South Texas Plains, Texas
Say hello to the Alamo - and adios to the winter blues and the summer doldrums. Soak up some sun in the tropical Rio Grande Valley. Stroll the streets of Laredo. Attend a fiesta, admire a Picasso, and savor a salsa-spiced snack. You will soon find that there is nothing plain about the South Texas Plains. Throughout the year, this fascinating region, from San Antonio to the Rio Grande, offers delights, muy especial!
Explore South Texas Plains
The Alamo
The most famous spot in Texas, where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Anna's army. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo) was established in 1718 as the city'
San Antonio, TX MissionsShary-Shivers Estate
Was home of John H. Shary, known as father of Texas citrus industry, first to grow fruit commercially. Later the home became the valley residence for Governor and Mrs. Allan Shivers. Across from house is Shary Memorial Chapel and park, maintained as memorial to Shary;
Mission, TX Historic HomesPopeye Statue
Whimsical salute to area spinach crop depicts the cartoon sailor man; a favorite spot for snapshots with children; downtown city square.
Crystal City, TX ArtsOrange Grove Area Museum
Historic artifacts and other memorabilia recall the history and German influence in the area. Exhibits include a replica of an early dry good store, the old post office front from the 1920s, and one of the first pianos to arrive in the area in the early 1800s. (It has only 85 keys.)
Orange Grove, TX MuseumsFort Ringgold
One of Texas' best preserved old military posts; named for Maj. David Ringgold, first army officer killed in Battle of Palo Alto that opened Mexican War. Established after Mexican War for protection against Indians and to assure Rio Grande as national boundary; deactivated in 1944
Rio Grande City, TX FortsParks
Adventure park east off Texas 85 has picnicking facilities, softball and baseball diamonds, basketball and volleyball courts, swimming pool, a scenic miniature golf course, and a lighted jogging trail. City Park on Main St. has a delightful gazebo and picnic tables and grills are available.
Dilley, TX ParksInternational Racetrack Association
Drag racing every other Sat. Feb. - Nov. Nine miles north on U.S. 281;
Edinburg, TX Race TracksSunderland's Cactus Garden
Five acres of native and exotic cacti and succulents; among thousands of plants is the largest nursery-grown cactus in Texas, a 25
Alamo, TX Gardens