Lifestyle

Rio Grande Valley: South Texas Snowbird Capital & Year-Round R&R Magnet

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Tony Maples Photography

 

“Snowbirds,” as they refer to them up north, are those that make their way to warmer abodes from approximately late October through to March. Many of them will have left the Rio Grande Valley, here in Texas, by the time this article hits the worldwide web, but for those few months, well over 100,000 temporary residents make this part of South Texas their home. And with good reason! Permanent residents that don’t want to miss out on the year-round lifestyle, however, are the true winners in this Lone Star State respite of recreation and relaxation.

Rio Grande Valley: South Texas’ Snowbird Capital & Year-Round R&R Magnet

Photo: Facebook/Yachticist

If, by chance, you’ve ever wanted to learn how to scuba dive, you’ll have ample opportunity in “the Valley,” as it’s called by locals. There are two spots where you can take training and make trips; one is near Port Mansfield and the other near Port Isabel. Take the chance to dive a wreck or see endangered sea turtles while diving near South Padre Island!

Rio Grande Valley: South Texas’ Snowbird Capital & Year-Round R&R Magnet

Photo: Facebook/Children’s Museum of Brownsville

If you’re into museums, you can check out the Texas Conjunto Music Museum and Hall of Fame as well as the Freddy Fender Museum – both in San Benito! Or you could see vintage air force memorabilia at the Commemorative Air Force Museum, and take your kids or grandkids to the interactive Children’s Museum, both in Brownsville.

Rio Grande Valley: South Texas’ Snowbird Capital & Year-Round R&R Magnet

Photo: Facebook/Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park – Texas Parks and Wildlife

And if you would like to experience nature, the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is located in Mission, Texas, not far from the National Butterfly Center. The park itself is a world-class site for bird watching and is part of the World Birding Center. For assistance in looking up more great Rio Grande Valley attractions, visit Travel South Texas for links to historical sites, sightseeing opportunities, and great family-fun-filled places to visit.