Taco Ole - Mission

Texas is a state renowned for its rich and varied history, and the city of Harlingen is no exception. The Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum is a distinctive museum located in the Rio Grande Valley that offers visitors a glimpse into the local history and culture through its rotating exhibits and attractions. The museum houses an impressive collection of historical objects, photographs, and artwork that tell the region's stories in an engaging and informative manner. The museum is situated in three historical buildings, including the original home of Lon C. Hill, who founded the town of Harlingen, the Paso Real Stagecoach Inn, and Harlingen's first hospital. The Historical Museum, previously the Air Police Squadron and Brig of the Harlingen Air Force Base, is also on the premises. This building contains permanent collections of Harlingen and Texas historical objects and photos. The main museum building showcases rotating arts and cultural exhibitions.

The Valley Nature Center is a stunning six-acre park located in the Lower Rio Grande Valley area. It is home to a diverse range of native plants and animals. For over 35 years, the center has been actively transplanting plants from areas reserved for development to increase plant diversity, protect local species, and provide food and habitat for residents and migratory wildlife. The park features a one-mile trail where visitors can stroll and explore various native plant species, including the Sabal Palm Grove, Arroyo Colorado Brush, the Barretal, Coastal Lomas, and the Chihuahuan Thorn Forest. In addition, visitors can observe different species of animals, such as Malachite and Pixie butterflies, Plain Chachalacas, Great Kiskadees, Buff-bellied Hummingbirds, Texas Tortoises, Eastern Cottontail Rabbits, and numerous lizard and amphibian species.