Brownsville (Texas)

Brownsville sits in the southernmost tip of Texas, is a border town and is also bordered by the Gulf Coast. These qualities make Brownsville a thriving city in the manufacturing industry. For this reason, Brownsville adopted the motto, "On the Border, By the Sea" in 1966. Since the early 1990s, the city has experienced a steel boom, leading to fast population growth. The area had around 98,000 residents in 1990, and has grown to 183,000 as of 2016.
Despite being in Texas, Brownsville doesn't live up to the common stereotypes of most Texas cities (western, rural). Instead, it has its own distinct culture. One common thing to notice about Brownsville is that it is influenced by the behavior of South Padre Island residents (laid-back, casual). The presence of an island so near to Brownsville has rubbed off on the locals.
Culturally, Brownsville's residents are predominantly Hispanic. It's common to hear people mix Spanish and English in their speech given the presence of Mexico being so close to Brownsville. For this reason, the city holds many festivals and parades celebrating the traditions from Mexico that have been integrated into American culture.
As you make the drive from Kingsville, you will start to see an abundance in palm trees. The area is known to tourists as "The Green City" for having more lush, green vegetation and plants than other cities in the Rio Grande Valley and South Texas. Sabal palms are dotted all around the city. Recently, the city has taken a stronger focus towards greener resources. Wind turbines, bike trails and solar panels are becoming more common in the Brownsville area.
The sunrises and sunsets in Brownsville are quite exquisite. Be sure to grab your camera and snap photos of these events. The area is known colloquially as the "Sunrise Capital of South Texas".

History

What many do not know about Brownsville is how rich in history the city actually is. It has been named the second-most historic city in the state of Texas, after San Antonio. Brownsville was part of many significant battles during the Mexican-American and Civil War. The Siege of Fort Texas and the Battle of Palo Alto were both fought between Brownsville and Matamoros. Major Jacob Brown (not to be confused with hero Jacob Brown in the War of 1812) has many sites and buildings dedicated to his name. For this reason, you will find many streets in the Mitte Cultural District named after important figures in American history.
Major Zachary Taylor (who later became the 12th president of the United States), played a crucial role in the Battle of Palo Alto. This marked the first major battle that started the Mexican-American War. Taylor's army successful defeated the Mexican forces on May 8th, 1846, with American troops suffering few casualties, compared to the Mexican side.
The city was also the site of the First Cortina Troubles, a war between Mexican rancher Juan Nepomuceno Cortina and American forces. Fighting emerged after a Brownsville marshal shot a former ranch hand of Cortina's. Cortina then took control of Brownsville for more than two months after many residents in Matamoros urged Cortina to evacuate the whole town. The fighting extended all the way to Starr County, in what is referred to as the Battle of Rio Grande City.
Things were relatively quiet in the city until troops took control of Brownsville, this time by Confederates after they found out the city was smuggling their goods into Mexico. This led to the Battle of Brownsville, during which the Confederates blew up more than 8,000 lbs of explosives. A month later, the Battle of Palmito Ranch was fought and won by Confederates.
Several decades later, the Brownsville Affair occurred. This was a racial conflict between black infantrymen stationed at Fort Brown and white townsfolk. After several white police officers and a bartender were shot, president Theodore Roosevelt discharged the regiment for "conspiracy of silence." During the 1970s, an investigation led by the Nixon Administration found that the black infantrymen were not guilty of the crime and had any dishonorable discharge reversed.

Climate

The weather in Brownsville can get very hot during the summer months. Temperatures in the low to mid 90s are not uncommon to see. While the city rarely sees temperatures over , the humidity makes heat indices go up to . Temperatures will rise above 90 from May through September. Winters are usually not felt with the exception of a short cold snap or cold front that comes by. Usually, these events don't last too long.
As in most of South Texas, snow is a rare event. The previous snowfall that didn't melt right away happened in 2004, which coincidentally occurred during Christmas Eve, making it the first White Christmas in the city, and a similar snow event happened in 2017. Brownsville had not witnessed such a snow event since the late 1800s. The number of days with temperatures below freezing varies from year to year. Some years will lack a freeze event while others will bring several days of ice to the area. Make sure you bring a thin sweater when visiting during January or February, when the temperatures tend to drop more frequently.
While hurricanes tend to be a threat to Brownsville, most come in weaker categories than those that hit other nearby states. This is due to the Yucatan Peninsula acting as a barrier for storms that travel from the south to north. The most recent 'major' hurricane to make landfall in the area was Hurricane Dolly in 2008, which left mostly moderate damage to weak structures and flooding.

Tourism information

Brownsville Convention & Visitors Bureau - Main office at 650 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd. Scale House at 1700 E 6th St. For visitors coming into Brownsville, a good place to first visit would be the Main Office, clearly visible from Highway 77. The roof of the building is shaped to form a pyramid. A representative can assist you with any questions, local hot spots and anything related to Brownsville. If you have further questions about events in the city, look at their website, which is kept up to date with any events for the whole calendar year. Also, for those visiting from Mexico, the Scale House is the perfect place to visit for questions on any attractions in the city. It is across the Gladys Porter Zoo and the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts.

By plane

Brownsville/South Padre Island Airport

It is serviced by the following airlines:
American Eagle (Non-stop service between Dallas and Brownsville)
United Express (Non-stop passenger service to/from Houston)
The city is planning to replace the passenger terminal with a new one by 2020.

By bus

The main bus station for local public transportation and intercity buses is at the at 755 International Blvd which is along International Blvd & S Adams in downtown:

Intercity bus services

• El Expreso, Tornado

  phone: +1 713 325-8010
  address: 755 International Blvd
  Connects Matamoros/Brownsville to Houston and Dallas

• Greyhound, Autobus Americanos and Valley Transit Co (VTC)

  phone: +1 956 546-2264
  address: 755 International Blvd
  They have an additional location 215 E Monroe St in Harlingen. Goes up towards San Antonio via Harlingen, McAllen and Falfurrias. Some variations of the route continue north towards Dallas-Ft Worth from San Antonio via Austin. Another route goes up towards Houston through Harlingen, Raymondville, Riviera, Kingsville, Robstown, Corpus Christi, Odem Sinton, Refugio, Victoria, El Campo, Wharton, Rosenberg and SW Houston. Some of their buses going towards Houston may make fewer stops.

