The best things to do in McAllen

“Locals know Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle - National Shrine as more than a landmark. It’s rooted in a 1970 miracle when a plane struck the original shrine and no one praying inside was harmed, with forty stained glass windows honoring martyrs and the Rosary for quiet reflection.”

From the San Juan newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing concerts, big-time sports, or family spectacles, Bert Ogden Arena keeps the calendar stacked. If you need a nudge this week, WWE’s Lucha Libre AAA NXT Heatwave hits August 30, then Ringling and Disney On Ice roll in after... your weekend plans just wrote themselves.”

From the Edinburg newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Need a local golf fix that actually helps your game? Champion Lakes Golf Course brings a par-72 layout with rolling fairways and fourteen lakes, plus a lighted driving range, chipping and short-game areas, and a massive practice green... perfect for sneaking in reps before your next friendly skins match.”

From the McAllen newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Main Event Pharr is the go-to when the crew wants something more than another Netflix scroll. plus cocktails for the parents while the kids keep playing.”

From the San Juan newsletter, September 5, 2026

“If you're a member or thinking about it, McAllen Country Club delivers city-close golf that actually feels like an escape, plus a member-owned vibe that keeps things friendly. Swing early, linger for a proper meal, and call it your weekly exhale.”

From the McAllen newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Flamingo Bowl mixes legit bowling vibes with billiards and surprisingly good bites. Whether you’re getting a team together for fall leagues or just chasing a few strikes with friends, it’s the kind of bright, goofy fun that makes a random Tuesday in McAllen feel like a mini victory.”

From the McAllen newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Bowling alley offering glow bowl and other activities, including batting cages and an arcade.”

“Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.”

“If your camera roll needs fresh color, Mural Lane on 17th St lines up bold, local-artist murals in one easy walk, from Guadalupe vibes to cheeky kiss-off walls. Tag it #ExploreMcAllen and call it cardio with culture.”

From the McAllen newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Sky Park Kids is where foam pits, trampolines, obstacle courses, bumper cars and rock walls turn after school wiggles into victory laps. Made for jumpers 5 ft 3 in and under, with party rooms and online booking, it is an easy win for birthdays, field trips, or a just-because energy dump this week.”

From the McAllen newsletter, August 29, 2026

“National Laser Tag and Games mixes high-energy laser tag with virtual reality matches, a bungee trampoline, Flash Pads, and a smokeless gun range, so everyone can find their fun. Grab a few friends this week, talk a little friendly smack, then burn it off sprinting under neon.”

From the McAllen newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Killers Golf is McAllen’s first indoor TrackMan golf club and sports bar, so you can rip drives on 130 top-rated courses from around the world, dial in your numbers, then refuel with hot food and cold drinks. Big screens follow the game from anywhere in the club, making it an easy weeknight hang with friends.”

From the McAllen newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Whether your kiddo needs to sprint, slide, or conquer the arcade, Kids Wonderland delivers a safe indoor playground packed with inflatables, games, and a sweet toddler area, all watched by trained staff and built with soft surfaces and padded walls.”

From the McAllen newsletter, September 13, 2026