10 Best Things To Do In Brownsville, Texas

1. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site

The US-Mexican War is one of the most important conflicts in US history. The Palo Alto Battlefield is the site of the first battle of the two-year long war. To commemorate the war that changed the face of North America, the Palo Alto Battlefield has been preserved as a historic site which aims to understand the cause and consequences of the war. A visit to Palo Alto is both a chance for relaxation with nature and a lesson about the past.

Palo Alto National Historic Site

Address: 7200 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78526

Website: Palo Alto Battlefield

2. Historic Brownsville Museum

The Historic Brownsville Museum is a place where you can learn about the regions history and culture through exhibitions and events. The museum is housed in a 1928 Spanish Colonial Revival style building. Inside you can find displays of the town’s early history in both English and Spanish. The Brownsville Historical Association, which runs the museum, aims to educate all visitors and indeed locals about the city’s past by holding workshops for the public. The BHA calendar is full of hands-on activities such as wine-making nights and night time ghost tours.

Historic Brownsville Museum

Address: 641 E Madison St, Brownsville, TX 78520

Website: Historic Brownsville Museum

3. Fort Brown

Fort Brown was the first establish military base in Texas. It was an active base from 1846-1944 when it was given back to the city of Brownsville. Nowadays most of it has been renovated into holiday rentals along the lake where guests can enjoy luxuries such as water skiing or horse riding within the historic site. Guests can find the Fort and various remains of different building and training posts in the area.

Fort Brown

Address: 401 Ringgold Rd, Brownsville, TX 78520

Website: Fort Brown

4. South Padre Island Golf Club

Located on the Instagram-worthy South Padre Island, this golf resort is one of the most beautiful in Texas. Described as an oasis in the Rio Grande Valley, anyone who considers themselves a golf fanatic must take a trip to the golf club.

South Padre Island Golf Club

Address: 1 Ocelot Trail Rd, Laguna Vista, TX 78578

Website: South Padre Island Golf Club

5. Stillman House Museum

Stillman House built in 1850 is one of the oldest structures in Brownsville. Occupied by two important families, the Stillman and Trevino families, the restored structure gives its guests a glimpse into the life of Brownsville citizens over the past two centuries. Visit the house to learn how it is connected to a coup and a former Mexican president.

Stillman House

Address: 1325 E Washington St, Brownsville, TX 78520

Website: The Stillman House Museum

6. Brownsville Heritage Museum and Preservation Centre

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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Brownsville Heritage Museum maps the development of Brownsville and surrounding areas over the last few centuries. Exhibits include clothes, paintings, household items and interactive displays to provide guests with a unique perspective on the past. The museum also host a variety of programs throughout the year so keep an eye on their calendar for special events.

Brownsville Heritage Museum

Address: 1325 E Washington St, Brownsville, TX 78520

Website: Heritage Complex

7. Museum of Fine Art

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art was founded by the Brownsville Art League, a group of woman who started a secret art appreciation society during the great depression. This collection of strong women invited other women, men, students and people from surrounding areas to join in their passion and soon the movement grew. The mission of the museum today it to continue to spread the love of art through education throughout the community. The Museum of Fine Art is more than a gallery, it also holds lessons and competitions to encourage the growth of art appreciate in Brownsville.

Brownsville Museum of Fine Art

Address: 660 E Ringgold St, Brownsville, TX 78520

Website: Museum of Fine Art

8. Brownsville Farmers' Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Brownsville Farmers’ Market is committed to providing locals with fresh produce every week. Stalls sell a variety of goods from gulf coast shrimp to home-made artisan breads. It is open every Saturday morning throughout the year. Visit the market to feel a part of the community and see the results of the hard work of local farmers.

Brownsville Farmers' Market

Address: 1300 E 6th St, Brownsville, TX 78520

Facebook: Farmers' Market

9. Brownsville Beer Fest

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If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Brownsville in October make sure to stop by the annual beer fest. The festival takes places in Dean Porter Park - a great venue for sitting back and relaxing with a few friends and some quality beers. Accompanying the beer are live music acts from some of the best bands around. Wait for the website to be updates and be sure to book tickets in advance.

Brownsville Beer Fest

Address: Dean Porter Park Courtyard and Pavilion in Brownsville, Texas

Website: Brownsville Beer Fest

10. Boca Chica State Park

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Boca Chica State Park is located near Brownsville on the coast of the Rio Grande. The beach is a haven for those wishing to make the most of the gorgeous Texan weather. Rarely is the beach crowded so its the perfect escape from crowds. If you’re lucky you might see some of the local wildlife enjoying the sandy beaches and grasslands in the area.

Boca Chica Beach

Address: Boca Chica State Park Brownsville, Texas 78521 USA

Website: Boca Chica State Park

Museums and more...

Brownsville is an area of such historic importance its understandable why museums dominate the list best things to do in the area. However there are many other places of interest in the area such as the Boca Chica State Park, Farmers’ Market and South Padre Island Golf Club. head to Brownsville to find out why its so much more than its past.