• Omnibus ExpressGoes up towards Dallas via Harlingen, Robstown, San Antonio, San Marcos, Austin, Temple and Waco. Another route goes up towards Houston through Harlingen, Refugio, Victoria and Hillcroft. Some of their buses going towards Houston may make fewer stops. Passengers going towards Florida change buses in Houston and those going into Mexico change buses in Matamoros.

Regional transit agencies

The following services provide rides to most cities in the Rio Grande Valley:

• Brownsville Metro

  phone: +1 956-548-6050
  Operates local public transportation in and around Brownsville on 13 routes from La Plaza Terminal.

• Metro Connect

  phone: +1 956 681-3550
  local bus service acting as an intercity and regional bus. Routes stretch from Hidalgo and Cameron Counties. There are three bus lines: Green (McAllen to Edinburg), Red (McAllen to Brownsville) and Blue (Brownsville to South Padre Island). Free Wi-Fi is also provided.

• The Wave

  phone: +1 956-761-3864
  provides rides from South Padre Island to Brownsville, Port Isabel and Laguna Heights. Service runs from 7AM through 9PM. It is avaiable Monday through Sunday and is free of charge.

By car

The highway system in the Rio Grande Valley is complicated. Most interstates have multiple number names, confusing first-time travellers. It is strongly advised to research the geography and transportation routes before flying/driving here.

• Interstate 169 leads to SH 48, the main road towards South Padre Island. The road partially splits sideways, then meets with SH 550, then splitting into two routes: one leading to the Port of Brownsville and SH 48.
• Interstate 69E connects with Harlingen and Corpus Christi. Shares part of their highway with US 77/83.
• US Highway 77/83 a co-signed road that goes to Harlingen, where it splits into US 77 heading toward Dallas and US 83 towards Laredo. The road is also known as Interstate 2, going west from Harlingen.
• US Highway 100 is a road connected with US 77 leading to Los Fresnos. One of the two main roads leading to South Padre Island. F.M. 803 is another road that is being constructed to attach with Highway 100, in order to decongest incoming traffic and provide an alternative route for tourists driving east for the SpaceX monthly rocket launches.
• US Highway 281 leads to Hidalgo County and then San Antonio. This road is also known as Interstate 69C, as one drives north of Hidalgo. It is referred to as Interstate 2 when driving west towards McAllen.
• SH 550 is a new toll-road in the outskirts of the city leading to SH 48. It is the only toll road operating in the Rio Grande Valley. While 18-wheeler trucks tend to use this road, tourists can also use this as a way to reach Padre Island Hwy at a faster rate.
• Mexico's Federal Highway 180 is easily accessible across the Veterans International Bridge into Matamoros, Tampico, and leads to Tampico and eventually to Cancún.

International bridges

• Brownsville & Matamoros International Bridge meets at Mexico Blvd and into Palm Blvd, bridge is intended for passengers travelling from the West of Brownsville.
• Gateway International Bridge connects to International Blvd, eventually leads to US Highway 77. It is next to the Mitte Cultural District.
• Veteran's International Bridge at Los Tomates connects directly to US Highway 77. Easy way to cross into Mexico. Informally called Los Tomates or Veteran's by locals.

The addition of a fourth international bridge has been proposed with local government officials.
Every bridge sees traffic ranging from the average family car to freight trucks on a daily basis. Freight trucks are usually more common during weekends when shipments are released from factories in Brownsville.

By boat

You can arrive by boat on South Padre Island. Though there are no ferries to take you to the island, if you own a boat, simply direct yourself to the southernmost Texas coast. When arriving, there should be buses that can take you to Brownsville. The distance between the island and Brownsville is not that far apart so you should arrive no later than 25 minutes to the city.

By car

The best way to get around Brownsville is by car. If you don't have a car, there are multiple rental car agencies dotted around the city.

By bus

Brownsville Metro (B-Metro) - Main bus service providing rides within thirteen different routes throughout the city's major arteries. The system operates M-Sa 6AM-8PM. The terminal center, called La Plaza at Brownsville, is at 755 International Blvd close to the Gateway International Bridge. The center was completed in 2013 and also provides several restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating.

By taxi

There are several taxi services provided right outside of the Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport. They are easily accessible once arriving here (by plane). Prices depend on type of cab service.

• ABC Taxi

  phone: +1 956-504-0105
  address: 1124 Taylor St

• American Taxi

  phone: +1 956-544-6630
  address: 355 W Elizabeth St
  Only accepts cash, no debit cards. Also known as Brownsville Cab.

• Longoria's Taxi

  phone: +1 956-541-4626
  address: 355 W Elizabeth St
  Bilingual taxi drivers serving Brownsville, South Padre Island, the Mexican city of Matamoros and bus stations.

• The RoadRunner

  phone: +1 830-463-7499
  Provides rides to tourist attractions, wineries and the airport. Department also has a limousine service.

• Valley Taxi

  phone: +1 956-541-3030
  address: 147 Palm Blvd

• Yellow Express Taxi

  phone: +1 956-542-9001, +1 956-320-8294
  address: 2254 El Brillo St
  Provides taxi service to Los Fresnos, Rancho Viejo and across the border to Matamoros, Tamaulipas. Accepts payments in Visa, Mastercard.

By foot or bicycle

The city is known as the "Bicycling Capital of the Rio Grande Valley" so there will be several trails spanning long distances of the city. They connect to major arteries and other commercial areas. There are seven bike trails you can take to explore Brownsville (listed in the Do section of the article).
A BikeShare Program by Zagster has six bike stations around Brownsville, including several in the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Other locations include La Plaza Terminal, CityPlaza, Linear Park, Washington Park, Dean Porter Park and the Belden Connect. Membership for the program costs $35 per year, $15 per month and $2 an hour.
Brownsville and nine other cities in Cameron County have developed a hike-and-bike network plan to connecting these cities with one another. Paddle trails will be included connecting Brownsville to other cities near the coast.

