Brownsville, Texas is a vibrant city located on the southernmost tip of Texas, near the Mexican border. It offers a rich cultural heritage, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a variety of activities for residents and visitors.
Brownsville is located in the southernmost part of the Rio Grande Valley in Texas and has a vibrant Hispanic heritage. Founded in the mid-19th century, Brownsville is one of the few places in the world where you can experience the diversity of two countries, watch birds, explore wildlife refuges, and learn about the Mexican-American War, all in the same day. Here 10 Best Things to Do in Brownsville, 2023.
1. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is a United States national historical park located in Brownsville. The park commemorates the Battle of Palo Alto, which took place on May 8, 1846, during the Mexican-American War. This battle was one of the earliest and most significant engagements of the war.
Visitors can experience a landscape almost as it was on the day of the battle. Palo Alto Battlefield enjoys the unique distinction of being the only unit of the National Park Service to interpret the war between the United States and Mexico.
Along with the Resaca de la Palma Battlefield unit, Palo Alto Battlefield provides the opportunity to learn about the war, its causes and consequences, and its impact on the relationship between the United States and Mexico.
Outdoor Exhibits: The park also features outdoor exhibits, including interpretive panels and markers that guide visitors through the battlefield and describe key events and tactics used during the battle.
Reenactments and Programs: Throughout the year, the park hosts various events and programs, including reenactments of the battle and educational activities to help visitors better understand the historical significance of the site.
Natural Setting: In addition to its historical significance, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park offers a natural setting with walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Address: 7200 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville, TX 78526
Website: http://www.nps.gov/paal/index.htm
2. Gladys Porter Zoo
Gladys Porter Zoo is a popular zoo located in Brownsville. Gladys Porter Zoo is named after Gladys Porter, a philanthropist and nature enthusiast who played a key role in its development. The zoo is one of the Rio Grande Valley region’s top attractions, offering a wide variety of animal species and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
The Gladys Porter Zoo opened to the public on September 3, 1971. The facility was completely planned, built, stocked, equipped and then given to the City of Brownsville by the Earl C. Sams Foundation.
The Gladys Porter Zoo Where 31 acres of lush tropical plants and about 1,600 animals, Gladys Porter Zoo is known for its success in breeding endangered wildlife species.
Gladys Porter Zoo is a visitor-oriented zoological and botanical park dedicated to the preservation of nature through education, conservation, healthy outdoor recreation and research.
Gladys Porter Zoo is divided into four geographical zoological areas: Africa, Asia, Tropical America and Indo-Australia. There is also a herpetarium, an aquarium, a Tropical American free-flight aviary, a macaw canyon, bear grottoes and a Komodo dragon exhibit. Small World features a daycare and an animal contact yard where children can touch and interact with domesticated animals.
Address: 500 E Ringgold St, Brownsville, TX 78520
Official Website: http://gladysporterzoo.org/
3. Sabal Palm Sanctuary
The Sabal Palm Sanctuary is a nature reserve and bird sanctuary located in Cameron County, near the city of Brownsville. Sabal Palm Sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, especially in terms of bird species, and is known for its significant role in preserving the native sabal palm ecosystem.
Sabal Palm Sanctuary Located in a bend of the Rio Grande, this 527-acre preserve is home to one of the last old-growth Sabal palm forests in the United States, as well as one of the few remaining historic river plantations in the region. More than 4 miles of hiking trails lead visitors through palm forest, wetland walking trails, a river viewing platform, and multiple bird blinds.
Green jays and chachalacas frequent our feeders, armadillos scavenge our trails, grebes and green kingfishers hunt in the wetlands, and the calls of the great horned owl haunt the forest. The recently restored 4,000-square-foot 1892 Rabb Plantation house now serves as our new Sabal Palm Sanctuary visitor center. Take a walk through the woods, a short hike to the Rio Grande, or join us on one of our guided birdwatching walks or historical tours.
Sabal Palm Grove: The sanctuary is home to a unique and historic grove of sabal palms, also known as Texas sabal palms or Mexican fan palms. These palm trees are native to the Rio Grande Valley and are a rare sight in the United States. The sanctuary is dedicated to preserving this critical habitat.
Address: 8435 Sabal Palm Grove Rd, Brownsville, TX 78521
Official Website: http://www.sabalpalmsanctuary.org/
4. Boca Chica State Park
Boca Chica State Park is a Texas state park located on Boca Chica Beach near the southern tip of Texas, near the border with Mexico. The park is known for its beautiful coastal setting and its status as one of the few remote, undeveloped stretches of beach left in the state.
State park comprised of more than 1,055 acres that offers a variety of outdoor recreation on its land and on the adjacent beaches of Del Mar and Boca Chica, including swimming, bird watching, camping, fishing and surfing.
