McAllen offers many places where visitors can learn about the city's cultural heritage and history. The Iwo Jima Monument in nearby Harlingen was used as the casting for the Arlington Cemetery in Washington D.C., according to the McAllen Convention and Visitors Bureau. Other historical sites include the Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center, which also features one of the largest, oldest adobe homes in the Lone Star State, as well as the Veteran's War Memorial of Texas. Area museums include the McAllen Heritage Center and the International Museum of Art and Science.
Check out the art district when visiting McAllen. There are several local galleries and shops on the ArtWalk Venue, such as Art Studio 2008, the Art House Gallery, the restaurant Espana and the Loft Gallery. The downtown area features the renovated El Rey Theater, which offers both modern and classic performances. McAllen also hosts annual events and festivals, such as the McAllen International Travel Show, a Candlelight Posada, the McAllen International Food Festival, the annual Texas Square Dance Jamboree, the Texas Tropics Nature Festival, Tejano Fan Fest and the Starry Nights and Entertainment Festival.
McAllen features some of the best bird and butterfly watching in the Rio Grande Valley. It also offers a premier golfing facility, the Palm View Golf Course. The Hispanic influence on the South Texas town makes it a popular place for organized soccer games.
McAllen's downtown area features high-end boutiques and specialty stores, such as Quinceanera and wedding shops. La Plaza Mall in south McAllen has several stores in one location and is anchored by national department store chains. Serious shoppers can take advantage of the nearby RGV Premium Outlets, which feature more than 140 outlet stores. After a busy day of shopping and sightseeing, visitors can choose from a wide variety of restaurants at Palms Crossing, near the McAllen Convention Center, or restaurants at Trenton Crossing in North McAllen.
