19 Best and Fun Things to do in Laredo Tx

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Laredo, TX, then look no further!

Laredo, Texas—a city that sits on the border between Mexico and the United States—has a rich history.

In modern Laredo, the blending of two distinct cultures has made it stand out compared to anything else in Texas. Not only is it the biggest inland port—but also one of the most popular Spanish beach resort towns!

Step into Puebla Vieja and you’ll find all the modern amenities in its cobblestone streets.

The historic city of Rio Grande has reinvented itself as a tourism hub where visitors can enjoy beaches, engage in lively entertainment and attend great festivals.

Are you planning a trip to this city? Here are some of the best things to do in Laredo, TX.

Things to do in Laredo TX

1- Rio grande museum

The Republic of the Río Grande Museum can be found in San Agustín Plaza, which is near Laredo’s downtown area.

Built-in 1830, the building survives as one of Mexico City’s oldest structures. Its vernacular Mexican architecture gives it a uniquely appealing look.

The building once served as the home of the mayor, who was also president of the Republic of the Rio Grande.

The museum now has exhibits that depict an authentic 1830s home from Laredo.

It is one of three historic sites in the city that are most visited—the others being San Agustín Cathedral and La Posada Hotel.

Address: Zaragoza St, Laredo TX 78040

2- Outlet Shoppes at Laredo TX

The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo opened on March 16, 2017, in downtown Laredo.

The River Road Apartments, located in Water Street Laredo off Interstate 35 and developed by the Horizon Group, is owned and managed by them.

The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo has become a favourite shopping destination for South Texas and Northern Mexico, featuring over 50 famous-name brands.

Brand names such as H&M, Nike and Macy’s can be found at the Mexico Mall. There is a parking lot, dining patio—and even a pedestrian bridge over the border to Mexico!

The Outlet Shops at Laredo is open every day of the week except Sundays, when they are open by 11 am and close no later than 7 pm.

Address: 1600 Water St, Laredo, TX 78040

3- Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium

Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium is part of Texas A & M International University’s campus. It would thrill lovers of natural bodies and is another entry on Laredo’s list of top things to do.

This planetarium offers educational events, such as field trips and stargazing sessions.

It is one of the most advanced planetariums in Texas, boasting upgraded technology that allows visitors to view incredible sights from Earth as well as distant celestial bodies.

A unique educational and entertainment facility, it is open for public shows, field trips and stargazing events.

It is among the most advanced planetariums in the state, with upgraded technology for incredible views from Earth—and beyond.

The Digistar 5 takes you on a journey through space, showing you planets and stars as they really are.

Address: 5201 University Boulevard, 373A Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center

4- Mall del Norte

Mall del Norte is Laredo’s famous shopping mall, and it would be your lucky day if you went there.

Mall del Norte is one of the largest malls in Texas, spanning an area of 112,646 square meters (1,212.515 sq ft).

There are over 160 stores inside – including Forever 21, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Macy’s and JCPenney.

With your knowledge, you can find a store that sells most of the things you want. Or browse Mall del Norte and pick up what is missing from the first store.

The museum is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.–9 p.m., and Sunday 12–7 pm.

Address: 5300 San Dario Avenue, Laredo TX 78503

5- Lake Casa Blanca International State Park

Lake Casa Blanca is a reservoir that lies five miles north of downtown Albuquerque and is considered an area landmark.

It was built in the 1950s when a dam created a recreational space for neighbouring counties.

Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, located just outside Laredo, is one of the many fun things to do in and around town.

Fishermen will enjoy the many basses, carp, catfish and carp found in this lake – every other person will find something to do here: boating, skiing, swimming hiking camping or cooking out.

Address: 5102 Bob Bullock Loop, Laredo, TX 78044

6- Laredo Children’s Museum

The Laredo Children’s Museum is an outstanding activity for young people visiting the city, and one of its best attractions.

If you’re visiting Laredo, Texas with your family and friends, then it’s a great opportunity for your kids to learn about the city’s history and culture.

This museum has fantastic exhibits of new and imaginative playthings, such as a Tyrannosaurus rex and touch screens.

Laredo Children’s Museum is an incredible place to visit, especially if you love dinosaurs! Everyone who visits will be blown away by the many exhibits available for kids of all ages.

Address: 5300 San Dario Avenue, Laredo, TX 78041

7- Arena gun club

If you enjoy going to the shooting range as a way of decompressing, or if you appreciate all things gun-related, then Arena Gun Club is for you.

