Things to Do in McAllen (2025)

A 1930s adobe estate turned urban bird sanctuary where Tamaulipan thornforest meets culture. Highlighted by the Cornell Lab’s All About Birds and embraced by Valley naturalists, it’s magical at golden hour when chachalacas call and owls wake.

A Smithsonian Affiliate and AAM-accredited museum blending Latin American art with hands-on science. Often recommended by Explore McAllen and regional guides, its Science On a Sphere shows are a favorite; first-Thursday evenings add extra buzz.

A 1947 Art Moderne landmark reborn as an indie venue. Celebrated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and covered locally for ongoing 2025 concerts, it remains a cornerstone of Mexican American culture on 17th Street.

Family-run since 1998, this gallery presents Spanish Colonial artifacts, Old West pieces, and regional fine art in a mission-inspired space. Noted by local arts writers and Explore RGV, it’s an eye-opening walk through borderland history.

A volunteer-powered museum housed in the historic former post office. Profiled by Texas Time Travel and Winter Texan Times, it rotates exhibits on local pioneers, businesses, and neighborhood stories—plus an Artist’s Corner with works by locals.

A Texas Department of Agriculture–certified, GO TEXAN member market spotlighted by Explore McAllen. Saturdays year-round bring citrus, greens, eggs, salsas, and artisan goods—direct from RGV producers—with community demos sprinkled in.

A beloved studio since 1985 offering copper-foil and fused-glass classes. Its 2025 schedule invites beginners to craft tiles, panels, or night-lights—a hands-on keepsake and a relaxed way to meet the Art Village community.

Part gallery, part school run by artist-educators. With 2025 workshops and summer ArtVentures, it’s frequently noted by Explore McAllen for community programming—a welcoming spot to meet working Valley artists and try new mediums.

Chef Larry and Jessica Delgado’s flagship, credited by Texas Highways with broadening McAllen’s palate. Expect RGV-sourced ingredients, a lively chef’s counter, and thoughtful cocktails; locals treat it as a rite of passage.

Independently owned and locally loved for agave-forward drinks, live music, and regionally inspired plates. Current hours and menus show steady buzz; reservations via major platforms confirm it’s a popular night out.

McAllen’s pioneer ale house in the Arts District, known for a deep craft-beer list and late-night kitchen. Noted in local roundups and current review sites, it’s a relaxed place to mingle with regulars.

An independent café that doubles as a creative hub. Explore McAllen lists open mics, maker markets, and workshops with local writers and artists—order a latte and settle in for poetry or live tunes.