4 Days of Fun in Brownsville, Texas
Discover the culture and history of Brownsville, Texas.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Brownsville, located in southern Texas, offers a mix of vibrant culture, outdoor recreation, and historical significance. Tourists can explore the city's downtown area, which is home to art galleries, unique shops, and delicious food. Must-see attractions include the Historic Brownsville Museum and the Gladys Porter Zoo, which houses over 400 animal species.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check in at the Palo Alto Inn & Suites, where the friendly staff welcomes you with warm chocolate chip cookies
- Grab some tacos at Taqueria El Zarape, where the salsas are homemade and the carne asada is juicy
- Walk it off at the Gladys Porter Zoo, where you can see everything from rhinos to piranhas
- Take a sunset stroll around the Resaca de la Palma State Park, admiring the peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
- Quench your thirst with a craft beer at the Grain-to-Glass Brewery, where the owner shares stories of the brews' origins
- Start the day with coffee and avocado toast at Brownsville Coffee Shop, where you can admire artisanal roasting in action
- Explore the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, where the first battle of the Mexican-American War was fought
- Visit the historic Stillman House Museum, where you can learn about Brownsville's founder and his feats
- Immerse yourself in Mexican-American culture at the Brownsville Heritage Museum, where the exhibits showcase the city's diverse identity
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a paleta (Mexican-style popsicle) at La Michoacana, where the flavors range from sweet mango to spicy tamarindo
- Hop in the car and drive to South Padre Island, where the sandy beaches await you
- Rent a bike and pedal along the coast, admiring the crystal-clear waters and the seagulls' playful dives
- Take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico, feeling the warm waves enveloping you
- Savor a seafood lunch at Louie's Backyard, where the fish is fresh and the cocktails are spicy
- Watch the sunset at the Isla Blanca Park, where the cotton candy skies reflect on the calm water
- Start the day with chilaquiles at El Hueso de Fraile, a quirky restaurant decorated with Mexican-themed memorabilia
- Check out the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, where the exhibitions feature works by local and international artists
- Walk around the historic downtown, admiring the murals that adorn the buildings' facades
- Visit the Costumes of the Americas Museum, where you can marvel at the intricate designs of traditional attires
- Take a selfie with the giant tamale statue at the Tamaulipas Welcome Center, where you can pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones.
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.
