AM, 5-10PM; Su 9AM-noon, 5-10PM. The only locally owned coffee-roasting shop in the city. Serves pastries and a collection of coffees from around the world. 

Nightclubs

  • 14 Marroko Discotek, 1655 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd, ☏ +1 956-777-5566. Popular modern nightclub with live music. Famous musicians from Tejano, Banda and Latin genres perform here on the weekends. 
  • 15 Half Moon Saloon, 1115 E Adams St (in the center of Downtown), ☏ +1 956-574-9779. Cozy nightclub with high ceilings, a bar and a projector to broadcast sporting events. Provides live music. From the exterior, the building is surrounded with multiple doors all in red. 

Cabaret

  • 16 Stilettos Cabaret, 1480 N Expressway 83, ☏ +1 956-504-0653. M-Th 8PM-2AM; Friday noon-2AM; Sa Su 8PM-2AM. Strip club with dining and party rooms. Also hosts pay-per-view events equipped with 5 plasma screens. 

Sleep

Budget

  • 1 Americas Best Value Inn, 7364 South Padre Island Hwy, ☏ +1 956-832-0202. Affordable hotel providing an outdoor pool, business center, free Wi-Fi, and free continental breakfast. $55. 
  • 2 Boca Chica Inn & Suites, 3280 Boca Chica Blvd, ☏ +1 956-554-9090. Hotel in the heart of the city. Provides mini-fridges in each room, an outdoor pool and free parking. $50. 
  • 3 Magnuson Hotel, 715 North Expressway, ☏ +1 956-541-2201. Modest hotel offering Wi-Fi, parking and meeting rooms. $59-63. 
  • 4 Motel 6, 2255 North Expressway, ☏ +1 956-546-4699, fax: +1 956 546-8982. Cheap hotel with an outdoor pool, free parking and coffee. $45. 
  • 5 Texas Inn Brownsville, 7051 S Padre Island Hwy, 845 North Expressway 77, ☏ +1 956-621-3299, +1 956-542-5501. Simple hotel providing free continental breakfast and an outdoor pool. Two locations in the city. $58-61. 
  • 6 Value Place, 995 Media Luna Rd, ☏ +1 956-542-1684. Studio rooms with kitchens and a 24-hour coin-operated laundry room. $60. 

Mid-range

Splurge


Stay safe

Despite Brownsville's reputation as a border town, the city is relatively safe. According to an FBI report conducted in early 2015, the Brownsville-Harlingen metropolitan area ranked last in a list of most dangerous cities. This makes Brownsville the safest metro area in Texas.

As long as you stay in the more commercial side of town and take precautions you will be safe. It is advised not to travel to Downtown around midnight. Most of the area is quiet and lonely around this time, raising the chances of theft or robberies. You should also lock your car when shopping, especially at night. While the city rarely experiences any major crimes, petty crimes like attempted robbery or vandalism are quite common.

If you are a victim of a crime or see one, please report it by calling the Brownsville Police Department at +1 956-548-7000 or 911. Their main building is at 600 E Jackson St.

Connect

It is important to understand how close Brownsville is to Mexico. When making a call or walking or driving around Downtown Brownsville or near the international bridges, expect your phone to change cell provider. Several Mexican cellphone providers that end up appearing in American phones include Telcel and Movistar. Locals have observed their phone changing cell phone provider throughout many parts of the city. If this happens to you, do not panic. It is very common for this to occur. A change in cell provider does not indicate Roaming is activated and it will not lead to overcharges in your account. This goes for any cell phone provider that operates in the United States.

Wi-Fi stations

Several hotels listed here provide free Wi-Fi service, as do many local and chain restaurants.

Cope

Consulates

Public libraries

Brownsville has two public libraries, including a main library and a branch library.

  • Main Branch - at 2600 Central Blvd. Large array of books to purchase and check-out. Also has a coffee shop, modern computer atmosphere and a study room.
  • Southmost Branch - at 4320 Southmost Blvd. Good for studying. Provides a computer room, movie theatre, planetarium and a small coffee shop.

Spa and massage

  • 1 The Carriage House Day Spa, 319 E Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 956-544-4111. Elegant spa center in the heart of Downtown. Provides an array of other services such as tanning, wraps and manicures/pedicures. $10-60, Packages: $140-260. 
  • 2 Serenity Springs Day Spa, 23 Palm Village (in Palm Village Shopping Center), ☏ +1 956-541-0393. 
  • 3 Spa La Posada, 2370 North Expressway, Suite 1056 (inside Merle Norman in Sunrise Mall.), ☏ +1 956-687-7544. Spa with bridal, boutique, waxing, nails and other services. Packages: $55-325. 
  • 4 Massage Envy, 2100 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd #2070, ☏ +1 956-541-3689. Though the business has several locations in other cities, it provides great message sessions. Intro 1/hr Spa Session: $49.99, Intro 1/hr Healthy Skin Facial: $59.99. 

Go next

South Padre Island is a very popular Spring Break and tourist attraction 20 minutes from Brownsville
  • South Padre Island is a 20-minute drive east of Brownsville and is home to Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark, beautiful coastlines for end to end, local restaurants, bars, condominiums/hotels, beaches, boat rides, bird watching, and concerts.
  • Matamoros, Mexico, Brownsville's border town, can be easily accessed by foot or car by crossing one of three bridges and offers a nightlife for many young tourists. Also has a popular market scene and historic buildings.
  • Monterrey, Mexico is a four-hour drive west of Brownsville near the Cerro de la Silla mountains and home to many museums, art galleries, sport stadiums and lots of historical architecture.
  • Port Isabel is directly across South Padre Island. Offers a quiet scene, nice local restaurants, fishing, boating/sailing charters, piers, museums, dolphin watch and the Port Isabel Lighthouse.
Routes through Brownsville
Corpus Christi/Laredo ← Harlingen ←  N  S  → → becomes → Matamoros
San Antonio ← McAllen ←  W  E  → END
END ←  W Texas State Highway 100 E  → Port Isabel → South Padre Island via Texas Park Road 100


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