Devils River State Natural Area asks a 1 mile hike from the parking lot down to the water itself. The paddling there is not for beginners and a down-river trip takes days of supplies with you. San Felipe Springs Golf Course runs 9 holes over 2,988 yards of it there. Seminole Canyon State Park sits about 40 miles northwest of Del Rio itself there. Pack water.
Step into a border town in southwestern Texas.
Del Rio, the county seat of Val Verde County, is historically known as an outpost of Fort Clark and home of Laughlin Air Force Base, the busiest training facility for the United States Air Force.
When Spanish explorers finally established a permanent settlement in the region, after many failed attempts, the San Felipe Creek served as the city’s lifeline. The creek fed by many San Felipe springs mainly supplied water to its farms, orchards and vineyards.
Today, this spring-fed creek makes swimming holes popular with locals and tourists, Blue Lake and Horseshoe Park among them.
If you are looking for a step out of the Southwest Texas summer heat, Del Rio, Texas runs plenty of outdoor recreation for families and friends. It sits very close to the third largest lake in Texas, Lake Amistad.
This town is also a place for working arts, with the oldest Native American cave paintings you can see in North America.
Lastly, take a glass of wine in a city with the state’s oldest winery.
Just 150 miles west of San Antonio, explore the ‘Oasis of Texas’ to experience a unique blend of American and Mexican culture all at once.
Amistad National Recreation Area
Getting on the water is one of the top things to do when you are around Del Rio, Texas.
This national recreation area managed by National Park Service (NPS) runs some of the best-known water-based recreations, primitive camping, birdwatching, hiking in the Diablo East area, and ancient rock art viewing in Texas.
Amistad boasts its rich cultural history and a wide variety of animal and plant life. It’s an oasis in the desert and a “Borderland Paradise.”
You can take the natural water on a kayak or paddleboard or stand with the steep canyons beyond the open water. Amistad is also known for strong boating and fishing.
View the 4,000 years old Prehistoric Native American paintings by boat or on foot in the Amistad area, or the ancient rock art in Panther Cave, located on the Rio Grande near the Pecos River.
Take a picnic by the lake and sit with the lakeside views at Amistad NRA’s eight picnic areas. These spaces run tables, grills and shelters at no charge.
Grab your cameras and photograph every moment in Amistad’s desert-like environment with its vast landscapes, clear skies and clean water. Just note that the winds here can reach 20 to 30 mph.
You will not expect how much you can do in the Amistad National Recreation Area and how much the whole place carries of its history and culture.
It is a utopia you will want to bring your loved ones to.
Address: 4121 Veterans Blvd, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center
The Visitor Center was opened along with the park to run indoor activities.
You will find a bookstore, passes for America the Beautiful park and lake use here, along with Amistad hunting permits, movies and exhibits.
The movie theater plays orientation movies in the park. You can request to view the 35-minute film about Amistad National Recreation Area entitled “The Transparent Border” or the 30-minute movie about the Lower Pecos region rock art.
Additionally, you can look at exhibits picturing the natural and cultural resources of the region.
In the Big Bend Natural History Association Bookstore, you will be met with a selection of books and printed materials on subjects related to the local region.
They also carry merchandise like water bottles, bandanas and Junior Ranger items. They restock their souvenirs section constantly with coffee mugs, ornaments and passport stickers.
Do you want to bring home some gifts for family or friends? Their bookstore has you covered.
You can choose from books, pins, postcards and more.
Address: 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Big Bend National Park
People of all ages will take to the various things to do in Big Bend.
The park in the southwestern part of Texas runs 150-mile hiking trails through desert terrain and rivers. There are also over a thousand plant species in the park.
With only 3 hours and a 20-minute drive from Del Rio, Texas, Big Bend National Park is a famous destination in Texas if you are up for a road trip. Park activities include scenic drives, stargazing, and programs by park rangers.
Big Bend, established in June 1935, gained national standing for preserving the nation’s largest tracts of Chihuahuan Desert topography and ecology.
Del Rio is the closest city you can stay in if you visit Big Bend. You get a scenic view of the vast wilderness that runs outdoor adventures and solitude.
The sky is the limit in this 1,252-square-mile land with many geographic features, the vegetation belts along the Rio Grande, the vast Chihuahuan Desert, the line of cliffs of Persimmon Gap and Boquillas Canyon, and the heart of the Big Bend, the Chisos Mountains, among them.
This is, so far, the place to go when you want out of your daily life and into a rough wilderness.
Address: Big Bend National Park, TX, United States
Casa de la Cultura
Check out the calendar of events in Del Rio’s home for the arts, Casa de la Cultura.
As you work through the city, you will notice that Del Rio takes part in arts and literacy, carried in its art galleries and local artists.
