things to do in mcallen

McAllen is a city located in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, USA. Here are some things to do in McAllen:

1. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park: A 764-acre park featuring hiking trails, bird-watching, and opportunities to spot local wildlife like alligators and bobcats.
2. McAllen Nature Center: A 12-acre nature preserve with walking trails, bird-watching, and educational programs.
3. International Museum of Art & Science: A museum featuring a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including works by local artists.
4. McAllen Heritage Center: A museum showcasing the history and culture of McAllen and the surrounding area.
5. 17th Street Entertainment District: A vibrant nightlife area with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
6. McAllen Convention Center: A venue hosting various events, including concerts, festivals, and conferences.
7. Palms Crossing: An outdoor shopping and dining complex with a variety of stores and restaurants.
8. La Plaza Mall: A large indoor shopping mall with over 150 stores and restaurants.
9. McAllen Farmers Market: A weekly market featuring local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
10. Rio Grande Valley Vipers: Catch a basketball game by the city’s NBA G League team at the Bert Ogden Arena.
11. McAllen Golf Courses: McAllen has several golf courses, including the McAllen Country Club and the Palm View Golf Course.
12. Birdwatching: McAllen is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 500 species of birds documented in the area.
13. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Explore the Rio Grande River and surrounding waterways by kayak or paddleboard.
14. Horseback Riding: Take a guided horseback ride through the scenic trails of the Rio Grande Valley.
15. Festivals and Events: McAllen hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the McAllen International Festival, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show, and the McAllen Marathon.
16. Visit the nearby town of Mission: Explore the historic town of Mission, with its charming downtown area and scenic views of the Rio Grande River.
17. Take a day trip to Mexico: McAllen is located just a few miles from the US-Mexico border, making it easy to take a day trip to the Mexican city of Reynosa or other nearby destinations.
18. Go hiking or biking: McAllen has several parks and trails, including the McAllen Hike and Bike Trail, which offer opportunities for outdoor recreation.
19. Visit the McAllen Public Library: A modern library with a wide selection of books, media, and programs for adults and children.
20. Take a tour: McAllen offers guided tours of the city and surrounding area, including historic tours, birdwatching tours, and wine tastings.

These are just a few things to do in McAllen. The city has a lot to offer, whether you’re interested in outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, or simply exploring a new place.