Parks
47 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- South Park7.9 mi from downtown
- Municipal Park0.5 mi from downtown
- Daffodil Park1.3 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in McAllen
3 kinds of free outings in and around McAllen.
Good days out in McAllen don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Mcallen Public Library4001 N 23Rd St
- Lark Branch Library2601 Lark Ave
- Palm View Branch Library3401 Jordan Ave
Historic places
5 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- M and J Nelson Building
- Mary S. and Gordon Griffin House
- San and Marjorie Miller House
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Mercado District | McAllen TX | Rio Grande Valley
RGV TASTE’s short Mercado District clip shows an indoor food-vendor counter. Check the food hall’s current vendors and hours rather than relying on this earlier recording.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Things to do in the RGV - Kickin Axes in McAllen
Life in the 956’s short Kickin Axes clip shows people inside an axe-throwing venue. Confirm current availability, age rules and booking with the operator before planning an activity.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in McAllen?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in McAllen this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.