Del Rio, Texas: Fall Fun

Everything from art to archaeology draws visitors to Del Rio, located west of San Antonio on US 90. This border city, along with nearby Ciudad Acuña, tempts travelers with plenty of history, ecotourism, shopping, and outdoor activities to fill an active fall weekend.

The focal point of many visits to Del Rio is Lake Amistad, known for its 1,000 miles of shoreline. This reservoir, shared by the US and Mexico, is tops with anglers who try their hand at landing bass, crappie, perch, gar, and more. (Be sure to get both US and Mexican fishing licenses for fishing various areas of the lake. The marinas can help you out with both.)

The lake makes more than just a fun diversion for many visitors--it's literally their home base thanks to a stay on one of the many houseboats. Forever Resorts offers luxury houseboats, perfect for families who just can't get enough of the lake's activities.

Landlubbers find plenty of diversions as well. Downtown you'll find Val Verde Winery, the state's oldest, founded in 1883 by an Italian immigrant. After a visit to the winery, celebrate the food of the Old World at Avanti, an elegant Italian restaurant.

For more on the region’s history, don't miss the Whitehead Memorial Museum, best known for its replica of the Jersey Lilly, Judge Roy Bean's saloon and courtroom. (The original Jersey Lilly remains in Langtry, about 60 miles west of Del Rio.) Judge Bean and his son Sam are buried behind the replica of the saloon, their graves marked with simple headstones

This region is also filled with ancient history, much of it found at nearby Seminole Canyon State Historical Park. Here you'll find an amazing collection of pictographs, cave artwork left by residents over 8,500 years ago. Visitors can see the pictographs on a guided tour. On selected days, you can also sign up for the park's White Shaman Tour for a guided hike of the Galloway Shaman Preserve to see detailed pictographs.

Looking for artwork a little more modern? Del Rio's also known for its "First Friday Art Walk," a growing tradition that includes gallery visits, refreshments, and live music. Shoppers also find plenty of temptations downtown; Del Rio has been named a Main Street City with newly revitalized buildings and stores.

For more on Del Rio:

• visit www.drchamber.com