Del Rio, Texas Travel Guide

Also see: Brackettville

It calls itself "the best of the border," and with a quick look around Del Rio it's easy to see why. Whether your idea of a getaway means shopping or swimming, hiking or hunting, Del Rio's got something to offer. Perched at the edge of the Chihuahuan desert, the city is an oasis lush with vegetation thanks to the San Felipe Springs, artesian wells gushing over 90 million gallons of water through the town daily.

Almost every Del Rio visitor takes at least a short trip to Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, located directly across the border. Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña are separated by the Rio Grande, one of three rivers that form Lake Amistad. Amistad, derived from the Spanish word for friendship, was a joint project between Mexico and the US.

Northwest of Del Rio about nine miles past the town of Comstock lies a must-see attraction: Seminole Canyon. Archaeologists believe the early residents of Seminole Canyon were hunter-gatherers, living on plants and small animals. The culture that made its home in this canyon produced the artwork now seen on guided tours. This park has some quiet sites located high above the canyon with spectacular views of the Chihuahuan Desert, dotted with cactus and populated with numerous bird species.

Top Attractions:

Ciudad Acuña, Mexico. Shopping and dining are top draws across the border.

Lake Amistad. Fun for fishing as well as houseboating, this lake marks the border between Texas and Mexico.

Seminole Canyon State Historical Park. This historic site is best known for its ancient pictographs.

Val Verde Winery. One for the record books, this was the first winery in Texas.

Whitehead Memorial Museum. This museum is a must for history buffs and fans of Judge Roy Bean.

Other Attractions:

Arts and Cultural Activities. Whether your interests lie in fine arts or theatrical productions, you'll find it in Del Rio. The Del Rio Council for the Arts at the Firehouse exhibits rotating local, state and international exhibits that change monthly; the council also hosts theatrical and musical productions. Del Rio is also home to the award-winning Upstagers, whose theatrical productions are scheduled throughout the year. The city also hosts numerous community concerts.

First Friday Art Walk. Held the first Friday of every month, this growing tradition includes gallery visits, refreshments, and live music. You'll have the chance to visit the Del Rio Council for the Arts, the Adrian Falcon Gallery, the Lee-Bunch Studio Gallery, and Casa De La Cultura at this monthly event. Shoppers also find plenty of temptations downtown; Del Rio has been named a Main Street City with newly revitalized buildings and stores.

San Felipe Springs. In the heart of Del Rio lie San Felipe Springs, artesian wells that gush 90 million gallons of water through the town daily. Perched at the edge of the Chihuahuan desert, these springs make the city an oasis lush with vegetation. Surrounding these springs, Moore Park is the perfect spot for a summer picnic or a cool dip.

In-Depth Travel Articles:

Del Rio: Best of the Border

Del Rio: Fall Fun

For More Information: Del Rio Chamber of Commerce, www.drchamber.com

What's Happening Now...