10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Laredo, Texas (Webb County)
If you’re looking for a South Texas getaway with history, culture, and great food,
Laredo, Texas deserves a spot on your list. Sitting right on the Rio Grande in
Webb County, Laredo offers a unique blend of American and Mexican traditions you won’t find anywhere else in the USA.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from San Antonio, driving through on I‑35, or visiting family, here are
10 things to do in and near Laredo that will keep you busy, full, and seriously impressed.
1. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Laredo & San Agustín Plaza
If you want to feel the heart of Laredo, start downtown. The area around
San Agustín Plaza is one of the oldest parts of the city and still feels a bit like stepping into another era.
You can:
- Walk the cobblestone-style streets around the plaza
- Check out the historic buildings and colorful storefronts
- Pop into little shops selling boots, hats, jewelry, and gifts
- Grab a coffee or Mexican pastry and people-watch from a bench
On a warm evening, the plaza really comes alive. Families gather, kids play, and the church bells echo through the square. It’s simple, but it’s also one of those experiences that sticks with you long after you leave.
2. Visit the Beautiful San Agustín Cathedral
Right on the plaza, you’ll see the elegant
San Agustín Cathedral, a landmark that dates back to the 1800s. Even if you’re not usually into churches, this one is worth a quiet visit.
Step inside to see:
- Tall vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows
- Soft, peaceful lighting and old wooden pews
- Religious art and historic details
It’s a great spot to cool off from the South Texas heat and take a moment to slow down. If you enjoy photography, the cathedral and surrounding plaza are full of nice angles and textures.
3. Dive Into History at the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum
Did you know Laredo was once the capital of a short‑lived country? The
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum tells that story.
Located in one of the oldest buildings in Laredo, this small museum packs in a lot of local history:
- Learn about the brief “Republic of the Rio Grande” experiment
- See period furniture, documents, and artifacts
- Get a feel for what life was like here in the 1800s
It’s not a huge place, so you won’t spend hours here, but it gives great context to everything you’ll see in downtown Laredo. History buffs, this one is for you.
4. Explore Lake Casa Blanca International State Park
If you’re craving fresh air and open space, head to
Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, just a short drive from central Laredo.
This is one of the best outdoor things to do in Laredo:
- Swim or wade in the lake on a hot day
- Rent a kayak, canoe, or bring your own small boat
- Try your luck fishing from the shore or a pier
- Hike or bike on easy trails
- Set up a picnic under a shady pavilion
If you’re traveling in an RV or love camping, you can even spend the night. Waking up by the lake with a cup of coffee in hand is hard to beat.
5. Walk or Bike Along the Rio Grande & Enjoy Scenic Views
Because Laredo sits right on the
Rio Grande, you can get some pretty unique views of the river and the international border.
Check out:
- Riverside trails and parks where you can walk, jog, or bike
- Lookout points with views across to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico
- Peaceful morning walks when the air is cooler
It’s fascinating to stand there and realize you’re looking into another country just across the water. If you’ve only seen the border on TV, seeing it in real life feels very different—much more human and everyday.
6. Experience Border Art at the Laredo Center for the Arts
For a dose of local creativity, step into the
Laredo Center for the Arts in downtown. This community-focused art center usually has rotating exhibits that highlight:
- Local and regional artists from South Texas and Northern Mexico
- Border-themed photography, painting, and mixed media
- Cultural events, workshops, and performances (depending on the schedule)
If you enjoy seeing how a place expresses itself through art, this is where you’ll get a feel for Laredo’s identity—proud, bilingual, and a little bit rebellious in the best way.
7. Taste Authentic Tex‑Mex & Border-Style Food
You can’t talk about things to do in Laredo without talking about
food. This is one of the best places in Texas to eat real Tex‑Mex and authentic Mexican dishes.
Some must-try options include:
- Breakfast tacos loaded with eggs, chorizo, and cheese
- Carne asada hot off the grill
- Tamales around the holidays (and often year-round)
- Street‑style tacos with fresh cilantro and lime
- Pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread) with coffee
In Laredo, many places are family-owned and have been around for years. Don’t be shy about asking locals where they like to eat. You’ll usually get at least three strong opinions—and all of them will probably be good.
8. Discover Local Culture During Washington’s Birthday Celebration
If you happen to visit in late January or February, you might catch one of the biggest events in town: the
Washington’s Birthday Celebration. This long-running festival is a huge deal in Laredo and one of the oldest celebrations of George Washington’s birthday in the United States.
Depending on the year’s schedule, you might find:
- Colorful parades downtown
- Carnivals and rides
- Live music and entertainment
- Food booths with all the local favorites
It’s one of the best times to see Laredo at its most festive, with locals and visitors all out enjoying the cooler winter weather.
9. Go Birdwatching Around Webb County
South Texas is a quiet hotspot for birding, and
Webb County has some great spots for beginners and serious birdwatchers alike. The mix of river habitats, brushland, and open space creates a home for many types of birds.
Bring your binoculars and check:
- Lake Casa Blanca International State Park
- Local nature trails and riverside areas
- Seasonal migration periods when species numbers spike
Even if you’re not an expert, it can be relaxing to walk slowly, listen for birds, and see how many colors and calls you can spot and hear. It’s a very different side of Laredo compared to the busy downtown streets.
10. Shop for Unique Finds & Cross-Border Treasures
Because of its border location,
Laredo shopping has its own flavor. You’ll find everything from big-box stores to small family businesses.
Some ideas:
- Look for handcrafted leather goods like belts, boots, and wallets
- Pick up silver jewelry or traditional-style pieces
- Browse markets and shops for ceramics, textiles, and decor
- Stock up on candies, sauces, and snacks you don’t usually see back home
If you like bringing home souvenirs that aren’t the same as everywhere else, Laredo gives you plenty of options.
Planning Your Trip to Laredo, Texas
To make the most of your visit to Laredo and Webb County, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Weather: Summers are hot—often above 90°F—so plan outdoor activities early or late in the day.
- Transportation: A car makes it much easier to explore beyond downtown and reach Lake Casa Blanca.
- Time: A weekend is enough for the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you slow down and explore more.
- Border: If you plan to cross into Mexico, bring your passport and check current requirements.
Final Thoughts: Why Laredo Deserves a Spot on Your Texas List
Laredo isn’t your typical tourist city, and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a place where:
- History and modern life blend on the same streets
- Tex‑Mex culture isn’t a theme—it’s just everyday life
- You can spend one hour in a quiet church and the next on a lakeside trail
If you’re looking for an authentic Texas border town experience—beyond the usual big-city stops—Laredo, Texas in Webb County is more than worth the drive.
Share Your Laredo Experience
Have you visited Laredo or anywhere else in Webb County?
- Which of these things to do in Laredo would you try first?
- Do you have a favorite local restaurant, park, or hidden gem?
Drop a comment and share your tips, stories, or questions. And if you know someone planning a Texas road trip,
share this post to help them discover a different side of the Lone Star State.
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