The Arena Gun Club, nick-named a shooter’s paradise, offers an impressive space designed to provide comfort and safety as you spend time honing your skills.

Here, you needn’t be a professional or have any experience in order to enjoy the range. They have certified safety officers and instructors who can teach you how shooting works.

Arena Gun Club has a retail store on-site, so if you want to buy guns (or anything else) while there is no shooting going on, this is the place.

It is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.–10 p.m., and on Sundays from 12–7 p.m.

Arena Gun Club offers some of the best entertainment in Laredo, TX.

Address: 6501 Arena Boulevard, Suite 106, Laredo, Texas 78041

8- Fort McIntosh

The community of Fort McIntosh was founded in 1849. During the American Civil War and Mexican-American War, it served as a base camp for soldiers.

The Battle of Laredo took place near the fort, and some of the “Buffalo Soldiers”—African American units composed largely of freed slaves—were stationed there as well.

During World War I, Fort McIntosh served as a training facility; during the second great war, it was used by various units like the Cavalry Brigade and Civil Air Patrol.

Fort McIntosh is no longer home to the military, but it has been converted into a part of Laredo Community College’s campus.

9- San Agustin de Laredo Historic District

Once dominating the town of Laredo, this historic district is now in the heart of downtown. San Augustin Historic District is a stunning area within walking distance of many attractions and restaurants.

The streets there are paved with brick and the wonderful architecture reflects Spanish and Mexican influences, which can only be found in South Texas. These examples of Spanish Colonization date back to the 19th century.

You will find both the former capital of the Republic of the Rio Grande and its Cathedral here—of course! The area takes its name from them.

10- Children will love the fun at Altitude Trampoline Park

Finally, something exciting and fun awaits your little ones! Come to Altitude Trampoline Park and take a break from everyday life.

This internationally famous Trampoline Park has always been a fantastic place for kids! Indeed, it’s almost impossible to leave once you’ve experienced all its great facilities and exciting parties.

Altitude has three main courts, one for each skill level. Kids enjoy a separate court and ninja course alongside trampoline basketball, gymnastics tumble tracks, foam pits—and more!

Altitude Trampoline Park is a great place to jump and enjoy the view.

Address: 6019 McPherson Rd, Laredo, TX 78041

11- Webb County Heritage Foundation

One of the most celebrated attractions in Laredo is the Webb County Heritage Community Foundation. This foundation maintains a vast archive that tells the story of Laredo and Webb County, Texas.

This location houses a unique and rare collection of documents, maps, photographs, and oral histories—historical records that are important because they document life in times gone by.

This program has served students, genealogists, international tourists, professional writers—as well as first-time visitors and researchers.

Address: 500 Flores Ave, Laredo, TX 78041

12- Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum

The Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum is one of the top things to do in Laredo, TX for history buffs. It’s amazing and worth visiting while you’re in town!

Built early in the 20th century, the museum was originally a two-story brick home where Laredo merchant families lived.

Today, the San Agustín District is known for its grand homes—the Aristocrat’s Quarter.

The Italianate style is easily recognizable, and its appeal cannot be overstated.

The Webb Country Heritage Foundation acquired the house in 2002, and after it had been vacant for several years they started major renovations to restore it.

The museum displays regional history, culture and industry as well as the various ethnicities that make up its population.

13- Visit Los Dos Laredos Park for a picnic

If you think that the region of Laredo, Texas is lacking in great tourist attractions, then you are mistaken.

Los Dos Laredos Park is a beautiful, peaceful place where tourists can enjoy feeling at home.

The park is well maintained because of its use in hosting a variety of exciting cultural events during the sunny summer.

Los Dos Laredos Park is a great place for family gatherings and picnics, especially if you like the riverfront.

Visiting Los Dos Laredos Park is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Laredo, TX with your family.

Address: 2201 Piedra China Street, Laredo, TX 78043

14- Walk through the historic Zaragoza Street, a favourite of poets and revolutionaries

Now, you can explore the historic district of Zaragoza Street! That will be a blast.

The Zaragoza district is a popular spot in the county, exciting locals and visitors alike with its authenticity, fine range of cosy little shops, lovely cobblestone streets—and traditional dining establishments.

You will find an American Legion on the east side of town, as well as a variety of shops and architectural highlights.

