National Butterfly Center

The National Butterfly Center is a project of the North American Butterfly Association (NABA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and study of wild butterflies in their native habitats. This 100-acre wildlife center and native species botanical garden contains trails for exploring, observation areas, educational exhibits and a plant nursery. The National Butterfly Center is NABA's flagship facility and a primary focus of its efforts aimed at educating the public about the value of biodiversity, the beauty of the natural world, the wonder of butterflies, particularly, and the powerful role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and sustainable food resources. The Center is open for exploration, daily.

Museum of South Texas History

Prehistoric plants and animal fossils, native people and European colonization exhibits, and a steamboat replica are but a few of the fascinating displays to see at the Museum of South Texas History.

For almost 40 years the Museum has chronicled the heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico, preserving its rich history. The Museum has been a part of the community since 1967. It first opened its doors as the Hidalgo County Historical Museum in the old Hidalgo County jail. Built in 1910, the Old Jail continues to be one the most important sections of the museum.

International Museum of Art & Science

The International Museum of Art & Science is a Smithsonian Affiliate and fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. IMAS is the premier art and science museum of South Texas and contains over 50,000 square feet of exhibit space. The IMAS galleries host a number of revolving art and science exhibits each year. The museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to participate in hands-on science exhibits and learn about original works of art while encouraging creativity and innovation. The IMAS permanent collection includes more than 2,000 natural history and geology specimens and 4,500 folk art and textile objects. The 1,500 fine art works in the permanent collection reflect many countries and artistic movements beyond Mexico, dating from the 16th century to the present.

McAllen Nature Center - (McAllen Parks & Recreation)

McAllen Nature Center, formerly known as McAllen Botanical Gardens, is a city-operated nature preserve located in McAllen, Texas at 4101 West Business US 83. The site is between Ware and Bentsen Roads on the west side of McAllen, not far from the McAllen Convention Center. The gardens were established in 1962, with an emphasis on palms. The site is no longer maintained as a botanical garden but as a general nature site. The site contains three quarters of a mile of trails through pristine native thornscrub habitat with birding opportunities and It also has picnic areas.