Brownsville is home to many historic homes, battlefield sites, state parks, museums, art galleries and even a zoo. The presence of SpaceX has pushed the area to focus more on educating the public on the aerospace industry, which has dedicated several sites for locals to use to heighten their knowledge on rockets and space exploration.
Battlefield sites are sporadic in the city: you will find some to be in the outskirts and others in the center of highly commercial areas. These locations blend in with its surrounding areas.
The state parks are included here because they are preserved by the state of Texas, thereby restricting major developments from occurring in the area. They also resemble sanctuaries for endangered wildlife and marine life that are only common in Brownsville.

Aerospace facilities

• SpaceX South Texas Launch Site

  phone: +1 310-363-6000
  address: 54298 Boca Chica Blvd
  Aerospace facility launching rockets from Boca Chica State Park. The project is expected to be completed by late 2018, with rocket launches occurring monthly.

• Spacecraft Tracking and Astronomical Research into Gigahertz Astrophysical Transient Emission

  phone: +1 956-882-5131
  address: 52448-54298 Boca Chica Blvd
  In collaboration with SpaceX, this will be a radio frequency technology park directly across the SpaceX facility which is expected to commence construction in 2018. The facility will be used by researchers for technology and scientific research.

Art galleries and studios

• Galeria 409

  phone: +1 956-455-3599
  address: 409 E 13th St
  Art gallery showcasing work from artists in the Rio Grande Valley. It is a two-story building with multiple doors painted in green. Windows are also painted in said color.

• Rusteberg Art Gallery

  phone: +1 956-882-7097
  address: Gorgas Dr
  Gallery with monthly installations and exhibitions. Primarily used by local artists. Most artwork draw influence from the Spanish culture that is integrated in the city.

• Puente Art Studio

  phone: +1 956-592-4390
  address: 741 E Elizabeth St
  Studio used to teach art classes to children. Admission for this is $20. Also has a gallery with exhibitions. To its exterior, windows and doors are paint in brown, a similar trend with galleries and bars in this area.

Museums

• Brownsville Historical Association

  phone: +1 956-541-5560
  address: 1325 E Washington St
  Main office in charge of operating five historical buildings in Downtown Brownsville. Buildings include the Heritage Museum & Preservation Center, Stillman House, Market Square Research Center, Old City Cemetery Center and The Historic Alonso Building.

• Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts

  phone: +1 956-542-0941
  address: 660 E Ringgold St
  Beautiful arts museum focused on the works of local and Latin American painters.

• Children's Museum of Brownsville

  phone: +1 956 548-9300
  address: 501 E Ringgold St #5
  Museum involving hands-on activities, events and workshops for children.

• Commemorative Air Force Museum

  phone: +1 956-541-8585
  address: 955 S Minnesota Ave
  Air force museum displaying collections of aircraft from World War II. Hosts the annual AirFiesta in mid-February.

• Costumes of the Americas

  phone: +1 956 547-6890
  address: 501 E Ringgold St #5
  Museum housing one of the largest collections of traditional clothing worn by indigenous people in Latin American countries.

• Fort Brown

  address: Fort Brown St
  A military post used during the late 19th century and early 20th century. It is regarded as one of the most haunted sites in the city.

• Historic Brownsville Museum

  phone: +1 956-541-5560
  address: 641 E Madison St
  Museum displaying the history of Brownsville up to the first half of the 20th century. It uses pictures, maps, along with other visuals to document different aspects of the city from street views to education.

• Market Square Research Center

  phone: +1 956-541-5560
  The predecessor to La Plaza at Brownsville, the current terminal center in Brownsville. It used to be a terminal center for buses and an open air market. The building was constructed in 1850 and provides many photographs, costumes and an art collection. It is undergoing a multi-million renovation that will include a walkable street, life-size chess boards, fountains and bike stations.

• Old City Cemetery Center

  phone: +1 956-541-5560
  One of the oldest cemeteries in the city. This was the burial location for many soldiers during the Civil War and Mexican-American War as early as the 1830s. Ghost tours are available.

Battlefields

• Palmito Ranch Battlefield

  address: Boca Chica Blvd
  The last battle of the American Civil War. It is close to the US-Mexico border. There is much speculation that the site is haunted.

• Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Park

  phone: +1 956-541-2785
  address: 7200 Paredes Line Rd
  The site of Battle of Palo Alto. Indoor museum includes artillery and a gift shop. A tour is provided along a walkway to the actual battle site with replicas of the artillery used in the war scattered throughout the place.

• Resaca de la Palma National Battlefield

  phone: +1 956-541-2785
  address: 1024 Paredes Line Rd
  The site of Battle of Resaca de la Palma. A beautiful candle-lighting ceremony takes place each year around mid-November to honor the fallen victims of the war. Each candle is place in the parameter of the site.

Historic homes

The city of Brownsville has an endless list of historic buildings in Downtown. Many buildings include French, Spanish and sometimes a mix of both architecture styles. Take a walk through Downtown and visit these locations. Due to the large number of historic homes in Downtown, not every home is listed on here. For more information, please visit the visitor's website.

• The Historic Alonso Building

  address: 510 E St Charles St
  A French and Spanish influence building popular for rentals and events. Includes an art gallery inside, a pool and tables outside for dining.

• The Stillman House

  phone: +1 956-541-5560
  address: 1325 E Washington St
  The home of several important figures in Brownsville and Mexico. Charles Stillman, the settler who founded Brownsville lived here, as well as Mexican presidents and generals.

• Old Brulay Plantation

  address: east of TX 4
  A cotton-turned-sugar plantation used during the American Civil War. It closed approximately in 1910 when a Cuban tariff was removed. The home belonged to a French immigrant named George Paul Bruley.

State parks

• Boca Chica State ParkIsolated beach across South Padre Island. It is known for its sandy dunes, quiet atmosphere and scenery. Regarded as a hidden gem by many tourists. Known as Boca Chica Beach to locals.

• Brazos Island State ParkBeach north of Boca Chica State Park. Great for camping and fishing.

Wildlife refuges

• Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

  address: 22688 Buena Vista Rd
  In nearby Los Fresnos. Very popular wildlife refuge where many different species can be spotted from the bobcat to the endangered ocelot. The refuge area is protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

• Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge

  phone: +1 956-784-7500
  address: Clark/W Cantu Rd
  Situated in nearby La Feria, is a popular birding and wildlife sanctuary with over of dedicated land for animals and other species to live in. Resacas (or floodplains) can be found throughout the site.

