What To Do on a Family 3-Day Vacation in Laredo, Texas

What to Do in Laredo with Your Family? Here’s Your Guide!
Are you searching for a destination where children of all ages can indulge in delicious cuisine, embark on outdoor adventures, and explore rich history? Look no further than Laredo, Texas! Nestled on the U.S.-Mexico border, Laredo offers a charming and budget-friendly getaway perfect for families. Its inviting small-town atmosphere and diverse mix of indoor and outdoor activities have made it a favorite among visitors.
From experiencing the wonders of a state-of-the-art planetarium to going on an exciting safari with zebras and giraffes, there are countless ways to keep the little ones entertained. Whether you want to learn, savor tasty meals, or reconnect with nature, Laredo’s attractions have something for everyone!
To help you plan an unforgettable adventure with your loved ones, here’s a three-day itinerary packed with excitement and discovery!
Day One
Kick off your Laredo adventure by settling in and enjoying local cuisine. Spend the afternoon at a family-friendly attraction, then savor dinner at a popular restaurant.
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Loma Alta Motel Your Perfect Launchpad for Laredo Adventures
Stay at Loma Alta Motel for a delightful blend of comfort and convenience during your Laredo getaway. This charming motel is perfect for families, offering cozy rooms equipped with all the essentials you need for a relaxing stay. With its prime location, you’re just minutes away from local attractions, dining, and shopping, making it easy to explore the best of Laredo. The friendly staff are always ready to assist, ensuring you feel welcome and at home.
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A Taste of Laredo
If you're in town on the third Saturday of the month, don’t miss the Laredo Farmers Market! It’s a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in local culture, featuring fresh eggs, seasonal fruit, artisan bread, and deliciously baked pastries. If your visit doesn’t align with the market, head over to Scratch Sandwich Company instead. This beloved eatery offers mouthwatering options like the chicken and bacon "When Pigs Fly" sandwich, along with a delightful array of homemade deli fare that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
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Visit the Imaginarium of South Texas
Next, visit the well-known Imaginarium of South Texas which is accessible daily at noon, to fuel your child's creativity. Little ones may learn more about science via interactive, bilingual activities at this well-liked, engaging children's museum.
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Dine at Palenque Grill San Bernardino
As your day comes to an end, enjoy dinner at the famous Palenque Grill San Bernardo. Founded in Laredo, this Mexican restaurant franchise currently serves hundreds of thousands of patrons annually throughout South Texas. From tacos and salads to delicious sweets including flan, churros, and tres leches cake, you can have it all.
Day Two
Dive into history and nature! After breakfast, explore Laredo’s rich past and enjoy outdoor fun at a local park. End the day with a tasty meal.
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Begin the Day at Magnolia Café and Grill
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Magnolia Cafe & Grill, where everyone can fuel up for another exciting day of adventure. Be sure to let the kids indulge in a stack of pancakes topped with colorful fruity cereal—perfect for a fun photo opportunity to share on social media!
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Take a Historic Laredo Walking Tour
If you are a history buff don’t forget to check out the independent Historical Laredo Walking Tour. It allows you to explore history at your speed and get fascinated by the roots of this city.
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Visit the Interesting Laredo Water Museum
Next, spark your child's curiosity at the Laredo Water Museum, one of only three in Texas and among the few in the nation. This engaging museum features interactive displays that showcase the significance of the Rio Grande, its vital water resources, and the importance of sustainable water usage. It’s a fantastic opportunity for children to learn while having fun!
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Enjoy the Outdoors at Lake Casa Blanca International State Park
Now that you've gained a deeper appreciation for water, head over to Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, a beautiful lakefront destination near the Mexican border. This park offers a range of activities, including hiking and fishing, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to stop by the visitor center to pick up a Junior Ranger Explorer Pack and check out their website for information on ranger-led activities, including exciting reptile presentations. For the ultimate outdoor experience, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while taking in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding nature.
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Wrap Up Your Day with a Slice at 550 Pizzeria
After an exciting day of adventures, make sure to visit 550 Pizzeria, home to some of Laredo’s best pizzas! Crafted by Chef Janet Duran, each pie features a distinctive golden crust and is topped with a variety of fresh, natural ingredients. True to its name, every pizza is baked to perfection at 550°F, ensuring that each slice is deliciously satisfying. It’s the perfect way to refuel and unwind after a day of fun!
Day Three
Wrap up your trip with exciting activities! Start with breakfast, then visit a wildlife park. Explore scenic trails before enjoying lunch and a memorable finale to your vacation.
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Start The Morning at La Finca
Start your day by enjoying some healthy Mexican fare at La Finca, including breakfast favorites like Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Revueltos as well as Machacado to get everybody's day off to a good start.
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Adventure Awaits at Laredo Safari and Adventure Park
The Laredo Safari and Adventure Park is one of the fun things to do in Laredo. Here, you can capture unforgettable moments with their famous resident giraffe, who has gained quite a following on social media. The park offers a unique opportunity to interact with various animals, including zebras, lemurs, and bison. For some extra thrills, visitors can indulge in exciting outdoor activities like zip lining, kayaking on the park's artificial lake, or renting an ATV. It’s an adventure-packed destination that promises fun for the whole family!
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Explore Paso Del Indio Nature Trial
Explore the renowned Paso Del Indio Nature Trail, accessible through the Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Science Center, to experience a different side of nature. This rustic path offers stunning views of the Rio Grande, a river that has been significant to Native Americans for generations, as well as to troops and settlers throughout history.
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Lunch and Sweets at Rocha’s Bar & Grill
After soaking up some fresh air, stop by Pinkies Candy Store for a sweet treat before heading to Rocha's Bar & Grill. There, owner and Chef Rey Rocha crafts everything from scratch, ensuring a delicious dining experience for all.
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Enjoy Incredible Views at TAMIU LBV Planetarium
Before your day comes to an end, see the night sky in a whole new way at the TAMIU LBV Planetarium, which has been dedicated to local benefactor Lamar Bruni Vergara. With a 40-foot complete dome as well as an ultra-high-definition projection system that can show 360-degree video, and pictures, this state-of-the-art planetarium is among the greatest in Texas. You can schedule an afternoon or evening show, including "Entranced" and "Humpback Whales," for an amazing audio-visual adventure.
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Dinner at Katsumi Noodle Truck
Satisfy your cravings with dinner at Katsumi Noodle Truck, where you can enjoy delicious dishes like takoyaki, gyozas, and tonkotsu ramen. Often parked nearby is Saludos Brewing, which recently opened its doors this spring, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing evening. If you have a sitter for the kids, it’s a great excuse for a romantic night out. Cheers to creating unforgettable memories in Laredo!