One of its many art institutions is Casa de la Cultura, which also runs music and dance classes besides its local exhibits.
For 35 years, they have served a community of youth and adults with classes based on their educational and cultural needs, Ballet Folklorico, guitar playing, pottery, knitting, Summer Art Camps and Latino aerobics among them.
Promoting cultural heritage is the top mission of Casa de la Cultura, which is why the events they host are anchored in their culture. These include celebrations like Cinco de Mayo Pachanga in the Patio, Calaveras Y Calacas, and Christmas Posada y Tamalada.
Their seasonal events include Noches Musicales, the Summer Concert Series, during the months of June, July and August.
Do not miss their First Friday Artwalks every month, featuring an original art exhibit and artists from all over the United States and Mexico.
You will never be short of something to do in this town, with live music performed by local and international musicians.
The small fee goes a long way in making art, music and education reachable for the entire community.
Address: 302 Cantu St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Chinto’s Super Taco
Take a mouthful in one of Del Rio’s best Mexican restaurants.
If you are a fan of tacos, pass by the Mexican cuisine at Chinto’s Super Taco. They serve Mexican tacos cooked right, strong coffee, and many other selections.
Chinto’s Super Taco is a town staple known for its service and friendly staff. They are always ready to help with what you need.
Rates are also fair at this place. You can order their Super Breakfast Taco with crunchy bacon, tender Barbacoa, or flavorful Chile Relleno.
The restaurant works for all groups who want a quick breakfast, lunch or brunch. Their menu also runs vegetarian options and quick orders for a fast meal.
The place runs a casual room and homey decor that puts you at ease. They also run outdoor seating for those who prefer more open space.
Just a note that this place can fill in a matter of seconds, so secure a spot as early as 6 in the morning. Frequent travelers make this place a go-to breakfast destination.
You will not run out of options from the extensive selection of well-prepared Mexican and American dishes at Chinto’s Super Taco.
You can even grab one to-go if you want to save time and explore more best things to do and places to visit in Texas!
Address: 400 E 6th St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Del Rio Council for the Arts at the Firehouse Gallery
This art center, among many others in Del Rio, carries local and regional artworks in one of the town’s historic buildings.
‘The Firehouse’ was a former city hall, fire department, and the city jail of Del Rio. It was turned into an art gallery in 1970 by Juanita Crosby.
The Firehouse is a place to mark arts, educate and entertain “for the enrichment of the community and the surrounding area.”
You might want to check out their First Friday Art Walk every first Friday of each month, similar to Casa de la Cultura and Lee-Bunch Studio Gallery. They also run Future Exhibits to look out for and Exhibit Opportunities for the region’s art enthusiasts, such as the May Firehouse Springfest Judged Show.
Artist enthusiasts can take up lessons here at a fair rate. In addition, classes are not limited to painting and drawing but also cover writing and performing arts like dancing.
Del Rio Council for the Arts also supports causes and outreach programs like the Artist Residency Program and the Leonardo da Vinci Scholarship, which helps outstanding students, in both art and core subjects, go to a college or university of their choice.
You will take to the local artworks in The Firehouse, their gallery with changing exhibitions among them.
Address: 20 East Garfield Street, Del Rio, TX 78840
Devils River State Natural Area
Take the remote, wild Texas countryside on the river and on land at Devils River State Natural Area, far from cities and crowds.
You can go swimming, fishing or paddling on the river. Pack light because you will have to hike 1 mile from the parking lot to the river.
Paddling is not for beginners on this river. It takes experience and days of supplies to attempt going down-river. The Amistad National Recreation Area sits just downstream of Devils River.
Devils River is also the place to take your hiking and biking up a level. It runs one of the rugged Texas terrains that are not easy to take but worth the work.
This land where ancient people once lived runs primitive camping without access to electricity, water and restrooms. Meanwhile, their group barracks run bedrooms, single beds, and electricity and water.
Wildflowers and wildlife are also plentiful in the area. Bring your cameras and binoculars because you will need them to view distant sights of the remote land.
If you have not heard, Devils River carries cultural and archeological resources of its own, Lower Pecos Style rock art among them, which suggests a west and east cultural influence.
When visiting here, remember to keep preserving the past and to put back artifacts where you found them.
Located 66 miles north of Del Rio, Val Verde County, Devils River State Natural Area is worth the visit for all adventure seekers.
Address: 21715 Dolan Crk Rd, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
This is not the desert you expect, because San Felipe Creek keeps the swimming holes full. Lake Amistad is not a reservoir you look at, it is one you get on. Val Verde Winery is not new, because it has been working since 1883. Devils River is not a gentle river, and the terrain around it is not gentle either.
Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum
The Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum aims to educate the public about the role of air power in sustaining national security. It runs exhibits of aviation artifacts from World War II, old airplanes, engines, pilot equipment, and artifacts related to the Cold War Era Cuban Missile Crisis.
One of its founders, retired Colonel Victor Milam, said some strong items in storage were “just collecting dust,” so they made use of the space donated by a local businessman to show them to the public.
Moreover, this place came to be through the efforts of people who set out to collect and preserve aviation memorabilia.
It is worth your visit if you came for the history or are interested in aviation.
These items under the Foundation’s care, custody and control honor the individuals, units and events that brought credit to the Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas.
The Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum on South Main Street sits just across from the State District Courthouse. On your visit, you will pick up the Laughlin AFB and the early years of aviation in Val Verde County.
You will take to the museum’s curator for the knowledge and insights about the collection. There are always new additions to the Galleries, the historic Glazer’s Luncheon, The Inquisitive Angel, and over 200 still photographs of the filming called In the Beginning: U-2s at Watertown among them.
Note that you will have to leave your cameras, because photography is not allowed.
Welcome aboard.
Address: 309 S Main St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Mesquite Creek Outfitters
Thirsty? Grab a craft beer and wine in this Del Rio, Texas rustic bar.
You will take to the room at Mesquite Creek Outfitters (MCO). It is a place for thirsty people and social ones who want an evening, or an afternoon, of slow drinking and conversation.
Take a cold beer or glass of fine wine, talk about your travels, and maybe shop a little too.
MCO serves 16 Texas craft beers pouring and over 20 wines from Texas, the west coast, and around the world. They also run a light menu of food items and southern-style snacks that go with your drinks.
Shop or gift their gear of high-end outdoor casual clothing for men and women, jewelry, and items you will not find twice.
If you are looking for a place to stay in Del Rio, Mesquite Creek also runs an upstairs Airbnb over the craft beer taproom, available to rent for your weekend.
It also sits within walking distance of San Felipe Creek, The Whitehead Museum, or the Winery.
This local spot downtown is a strong destination to settle in while tasting different kinds of beers.
Address: 800 S Main St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
San Felipe Springs Golf Course
Visit this public golf course in Del Rio, Texas, named after the famous San Felipe Springs.
Home to a plush golf course, the San Felipe Country Club is a municipal golf course sitting along the San Felipe River that runs through most of this 9-hole track. It features a par-of-36 9-hole course that spans 2,988 yards, which works for advanced golfers.
The narrow, tight fairways along tree lines and bunkers make it a challenging course, but it also holds up for golfers of any skill level. They run everything you need to work on your game, accurate fairways and water hazards through to sand traps.
The place runs well-maintained grounds, but they do not have much to offer for dining.
The rate is also fair compared to other country clubs, with friendly and accommodating staff.
It is also a strong place to have a cold drink or mark a special occasion.
While playing, take the backdrop of Val Verde County’s hills and greenery. You can play hard or sit back after you visit famous Del Rio attractions.
Address: 1524 US-90, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site
In addition to the usual outdoor adventures, you can camp, hike or bike in Seminole Canyon State Park.
Here you will find cave paintings and plenty more territory to work through, some of North America’s oldest prehistoric cave paintings among them. It runs one of North America’s oldest cave dwellings and some of the oldest Native American pictographs.
About 40 miles northwest of Del Rio, Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site houses art and archeological artifacts that date back to the earliest human habitation in the area.
It is a strong place to pick up history and nature in one of their 46 campsites, ranging from primitive drive-up sites to sites with access to water, electricity and restrooms.
On your scenic hike, see the ancient rock art and the ranger-led programs, which are guided hiking tours of rock art sites.
This includes the Fate Bell Shelter Tour, Presa Day Hike, Upper Canyon Hike, and Shumla Treks.
Other area attractions you can find are restaurants, lodging, and access to outdoor activities. Adjacent to Seminole Canyon is the Amistad Reservoir and the Amistad National Recreation Area.
Address: US-90, Comstock, TX 78837, United States
Plaza Del Sol Mall
Shop or settle in at one of Del Rio’s best places for shopping and dining.
Plaza Del Sol houses brands across the range like Boots’ N Jeans, Jewelry Box, JE’s Music, Le Nails, Marshalls, Rack Room Shoes, Ross, The Art Box, Zales, Bath & Body Works, and traditional anchor stores.
Their fast-food chains include Applebee’s Grill & Bar, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, IHOP, and Wendy’s.
Moreover, you can watch the latest flicks at the Cinemark Movies after a long day of strolling and working through downtown attractions.
Plaza Del Sol Mall also houses the Laughlin Air Force Base, a pilot-training facility.