Other attractions

• Sabal Palm Sanctuary

  phone: +1 956-541-8034
  address: 8435 Sabal Palm Grove Rd
  Butterfly and birdwatching center. One of the last locations in the Rio Grande Valley with an abundance in profuse grove of Sabal Palms.

• Gladys Porter Zoo

  phone: +1 956 546-7187
  address: 500 E Ringgold St
  Popular zoo among locals and tourists. Showcases a variety of species from around the world and features a reptile house and an aquatic center. It is the only zoo south of Corpus Christi and the Rio Grande Valley.

• University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  phone: +1-888-882-4026
  address: 1 W University Blvd
  Beautiful campus with a bridge overlooking a resaca (or floodplain) and many palm trees. The bridge is a popular photography landmark for tourists and locals. Campus was founded in 2015 after University of Texas at Brownsville and University of Texas Pan-American merged. There are trails going through the university. Check their website for any events or activities happening around the city. Most events are held in Downtown Brownsville and focus on the arts along with musical performances.

Theater

• Camille Lightner Playhouse

  phone: +1 956-542-8900
  address: 1 Dean Porter Park
  Popular performing arts venue featuring plays and musicals. Features adaptations of both local and popular acts.

• Jacob Brown Auditorium

  phone: +1 956-882-7945
  address: 600 International Blvd
  Open-floor auditorium with a 1,500-person capacity. Popular for graduation and theater events. Also features concerts involving musicians playing a range of instruments from the cello to the clarinet.

• The Arts Center

  phone: +1 956-295-3704
  address: 80 Fort Brown St
  Performing arts venue belonging to Texas Southmost College. Popular for performances in music and theatre.

Festivals and events

The city is home to many festivals and events with different variety for tourists and locals. Make sure to search the visitor's website for more information on upcoming events, as some events tend to be held at multiple times during the year.

• AirFiesta

  phone: +1 956-541-8585
  address: 955 S Minnesota Ave
  Professional pilots perform beautiful synchronized flybys in a variety of aircraft dating from the 1950s.

• Brownsville Beer Fest

  phone: +1 956-878-6489
  address: 501 E Ringgold St
  Oktoberfest-style festival with many different beers from around the world. Includes a performance from Los Angeles-based group, Metalachi.

• Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival

  phone: +1 956-831-9590
  Popular festival created by Latin Jazz legend, Tito Puente, celebrating local artists of the genre.

• Charro Days Fiesta

  phone: +1 956-542-4245
  address: 455 E Elizabeth St (event uses most of the street)
  Unique event celebrating the friendship between Brownsville and its next door neighbor Matamoros. Celebration starts in the end of February and features people dressed in Charro costumes, food, music and a parade.

• Christmas Parade

  phone: +1 956-542-4245
  address: E Elizabeth Street (uses most of the street)
  A longstanding tradition which many schools participate in by making floats and performing songs based on pop culture and traditional Mexican music.

• The Color Run 5K

  address: 1000 Sports Park Blvd
  The only city in the Rio Grande Valley participating in this event. It is part of the Tropicolor World Tour. Runners are plastered with colors and are required to wear white. The purpose of this event is promote happiness and healthy lifestyles everywhere.

• CycloBia Nights

  phone: +1 956-547-6531
  address: 1034 E Levee St
  Event where several streets in Downtown close to allow bicyclists to ride their bicycles around the area. Participants are also allowed to walk, skate, etc. Takes place three times a year: in June, August and October.

• Fourth of July Parade

  phone: +1 956-574-6650
  address: 1000 Sports Park Blvd
  Parade starting in Downtown Brownsville and ending with a firework celebration (the largest in South Texas) in the Brownsville Sports Park. Includes food, music and Glow Dash.

• Heart of America Shows

  address: 1370 N Expressway
  Carnival tour with traditional games, rides, live performances from local bands, a fire show and food stands. The event is held in the parking lot of Sunrise Mall.

• Holiday Village

  address: 1 Dean Porter Park
  Cottages decorated with lights and live performances celebrating Christmas. Event starts from the first of November until the first of January.

• Memorial Illumination

  phone: +1 956-541-2785
  address: 1024 Paredes Line Rd
  A beautiful display of 8,000 candles lit up to honor the fallen US and Mexican soldiers of the 1846 battles that took place there. Ceremony begins at sunset.

• Sombrero Festival

  phone: +1 956-550-9682
  address: 1908 6th St
  Created to enhance the spirit of Charro Days, this festival usually occurs the last week of February.

• The Room Trap

  phone: +1 956-750-0937
  address: 4215 Southmost Blvd
  Game where players are trapped inside a room and given 60 minutes to escape on time. Very intellectual and challenging. Up to six people can play.

• Zoofari

  phone: +1 956-546-7187
  address: 500 Ringgold St
  A live auction event with wine and other entertainment. The Peacock Ticket features a performance from a known country artist.

Golfing

In Brownsville

• Riverbend Resort & Country Club

  phone: +1 956-465-1141
  address: 4541 Military Highway 281
  Beautiful golf courses in an isolated location.

• Brownsville Golf Center

  phone: +1 956-541-2582
  address: 1800 W San Marcelo Blvd

• Valley International Country Club

  phone: +1 956-546-5331
  address: 95 Country Club Rd
  Voted the best golf course in the city by The Brownsville Herald.

In Rancho Viejo (within Brownsville City Limits)

• Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club

  phone: +1 956-350-4000
  address: 1 Rancho Viejo Drive
  Elegant golfing courses including El Angel and El Diablo Course along with a PGA Junior Golf League. Resort hosts wedding and meeting events, and sports entertainment such as tennis, swimming and a fitness center.

Gun ranges

• Massey's Gun Shop and Range

  phone: +1 956-346-6950
  address: 1 Massey Way
  In the outskirts of the city. An outdoor shooting range also doubling as a gun shop with a wide selection of guns to shop from. Offers free online courses.

• South Texas Tactical Shooting Range

  phone: +1 956-350-2047
  address: 2100 Village Center Blvd
  Modern indoor shooting range with a shop inside. Offers multiple target ranges with space between each station.

