Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site

Address:1623 Central Boulevard, Rm 213
Brownsville, Texas
Tel: (956) 541-2785

Visit the only site in the entire National Park System dedicated to the Mexican-American War, showing both nations' perspectives on the battle over a boundary! The Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site in Texas is a must for war buffs and is a great symbol of North Americana! The Palo Alto Battle was the first in a two year long conflict that changed the map of North America. The Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site preserves the focal point of this important battle and helps visitors understand the causes, events, and consequences of the first war between the new independent Mexico and the United States.

Besides for an excellent mini-course in history, visitors to the Park can enjoy the 1 mile roundtrip trail to an overlook of the battlefield—either walk the whole distance, stopping to read interpretive panels, or choose a shorter road which enters the trail at a point closer to the overlook. The visitor's center has interesting and creative exhibits on the battle and provides a 15 minute "War on the Rio Grande" video that gives a great historical overview. Besides for the battle, Palo Alto boasts undeveloped nature which retains the character of the field from 1846, with razor-sharp cordgrass and dense thickets of mesquite, cactus and other thorny plants. It'll feel like you're back in the 19th century!

The Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site is found at the corner of the intersection of FM 1847 (Paredes Line Road) and FM 511, approximately five miles north of downtown Brownsville, TX. From Route 77/83 take the FM 511 exit and drive east approximately two miles to reach FM 1847. The park visitor center is located on the east side of FM 1847. Explore this monumental piece of history, while also having a whole lot of fun!