Brownsville, Texas: Beyond the Headlines of a South Texas Border Town

Morning:

• Coffee: Stop at 7th & Park Coffee for a locally brewed pick-me-up.

• Breakfast / Brunch: For a quick and delicious no-frills spot, check out Emilias. There are various locations around the city, all of them serving authentic food from the valley.

Museums and historical sites:

• Gladys Porter Zoo: Begin your day at this world-class zoo. It’s not just a zoo; it’s also a botanical garden, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna from around the globe.

• Costumes of the Americas Museum: A hidden gem that highlights traditional dress from different regions of the Americas. A wonderful place to pick up a few local souvenirs.

• Afternoon: Stroll Through Downtown Brownsville.

• Downtown Brownsville is a charming blend of rich history and vibrant culture, with beautifully preserved architecture and a lively arts scene. Stroll through its streets to discover unique shops, local eateries and the captivating stories of its past.

• Walk through Market Square, where you’ll find charming shops and street art celebrating local heritage.

Please stop by Buho while you are down there, say hi to owner Gabriel while browsing their local authors section and learn about the unique border struggle and culture. After Barnes & Nobel closed their store in Brownsville, Gabriel realized that Brownsville was the largest city in the USA that didn’t have a book store. From selling books at a pop up market to standing up and fighting for the citizens of Brownsville, we now have this book store that’s more community center than anything.

Walk on over to JDZ, a local boutique founded by Jazmin D. Zavala, a Latina entrepreneur who wanted to create a space for fashion-forward individuals to find unique and stylish clothing. The brand blends modern trends with timeless designs, focusing on offering chic, high-quality clothing that caters to both casual and formal wear.

You are likely hungry, and with various options in the downtown area, be sure to save room to try a few! Check out Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen for innovative Mexican cuisine in a modern setting. For a taste of local history, visit The Half Moon Saloon, a historic spot with great food and live music. Dodici Pizza and Wine is one of my favorites for a lunch with friends or a homey dinner (be sure to check the hours on the website.)

Morning:

• Breakfast/ Brunch: La Vaquita, a mix of Mexican bakery and delicious Mexican breakfast items. It is hard to turn down one of their flour tortillas. Try one of their Agua Frescas — a crowd-pleaser!

Hidden gems in Brownsville

• Take a Hike at the Brownsville Nature Trail: For a more immersive experience in nature, visit the Brownsville Nature Trail. It's a peaceful spot for hiking, birdwatching, and photography amidst the area's natural beauty.

• Resaca de la Palma State Park: A peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Hike along its scenic trails and enjoy the serene waterways.

• Historic Palo Alto Battlefield: Step back in time and learn about the first major battle of the U.S.-Mexico War.

Afternoon: The Plaza

• Spend the afternoon in this family-owned Plaza. Start at Nerve Coffee and take your time walking around the Plaza where it is located. A perfect blend of local shops and artisans.

• Its likely time for a cold one, stop by La Machela a family owned restaurant and beer join boasting over 50 taps! Say Hi to owners Samantha & Eric, tell them Bridgette sent ya!

Dinner: Tex - mex

• Restaurant Recommendation: The Vermillion

• A Brownsville staple, this restaurant serves authentic Tex-Mex dishes. Try their enchiladas or their famous chile rellenos. My favorite is any of the nachos, say hi to my younger cousin John while you are there!

Regardless of religious affiliation, Brownsville is home to some stunning churches that are rich in history, architecture and culture. These churches not only serve as places of worship but also stand as beautiful landmarks that reflect the city's heritage. Here are my favorites:

• Holy Trinity Episcopal Church: Holy Trinity is another notable Episcopalian church in Brownsville. It has a warm and inviting ambiance with a strong emphasis on community and service. The church offers beautiful services and a meaningful worship experience, with traditional Episcopal architecture and design.

• Immaculate Conception Cathedral: This stunning cathedral in downtown Brownsville is an architectural gem with its beautiful stained glass windows and historic significance. It’s one of the most iconic churches in the area and a must-see for visitors.

• San Juan Bautista Church: Located in the historic district, San Juan Bautista is a charming church with lovely Spanish colonial-style architecture. The interior features beautiful religious art, and its peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place for reflection.

Barbacoa in Brownsville is a traditional Mexican dish that typically consists of slow-cooked, tender beef (often from the cheek or head). I is seasoned with spices, wrapped in leaves and cooked until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s commonly served with tortillas, salsa and sides like beans and rice.

Where to get Barbacoa in Brownsville:

• La Casa del Barbacoa: Known for its delicious, authentic barbacoa, this local favorite serves up tender meat cooked to perfection. You can enjoy it in tacos, or with tortillas and traditional sides.

• Barbacoa El Rancho: A great spot for barbacoa lovers, serving this traditional dish alongside other Mexican specialties. Their barbacoa is often served with fresh, homemade tortillas.

You will likely need a nap at this point, but if you still have some energy, there are a few more spots to see!

Take a Boat Tour at the Brownsville Navigation District: Explore the Port of Brownsville on a boat tour and enjoy the sights of the working port, marine life and bird-watching opportunities.

Visit the Camille Playhouse: Catch a local theater performance at this community-driven venue that features a variety of productions, including musicals, dramas and family-friendly shows.