Cycling

• Belden Trail

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: W 3rd St
  Mile-long trail connecting West Brownsville to other commercial areas. Pedestrian and family-friendly.

• Historic Battlefield Trail

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: Brownsville Historic Battlefield Hike and Bike Trail
  9-mile long trail running north-south in the middle of the city.

• Brownsville Sports Park Hike & Bike Trail

  phone: +1 956-574-6650
  address: 1000 Sports Park Blvd
  A trail in the Brownsville Sports Park with access to a lake, boardwalk and hiking pathways.

• Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge TrailsTrails around the Wildlife Refuge leading to tall, grassy areas. Watch out for any wild animals such as Ocelots and Cougars.

• Monte Bella Mountain Bike Trail

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: W Alton Gloor Blvd
  A 6.2-mile long trail in the outskirts of the city. The trail also includes a 21-hole Disc Golf Course.

• Paseo de la Resaca Trails

  phone: +1 956 547-6860
  A 76-mile-long trail running through over 4 miles of resacas and of parkland.

• Resaca de la Palma State Park Trails

  phone: +1 956-350-2920
  address: 1000 New Carmen Ave
  7-mile trail offering binoculars and bicycles for rent. The trail has the largest native habitat part of the World Birding Center.

Event venues

• Brownsville Event Center

  phone: +1 956-547-6531
  address: 1 Event Center
  Popular center for city events, weddings and other festivities. Rooms are named after important city buildings. The main ballroom has over 1,200 seats in a theater style setting. It also divides into five other rooms which features a classic seating style. Outside features a trail next to a resaca with Victorian-influenced lights.

• Venezzia The Venue

  phone: +1 956-455-8259
  address: 5 Event Center Blvd
  Lavish venue center used mainly for weddings. This was once a miniature golf course and go-kart place. It has incorporated the miniature golf course as a setting for weddings with an arbor in the center. The building is usually illuminated at night in different colors from pink, purple and blue.

Parks

• Brownsville Sports Park

  phone: +1 956-574-6650
  address: 1000 Sports Park Blvd
  Sports park with baseball and soccer stadiums. It also has a new fitness center and a volleyball court. Very family friendly.

• Dean Porter Park

  address: Dean Porter Park Dr
  Clean park with many museums and a playhouse in a walking distance. It includes a pavilion and a playground. Park is next to a resaca.

• Lincoln Park

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: 2100 University Blvd
  Park next to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Great for picnics or family events. A stone's throw from the U.S.-Mexico border.

• North Brownsville Park & Tennis Center

  phone: +1 956-547-8326
  address: #3 Event Center
  Park next to a canal. Beautiful trails with Victorian style lights spanning a large portion with small bridges along the way and 16 tennis courts for tournaments.

• Southern Pacific Linear Park

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: E 6th St
  Family-friendly park next to Gladys Porter Zoo and the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts.

• Washington Park

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: E 7th St
  Large park in the heart of Downtown. Perfect for strolls at night, bicycle rides and picnics. Features a fountain at the center.

Pavilion

• Ringgold Civic Pavilion

  phone: +1 956-542-2064
  address: 501 E Ringgold St Suite 5
  Pavilion great for family events and meetings. Next to a clean park, museums and a playhouse.

Market

• 77 Flea Market

  phone: +1 956-350-9425
  address: 5955 N Expressway
  Large open flea market with food trucks and vendors selling authentic Mexican goods, ranging from fruits, vegetables, plants, artifacts and other collectibles. Free parking. The number derives from its location on U.S. Highway 77. It is the one of the first attractions one will see when arriving through Brownsville. It is also advised to wear walking shoes, as it tends to get hot when walking through the area.

• Brownsville Farmers' Market

  phone: +1 956-755-0614
  address: E 6th St
  Great place to shop for locally grown foods like fruits and vegetables. Vendors set up shop each week of the year every Saturday.

Tours

• Island Biplanes

  phone: +1 956-433-9181
  address: 973 Minnesota Ave
  Tour operator providing visual tours of South Padre Island and Port Isabel by airplane.

• Texas Gulf Trawling Shrimp Boil & Tour

  phone: +1 956-831-7828
  address: 1430 Everglades Rd
  Relaxing boat tour around the South Padre Island and Port Isabel waters. The purpose of the tour is for shrimp enthusiasts who want to catch fresh shrimp straight off the ocean.

• Mitte Cultural DistrictHas a lot of retail shops and great local restaurants. Though much of the commercial activity has shifted northward due to the devaluation of the Mexican Peso, there is still a thriving scene as the city has taken increasing efforts to revitalize many Downtown buildings and streets.

• Ruben M. Torres Blvd is a street that is developing a highly commercial scene in the city. Many shopping centers (or plazas) have set up here in the past couple of years. One portion of the street is commercial while the other half is industrial based. It is the main road, other than the expressway, that leads to Sunrise Mall. With the addition of two hypermarkets at close proximity from each other, several chain restaurants and retail stores have moved into the area.
• Pablo Kisel Blvd/Morrison Rd is the new commercial hot spot in Brownsville. Many national eateries and retailers have either moved from previous locations or have set up shop for the first time here. There are also many hotels in a short walking distance. Much of the success of both streets is owed to the proximity of the mall and the expressway.
• Boca Chica Blvd is known regionally as "Four Corners" for its wide street lanes meeting with another major artery in the city. The intersection has shaped all four sides to look like corners. With the arrival of the new SpaceX facility is less than a year, the street will be the main route to see the rockets being launched. The street experienced an economic decline years ago but has been bringing back national retailers and chain restaurants to the area.

Bookstores

• BookBee

  phone: +1 956-542-1902
  address: 1757 Boca Chica Blvd
  Local bookstore selling school accessories such as medical and laboratory equipment. It used to be near the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, until it moved in 2016.

• University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Bookstore

  phone: +1 956-882-8249
  address: 83 Fort Brown St
  Near the entrance from Texas Southmost College. Bookstore sells shirts, souvenirs with the university logo and has a coffee shop serving Starbucks drinks.

Local stores

Brownsville's proximity to Matamoros introduced a "market" scene in Downtown. Many of the shops are local and sell a variety of items, including jewelry, dresses and shoes. Most businesses have operated in this area for several decades. As mentioned, the northern portion of the city has spurred economic development that has created several small business stores.

