Brownsville, Texas Attractions

Hotels in Brownsville

Birding. Birding is a top activity in the Brownsville area. Local sites include Camp Lula Sams, Boca Chica wetlands, and the Sabal Palm Audubon Sanctuary. Many sites are part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and local guides are available for tours. And look for some friendly seasonal visitors, too, at the zoo; the facility draws many migrating birds during their spring and fall months as they make a quick pit stop on their travels.

Brownsville Heritage Complex. History buffs won’t want to miss the Brownsville Heritage Complex. The site includes numerous exhibits on local history bring alive the early days of this region. History buffs also enjoy the Historic Brownsville Museum, located in a former railroad depot. Along with items on Brownsville’s early days, the museum boasts a collection of military memorabilia from its early days as the home of Fort Brown.

Children's Museum of Brownsville and Costumes of the Americas Museum. Right across the street from the zoo, don’t miss The Children’s Museum of Brownsville and the Costumes of the Americas Museum. Check out hands-on exhibits like the “All World’s Café,” “Construction Zone,” or “Weather Station” at the children’s museum or explore costumes from throughout Latin America at the Costumes of the Americas Museum. One ticket covers admission at both museums.

Gladys Porter Zoo. This 31-acre zoo is home to 1900 animals, most contained by waterways rather than fences. Often called one of the country’s top 10 small zoos, the facility is home to over 1500 species ranging from African animals to local reptiles, most housed in outdoor exhibits. If you visit the zoo on a Sunday afternoon, you can hop a ride on the Safari Express, a small train that tours the zoo from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Located at 500 Ringgold St.

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site. The Battle of Palo Alto, the first major battle of the Mexican-American War, was held at this site in 1846. Located at Route 1847 near Route 511.

Port of Brownsville. This busy port sees cargo from around the world. Visitors can watch the activity of cargo ships from this bustling port. Located 6 miles northeast of Brownsville on International Boulevard.

Stillman House Museum. This 19th century house was the home of Charles Stillman, founder of Brownsville. The rooms include many period furnishings. Located at 1305 E. Washington Street.

Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. This border town across US 281 has a variety of stores, restaurants, and evening entertainment venues. You can walk across the international bridge then take a taxi to the mercado. The tourist office is a few blocks from the border bridge at Tamaulipas and Obregon; there you'll find leaflets and maps.

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Photos courtesy Brownsville CVB