McAllen is the largest and most charming city in Texas. It is located in Hidalgo County. Consider this beautiful city if you are looking for a delightful and myriad place in Texas. This city provides impressive views of the Rio Grande Valley. Apart from all this, it offers a combination of appeals and activities for all years and interests. Here you can opt for multiple shifting according to your taste. Whether you are into shopping, nighttime, gallery, outdoor fun, or art, you will see multiple things to do in McAllen.

Things to Do in McAllen

This article will dig into the best things to do in McAllen. And why you should see this rich and cultural city.

1- Birds Center at Quinta Mazatlan

If you are a bird fan, you will relish seeing the Birds Center at Quinta Mazatlan. It is a recorded adobe villa and nature camp. Further, it is part of the World Birding Center.

The center is a nine-site web showing birdwatching options and schooling in the Rio Grande Valley. You can explore the paths and parks at this site and watch the trees and water elements. Learn about the aboriginal and migrating birds that occupy the region. 

2- Displays at the International Museum of Art & Science

The International Museum of Art & Science is a gallery. It shows Latin American craft and science displays in the city. The showroom has a variety of exhibits that appeal to various interests and years.

It includes antique shaded glass, telescope pictures, a pavilion for kids, and a folk art display. The gallery hosts brief and virtual shows, programs, and occasions. Thus, it engages the residents and encourages learning and imagination. 

3- Shop at La Plaza Mall

La Plaza Mall is the exclusive shopping place in the Rio Grande Valley. It possesses over 1.3 million square feet of premier and mainstream retail area. The mall has around 170 forte stores. The famous brands are Zara Men, Kendra Scott, Michael Kors, Pandora, Express, Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret, and many more.

You can also taste dining choices such as grills, tacos, pasta, sushi, and brunch options. The mall is located almost five miles from the border of Mexico and the United States. 

4- Unique activities at McAllen Nature Center

The McAllen Nature Center is an extended nature spot that presents outdoor entertainment and education in the city. The wildlife center has 1.6 miles of paths. It passes through the woods, where you can hike, run, see and snap outdoors, and picnic.

The center is the residence of different plant and animal kinds. You can also experience extraordinary activities like volunteer lights, nature schedules, butterfly treks, meditation, night hikes, and bird & outdoor walks.

5- Notable Events at McAllen Convention Center

The McAllen Convention Center is an active structure. It hosts shows, performing arts, rituals, and other affairs in the city. The ritual center accommodates 6,000 people. It includes a ballroom, meeting spaces, a plaza, and a giant tower.

Some of the fantastic events are a summer carnival, a one-stop store for brides, a comedy play by a famous actor, and a live concert. To visit the calendar of occasions and purchase tickets, visit their website.

McAllen Convention Center
McAllen Convention Center

6- Fresh Lake of the Town Lake at Firemen’s Park

If you want a location to chill off and have fun, find out about the refreshed lake of the Town Lake at Firemen’s Park. This artificial lake presents water sports. It includes kayaking, boarding, boating, and fishing.

You can lease the supplies from the grassland or get your own. A walking pathway, picnic sites, greens, and a dog park enclose the lake. Thus, the park is open every day, and entry is free. 

7- See art at Nuevo Santander Gallery

Nuevo Santander Gallery is a museum that specializes in modern art and pleasing antiques. The showroom features pieces by regional and global artists. It includes pictures, statues, snaps, and mixed media.

Furthermore, it also shows a cluster of rare and recorded things, like Spanish furnishings, Mexican silverware, American ceramics, and Texas pottery. The gallery is available except Sundays. You can also plan a secret viewing by meeting.

8- Visit the Museum of South Texas History

The Museum of South Texas History is a showroom. It holds and shows the legacy and culture of Texas and Mexico. The museum has exhibits from prehistoric periods to the present daytime. It includes the River Frontier, Highway, Crossroads, and Rio Grande Legacy.

The gallery has a library that shelters recorded papers, photos, maps, articles, and readers. Thus, it is open every day. Entry fees differ relying on age and class. For more details, check their website or their social media page. 

9- Buy fresh products at McAllen Farmers Market

McAllen Farmers Market is a farmers’ place. It offers new and organic by-products from regional farmers and dealers. The market has various products, like fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, farm eggs, cheese and honey, bread loaves, marmalade jams, spicy salsa, cold coffee, tea, and more.

You can also locate handcrafted arts, accessories, soaps, scented candles, and other things local crafters make. Follow them on their social media accounts for updates on the latest goods and occasions.

The Bottom Line

McAllen is a cultural city. It has something to offer to everyone. You can undergo the deep past and culture of the area. Admire the looks and diversity of wildlife, or have fun and relax at the parks and entertainment venues. You can also satisfy with tasty meals and drinks. McAllen is where you can find new items, make new buddies, and form lasting memories. So, take your time and plan your trip to the city today.

FAQs on Things to Do in McAllen

What are the carnivals and affairs that the city organizes yearly?

McAllen organizes several carnivals and events. They celebrate its legacy and society. The MXLAN Festival, the Palm Fest International Folklife Celebration, and the McAllen Holiday Parade are three popular events. The events are scheduled annually.

How can I drive in this city and explore its interests?

This city has a public transport system. It consists of buses and rails that can carry you to various places. You can even use taxis or rental cars to move around. If you like walking or biking, you can enjoy the lovely paths joining the parks and appeals.

I hope you enjoy our article, do check out more of our amazing articles.