Known as the "Gateway to Mexico," Laredo is on the banks of the Rio Grande River, across from its sister town of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Like many Texas border towns, it's a blend of Mexican and Texan cultures. You can park at the International Bridge and walk across to Nuevo Laredo, where you can shop for Mexican handicrafts at the outdoor shopping strip of El Mercado or visit the city's Cultural Center.
Walking is also the best and easiest way to fully enjoy the historic districts of downtown Laredo. The city's Chamber of Commerce provides an excellent map if you want to explore on your own, and free guided historic walking tours are available on Fridays and Saturdays.
Laredo's neighborhoods, or barrios, reflect a blend of Mexican and American styles. Small business districts are located in many of the barrios, and include grocery stores, tortillerias, barbershops and more. El Azteca is one of the oldest barrios, with over 140 buildings eligible for the National Register.
Because of its semi-tropical climate, Laredo is the northernmost point in the range of tropical birds. A convergence of flyways brings another wide variety of birds to the area. It's also on the 100th meridian, a common division marker for "Eastern Birds" and "Western Birds." All these combine to make Laredo an important and popular spot for birders.
150 miles south of San Antonio, Laredo is on I-35 and east along US 59.
