Del Rio claims itself to be "The Best of the Border." The city is the seat of Val Verde County. It is known for its abundant hunting stock which includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, javelina, dove and quail. The city is also the home of Southwest Texas Jr. College and Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College.
Things to do in Del Rio
Amistad National Recreation Area
Here there are boat ramps, marinas, picnic areas administered by National Park Service on U.S. side of the huge international Amistad Reservoir. From park headquarters on U.S. 90 just west of Del Rio, obtain information, maps, schedules for free programs, and directions to local prehistoric Native American pictograph sites accessible by boat and foot. Fees charged for camping and boat use. Located at Hwy 90 West. Open daily 8am- 5pm. Call 830-775-7491 for more information.
Ciudad Acuna
This city across the Rio Grande from Del Rio offers intriguing nightspots, restaurants and fascinating shops offering decorative wrought iron, jewelry, woven goods, leather craft, pottery and souvenirs.
Devil's River State Natural Area
This is a remote and picturesque 20,000-acre preserve at the ecological junction of the Chihuahuan Desert, the Hill Country and the Tamaulipan Brushlands of northern Mexico. Open by reservation only. Bring all supplies with you. Call 830-395-2133 for more information.
San Felipe Springs and Moore Park
This lush oasis in a semiarid setting was an important watering stop on the historic Chihuahua Road, which connected the Texas port of Indianola with Chihuahua City, Mexico. Springs flow some 90 million gallons of clear pure water daily. San Felipe Country Club golf course (semiprivate) surrounds the springs and Moore Park provides a large swimming pool.
Val Verde Winery
This family enterprise is in its fourth generation and was founded in 1883 by Italian immigrants. Grapes had been grown in the area since 1825, but other varieties from Spain, America and Mexico were introduced. The winery welcomes visitors during regular business hours. Access via Pecan Street South. Located at 100 Qualia Drive. Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm. Call 830-775-9714 for more information.
Walking Tour
Visit the downtown area of historic buildings, churches and homes dating from the 1800s, including the 1887 courthouse. Also see the ancient acequia system (irrigation canals) still in use. Walking tour brochure can be obtained from the Chamber of Commerce.
Whitehead Memorial Museum
Dedicated to the life and legends of the frontier Southwest. The museum includes a rustic structure that was an early trading post serving both Texas and Mexico. Plan at least two hours to roam through the 2 ½-acres and 13 exhibit sites. Located at 1308 South Main Street. Open Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 4:30pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm. Call 830-774-7568 for more information.