Laredo, Texas

Laredo, Texas

Built on the banks of the Rio Grande, Laredo dates back to 1755. Founded by an officer of the Royal Army of Spain, it was one of the first cities established in this part of the country. Following the war with Mexico, many Laredo residents packed up and headed across the border to start their own city in Mexico. They named the fledgling community "Nuevo Laredo" or "New Laredo." Healthy trade between the United States and Mexico along with the fact that many families straddle both sides of the border have linked the cities. Thus the nickname "Los Dos Laredos" — The Two Laredos.

Today a visit to the border city always includes a walk to its Mexican sister city, just steps away across one of the international bridges that span the Rio Grande.

Attractions:

Lake Casa Blanca International State Park. Besides picnic sites, this park offers a playground and opportunities for hiking and watersports. From Laredo, 5 mi east off U.S. 59 on Loop 20.

Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center and Planetarium. Nature buffs also should save time to visit the Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center and Planetarium, a $24.5 million facility. Located on the campus of Texas A&M International University, this three-story, pyramid-shaped, 85-seat planetarium is one of the few all-digital planetariums in the country and offers an immersion viewing experience in 3-D on a full-dome screen as well as special skyshows and telescope nights.

Laredo Center for the Arts. The center, now almost a decade old, features several galleries showcasing rotating exhibits as well as performances, workshops, seminars, and school activities. Located at 500 San Agustin Avenue.

Laredo Children's Museum. This hands-on museum features a variety of science exhibits. Children can even stand inside a bubble in one exhibit. At Laredo Community College, West End Washington St.

Outdoor Fun. Beyond the city streets lies a whole other side to Laredo--a place filled with desert wildlife, walking trails, fish-filled lakes and more. The Brush Country offers plenty of winter activities for travelers, regardless of their interest. Birders find over 300 species on record in the brush country including several rare species such as the white-collared seed eater, the red-billed pigeon, and the gray-crowned yellowthroat. Some popular sightings include the long-billed dowitcher, the purple martin, and the green kingfisher. And don't forget your walking shoes. Texas A&M International University and Laredo Community College have designated walking trails in the area that take in riverfront property as well as brush country.

Republic of the Rio Grande Museum. Six flags have flown over most of Texas, but Laredo has seen seven, thanks to the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande. This museum is housed in one-story adobe structure that was once the capitol building of the republic, a country formed when Northern Mexico seceded from Mexico in 1839. The new state existed until 1841. The museum contains guns, saddles, and household belongings from that brief period. Located at 1003 Zaragoza St. opposite San Agustin Plaza (next to La Posada).

San Agustin Church. Founded in 1778, this church overlooks the San Agustin Plaza, the site of one of the West's bloodiest shootouts. In 1886 the Botas (boots) and Huaraches (sandals), two rival political groups, battled here, leaving more than 80 dead when the smoke cleared. 214 San Agustin Ave.

Shopping in Laredo

TAMIU Fine and Performing Arts Center. Texas A&M International University is home to the TAMIU Fine and Performing Arts Center, which showcases the performing arts ranging from dance to drama.

Walking Tour of Laredo. The streets of Laredo are filled with historic buildings including many old churches and homes built in the Mexican vernacular and Victorian styles. Walking tours are offered by the Webb County Heritage Foundation at 50 Flores Avenue.

Where to Eat

Laredo Restaurants

Where to Stay

La Posada

Festivals, Special Events

Top Annual Festivals in Laredo

Laredo's George Washington's Birthday Celebration

In Depth Travel Articles

The Historic Streets of Laredo

Laredo for Groups

Nuevo Laredo's Glass Blower

Outdoor Fun in Laredo