• Alex&Raw

  phone: +1 956-592-0529
  address: 3340 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  Hip store selling custom-made outfits in dresses and tops. Some of the styles are Spanish-influenced, while others lean towards a more modern style.

• Mercado Juarez

  phone: +1 956-346-3171
  address: 1008 E Elizabeth St
  Artisan goods store selling clothes, jewelry and pottery from Mexico. The arts and crafts sold are also authentic. Several Mexican vendors also set up shop at the Majestic Theater.

• Craftland

  phone: +1 956-501-1115
  address: 1100 E Washington St
  Craft items store selling yarn, ribbons and variety of different home decor items such as wreaths, mason jars and Christmas decorations. The windows of the stores have shiplap, a type of wood used in barns.

• The Vintage Furniture

  phone: +1 956-639-6197
  address: 1018 E Washington St
  Recently opened furniture store focused on vintage styles. Most of the items are made of wood, rustic and old. Items consist of tables, chests and chairs. A place for the antique collector.

• Jewelry Corner

  phone: +1 956-544-1786
  address: 1201 E Elizabeth St
  Sells lavish jewelry, from stones to gold and other valuable relics. Most of the jewelry is made in the form of rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. The store imports jewelry from foreign countries such as Italy, India and Mexico.

• Portillo Chic & PC Lace

  phone: +1 956-546-0087
  address: 4237 N Expressway 77 #2
  Two joint businesses owned by City Commissioner Deborah Portillo. Chic sells watches, jewelry and other accessories, while Lace specializes in bridal and Quinceañera dresses.

Mall

• Sunrise Mall

  phone: +1 956-541-5302
  address: 2370 North Expressway
  Popular mall featuring over 100 stores and four department stores (Dillard's, Sears, JCPenney and Bealls). The mall received a multi-million renovation in 2015 which added new tile, restroom signs, an updated light fixture and Dick's Sporting Goods. H&M opened its first location in the Rio Grande Valley at this mall.

Brownsville's local restaurant scene has seen a surge in recent times. Most of the eateries mentioned are newly constructed or have operated for a couple of years. Mexican is the most popular, as is Tex-Mex and seafood but different options have been introduced such as Italian and Thai cuisines. Coordinate points are approximate, not exact. The bold names divide each section based on highly commercial areas in Brownsville.
For tourists in the mood for authentic Mexican food, it is best to locate a restaurant in the Mitte Cultural District. Since that part of town is closer to Mexico, there is a stronger chance of finding these kinds of eateries, not to mention the countless number of taquerias (or taco stands) in the city. As Boca Chica is the main road leading to Boca Chica Beach, more seafood restaurants tend to be found here. Ruben M. Torres is a central part of the city, which has built several restaurants along its resacas, giving locals and tourists the option to dine by these water bodies. The northern portion of Brownsville, referred to as Pablo Kisel/Morrison, features more fine-dining restaurants, since it happens to be the wealthier part of town.

Boca Chica

• C&C Wings

  phone: +1 956-831-3460
  address: 6550 Ruben M Torres Blvd
  Very popular local restaurant known for its buffalo chips and unique wing flavors. Has several TVs set up for weekend sporting events. Local bands perform here on the weekends and also host celebrations.

• Chopstix

  phone: +1 956-832-0700
  address: 7102 Padre Island Hwy
  Asian restaurant that provides Japanese, Chinese and Mongolian meals. Serves sushi rolls, rice and is known for its noodles.

• Mariscos De La Rosa

  phone: +1 956-550-0024
  address: 7738 Padre Island Hwy
  Restaurant serving cocktails, seafood, wine and beer. It is in the outskirts of Brownsville, as one heads towards South Padre Island. The owners were based in Matamoros but ended up migrating to Brownsville after the city experienced violence regarding its drug war.

• The Oyster Bar

  phone: +1 956-542-9511
  address: 153 Paredes Line Rd
  Long-running seafood restaurant offering common seafood dishes. Two locations in the city.

• The Vermillion Restaurant & Watering Hole

  phone: +1 956-542-9893
  address: 115 Paredes Line Rd
  Popular local restaurant known for its Tex-Mex meals. The place has operated since the 1930s.

• Wing Barn

  phone: +1 956-541-2276
  address: 3025 Boca Chica Blvd, Suite I-1
  Barn-style eatery serving burgers, wings and beer. Popular among locals. There are several locations around the city.

Ruben M. Torres

• Agave Blue Mexican Grill

  phone: +1 956-542-4283
  address: 1805 E Ruben M Torres Blvd, Ste A17
  Modern restaurant serving breakfast and providing live music at night. Serves margaritas and other spirits.

• Cobbleheads

  phone: +1 956-592-9313
  address: 3154 Central Blvd
  Popular local restaurant known for its live music. Serves an array of meals from Philly-cheese steaks, salads, Mexican and custom-made meals from the region. It also has an outdoor patio next to a resaca. Perfect for night dinners.

• Geko's Trattoria Italian

  phone: +1 956-554-7000
  address: 2155 S Frontage Rd
  Local Italian eatery serving brick oven pizzas, wines, panini sandwiches and more traditional meals. Every item on the menu is written in Italian.

• Gio's Villa

  phone: +1 956-542-5054
  address: 2325 Central Blvd
  Long-time eatery serving Italian meals in an ambient atmosphere.

• Khan's Grill

  phone: +1 956-542-8881
  address: 2701 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd
  The only local Mongolian restaurant in the city. It has an open concept kitchen, where customers can watch their meals be prepared. Noodles, white rice and shrimp are the common plates served here.

• La Pampa Argentine Steakhouse

  phone: +1 956-504-5858
  address: 1655 E Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd, Suite 208
  Steakhouse serving Argentine meals and winery. Very elegant setting with a rodeo-influenced decor. Provides big meals at expensive prices. Since the restaurant blends with its surroundings, look out for this place when driving.

• Zocalo Mariscos & Banda

  phone: +1 956-243-7574
  address: 2353 Old Port Isabel Rd
  Upscale bar featuring Mexican recipes. Hosts live music in an outdoor patio. As of 2016, the restaurant re-branded their restaurant to feature more seafood options and performances from Banda musicians.

