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MISSION. A pleasant park for a family picnic or a bit of early morning bird-watching, Anzalduas Park in neighboring Mission sits on the banks of the Rio Grande. Shade trees, shelters and a pavilion help make the park a popular destination even on the hottest days, and a nearby boat ramp gives visitors easy access to deep waters made possible by the Anzalduas diversion dam.
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SAN JUAN. Dedicated in 1954, this lovely shrine succumbed to fire in the 1970s. Fortunately, the statue of the Virgen de San Juan de Los Lagos survived the ordeal and was given a home in a newer, larger shrine created to replace the one that was destroyed. Vatican officials were even present for the shrine's re-dedication in 1980. Today, thousands of people make pilgrimages to the shrine each year to pray, gain inspiration and insight, and marvel at its large mosaic and at its statuary recreation of the stations of the cross.
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MISSION. Highly regarded by the Audubon Society, the Rio Grande Valley is home to a number of exquisite bird species found only in this part of Texas, including the green jay, Altamira oriole and white-tipped dove. In fact, so important is the area in ornithological circles that Bentsen State Park has been designated the headquarters of the World Birding Center. Visitors find the 760-plus-acre park a natural treasure trove, and much of its rugged yet beautiful landscape is accessible via hiking trails. Modern and primitive camping facilities are available, and the park staff offers guided tours and educational programs throughout the year.
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MISSION. Out-of-towners often wonder how Mission received its name ... well, look no further than humble La Lomita, a small chapel built some time around 1865 and later used by Oblate missionaries working in the Rio Grande Valley. The site was rebuilt in 1899 and again in 1920, yet it retains a certain timelessness that endears it to historians and visitors from all walks of life. Picnic shelters on the site help make it a good, peaceful place to spend a few afternoon hours with the family.
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LOS EBANOS. Just a few miles west of McAllen, a narrow southbound road leads drivers to the banks of the Rio Grande, where the hearty crew of the Los Ebanos Ferry use ropes and the strength of their own muscles to pull cars (three at a time) and people across the river. Just a short drive from the river on the Mexican side is Ciudad Diaz Ordaz, a small village that offers an authentic taste of a border town. Folks wanting to participate in the pulling are welcome, and the ride across the river only sets you back a few coins. Designated a state historic site in the 1970s, Los Ebanos is the only remaining hand-drawn ferry that crosses the Rio Grande.
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MCALLEN. Mexican folk art, African tribal art, and European paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries highlight the permanent collections at this Rio Grande Valley institution. Of particular interest to people with an affinity for science is the Earth Science Gallery, which displays fossils and even a few dinosaur prints. In addition, the museum presents temporary exhibits each season that range from American Pop Art to colorful textiles.
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EDINBURG. This unique facility explores and sheds new light on the region's rich history, a story written by Native Americans, Spaniards, Mexicans and Texans. Highlighted periods include the earliest years of European exploration, the Mexican War and the heyday of the Republic of Texas. One of the museum's more fascinating exhibits is a re-created steamboat fashioned to look like South Texas vessels from the late 1800s. In addition, the museum's Medieval Fair (held in March) is one of Edinburg's biggest annual events.
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Nuevo Progreso
Av Benito Juarez, follow FM 1015 to International Bridge, Nuevo Progresso, USA
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NUEVO PROGRESO. Located just across the river from the Texas town of the same name, Mexico's Nuevo Progreso has seen its popularity soar over the years as more and more travelers find it an easily accessible and friendly border town. Once you cross the Rio Grande (most travelers park their cars for about a buck on the US side and walk across the International Bridge), you'll find countless shops and stands that carry everything from furniture and local arts and crafts to alcohol and food. Indeed, a trip to Neuvo Progreso is worth it just so you can go back home and say, "Yeah, I crossed the border to do some shopping."
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Reynosa
Zaragoza, follow Hwy 281 to International Bridge, Reynosa, USA
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REYNOSA. Along with Nuevo Progreso, Reynosa is one of the most popular Mexican border jumps for folks visiting McAllen, which is less than 10 miles north. To avoid parking hassles and long waits, most travelers park their cars on the US side of the bridge and make the short trip across the border on foot. Once there, they find plenty to occupy their eyes and ears, from pedestrian-friendly streets lined with shops and stalls to the ever-bustling Zaragoza Market. If you find yourself in need of a break from bargain shopping, have no fear: Scores of terrific restaurants and bars sit within a few paces of the main drag.
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ALAMO. Covering some 2000 acres of beautiful riverside terrain, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge has been a sanctuary for migratory birds since the 1940s. For this reason, the refuge is high on the lists of many bird-watchers, some of whom travel from abroad just for the chance to spot a hook-billed kite, magnolia warbler, groove-billed ani or Chihuahuan raven. Butterflies also thrive here, and the visitor center's butterfly garden is as beautiful for its winged acrobats as for its colorful flowers. Also affording closer glimpses at nature are the refuge's 12 miles of hiking trails, its 7-mile wildlife drive, and interpretative tram tours.
You want only quality attractions and activities to occupy your leisure hours. To that end, we've researched a diverse list of options, ruled out the wastes of time, and delivered only the 10Best. We provide detailed information about historical sites, theme parks, sporting events, and city sights that you won't want to miss. Peruse our lists, see what grabs your fancy, and then head out for some personal time!
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