So while in Laredo, check out Zaragoza Street!

Address: Zaragoza Street, Laredo, TX 78040

15- Visit Uni-Trade Stadium to watch the game or attend a concert

If you are visiting Laredo, TX and have an interest in baseball, Uni-Trade Stadium is a must. It boasts seating for several thousands of spectators and presents exciting games throughout the entire season.

This stadium has hosted several teams, ranging from the Laredo Lemurs (a baseball team in the American Association) to the Tecolotes de Los Dos Laredos—a bi-national Mexican League professional baseball squad.

In addition to housing the home teams of Uni-Trade Stadium, concerts are held there as well. Youth soccer leagues and youth/pep baseball games also take place at this stadium.

So, if you’re a baseball fan and in the area for a game or maybe a concert, stop by.

Address: Sinatra Parkway, Laredo, Texas 78045

16- The beauty of Casa Ortiz Laredo TX

Casa Ortiz was built in the early 19th century and now makes up part of Laredo’s historical district. Beautiful gardens surround it, and it offers incredible views of Mexico.

Its initial purpose was to provide a place of rest for travellers coming from Mexico, and it became popular because of the gracious hospitality shown by its residents as well as gunfights between raiding parties and the locals.

Casa Ortiz is a historical landmark that once served as a sanctuary for Catholic clergy in Mexico during the early 20th century. Now home to Texas A&M International University and used for events, educational sessions, and tours.

Opening hours are 8 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday (and closed on Saturdays & Sundays).

Address: Laredo, TX 78040, 915 Zaragoza Street

17- Go birding is one of the best things to do in Laredo TX

Birding in South Texas is so good that many consider it one of the best places in North America to see birds.

Laredo, in particular, is a great spot for birders because it lies on the banks of the Rio Grande.

January and February are the peak months for bird migration; during those two months, roughly 240 bird species can be seen in different areas.

If you visit Laredo in February, make sure not to miss the Laredo Birding Festival—it offers seminars that will improve your bird-watching skills as well as field trips to some of the best local bird habitats.

In 2010, a female Amazon Kingfisher—a rare sight in North America—was spotted near Laredo.

Laredo has a rich, diverse river ecosystem and is home to hundreds of species of local and migratory birds—including the White-collared Seedeater, Gray Hawk, Scaled Quail; Audubon’s Oriole; Green Parakeet (parrots); Clay-coloured Thrush & Red-billed Pigeons.

18- Max A. Mandel Municipal Golf Course

For green lovers, here is something.

Max A. Mandel’s Par 72 golf course spreads across 270 acres of rugged south Texas landscape, with arroyos and 100-year-old mesquite trees incorporated into its design.

The course offers dramatic changes in elevation but maintains a strong link between the natural and man-made elements of its design.

The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II, a famous architect, and five different sets of tees cater to golfers of all skill levels—from 7,069 yards from the back tees down to 4,759 for players using the forward ones.

Address: Laredo, TX 78045-5022, 27700 FM 1472

19- Zacate Creek

If you are interested in history, visiting Zacate Creek should be added to your list of fun things to do while vacationing or living in Laredo, TX.

Zacate Creek is a major watercourse that runs ten miles within the city limits of San Antonio. The creek was critical during the American Civil War when Union Army troops tried to raid and torch 5000 bales of hay belonging to Confederate forces—but failed.

Colonel Santos Benavides, with only 42 men and horses at his command, attacked the Union army three times in what is now known as the Battle of Laredo.

Today, the town has transformed into a thriving community with many parks and greenways. The three-mile trail follows the creek that runs through it.

Don’t miss a visit to Zacate Creek if you are in Laredo.

Is Laredo Texas worth visiting?

Laredo, Texas is located on the United States-Mexico border. It has been used as a crossing point for centuries and is known for its rich history.

Modern-day Laredo is a unique mix of two cultures: it’s the largest inland port in Texas and one of the most visited Spanish beach resorts.

What is Laredo famous for?

The oldest crossing point along the U.S.-Mexico border, Laredo is today home to one of the largest inland ports in North America. This has allowed it to thrive while blending two distinct cultures—American and Mexican.

Conclusion:

Laredo‘s beautiful and peaceful city is a magnet for tourists.

Laredo has a rich history and many interesting things to see, making it the perfect destination for families.

To help you get started planning your next vacation, pin this guide to make a list of fun things to do in Laredo, Tx.