Scratch the surface of Brownsville and experience the city in 48 hours with this itinerary guide. This itinerary guide requires a high pace and covers everything that is offered by Brownsville. So, get ready for a sensory explosion-
Image by Jaedza at the English language Wikipedia [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/), GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)], from Wikimedia Commons
Day 1 in Brownsville
9:00am- Breakfast at Mi Pueblito Restaurant!
Start your day 1 in Brownsville with partake of some delicious traditional Mexican breakfast at the Mi Pueblito Restaurant. Breakfast faves include chilaquiles, fajitas, Mi Pueblito specials, homemade salsa and heuvos motulenos.
Address: 3101 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78526, United States
Phone: 1 956-350-9696
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 7:30am-10:30pm; Friday & Saturday: 7:30am-11:30pm; Sunday: 7:30am-10:00pm
10:00am- Remember the first battle of U.S.-Mexican War at Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site!
Visit the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site, which was the site of the 1846 U.S.- Mexican War first battle. The site features the original battlefield and the related artifacts from that period. There is a visitor center onsite which holds plenty of artifacts and a 15-minutes video that highlights the battlefield and war history. After visiting the visitor center, stroll along the half-mile trail that provides a glimpse of the actual battlefield. Also, on the 1st Saturday of the month from September to May, historical reenactments are conducted that tell the story of the war of 1846.
Address: 7200 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville, TX 78526, United States
Phone: 1 956-541-2785
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Distance from Mi Pueblito Restaurant: 5.1 miles or 10 minutes drive via E Morrison Rd and Paredes Line Rd
12:00pm- Bird-watching and hike/bike or walk at Resaca De La Palma State Park!
A few minutes’ drive via the TX-550 will bring you to the Resaca De La Palma State Park, which is a beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers a sanctuary for several migratory and native bird species. Catch a glimpse of several different bird species and spot some local wildlife. It also features about 8-miles of trails that are perfect for biking, hiking or walking. It provides Ranger programs that cover yoga in the park, butterfly and bird walks, junior ranger camp and archery. Amble along the trail and explore the area!
Address: 1000 New Carmen Avenue, Brownsville, TX 78521, United States
Phone: 1 956-350-2920
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Distance from Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site: 8.6miles or 14 minutes drive via TX-550 Frontage Rd
1:00pm- Lunch!
Head to Golden Corral (4555 N., Belden West Brownsville Cycle and Pedestrian Trail) for some American fare. In mood for hamburgers and chicken wings, make your way over to Wing Barn Olmito (7097 US-77, Olmito). For seafood, stop by Dirty Al’s (4495 North Expressway 77). For Mexican, head to Tacos Campeon (4365 N Expressway #300).
2:00pm- Browse the wonderful fine art collection at Brownsville Museum of Fine Art!
Calling all the fine art lovers! The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art features a perfectly curated permanent as well as temporary collection. The permanent collection includes works of art by notable artists like Alexander Calder, James Whistler, Augustus John, Marc Chagall and N.C. Wyeth. The museum also houses the oldest frame house of the city- the Neale House of 1834; as well as the Fort Brown Bandstand. Be sure to drop by the museum store that has plenty of gift items.
Address: 660 E Ringgold Street, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-542-0941
Opening hours: Monday & Tuesday: 10:00am-5:00pm; Wednesday: 10:00am-8:00pm; Thursday-Friday: 10:00am-5:00pm; Sunday: 10:00am-4:00pm
3:00pm- Explore the Brownsville’s past at The Stillman House Museum!
Then, walk to the Stillman House Museum and take in some more history of Brownsville. The Stillman House Museum features the story of the evolution of Brownsville. The Stillman House was constructed in 1850 by Charles Stillman for his wife. It is one of the wonderful examples of the Greek Revival-style architecture in the city. Now, it is a museum that houses an extensive collection of costumes, maps, photos, artifacts and memorabilia that depict the past of the city.
Address: 1325 E Washington Street, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-541-5560
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00am-4:00pm; Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm
Distance from Brownsville Museum of Art: 1.3miles or 6minutes drive
4:00pm- Spot the wildlife at Gladys Porter Zoo!