With only a short 15-minute drive from the Amistad National Reservoir, Plaza Del Sol is the stop to make before going to the national park or returning to the city.
Address: 2205 Veterans Blvd, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Val Verde Winery
Consider your trip short if you leave without tasting one of the finest wines in Texas.
Visit the oldest operating winery in Texas, dating back to 1883. Val Verde Winery has produced award-winning wines, made and prepared by hand using traditional methods.
Passed down through the generations, Val Verde has kept Del Rio a winemaking spot, housed in a compact building at 100 Qualia Drive.
Take your time picking your wine and settling in with a glass in the tasting room. Val Verde holds that tradition and quality are key in consistently making fine wines.
Try their easy-going 2020 Blanc du Bois, the sweet white and elegant Muscat Canelli, or the salmon-pink floral wine Rosé.
If you want something that pairs into your southern, home-cooked meal, try the 2020 San Felipe Sweet Red.
Meanwhile, the Don Luis Tawny Port also pairs nicely with a meal, alongside dark chocolate or cigar smoking.
Val Verde also runs a wine club membership and space for special events like weddings.
The state’s oldest bonded winery was awarded the Land Heritage Award from the Department of Agriculture for single-family ownership of the vineyards for over 100 years in 2008.
The winery’s longevity made it a landmark and innovator in the growing Texas wine industry.
Address: 100 Qualia Dr, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
White Horse Lounge
Take a good beer in a bar known for its service and attentive staff.
White Horse Lounge runs a strong place to try something new and settle into the room in Del Rio, Texas.
They play good tunes and live music that works for talking over. Of all bars or lounges in Del Rio, White Horse Lounge is the one for its friendly, cozy and safe room.
They also run karaoke night for family sing-alongs or goofy performances with friends.
The White Horse is part of a large hotel and can run tight on space, but there is plenty of good seating, food, and a strong selection of beer and whiskeys.
Expect a good mix of crowds, as this is the typical go-to hotel bar for many tourists and locals.
The place is clean and inviting to different age groups. It runs many wide-screen TVs that work for watching games and sports programs. You can watch the Super Bowl or the Dallas Cowboys here.
Overall, this little bar in town is an entertainment spot you, your friends and your family should try.
Address: 2177 Veterans Blvd #2123, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Whitehead Memorial Museum
Take life on the frontier at the Whitehead Memorial Museum and pick up what the Del Rio region is about.
It is the only full-time public museum in Val Verde County to examine and preserve the city’s early history, culture and economics. It stands as a small pioneer village in the middle of town.
Now a learning area for history, culture and heritage, the museum goes more than 50 years back. It was formerly a ranch owned by a well-known ranching family, the Whiteheads, who bought the old Perry Mercantile Building and donated it to the city and Val Verde County for a museum.
The two-acre property features 19 buildings and over 30 indoor and outdoor display areas and galleries that carry the story of its former settlers, local arts, and the natural and social sciences tied to its history.
The interactive learning area includes a blacksmith shop, chapel, log cabin, storytelling room, and more.
If you are looking for a place to sit inside the Val Verde culture, the Whitehead Memorial Museum is where to go.
Take pictures, read old documents, and add to what you know about the place.
You are in luck if you happen to be downtown during local events such as Oktoberfest, Día de los Muertos, and Christmas festivities.
Moreover, the museum runs educational activities like Night at the Museum Sleepover, Coloring Sheets, and Become a Junior Museum Guide.
Whatever your age, there are things to see, do and pick up at Whitehead Memorial.
Address: 1308 S Main St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
Frequently asked questions about Del Rio, Texas
What is there to do at Amistad National Recreation Area near Del Rio?
Amistad National Recreation Area sits west of Del Rio, and the water is the reason people come out to it. You get boating, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding off the same reservoir there. There are eight picnic areas along it, with tables and grills and shelters. Bring water.
So what is there to see at Seminole Canyon State Park in Texas?
Seminole Canyon State Park sits about 40 miles northwest of Del Rio, and it holds some of North America’s oldest cave paintings. The rock art tours are ranger-led, and the Fate Bell Shelter Tour is one. There are 46 campsites on the same ground out there as well. Wear boots.
So how old is the Val Verde Winery over in Del Rio, Texas?
It dates back to 1883 and it is the oldest operating winery in Texas, sitting on Qualia Drive there. The same family has held it down through the generations there since then. The tasting room sits inside the compact building on that same street too. Walk to it.
Keep exploring Del Rio, Texas
More places to visit in Texas
- Things to do in Denton, Texas
- Best of Dumas, Texas
- Things to do in El Paso, Texas
- Ennis, Texas: what to do
- Fort Worth, Texas: what to do
Top destinations in Texas
All things to do in Texas
