Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Del Rio, Texas

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Step into a new adventure to a quaint border town in lovely 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 creates immaculate swimming holes popular with locals and tourists, including Blue Lake and Horseshoe Park.

If you’re looking for an ideal refuge from the Southwest Texas summer heat, Del Rio, Texas, offers plenty of outdoor recreation for families and friends. It’s very close to the third largest lake in Texas, Lake Amistad.

This town is also a place for flourishing arts, with the oldest Native American cave paintings you can see in North America.

Lastly, savor 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 you must do when you’re around Del Rio, Texas.

This national recreation area managed by National Park Service (NPS) has 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 enjoy the natural water on a kayak or paddleboard or see the steep canyons beyond the open water. Amistad is also known for excellent boating and fishing activities.

View the 4,000 years old Prehistoric Native American paintings by boat or on foot in the Amistad area or ancient rock art in Panther Cave, located on the Rio Grande near the Pecos River.

Have a picnic by the lake and enjoy lakeside views at Amistad NRA’s eight picnic areas. These spaces are provided with tables, grills, and shelters at no charge.

Grab your cameras and photograph every moment in Amistad’s desert-like environment with vast, beautiful landscapes, clear skies, and pristine waters. Just note that the winds here can reach 20 to 30 mph.

You won’t expect how much you can do in the Amistad National Recreation Area and how much the whole place tells about its history and culture.

It’s an absolute utopia you would love to bring your loved ones!

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 offer fun 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 greeted with a distinctive 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 a family or friend? Their bookstore got your back!

You can choose from various interesting 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 enjoy the various things to do in Big Bend.

The park in the southwestern part of Texas boasts 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’re game for a road trip. Park activities include picturesque drives, stargazing, and programs by park rangers.

Big Bend, established in June 1935, gained national significance for preserving the nation’s largest tracts of Chihuahuan Desert topography and ecology.

Del Rio is undoubtedly the closest city you can stay in if you visit Big Bend! You will be rewarded with a rare, scenic view of the vast wilderness that offers outdoor adventures and solitude.

The sky is the limit in this 1,252-square-mile land with many geographic treasures, including 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.

This is, thus far, the best place to visit when you want to escape from your daily life and have a rough wilderness experience.

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 explore the city, you’ll notice that Del Rio actively participates in arts and literacy, pictured on its several art galleries and local artists.

One of its many art institutions is Casa de la Cultura, which also offers music and dance classes besides its local exhibits.

For 35 years, they served a community of youth and adults with various classes based on their educational and cultural needs, such as Ballet Folklorico, guitar playing, pottery, knitting, Summer Art Camps, and Latino aerobics.

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 eclectic celebrations like Cinco de Mayo Pachanga in the Patio, Calaveras Y Calacas, and Christmas Posada y Tamalada.

Their seasonal events include Noches Musicales (Summer Concert Series) during the months of June, July, and August.

Don’t 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 know what being dull is in this town filled with live music performed by local and international musicians.

The small fee goes a long way in making art, music, and education accessible to the entire community.

Address: 302 Cantu St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States

Chinto’s Super Taco

Have a mouthful in one of Del Rio’s best Mexican restaurants!

If you’re a fan of tacos, you must pass by the Mexican cuisine, Chinto’s Super Taco. They serve perfectly cooked Mexican tacos, great coffee, and many other selections.

Chinto’s Super Taco is a town staple known for its great service and friendly staff. They are always ready to help and assist you with your dining needs.

Prices are also reasonable at this place. You can order their phenomenal Super Breakfast Taco with crunchy bacon, tender Barbacoa, or flavorful Chile Relleno.

The restaurant is good for all groups who want a quick breakfast, lunch, or brunch. Their menu also has vegetarian options and quick orders for a quick meal. 

The place has a casual atmosphere and homey decor that will make you feel at home and relaxed. They also have outdoor seating for those who prefer to dine in a more open space.

Just a note that this place can get packed in a matter of seconds, so secure a spot as early as 6 am. Frequent travelers make this place a go-to breakfast destination.

You will never run out of options from the extensive selection of tasty, well-prepared Mexican and American dishes in 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, displays various 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 transformed into an art gallery in 1970 by Juanita Crosby.

The Firehouse is a place to celebrate 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 have 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 for an affordable price. In addition, classes are not limited to painting and drawing but also to writing and performing arts like dancing.

Del Rio Council for the Arts also supports various causes and outreach programs like the Artist Residency Program, the Leonardo da Vinci Scholarship to assist outstanding students (in both art and core subjects) in going to a college or university of their choice, and more.

You will surely enjoy the sight of numerous local artworks in The Firehouse, including their gallery with changing exhibitions!

Address: 20 East Garfield Street, Del Rio, TX 78840

Devils River State Natural Area

Experience the remote, wild Texas countryside on the river and 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’ll have to hike 1 mile from the parking lot to the river!

Paddling is not for beginners in this wild ride. It takes experience and at least three days of supplies to attempt going down-river trips. The Amistad National Recreation Area is just downstream of Devils River.

Devils River is also the best place to take your hiking and biking skills to the next level. It has one of the rugged Texas terrains that are not easy to take but worth the experience!

This land where ancient people once lived offers an opportunity for primitive camping without access to electricity, water, and restrooms. Meanwhile, their group barracks have five bedrooms, two single beds, and elec­tri­city and water.

Wildflowers and wildlife are also abundant in the area. Bring your cameras and binoculars because you will need them to view distant sights of the remote land.