Next, visit the Gladys Porter Zoo that holds about 1,600 animal and plant species from Tropical America, Indo-Australia, Africa and Asia. Encounter different species of animals like komodo dragons, macaws, gorillas, Caribbean flamingos, orangutans, magpie geese, white rhinos, kangaroos, tigers and more. It also has an animal contact yard, nursery, a herpetarium and an aquatic center with stingrays, sharks and more. Hop on a train tour and explore the zoo!
Address: 500 E Ringgold Street, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-546-7187
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00am-5:30pm; Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Distance from The Stillman House Museum: 1.2miles or 6minutes drive
5:00pm-Shopping!
A 5-minute walk from the Gladys Porter Zoo will bring you to the Junk-N-Treasure store that features vintage treasures and collectibles. It has a vast collection of items for home, repurposed windows, antique tables, armoires and other one-of-a-king treasures at reasonable price. A perfect spot for antiques collectors!
Address: 210A Palm Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-204-4345
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:00am-6:00pm
Distance from Gladys Porter Zoo: 1.3miles or 5minutes drive
Next, head to the Pokey's Planet, a specialty store with chic women wear. Pick up a stylish and modern outfit paired with chic accessory from this store. It has a good collection of women attire for all the seasons.
Address: 2834 Boca Chica Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-541-1441
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00am-8:00pm; Friday & Saturday: 10:00am-10:00pm
Distance from Junk-N-Treasure: 2.3miles or 9minutes drive
7:00pm- Restaurants renaissance!
Evening starts with delicious supper and drinks! Hunger pangs and thirst quench can be satiated at-
Vermillion Restaurant: Dating back to 1934, the Vermillion Restaurant (115 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville, TX 78521, United States) serves up delectable Tex-Mex food. Favorites include chicken fried steak, fajita nachos, beef platter, Vermillion wings, shrimp, chalupas and tacos. Pair your meal with a drink from their extensive cocktail list.
Another perfect supper option is the La Pampa Argentinean Steakhouse (1655 Ruben M Torres Sr Blvd # 208, Brownsville, TX 78521, United States) that serves up Argentinean-style cuisine with a European spin. It boasts a good selection of wine list to complement your meal.
For authentic Thai food, make your way over to Sasi's Thai Restaurant (2100 FM802, Brownsville, TX 78526, United States). Vibrant and delicious Thai food paired with a glass of wine make up for an exquisite supper.
10:00pm- Bar Hopping!
After dinner, time to paint the town red!
Head to Cobbleheads where you can sip on a few drinks, while munching on tasty American and Mexican bites. Plus, there are live acts nightly. The major draw is its location- it is a waterfront nightspot offering stunning views of the city. Beautiful vistas, live music, drinks and lively crowd, all create a perfect ambiance for a stellar night experience!
Address: 3154 Central Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-546-6224
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday: 11:00am-12:00am; Thursday to Saturday: 11:00am-2:00am
Next, head to Shenanigan's Irish Pub & Grill, an Irish pub that features live bands, an extensive selection of draft beers and eclectic food. Catch up with friends over drinks at this spot!
Address: 2451 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78526, United States
Phone: 1 956-986-2337
Opening hours: Monday & Tuesday: 3:00pm-2:00am; Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00pm-2:00am
Day 2 in Brownsville
9:00am- Breakfast at Toddle Inn Restaurant!
Sit down to relish a scrumptious breakfast at the Toddle Inn Restaurant. It serves up Mexican and American cuisine that will fuel you up for the day ahead. The setting is friendly and inviting. Some of the delicious highlights on the menu include heuvos rancheros, flour tortilla tacos, hash browns, salsa and several other Tex-Mex specials.
Address: 1740 Central Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-542-8838
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 6:00am-2:00pm; Saturday: 6:00am-2:30pm; Sunday: 7:00am-2:00pm
10:00am-Immerse yourself in Brownsville’s history at Historic Brownsville Museum!
After fueling your body with a hearty breakfast, take a few minutes’ walk towards the Historic Brownsville Museum. Nestled in a Southern Pacific Depot, the Historic Brownsville Museum highlights the early history of Brownsville through exhibits. It features photographs, agricultural and ranching tools, furnishings, historical and military artifacts that highlight the Brownsville’s history. It also has a steam locomotive of 1872. From the Mexican-American war to American Civil War and the Battle of Palo Alto, everything is featured here through exhibits.
