12 hours at Palo Alto Battlefield

Sunset over Palo Alto battlefield with trees, sky streaked with clouds.

Discover the stories and lasting impacts of this major milestone of the US-Mexican War by visiting this historic battlefield. Visit museums, walk interpretative trails, and enjoy the landscapes and culture of Texas' Gulf Coast.

Duration
1 day
Perfect for
History and military buffs, families, and anyone interested in Mexican and United States history and heritage.
Highlights
Battlefield trails, interactive exhibits, and panoramic views of this pivotal historic site.
Morning

Learn about the Battle of Palo Alto

Tree-lined Palo Alto trail in a sunny park with a wooden bench.

Start at the visitor center

Start your visit at the Palo Alto Battlefield Visitor Center, where exhibits and a short film provide an overview of the battle and its impact on US-Mexico history.

Palo Alto Battlefield landscape with mountains, trees, and a clear blue sky, framed by wooden beams.

Walk the battlefield

Take a self-guided walk along the Palo Alto Battlefield Trail to learn about key moments in the battle. Bring binoculars to slow down and watch for hawks, kites, and other birds on the battlefield’s vast grasslands.

Midday

Explore more history

Wooden deck overlooking Resaca waterfront with trees and greenery.

Resaca de la Palma Battlefield

Drive six miles to Resaca de la Palma Battlefield located in Brownsville, Texas. Walk the Brownsville Historic Battlefield Trail to learn about what happened when United States and Mexican forces clashed again after the Palo Alto battle.

Evening

Evening in Port Isabel

A tall white lighthouse under a blue sky with clouds.

Visit the Port Isabel Lighthouse

Head 28 miles east to Port Isabel and climb to the top of the historic lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the Laguna Madre and South Padre Island. Dine at one of Port Isabel’s waterfront restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh local seafood while watching the sunset.

Tent on Padre Island with person sitting, watching seagulls and ocean.
Optional add-on

Padre Island

Have more time? Spend a day or two at South Padre Island or enjoy the remote beaches of Padre Island National Seashore.

Visit Smart

Plan ahead

Check for ranger-led tours and special events to enhance your visit.

Watch the weather

South Texas can be hot and humid. Pack a hat and sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Stay on the trail

Make sure to walk only on trails and in designated areas to protect the natural landscape.

Leave no trace

Palo Alto Battlefield is a place of historical significance on the homelands of many Indigenous peoples, including the Karankawas. Respect the land when visiting to preserve the site for future generations.

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