It is always a good time for bowling, and with lanes open until the wee hours of the morning, Galaxy Bowling Center is the place to get some turkeys in Brownsville. The bowling lanes are truly revolutionary, allowing those wanting bumpers and those going for a real game to bowl on the same lane, the bumpers merely rise and fall according to the bowler. Besides bowling, there is a restaurant and bar for when you get hungry, an arcade, and slot machines. Truly a center of fun, the Galaxy Bowling Center has all you need for a fun day or night.

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.

The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College have teamed up to provide great higher education to students of the area. The University offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as certificates and associate degrees. Besides academics, like any college, a range of great arts can be found on campus, so check the website for information about upcoming events.

The waters off South Padre Island provide access to beautiful and unique marine life that can be explored in many different ways. American Diving provides visitors with the means to do just that, explore this wilderness in whatever way you choose. From scuba diving training and dive trips to snorkeling to dolphin watching, American Diving provides all the necessary services. Cool fishes, friendly dolphins, and knowledgeable staff are all waiting for you to come and explore!

Kiteboarding is one of the most exciting sports out there, and nowhere is better for the sport than South Padre Island Kiteboarding. New to the kiteboarding scene? No problem. South Padre Island Kiteboarding provides the newest equipment and instructors with know-how to teach you to enjoy the sport, or even to improve your skills. Even you are out boarding, your instructor can be right next to you to give you tips as problems or new situations arise. If there isn't enough wind to board, take a lesson on "Stand Up and Paddle," a great workout and fun way to enjoy a windless day on the water.

Looking to get into your improve your windsurfing skills? Trying to find a place to practice your kiteboarding? Windsurf/Kiteboard inc can accommodate both with its rentals and friendly instructors. Different areas around the island are good for different types of riding and helpful advice is gladly given. On the days when there is very little wind, take advantage of the variety of kayaks, wakeboards, bodyboards, and surfboards to spend the day on the water no matter what.

If you have ever seen a large mural on the side of a building, chances are it was done by Wyland, a man who has devoted himself to painted 100 walls featuring whales over the course of his lifetime. Aimed at highlighting the importance of marine life, the Whaling Wall on South Padre Island is the only one in Texas. This is his 53rd mural on the subject, specifically depicts orcas and is beloved by the locals.

Choose from a variety of cruises, all run by Pelican Services. Fishing enthusiasts can fish in the bay and lower Laguna Madre, and can choose from fly fishing, wade fishing, or deep-sea fishing. Those merely wishing to observe, rather than interact with nature can take a dolphin cruise or an Eco-tour cruise, which caters to private parties only. During the summer, take a trip to relax it out on the boat and on Friday nights watch the weekly fireworks, the reflection on the water and your choice of food (for private parties only). Pelican Services will surely make for an unforgettable experience. Call for booking 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.

Nature is all around, but nowhere is it easier to view than the Laguna Madre Nature Trail. Starting at the Whaling Wall and Convention Center, the trail leads hikers through 4 acres of wetlands. Signs provide interesting and important facts about the local habitat as well as the species that reside in them. A variety of wildlife, particularly birds congregate in the area and chances are good that you will see some fascinating waterfowl.