Mitte Cultural District

• Pitti's Ristorante Italian Village

  phone: +1 956-982-1616
  address: 1400 Palm Blvd
  Modest eatery known for its extra large pizzas. Serves Mexican meals, pasta and calzones.

• Spanky's Burgers

  phone: +1 956-542-4007
  address: 1355 Palm Blvd
  Inexpensive burger joint in a modern, hip setting. Serves custom made meals with such as grilled onions, jalapeños and tomatoes in their burgers. No website.

• Taqueria Siberia

  phone: +1 956-542-9357
  address: 2915 International Blvd
  Popular local eatery known for its unique tostadas. Also serves traditional Mexican meals. Has several locations around the city.

• Terra's Bar & Grill

  phone: +1 956-621-0886
  address: 915 E Elizabeth St
  Restaurant perfect for a date night. Features live music and is decorated with many art paintings, paying homage to the Hispanic culture.

Pablo Kisel/Morrison

• Campero's Bar & Grill

  phone: +1 956-546-8172
  address: 2500 N. Expressway 77/83
  Elegant Mexican restaurant providing live music, bar and fine dining.

• Dirty Al's Seafood Market & Cajun Kitchen

  phone: +1 956-621-3452
  address: 4495 N Expressway 77
  Popular bait-style restaurant serving seafood with a tropical atmosphere. Serves burgers and specializes in cajun-style meals. Originated from South Padre Island.

• Fabrizzio's

  phone: +1 956-561-4225
  address: 3000 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Ste 200E
  Brick oven baked pizzas with traditional Italian seating. Also does catering.

• Fiŝo Seafood Cuisine

  phone: +1 956-551-3878
  address: 3101 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  Expensive seafood restaurant serving steaks, cocktails and martinis. They are known for their ambiance and creative touch in every meal.

• Gazpacho's Restaurant

  phone: +1 956-546-9200
  address: 2451 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  Elegant restaurant serving a variety of sandwiches from different Latin American and European flavors. Has a cozy atmosphere with fine dining.

• Keko's Restaurant

  phone: +1 956-350-0592
  address: 3090 Pablo Kisel Blvd Ste A
  Healthy eatery offering a selection of subs, sandwiches and smoothies at decent prices. It also serves crepes, soups, wraps and specializes in a "Create your Salad" option.

• Madeira Restaurant

  phone: +1 956-504-3100
  address: 805 Media Luna, Suite 800
  Upscale, romantic restaurant next to a resaca. Serves Argentine meals and seafood.

• Mi Pueblito Restaurant

  phone: +1 956-350-9696
  address: 3101 Pablo Kisel Blvd,
  Mexican restaurant serving margaritas, spirits and more. Has an elegant outdoor patio set up with TVs to watch sporting events.

• Toscafino Restaurant

  phone: +1 956-574-9888
  address: 3001 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  Upscale wine bar with outdoor patio serving Italian dishes. Popular for a weekend hangout.

Bars

• Adolios

  phone: +1 956-982-0491
  address: 2370 N Expressway
  Upscale local bar with an outdoor patio. Serves traditional Mexican cuisine and spirits.

• Mynt Bar & Grill

  phone: +1 956-621-4552
  address: 600 Springmart Blvd #8
  Popular restaurant serving spirits and live music. Reservations are available. Serves tacos, burgers, wings and has its own signature "Mynt Dogs".

• Public House Brownsville

  phone: +1 956-579-2020
  address: 3254 Boca Chica Blvd
  Bar specializing in drafts, meals and drinks.

• The Bar

  phone: +1 956-548-2277
  address: 1900 N Expressway
  Popular barn-style bar with two floors. Very popular for billiards and music events.

• The Palm Lounge

  phone: +1 956-621-0793
  address: 757 E Elizabeth St
  Cozy, modern bar also acting as a lounge. Known as Historic Palm Lounge, adopting the name for being in the Historic Downtown District.

Pubs

• Dog House Pub & Grill

  phone: +1 956-521-8663
  address: 568 Springmart Blvd Suite 700
  Popular pub with spirit selection changing each season. Four locations, one in Brownsville, three in San Antonio. Provides live music and weekly specials.

• Shenanigan's Irish Pub & Grill

  phone: +1 956-986-2337
  address: 2451 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  Irish-style pub with a collection of beers. Popular for a weekend hangout.

Billiard parlors

• Billiard Room

  phone: +1 956-542-4542
  address: 2104 Central Blvd
  Long-standing billiard bar perfect for a weekend hangout.

Coffeehouses

• 7th & Park

  phone: +1 956-335-5598
  address: 1554 E. 7th St.
  Acts as both a coffee and bicycle shop. Great for tourists looking for an active transportation plan. Location is situated next to a bicycle lane as well.

• Bubbly Brew TeaHouse

  phone: +1 956-621-0211
  address: 3340 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  The only teahouse in the city. Serves bubble tea and smoothies. Popular for young locals and students.

• El Hueso De Fraile

  phone: +1 956-372-1415
  address: 837 E Elizabeth St #D
  One of the most popular local eateries in the city. Popular with locals and tourists. Serves Latin American meals and provides soothing, live music at night. Specializes in a variety of coffee and tea flavors.

• Fina's Coffee Shop

  phone: +1 956-541-7550
  address: 435 Old Port Isabel Rd
  Local restaurant serving Mexican dishes and coffee. Layout is very traditional with other eateries.

• The Roast House

  address: 1393 E Alton Gloor Blvd Suite 5
  The only locally owned coffee-roasting shop in the city. Serves pastries and a collection of coffees from around the world.

Nightclubs

• Marroko Discotek

  phone: +1 956-777-5566
  address: 1655 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd
  Popular modern nightclub with live music. Famous musicians from Tejano, Banda and Latin genres perform here on the weekends.

• Half Moon Saloon

  phone: +1 956-574-9779
  address: 1115 E Adams St
  Cozy nightclub with high ceilings, a bar and a projector to broadcast sporting events. Provides live music. From the exterior, the building is surrounded with multiple doors all in red.

Cabaret

• Stilettos Cabaret

  phone: +1 956-504-0653
  address: 1480 N Expressway 83
  Strip club with dining and party rooms. Also hosts pay-per-view events equipped with 5 plasma screens.

