A Romantic Long Weekend in Brownsville, USA
A charming escape to Brownsville, where love and adventure intertwine.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
A trip to Brownsville, United States, is perfect for a romantic getaway with your partner. You can stroll along the historic downtown streets, immerse yourself in the culture at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, and visit the Gladys Porter Zoo for a fun and memorable experience. With its warm climate and lively atmosphere, Brownsville is the ideal destination for a romantic trip.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the historic Casa de la Resaca Bed and Breakfast, a restored 1905 mansion with lush gardens and stunning views.
- Head to Old Fisherman's Wharf for a romantic stroll, take in the colorful boats, and sample fresh seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico.
- Explore the exhibits and artifacts at the historic Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, housed in a former Southern Pacific railway depot.
- Take a sunset cruise on the Madam Queen, a paddlewheel riverboat that offers stunning views of the city's skyline and the Rio Grande Valley.
- End the night with a delicious dinner at Vermillion, known for its exquisite farm-to-table cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
- Visit the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, the site of the first major battle of the Mexican-American War.
- Head to the iconic Plaza Theatre, which has been entertaining audiences since 1928 and offers a range of performances from Broadway to local productions.
- Grab lunch at El Hueso de Fraile, a charming garden restaurant that serves delicious Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes.
- Catch a screening at the Historic Brownsville Museum of Art's unique outdoor cinema, featuring cult classics and independent films.
- End the night with a drink at The Kraken Lounge, a hipster bar with an impressive selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.
- Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the pristine South Padre Island, located just a short drive from Brownsville.
- Spend the day lounging on the beach, swimming, and trying out water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing.
- Return to Brownsville for lunch at El Ultimo Taco, a beloved local establishment that serves some of the best tacos and burritos in the city.
- Visit the Brownsville Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning, to browse for locally grown produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts.
- Enjoy a candlelit dinner at The Spanish Room, a romantic restaurant that offers a fusion of Spanish and South American cuisine and live music.
- Explore the Historic Brownsville Museum, featuring exhibits and artifacts from Brownsville's colorful past.
- Visit the Brownsville Heritage Trail, a collection of historic sites and monuments that commemorate the city's history and culture.
- Rent bikes and take a leisurely ride on the Brownsville Historic Battlefield Trail, a 10-mile path that winds through scenic wetlands and historic battlefields.
- For lunch, try the delicious smoked meats and sides at The Smoking Oak BBQ.
- End your trip with a tour of the iconic Gladys Porter Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Brownsville by plane is to fly into Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport, which is the primary airport serving the city.
Car
The best way to get to Brownsville by car is to take Interstate 69E or US Route 77 all the way to the city. There are several highways and roads that lead to Brownsville, so it's easy to find your way here.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no train station in Brownsville, so it's not possible to get there by train.
Boat
Although Brownsville is a port city, it's not possible to get here by boat unless you have your own private vessel. However, there are several marinas and docks in the area where you can dock your boat and explore the city on foot.
Bus
The best way to get to Brownsville by bus is to take a Greyhound bus to the Brownsville Bus Station, which is conveniently located in the heart of the city.