Rio Grande Valley - Tourist Attractions / Parks

The Rio Grande Valley is a birder's paradise and home to many "World Birding Sites," but the Rio Grande is not only attractive to birdwatchers and nature lovers. The Palo Alto Battlefield Natural Historic Site preserves a cordgrass field that served as a decisive battleground in the Mexican-American War. You'll find that South Texas and the Rio Grande in particular has a rich history stretching back centuries, history you can explore by museum. Don't miss the Hidalgo Pumphouse, which may sound uninspiring, but is responsible for turning this landscape from dry ranchland to sub-tropical greenery. Also, don't miss the local arts scene - the live theater is fantastic.