Mercedes

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Mercedes's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Mercedes
morning
:

Check into your cozy hotel and refresh after your journey. After unpacking, explore the local area and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café. Take a moment to plan your upcoming adventures over a hot cup of coffee.

afternoon
:

Head to the Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets for some shopping and enjoy the wide array of stores available. After shopping, pamper yourself with some lunch at one of the mall’s diverse food options. Don't forget to grab a few souvenirs to remember your trip.

evening
:

In the evening, experience the vibrant local dining scene by indulging in a delicious dinner at a local Tex-Mex restaurant. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music. End your day with a relaxing walk under the stars at a nearby park.

day 2
Exploring the Nature Parks
morning
:

Rise early and visit the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge to immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna. Grab a quick breakfast and make sure to carry your binoculars for bird-watching. Spend the morning hiking the scenic trails and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature or visit a local diner for a hearty meal. After lunch, head to the nearby Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park for more outdoor adventures, including biking and butterfly watching. Experience the incredible sights and sounds of the South Texas wildlife.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Mercedes and treat yourself to a fantastic barbecue dinner at one of the renowned local spots. If time allows, explore any evening events or markets taking place in the area. Reflect on the day's adventures while savoring a sweet dessert.

day 3
Cultural Day in Mercedes
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Valley Nature Center to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems. Engage in interactive exhibits and don’t miss the beautiful walking paths lined with native plants. Have a spirit-lifting breakfast at a charming local cafe nearby.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, head to the Museum of South Texas History where you can delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Explore galleries showcasing 19th-century artifacts, historic photographs, and more. Allow yourself to get lost in the narratives that shape the unique identity of South Texas.

evening
:

Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant known for its delicious modern takes on traditional dishes. Afterward, explore Mercedes’ nightlife, perhaps checking out local bars or music venues. Wrap up your night with a nightcap and reflect on the cultural insights gained throughout the day.

day 4
Day Trip to Mission
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a short drive to the charming city of Mission, known for its beautiful parks and cultural spots. Visit the historic San Juan Mission, one of the oldest missions in Texas, and soak in its rich history. Enjoy a stroll in the tranquil gardens around the mission to kickstart your day.

afternoon
:

Discover the Mission Historical Museum post-lunch, which offers insights into the city's origins and development. Take a leisurely walk through the grounds, admiring the local artwork and exhibits. Enjoy a late lunch at a popular eatery that features local Tex-Mex cuisine.

evening
:

Return to Mercedes and grab a quick dinner at a local diner or food truck offering unique street food. Spend the evening at a local art gallery, if available, or attend community events showcasing local talent. Savor the relaxed vibe and friendly atmosphere of the small-town charm.

day 5
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Treat yourself to a leisurely morning with breakfast in bed or at a local café celebrating fresh ingredients. Following breakfast, indulge in a spa treatment at one of Mercedes’ local wellness centers that focus on relaxation and rejuvenation. Allow the soothing environment to ease any stress you may have.

afternoon
:

Post-spa experience, enjoy a healthy lunch at a salad bar or juice center. Spend the afternoon in leisure, perhaps taking a quiet walk at a local park or indulging in some light reading. Alternatively, visit the local shops for some more unique purchases.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its gourmet offerings and enjoy a peaceful meal. Consider dressing up for the occasion and savoring every bite of your meal. Conclude your relaxing day with a nightcap and a calm discussion about the highlights of your trip so far.

day 6
Discovering Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day at the local farmer's market for a delightful array of fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with local vendors and sample unique dishes while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. This is the perfect place to grab ingredients for a picnic later.

afternoon
:

Settle in the nearby park for your picnic, made up of fresh delicacies from the market. After lunch, explore other artisan markets or boutique shops around the area, discovering one-of-a-kind handcrafted items. Take your time to appreciate the local arts and crafts community.

evening
:

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table offerings, highlighting the importance of local ingredients. Post-dinner, you might catch an open mic night or local art showcase, depending on the evening offerings. Wrap up your day with a night stroll, reflecting on the local culture you’ve embraced.

day 7
Adventure in the Valley
morning
:

Begin your day with an adventurous outing; perhaps take a guided kayak tour on the Rio Grande River. After grabbing breakfast, prepare for an exciting morning on the water, exploring the lush surroundings and wildlife. The experience offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the valley.

afternoon
:

Post-adventure, visit a local winery or vineyard for lunch and tastings, enjoying the perfect pairing of food and local wines. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the vineyard, reflecting on your morning's exploits. Engage with the local wine community and learn about Texas wine production.

evening
:

Return to Mercedes and have dinner at a cozy spot that offers comfort food. As you dine, discuss your favorite moments from the kayak trip and the insights gained at the vineyard. Cap off your night with a local dessert or ice cream treat.

day 8
Historical Exploration
morning
:

Dedicate the morning to a visit at the Historic City Hall and the surrounding downtown area. Grab a hearty breakfast at a popular diner before diving into the rich history of Mercedes through its historical landmarks. Enjoy the architecture and stories that each building tells。

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby parks that have ties to the local history, perhaps enjoying a guided tour if available. Pack a lunch or enjoy local cuisine from a café. Continuing through the day, visit any nearby historical sites to enhance your understanding of the area.

evening
:

For your final evening, celebrate your discoveries with a celebratory dinner at a local upscale restaurant. Share your favorite tales of the trip with your dining companions and enjoy the savory offerings. Finish with a toast to a wonderful journey and the new memories created.

day 9
Departure Day
morning
:

On your last morning, savor a final breakfast at your favorite spot from the trip, reflecting on all that you've experienced. Finish packing and take a casual stroll around the hotel to soak in the last views of Mercedes. Capture a few photos to remember your time in this charming city.

afternoon
:

Before hitting the road, make a last-minute stop at any local shops you didn’t get a chance to visit. Grab any last souvenirs or goodies to take home as a reminder of your trip. Take a moment to enjoy a relaxing lunch at a familiar café.

evening
:

As you drive away from Mercedes, reflect on the delightful journey filled with adventure, culture, and relaxation. Plan to revisit someday as you reminisce about the diverse experiences. Your journey may end here, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Discover Mercedes

Read more in our Mercedes 2025 Travel Guide.

Mercedes Travel Guide