Budget-Friendly Adventure: 4 Days in Laredo!

Discover Laredo on a dime and dine like a local.

21 June 2023

Laredo is an attractive border town in the state of Texas, United States, that is perfect for travelers on a budget. With plenty of free or low-cost activities, like exploring the historic San Agustin de Laredo and the beautiful Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Science Center, you can enjoy the city's rich history and natural beauty without breaking the bank. Don't forget to sample the city's delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine found at affordable prices across the town.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Laredo, Y'all!

  • Check-in at the La Quinta Inn on San Bernardo Avenue, which is clean, comfortable, and affordable.
  • Step back in time at the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, where you'll learn about local history and culture.
  • Get some fresh air at Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, where you can fish, swim, hike, or have a picnic.
  • Indulge in some delicious Tex-Mex food at El Pescador or Tacos Kissi.
Day 2

Cowboys and Culture

  • Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Laredo Taco Company, known for their breakfast tacos.
  • Visit the Laredo Center for the Arts, which showcases local and national art exhibitions.
  • Learn about ranching history at the Webb County Heritage Foundation's San Agustín Ranch, where you can see cowboys in action.
  • Discover the stories behind Laredo's historic buildings on a walking tour with Visit Laredo.
  • End the day with a cold beer and live music at Electric Lounge, a laid-back bar in downtown Laredo.
Day 3

Day Trip to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico

  • Cross the border to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, for a day of shopping, exploring and indulging in authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Visit the Mercado Maclovio Herrera, a bustling market with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.
  • Experience the vibrant culture of Mexico at the Plaza Hidalgo, which features a colorful gazebo and street performers.
  • Savor delicious street food, like tacos al pastor, at Tacos Doña Tota.
  • Be sure to bring your passport and follow all border crossing regulations.
Day 4

Farewell, Laredo!

  • Have breakfast at Laredo Main Street's breakfast hot spot, Sam's Restaurant and Bakery.
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the Laredo Nature Trail, a serene oasis in the middle of the city.
  • Visit the TAMIU Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Science Center, where you can explore interactive exhibits and learn about conservation efforts.
  • Stop by La India Packing Company for some locally-made dried meat snacks and spices to take home as souvenirs.
  • Say goodbye to Laredo with a delicious dinner at Palenque Grill, known for its tender fajitas and handcrafted margaritas.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Laredo is by flying into Laredo International Airport, which has daily flights from major cities across the United States.

Car

Driving to Laredo is a great option, as it is located right on the US-Mexico border and connected to major highways such as I-35 and I-69.

Train

While there are no passenger trains that go directly to Laredo, you can take a train to San Antonio and then connect to a bus or drive the rest of the way to Laredo.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Laredo, you can take a boat to the nearby cities of Corpus Christi or Brownsville and then connect to a bus or drive the rest of the way to Laredo.

Bus

Taking a bus to Laredo is a popular option, with several bus companies such as Greyhound and Tornado Bus Company offering daily routes from major cities across the United States.

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