Historic Brownsville Museum
Housed in the historic Southern Pacific railroad passenger depot, this museum chronicles Brownsville’s history with photo exhibits and other permanent and rotating exhibits. The Brownsville Heritage Education Center within the museum also presents slide shows, lectures and other special events. Group tours are available with advance notice. Open Mon.-Fri. 10-4:30 and Sat. 10-1. Located at 641 E. Madison St. Brownsville. (956) 548-1313.

Coastal Studies Lab
This satellite of The University of Texas-Pan American studies and exhibits marine life like mollusks, crustaceans and marine vertebrates along with plant life. Open Sun.-Fri. 1:30-4:30, group tours by appointment Sun.-Fri. 1:30-4:30. Located at 100 Marine Land Dr., Isla Blanca County Park, South Padre Island. $4 per car to enter park. (956) 761-2644.

Confederate Air Force-Rio Grande Valley Wing
This local wing of the CAF currently houses 15 airplanes in flying condition. Other exhibits are antique military vehicles, weapons and uniforms. An air show is hosted in March. Open Mon.-Sat. 9-4. Admission. Located adjacent to the Brownsville-South Padre Island International Airport at Highway 511 and Keller’s Corner east of Brownsville. (956) 541-8585.

Gladys Porter Zoo
Opened in 1971, Gladys Porter Zoo continues to be one of the premier zoos of the world. With more than 1,700 animal specimen, the zoo specializes in collecting and breeding endangered species. This 31-acre park has all zoo favorites like gorillas, giraffes, lions and rhinos, as well as other exotic animals. Virtually all animals live in open exhibits where visitors are able to view them in their natural surroundings. Open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended weekend and summer hours. Adults $6 age 14+; $3 children ages 2 -13; and $4.75 for senior citizens age 65+ (prices subject to change). Ask about discounts for groups of 10 or more. Located at 500 Ringgold, Brownsville. (956) 546-7187.