Budget

• Americas Best Value Inn

  phone: +1 956-832-0202
  address: 7364 South Padre Island Hwy
  Affordable hotel providing an outdoor pool, business center, free Wi-Fi, and free continental breakfast.

• Boca Chica Inn & Suites

  phone: +1 956-554-9090
  address: 3280 Boca Chica Blvd
  Hotel in the heart of the city. Provides mini-fridges in each room, an outdoor pool and free parking.

• Magnuson Hotel

  phone: +1 956-541-2201
  address: 715 North Expressway
  Modest hotel offering Wi-Fi, parking and meeting rooms.

• Motel 6

  phone: +1 956-546-4699
  address: 2255 North Expressway
  Cheap hotel with an outdoor pool, free parking and coffee.

• Texas Inn Brownsville

  phone: +1 956-621-3299, +1 956-542-5501
  address: 7051 S Padre Island Hwy, 845 North Expressway 77
  Simple hotel providing free continental breakfast and an outdoor pool. Two locations in the city.

• Value Place

  phone: +1 956-542-1684
  address: 995 Media Luna Rd
  Studio rooms with kitchens and a 24-hour coin-operated laundry room.

Mid-range

• Comfort Suites

  phone: +1 956-541-3332
  address: 651 Sunrise Blvd
  2-star hotel with an outdoor pool, gym and free breakfast.

• Courtyard Brownsville

  phone: +1 956-350-4600
  address: 3955 North Expressway 77/83
  3-star hotel providing contemporary rooms, an outdoor pool, a business center and a free local shuttle.

• Hampton Inn & Suites

  phone: +1 956-548-0005
  address: 3000 N Expressway
  2-star traditional hotel with an outdoor pool, free parking, Wi-Fi and breakfast.

• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites

  phone: +1 956-550-0666
  address: 1985 North Expressway 83
  2-star hotel offers relaxed lodging, an outdoor pool, a gym and free Wi-Fi plus parking.

• Homewood Suites by Hilton

  phone: +1 956-574-6900
  address: 3759 N Expressway
  3-star hotel with extended-stay, a pool, a fitness center and free grocery shopping service.

• La Quinta Inn & Suites

  phone: +1 956-350-2118
  address: 5051 North Expressway
  3-star hotel providing straightforward lodging, an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi.

• Residence Inn Brownsville

  phone: +1 956-350-8100
  address: 3975 N Expressway 83
  3-star hotel with modern atmosphere. Provides fully-equipped kitchens with free Wi-Fi.

Splurge

• Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club

  phone: +1 956-350-4000
  address: 1 Rancho Viejo Dr (in Brownsville City Limits)
  Golf course resort with suites. Includes a bar, fitness center, tennis course, rounds of golf and a pool.

• Staybridge Suites

  phone: +1 956-504-9500
  address: 2900 Pablo Kisel Blvd
  4-star hotel provides outdoor pool and a gym. Free breakfast, parking and Wi-Fi.

Despite Brownsville's reputation as a border town, the city is relatively safe. According to an FBI report conducted in early 2015, the Brownsville-Harlingen metropolitan area ranked last in a list of most dangerous cities. This makes Brownsville the safest metro area in Texas.
As long as you stay in the more commercial side of town and take precautions you will be safe. It is advised not to travel to Downtown around midnight. Most of the area is quiet and lonely around this time, raising the chances of theft or robberies. You should also lock your car when shopping, especially at night. While the city rarely experiences any major crimes, petty crimes like attempted robbery or vandalism are quite common.
If you are a victim of a crime or see one, please report it by calling the Brownsville Police Department at +1 956-548-7000 or 911. Their main building is at 600 E Jackson St.

It is important to understand how close Brownsville is to Mexico. When making a call or walking or driving around Downtown Brownsville or near the international bridges, expect your phone to change cell provider. Several Mexican cellphone providers that end up appearing in American phones include Telcel and Movistar. Locals have observed their phone changing cell phone provider throughout many parts of the city. If this happens to you, do not panic. It is very common for this to occur. A change in cell provider does not indicate Roaming is activated and it will not lead to overcharges in your account. This goes for any cell phone provider that operates in the United States.

Wi-Fi stations

Several hotels listed here provide free Wi-Fi service, as do many local and chain restaurants.

Consulates

• Mexico

  phone: +1 956-542-4431
  address: 724 E Elizabeth & 7th Sts

Public libraries

Brownsville has two public libraries, including a main library and a branch library.

• Main Branch - at 2600 Central Blvd. Large array of books to purchase and check-out. Also has a coffee shop, modern computer atmosphere and a study room.
• Southmost Branch - at 4320 Southmost Blvd. Good for studying. Provides a computer room, movie theatre, planetarium and a small coffee shop.

Spa and massage

• The Carriage House Day Spa

  phone: +1 956-544-4111
  address: 319 E Elizabeth St
  Elegant spa center in the heart of Downtown. Provides an array of other services such as tanning, wraps and manicures/pedicures.

• Serenity Springs Day Spa

  phone: +1 956-541-0393
  address: 23 Palm Village

• Spa La Posada

  phone: +1 956-687-7544
  address: 2370 North Expressway, Suite 1056
  Spa with bridal, boutique, waxing, nails and other services.

• Massage Envy

  phone: +1 956-541-3689
  address: 2100 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd #2070
  Though the business has several locations in other cities, it provides great message sessions.

• South Padre Island is a 20-minute drive east of Brownsville and is home to Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark, beautiful coastlines for end to end, local restaurants, bars, condominiums/hotels, beaches, boat rides, bird watching, and concerts.
• Matamoros, Mexico, Brownsville's border town, can be easily accessed by foot or car by crossing one of three bridges and offers a nightlife for many young tourists. Also has a popular market scene and historic buildings.
• Monterrey, Mexico is a four-hour drive west of Brownsville near the Cerro de la Silla mountains and home to many museums, art galleries, sport stadiums and lots of historical architecture.
• Port Isabel is directly across South Padre Island. Offers a quiet scene, nice local restaurants, fishing, boating/sailing charters, piers, museums, dolphin watch and the Port Isabel Lighthouse.