Frequently Asked

  • Q.: McAllen is known for being a Winter Texan magnet. What makes it so attractive to retirees?

    A.: The same things that make McAllen attractive to people of all ages make it a great destination for Winter Texans. McAllen has warm weather, a low cost of living, friendly and helpful people and plenty of activity- from nightlife to musical arts and theatrical performances, to year-round golf and more.  Plus, there are over 500 RV parks in the area, and numerous rental apartments and extended stay hotels. For more on Winter Texan amenities and activities, click here.

    Q.: Why are there so many stores and restaurants in McAllen?

    A.: Even though McAllen has about 130,000 residents, we have as many  stores and restaurants as a city much larger. This is because of the large number of Rio Grande Valley and Mexican National residents who come into McAllen every day to shop, dine, work and be entertained. As a result, McAllen residents enjoy the advantages of a larger city while still having the benefits of a smaller one as well. For more on McAllen’s restaurants, click here  and for shopping, click here.

    Q.: Do I have to fly into Corpus Christi or San Antonio to get to McAllen?

    A.: No. McAllen International Airport offers direct jet service from Dallas, Houston, Memphis, Las Vegas and, during the simmer, Orlando. You may choose from American, Delta, Allegiant, and United/Continental Airlines for service into McAllen, or Southwest with service into the Valley International Airport, about 45 minutes from McAllen. For flight details, click here.

    Q.: There has been a lot of talk about the violence in Mexico, and McAllen is very near the border. Is it safe?

    A.: McAllen was recently ranked as one of the safest cities in Texas. As a matter of fact, many Mexican National families are moving into McAllen to escape the violence in their own country.

    Q.: McAllen is known for wildlife watching opportunities. What is the best time to visit to see the birds and butterflies?

    A.: McAllen, located geographically in the center of the Rio Grande Valley, does offer the perfect places from which to enjoy the Rio Grande Valley’s plentiful nature experiences. Many of the neo-tropical birds people travel here to see live here year-round, but to see the largest variety of species, migration- spring and fall- are the best. Butterflies are easiest to see in October. Many people choose to visit in the winter since our weather is so pleasant then, and many also visit to bird during the summer when they and their families have the time. To learn more about McAllen’s wildlife, click here.

    Q.: McAllen is also becoming known for its support of the arts and entertainment. Why is that?

    A.: McAllen has a very rich arts and entertainment culture. The city hosts Broadway in McAllen, ArtWalk, Music After Hours Concert Series, the Mexican Cultural Art Expo, and numerous other special arts and entertainment events. McAllen is also home to the Valley Symphonic Orchestra, the McAllen Chamber of Commerce Creative Incubator, the Rio Grande Valley Foundation for the Performing Arts, and several more cultural, arts, and entertainment organizations with special events and performances throughout the year.  To find out more, click here.

    Q.: What can you tell me about McAllen’s new Entertainment District?

    A.: Thirty-six bars, lounges and restaurants have opened in the past 18 months in McAllen’s Historic Downtown area.  These establishments, most of which are on 17th Street, are attracting thousands of adults of all ages who want to relax and socialize. Bicycle taxis, or pedicabs, are also running Thursday through Saturday nights. For a full listing of the Entertainment District businesses, click here.

    Q.: How seriously does McAllen take sustainability?

    A.: Very. Our Recycling Center and Keep McAllen Beautiful program have both won awards for leading the State in sustainability and beautification efforts. The city government is committed to making McAllen a green city, and has put several policies in place to encourage sustainability. In addition, the McAllen CVB has recently created a Green Hotel Certification Program, currently with 44% of hotels already participating. To learn more, click here.