Address: 641 E Madison Street, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-548-1313
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00am-4:00pm
Distance from Toddle Inn Restaurant: 1.9miles or 8minutes drive
12:00pm- Pop into Children’s Museum of Brownsville!
Next, head to Children’s Museum of Brownsville that features plethora of interactive exhibits for kids of all ages. It houses several themed exhibits like Back on the Farm, Health Clinic, The Weather Station, La Plaza, All World’s Cafe and many more that allow kids to use their creativity and imagination to learn some exciting, fun and new things about the surroundings and the world. The experience here is engaging and immersive.
Address: 501 E Ringgold Street #5, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-548-9300
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00am-5:00pm; Sunday: 12:00pm-4:00pm
Distance from Historic Brownsville Museum: 0.9miles or 3minutes drive
1:00pm- Lunch!
Head to Chicken Run BBQ (Palm Village Shopping Center, 1552 Palm Blvd #18) that serves delicious succulent BBQ food. In mood for Mexican food, swing by El Pollo Loco (54, 83 S Expy) or Taco Palenque (1803 Boca Chica Blvd). For seafood, make your way over to The Oyster Bar (153 Paredes Line Rd).
2:00pm-Loose yourself in the American culture through traditional costumes and textiles at Costumes of the Americas Museum!
Visit the Costumes of the Americas Museum wherein your can experience Central, South and North American culture. The museum features an extensive collection of traditional clothing and accessories of America. It has attires for religious ceremonies, tribal clothing, formal occasion and everyday life clothing. Dyeing, hand-work beading, weaving, embroidery and more forms of costumes are on display. Highlights include A Stroll through Mexico, Common Threads that is clothing of Western Hemisphere, Oaxaca clothing, Brazilian Samba costume, and many more. In addition to colorful costumes, it also houses traditional crafts, art and handicrafts. Experience the history, tradition and culture of America in a different way at this museum!
Address: 501 E Ringgold Street # 5, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-547-6890
3:00pm- Some more Brownsville’s history at Old City Cemetery!
Next, head to the Old City Cemetery, which is a resting place of the earliest citizens of the area. It has graves of victims of gunfights and wars, and notable community figures. The designs of the graces reflect the French-Spanish effect in the area. Know the tidbits of Brownsville’s past here!
Address: Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Distance from Costumes of the Americas: 1.3miles or 6minutes drive via E 6th Street
4:00pm-Time for some retail therapy!
Start your shopping excursion at the Sunrise Mall that houses more than 100 stores and is anchored by the Sears, Dick’s Sporting Goods, JCPenney, Bealls and Dillard’s. Other popular stores featured here include Bebe, A’gaci, Gap, Express, American Eagle Outfitters, Aldo, Old Navy, G by Guess, Victoria’s Secret and many more. Shop ‘til you drop!
Address: 2370 North Expy, Brownsville, TX 78521, United States
Phone: 1 956-541-5302
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00am-9:00pm; Sunday: 12:00pm-7:00pm
After some stylish and in-vogue shopping, shop for some unique items and vintage treasures at Little Shabby Garden Shop. This shop boasts a vast collection of antiques and collectibles, including time pieces, vintage housewares, etchings, vitrines and other colorful household items.
Address: 2900 Central Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
Phone: 1 956-459-5627
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:30am-6:00pm; Saturday: 11:00am-5:00pm; Sunday: 12:00pm-5:00pm
Distance from Sunrise Mall: 1.3miles or 6minutes drive
7:00pm- Dinner!
Brownsville offers plenty of restaurants catering to all tastes and price-range. To satiate your cravings, head to Toscafino Restaurant (3001 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78526, United States) that serves up Italian food, or swing by Madeira Restaurant (805 Media Luna Rd #800, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States) that serves up Argentinean-style meat and seafood.
10:00pm- Night on the town!
Energy levels still soaring high, Brownsville nightlife awaits…
End your day with a beer and music at The Bar. It has an extensive cocktail list filled with beer, wine and other libations. Sip tipples while enjoying the music spun by the DJs. Patrons can belt out a few songs at the Karaoke. The DJs create an incredible ambiance that impels everyone to groove.
Address: 1900 N Expressway, Brownsville, TX 78521, United States
Phone: 1 956-548-2277
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 4:00pm-2:00am
Day 2 in Brownsville Map Guide
