McAllen, Texas

McAllen, Texas is a city located in the southern part of the state, near the Rio Grande and the Mexico–United States border. It is situated in Hidalgo County, Texas, and is part of the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is close to several major cities, including Brownsville, Texas, Harlingen, Texas, and Laredo, Texas. McAllen is also near several popular tourist destinations, such as South Padre Island, Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, and the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge.

Geography

McAllen is located in the Rio Grande Valley region of Texas, near the Mexico–United States border. The city has a total area of 48.6 square miles, and is situated near several major highways, including Interstate 2, U.S. Route 83, and Texas State Highway 107. The city's geography is characterized by its flat terrain and mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 100°F throughout the year. McAllen is also close to several major rivers, including the Rio Grande, Arroyo Colorado, and Resaca de la Palma. The city is situated near several major cities, including Edinburg, Texas, Mission, Texas, and Pharr, Texas, and is part of the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX Metropolitan Statistical Area, which also includes Weslaco, Texas, San Juan, Texas, and Alamo, Texas.

History

The area that is now McAllen was first settled in the early 1900s, and was originally known as McAllen Townsite. The city was founded by John McAllen, James Balli, and Archibald Freeman, and was officially incorporated in 1911. During World War I, McAllen played an important role as a major supplier of cotton and other agricultural products to the United States military. The city also played a significant role in the Mexican Revolution, with many Mexican Revolutionaries, including Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata, passing through the area. McAllen is also close to several historic sites, including the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, the Resaca de la Palma State Park, and the Brownsville Historic District.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the city of McAllen had a population of 142,210 people, with a median age of 29.4 years. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of Hispanic and Latino Americans, Non-Hispanic Whites, and African Americans. McAllen is also home to a large number of foreign-born residents, with many people moving to the city from Mexico, Central America, and other parts of the world. The city is served by several major hospitals, including the McAllen Medical Center, Rio Grande Regional Hospital, and Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. McAllen is also home to several major universities, including the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, South Texas College, and Texas A&M University–Kingsville.

Economy

The economy of McAllen is driven by a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is a major producer of cotton, sugarcane, and citrus fruits, and is also home to several major manufacturing facilities, including those owned by Caterpillar Inc., General Electric, and Siemens. McAllen is also a popular tourist destination, with many visitors drawn to the city's museums, parks, and historic sites, such as the McAllen Heritage Center, International Museum of Art & Science, and the Quinta Mazatlán. The city is also close to several major shopping centers, including the La Plaza Mall, Palms Crossing, and the Trenton Crossing.

Education

McAllen is served by several major school districts, including the McAllen Independent School District, Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District, and Mission Consolidated Independent School District. The city is also home to several major universities, including the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, South Texas College, and Texas A&M University–Kingsville. McAllen is also close to several other major universities, including University of Texas at Brownsville, Texas Southmost College, and University of the Incarnate Word. The city has a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, with several major programs and initiatives, including the McAllen STEM Initiative and the Rio Grande Valley STEM Alliance.

Culture

McAllen has a rich and diverse cultural scene, with a mix of Mexican-American culture, Texan culture, and American culture. The city is home to several major museums, including the International Museum of Art & Science, McAllen Heritage Center, and the Museum of South Texas History. McAllen is also host to several major festivals and events, including the McAllen International Festival, Texas Onion Fest, and the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and Rodeo. The city has a strong focus on the arts, with several major galleries and performance venues, including the McAllen Performing Arts Center and the Cine El Rey. McAllen is also close to several other major cultural attractions, including the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, Harlingen Arts and Heritage Museum, and the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands. Category:Texas