- Wildlife: Boca Chica State Park provides habitat for a variety of coastal wildlife, including shorebirds, nesting sea turtles, and other native species. Birdwatching and wildlife observation are popular activities.
- Beach Activities: Visitors can engage in typical beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. The park’s remote location means it is less crowded than many other coastal destinations.
- Stargazing: Boca Chica State Park is situated in a relatively remote area with minimal light pollution, making it an excellent spot for stargazing and night photography.
- Camping: Boca Chica State Park offers primitive beachfront camping. Campers can set up tents or RVs along the beach for a unique camping experience, but facilities are basic.
Address: Boca Chica Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521
Official Website: http://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wildlife/wildlife-trails/coastal/lower/boca-chica-loop
5. Children’s Museum of Brownsville
The Children’s Museum of Brownsville is a family-friendly museum located in Brownsville, Texas. This museum is designed to provide an interactive and educational environment for children, allowing them to explore and learn through hands-on exhibits and activities.
Children’s Museum Mission: To introduce children to the World of Learning through hands-on creative and interactive exhibits, workshops, and special events in a safe, welcoming, and interactive environment.
Children’s Museum Vision: That Children of diverse ages and backgrounds will learn through fun
That the Children’s Museum of Brownsville will complement the education system
That a child’s self-worth will be enhanced through discovery and participation
That respect for others will be strengthened through interactive, cooperative play
Children’s Museum of Brownsville in 2015 – National Gold Medal Finalists by the Institute of Museum and Library Services
Exhibits:
- Flex Air
Exciting fun for children utilizing air flow through a series of connected tubes with insert pods. - All World’s Cafe
Children role-play with their families to be waiters, cashiers, cooks and customers in a colorful café setting. - Under the Sea
Kids can have a blast navigating the shrimp boat or casting a net into the sea. - Construction Zone
From architect to engineer to contractor there’s something for every child to build at the construction site. - Future Artists of America
The theater and art gallery serve our guests as a dual fine arts gallery that accommodates both children and adults. - Dr. Bones Health Clinic
The health clinic include lab coats, stethoscopes, lighted x-ray panels and a dental check-up chair. - Target Tot Spot
Grab a book, hop on stage, and have a seat in a comfy chair made for story time with your little one. - The Plaza
- Tac Tiles Panels
- Texas Farmhouse
- Celebration & Art Room
- KRGV Channel 5 First Warn Weather Station
- H-E-Buddy Market
- Sun, Earth, Universe Exhibit
The museum’s mission is to provide an engaging and educational space for children to learn, explore, and have fun. It offers a valuable resource for families, schools, and community organizations interested in providing children with opportunities for creative and intellectual development.
Address: 501 E Ringgold St #5, Brownsville, TX 78520
Official Website: http://www.cmofbrownsville.org/
6. Stillman House Museum
The Stillman House Museum, also known as the Charles Stillman House, is a historic site located in the city of Brownsville, Texas. The house is named after Charles Stillman, a prominent figure in the history of Brownsville and one of the founders of the city. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the region.
Built in 1850, this Greek style house was successively occupied by Charles Stillman and his family; Thomas Carson, former mayor of Brownsville; and the Manuel Treviño de los Santos Coy family. At one time it housed the Mexican Consulate.
Historical Significance: Charles Stillman was a successful entrepreneur, businessman, and one of the founders of Brownsville. He played a key role in the development and early history of the city, especially in relation to its economic growth and infrastructure.
Exhibits and Collections: The museum features exhibits and collections related to the history of Brownsville, Charles Stillman, and the surrounding region. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area.
Educational Programs: The Stillman House Museum offers educational programs and events to promote an understanding of the historical and cultural heritage of the region. These programs are often tailored to students, scholars, and the general public.
Address: 1325 E Washington St, Brownsville, TX 78520
Website: http://www.brownsvillehistory.org/
7. Old City Cemetery
Old City Cemetery is an extraordinary 27-acre public garden, “historical park” and wedding venue located in the heart of Lynchburg, Virginia. Despite being an active place of burial and remembrance, it is one of the city’s busiest and most popular attractions. With more than 33,000 visitors a year, it is the most visited historical site in the city today.
The Old City Cemetery was established in 1853 and is recognized by the Texas Historical Commission as a notable historical landmark. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cemetery reveals much of the city’s history; from victims of wars and shootings to those who died from yellow fever and cholera epidemics. Those buried here reveal the hard life and early conditions of a Texas frontier town. The cemetery is located at East Madison Street and East 5th Street and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. m. to 8 p.m. m.
Old City Cemetery offers educational field trips for K-12 and college students. Old City Cemetery’s programs are developed with current learning standards in mind, and we do our best to provide engaging and hands-on experiences for our visiting students. Our programs include, but are not limited to, Civil War History, Lynchburg History, African American History, Horticulture, Medicine in the Victorian Era, Victorian Mourning and Burial Customs, Early Leaders of Lynchburg, etc.
