Where to stay in Harlingen
Courtyard by Marriott Harlingen
1725 W Filmore Avenue At, South Expressway 83, Harlingen
Minutes from South Padre Island and the Mexican border, this recently renovated three-star hotel has modern amenities, from its pool and spa to business suites. The added bonus of an outdoor barbeque area, and its hosting of events like Rio Fest, make it an excellent choice for a vacation or business trip.
Hampton Inn & Suites Harlingen
1202 N Ed Carey Drive, Harlingen
Impeccably maintained rooms and all necessary amenities are to be found at the three-star Hampton Inn. Just a half-mile from the Arroyo Colorado River, this hotel provides a great base for those who enjoy the active life. Take a scenic park walk in the evening or enjoy the fitness center before taking a relaxing dip in the outdoor pool.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
3825 S Expressway 83, Harlingen
Positioned close to the Hugh Ramsey Nature Park and a short drive from Valley International Airport, the three-star Country Inn’s rooms and suites have all you’d expect, from flat-screen TVs to coffee makers and microwaves, and some feature whirlpool tubs for those really wanting to kick back and relax after a busy day out.
Where to eat in Harlingen
Colletti’s Italian Restaurant
202 S 1st Street, Harlingen
The family-owned Colletti’s aims to deliver a homely, traditional experience for its guests with their solid take on classic Italian dishes, and with a real focus on American favorites, like their creamy chicken alfredo. Leave room for dessert too as their baked pecan custard is not to be missed.
La Playa Mexican Cafe
502 S 77 Sunshine Strip, Harlingen
If tasty Mexican food with a twist is your thing, then you’ll love La Playa. With a menu that’s as extensive as it is delicious, their takes on classic dishes, like their devil’s backbone or chipotle fajitas, will hit all the right spots with those looking for full-bodied taste.
Laurel Park Bistro
901 S 77 Sunshine Strip, Harlingen
With this French-inspired Modern American restaurant, you really do get the best of both worlds. Especially when you take on their weekend brunch menu where French omelet with locally sourced produce sit comfortably alongside biscuits and gravy for a great value experience.
What to do in Harlingen
Iwo Jima Memorial Museum
320 Iwo Jima Boulevard, Harlingen
Harlingen’s most iconic monument depicting the raising of the American Flag at Iwo Jima, sits close to the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen and close to the museum where you can explore the significant military history of the region. With welcoming and knowledgeable staff, a gift shop and a chance to get your picture taken in front of this important American landmark, this is a great stop off for families on vacation in the area.
Gladys Porter Zoo
500 E Ringgold Street, Brownsville
Jump in the car for a short 30 min drive to Brownsville and visit this large zoological and botanical park that prides itself on the conservation of endangered species like the Western lowland gorilla, tiger and Philippine crocodile. Follow your site map to tour the outside environments, then take a walk around some of the specially air-conditioned exhibits inside the main building.
South Padre Island
Area Code 956
Don’t leave Harlingen without taking a drive across to South Padre Island, an unspoiled barrier island with beautiful white sandy beaches and calm blue waters. Treat the family to a day of fun and sun and make the most of everything from bird and dolphin watching to water parks and parasailing.