McAllen Marvels: A 2-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

McAllen: Where family fun meets Texas charm in the heart of the United States.

19 July 2023

McAllen in the United States offers a family-friendly trip with a wide range of activities to enjoy. Visitors can explore the Quinta Mazatlan, a historic mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens, where kids can participate in nature programs and birdwatching. Additionally, families can experience the International Museum of Art & Science, where interactive exhibits and educational programs cater to all ages.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring McAllen Marvels

  • Stay at the family-friendly Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott for a cozy and convenient experience.
  • Greet the day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Lighthouse Café, a delightful spot with fluffy pancakes and sizzling bacon.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture at the McAllen Creative Incubator, where local artists display their masterpieces.
  • Embark on a shopping adventure at the sprawling La Plaza Mall, offering a plethora of shops for everyone in the family.
  • Unleash your inner scientist at the International Museum of Art & Science, with interactive exhibits that captivate young and old minds.
  • Indulge in a delectable dinner at Roosevelt's at 7, a trendy restaurant serving up mouthwatering steaks and artisanal cocktails.
Day 2

Nature Escapades in McAllen

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Moonbeans Coffee, a cozy café known for its aromatic brews and delectable pastries.
  • Embark on a picnic adventure at the quaint McAllen Nature Center, where lush trails lead you to serene ponds and diverse wildlife.
  • Visit the Quinta Mazatlán, a historic mansion turned birding hotspot, where exotic feathered friends greet you with colorful allure.
  • Discover the hidden gem, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, where you can marvel at rare bird species and vivid butterflies.
  • Satiate your hunger pangs with a fabulous lunch at the vibrant Republic of the Rio Grande, serving tantalizing Tex-Mex and local favorites.
  • Conclude your McAllen escapade with a captivating sunset view at Archer Park, a serene spot for relaxation and reflection.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to McAllen by plane is to fly into McAllen International Airport. Some airlines that offer flights to McAllen are American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.

Car

The best way to get to McAllen by car depends on where you are coming from, but some major highways that lead to McAllen include I-2, US-281, and US-83. Use a GPS or map to plan your route.

Train

There is no train station in McAllen, so the best way to get there by train is to take Amtrak to San Antonio and then take a bus or fly to McAllen. The San Antonio Amtrak station is located at 350 Hoefgen St.

Boat

There is no way to get to McAllen by boat, as it is not located near any major bodies of water.

Bus

The best way to get to McAllen by bus is to take Greyhound, which offers several daily routes to the McAllen Bus Station. The Greyhound station in McAllen is located at 415 S 12th St.

Destination

McAllen

Welcome to a place that's so far south, it almost needs a passport. But don't worry, there's no need to brush up on your Spanish - you're still in the good ole U.S. of A.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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4 Days of Fun in McAllen: Budget-Friendly Guide

A budget-friendly trip to McAllen, United States is a great option for travelers looking to explore this hidden gem. With affordable lodging options like hostels and budget hotels, visitors can stretch their budget even further. Take advantage of free things to do like exploring local parks or checking out the nearby Rio Grande.