HOURS: The Victorian Mourning Museum is open Monday through Saturday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm and Sunday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm.
Address: 543 E Madison St, Brownsville, TX 78520
official Website: http://brownsvillehistory.org/
8. Joe and Tony Oliveira Park
Located in West Brownsville, this outdoor park is full of surprises. Avid bird watchers have sighted red-crowned, yellow-headed, lilac-crowned, and red-headed parrots. This park also offers an area for children with special needs. In May 2013, a skating rink was added to the existing basketball court.
Amenities available at this 24-acre park include outdoor playing fields, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, and concessions. A recreational building with a multipurpose gym.
Enjoy a leisurely walk in the park, a game of basketball with friends on the court, or host a picnic. There is a lot to do in the park!
Here is some information about Joe and Tony Oliveira Park:
Features : Has an ADA playground, baseball/softball field, basketball court, bike racks, community gym, grass and shade areas, kickball field, parking, picnic tables, playground, restrooms, playground skating, tennis courts, waste collection stations and Wifi.
It is a popular place for bird watching, as red-crowned, yellow-headed, lilac-crowned and red-crowned parrots have been sighted there.
It also has an area for children with special needs.
Hors: The park is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. m. to 10:00 p.m. m. Every day of the week.
Address: Joe & Tony Oliveira Park 104 El Paso Road, Brownsville, TX 78520
Website: https://www.brownsvilletx.gov/facilities/facility/details/Joe-Tony-Oliveira-Park-14
Historic Brownsville Museum
9. Sunrise Mall
Sunrise Mall is a shopping mall located in Brownsville, Texas. It is a popular retail and entertainment destination in the region, offering a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment opportunities for shoppers and visitors.
Location: Sunrise Mall is conveniently located near major roads and highways, making it accessible to residents from various parts of the Brownsville area.
- Shopping: Sunrise Mall offers a wide range of shopping opportunities with various stores, including clothing retailers, department stores, electronics shops, jewelry stores, and more. You can find well-known brands and a variety of products for your shopping needs.
- Dining: The mall features a food court and several dining options, making it a convenient place to enjoy a meal or snack while shopping.
- Entertainment: In addition to shopping and dining, Sunrise Mall often hosts events and entertainment options for the community. This may include seasonal events, live performances, and special promotions.
- Cinemark Movies 10: The mall is home to Cinemark Movies 10, a movie theater where you can catch the latest films on the big screen. It’s a popular destination for moviegoers in the Brownsville area.
- Accessibility: Sunrise Mall is designed to be easily accessible, with ample parking and wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- Renovations and Changes: Like many malls, Sunrise Mall has undergone renovations and changes over the years to adapt to changing consumer preferences and retail trends. It’s a place where you can see a mix of classic mall features and modern shopping experiences
Address: 2370 Frontage Rd, Brownsville, TX 78521
Website: https://www.sunrisemalltx.com/
10. Palmito Ranch Battlefield State Historic Site
The Battle of Palmito Ranch was the last land battle of the American Civil War. It was fought from May 12 to 13, 1865, along the banks of the Rio Grande, 13 miles east of Brownsville and 10 miles from the Union-controlled seaport of Brazos de Santiago.
The battle, a Confederate victory, took place more than a month after General Robert E. Lee’s surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia to Union forces and 13 days before the Army of the Trans-Mississippi to the General Edmund Smith’s command surrendered at Galveston on May 26. There are historical markers nearby and a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service viewing platform with interpretive signs located at the intersection of Palmito Hill Road and Boca Chica Highway (HWY 4). Best time to visit: during the day.
Historical Significance: The Battle of Palmito Ranch took place more than a month after General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House, which effectively ended the Civil War. Despite the war being virtually over, Confederate and Union forces clashed at Palmito Ranch, making it the final engagement of the conflict.
Visitor Center: The site features a visitor center where you can learn about the history of the battle through exhibits, artifacts, and informative displays. The center provides context for the battle and the Civil War as a whole.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the battlefield’s historical significance. Knowledgeable guides can share details about the battle and the people involved.
Battlefield Trail: The site has a trail that takes you through the battlefield area. Along the trail, you can see historical markers and learn about the events that transpired there.
Birdwatching and Nature: In addition to its historical significance, the site offers opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the natural surroundings. The area is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
Address: 43296 Palmito Hill Rd, Brownsville, TX 78521
Official Website: https://www.thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/palmito-ranch-battlefield-state-historic-site
Among 10 Best Things to Do in Brownsville, 2023 I Like Gladys Porter Zoo very much…
These are just the tip’s of 10 Best Things to Do in Brownsville, 2023 What other places would you add to the list, and which have you been to? Tell us about your experiences in the comments….
