With humble origins as a little wooden structure which was the first church built in Brownsville, the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception today is an imposing, Gothic-Revival style building completed in 1859. Some materials were transported over considerable distances for the church construction, while some were locally sourced; for example, the pulpit is built from native Mesquite. It was declared a cathedral in 1874, and church in 1912, and again a cathedral in 1965. Many remarkable elements of the Cathedral were contributed by devoted parishioners, such as the bells, chapel, various repairs, organ, and works of art.

The Palo Alto Battlefield is where the first battle of the Mexican-American War took place on May 8, 1846. At the site are exhibits and an orientation video to better understand the causes and consequences of the war between these two great nations. From the parking lot to the overlook of the battlefield is a walk of about a half mile, although those with special needs may use a separate road. Activities occur throughout the year, check the schedule for details.

Take a ride on an 18th Century pirate galleon with all the modern conveniences and amenities you would expect on a yacht. You may meet a band of pirates wandering around the area in full costume. The ship itself is as tall as a five story building and has 10 different cannons. Four different decks hold up to 125 persons and snacks and drinks are available on the boat. The boat can also be chartered for private groups, a great and fun place to hold a party or company outing.

Hop aboard the boat "Fish Tales" to experience all the ocean fun the Gulf of Mexico has to offer. This sassy little vessel has two decks and safety gear and a capacity of 125. Go deep sea fishing to catch some sand trout or whiting, although other fish can be caught at various times throughout the year. For those who prefer to be with living creatures, take the boat out to watch dolphins, many of whom often come right up to the boat to satisfy their curiosity.

The Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center provides valuable services to the sea life in southern Texas. This nonprofit has a goal of educating visitors on bottlenose dolphins as well as on the variety of other sea life found at the Center. You can join researchers as they head out to observe wild dolphins daily, or you can adopt a dolphin - even remotely! There is even a blog, so after you visit the center, you can continue to stay apprised of events at the Center.

Not only does the Port Isabel Historic Museum contain numerous artifacts, but the building itself has a rich and varied history as an important building in Port Isabel. Built in 1899, the venue has been a dry goods store, a post office, and had the only telephone in town! The two level museum now educates visitors on the history of the area. Impressive exhibits include a collection on the Mexican-American War and a mural painted in 1906.

The deceptive coastline near South Padre Island and Port Isabel ruined many a ship in its time. Of particular note are three Spanish ships that sunk over 400 years ago. Several different ways to explore the area and its remnants, including murals, activities, and artifacts bring the past to life. Not only featuring the ships, the museum also details the adventures of the shipwrecked sailors.

Swing by the replicated gates of Graceland in Los Fresnos to see the spirit of Elvis is still alive and well. The Little Graceland Museum is owned and run by Simon Vega, a man who became friends with and served with the real Elvis many years ago during World War II. The museum is in Vega's house, and contains collections of Elvis memorabilia, along with personal photographs of the two from their time together. If you love the King and want a museum with a personal touch, the Little Graceland Museum is the place for you.

With over 65,000 acres of land (263 square kilometers), the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Reserve provides a safe haven for much of the flora and fauna of the southern Texas area. The park is open to visitors from dawn until dusk, and in fact it is at the very beginning and end of the day which is the best for seeing large animals. A number of birds also make their home in the park. In terms of human activity, hiking, biking, and driving through the park are all permitted, as is fishing and hunting white-tailed deer when the appropriate rules are followed. Experience nature as it was meant to be seen at the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Reserve.

Located right near the city center of Harlingen is the Pendleton Park. This park is a haven for all sport lovers, as it comes with incredible facilities for tennis, baseball and even golf. The sprawling 47 acres includes 18 tennis courts, 6 Little League baseball fields, and even a tennis pro shop. However, the park is not just a place for sports enthusiasts. It also is a great place to bring the whole family for a picnic as there are picnic tables, a barbecue pit and even a playground with equipment where kids can play. Pendleton Park is a nice place to be on a quiet and lazy Sunday.