If you haven’t known yet, Devils River contains unique cultural and ar­che­ol­o­gical resources, including Lower Pecos Style rock art, suggesting a west and east cultural influence.

When visiting here, remember to continue preserving the past and putting back artifacts where you found them.

Located 66 miles north of Del Rio, Val Verde County, Devils River State Natural Area is worth the exploratory visit for all adventure seekers!

Address: 21715 Dolan Crk Rd, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States

Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum

The Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum aims to educate the public about the important role of air power in sustaining national security through its 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 great items in storage are “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 passionate individuals who aim to collect and preserve aviation memorabilia.

It will be worth your visit if you’re fond of history and interested in aviation!

These items under the Foundation’s care, custody, and control honor and remember the individuals, units, and significant events that brought credit to the Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas.

The Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum on South Main Street is just across from the State District Courthouse. On your visit, you’ll learn about the Laughlin AFB and the early years of aviation in Val Verde County.

You will applaud the museum’s curator for the knowledge and insights about its amazing collection. There are always new additions to the Galleries, including the historic Glazer’s Luncheon, The Inquisitive Angel, and over 200 still photographs of the filming called In the Beginning: U-2s at Watertown.

Unfortunately, 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 certainly enjoy company in the fun atmosphere of Mesquite Creek Outfitters (MCO). It’s a place for thirsty individuals and social butterflies who want an evening (or afternoon) of leisure drinking and lively conversation!

Enjoy a cold beer or glass of fine wine, chat about your adventures, and maybe shop a little, too.

MCO serves 16 Texas craft beers on tap and over 20 wines from Texas, the west coast, and around the world. They also offer a light menu of several food items and southern-style snacks that complement your drinks!

Shop or gift their gear of high-end outdoor casual clothing for men and women, jewelry, and hard-to-find items.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Del Rio, Mesquite Creek also has an upstairs Airbnb over the craft beer taproom, available to rent for your weekend!

It’s also just a walking distance to San Felipe Creek, The Whitehead Museum, or the Winery.

This local spot downtown is a great destination to unwind 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 situated 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, perfect for advanced golfers!

The narrow, tight fairways along tree lines and bunkers would make it a challenging course, but it is also a pleasure for golfers of any skill level. They have everything you need to improve, from accurate fairways and water hazards to sand traps.

The place has impressive, well-maintained grounds, but they don’t have much to offer for dining.

The price is also reasonable compared to other country clubs, with friendly and accommodating staff.

It’s also a great place to have a cold drink or celebrate special events!

While playing, enjoy the picturesque backdrop of Val Verde County’s hills and greenery. You can play hard or lie 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 explore, including some of North America’s oldest prehistoric cave paintings. It has 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’s a nice place to study history and nature in one of their 46 campsites, ranging from primitive drive-up sites to sites with access to water, electricity, and restrooms.

In your scenic hike, see the ancient rock art and ranger-led programs – 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 relax in one of Del Rio’s best places for shopping and dining.

Plaza Del Sol houses a wide array of brands 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 their latest flicks at the Cinemark Movies after a long day of strolling and exploring downtown attractions.

Plaza Del Sol Mall also proudly 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 a perfect stop 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 lacking 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, carefully hand-made and prepared using traditional methods.

Passed down from four generations, Val Verde has kept Del Rio a winemaking spot, housed at a compact building at 100 Qualia Drive.

Take your time picking your favorite wine and enjoying a glass in the nicest tasting room. Val Verde believes 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 will make a perfect pair for your southern, home-cooked meal, try the 2020 San Felipe Sweet Red!

Meanwhile, the Don Luis Tawny Port also pairs nicely with a meal, complemented by dark chocolate or cigar smoking.

Val Verde also offers 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

Have a good beer in a bar well-known for its great service and attentive staff!

White Horse Lounge offers a great place to try something new and enjoy a charming atmosphere in Del Rio, Texas.

They play good tunes and awesome, rad live music that is perfect for socializing. Of all bars or lounges in Del Rio, you will like White Horse Lounge the most for its friendly, cozy, and safe environment.

They also have karaoke night for family sing-alongs or goofy performances with friends!

The White Horse is part of a large hotel and can have limited space, but there’s plenty of good seating, food, and a great 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 surprisingly clean and inviting to different age groups. It has many wide-screen TVs perfect for watching games and sports programs. You can watch the Super Bowl or the Dallas Cowboys here!

Overall, this little bar in town is a perfect entertainment spot you, your friends, and your family must try!

Address: 2177 Veterans Blvd #2123, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States

Whitehead Memorial Museum

Experience life on the frontier at the Whitehead Memorial Museum and learn what the Del Rio region is all 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 is considered a small pioneer village in the middle of town.

Now a popular 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 tell the story of its former settlers, local arts, and natural and social sciences associated with its history.

The interactive learning area includes a blacksmith shop, chapel, log cabin, storytelling room, and more.

If you’re looking for a destination to immerse in the Val Verde culture, the Whitehead Memorial Museum is the place to go!

Take pictures, read old documents, and enrich your knowledge of the place.

You’re lucky if you happen to be downtown during celebrations of local events such as Oktoberfest, Día de los Muertos, and Christmas festivities.

Moreover, the museum hosts plenty of educational activities like Night at the Museum Sleepover, Coloring Sheets, and Become a Junior Museum Guide.

No matter what age, there’s something for everyone to see, do, and learn at Whitehead Memorial!

Address: 1308 S Main St, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States

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