Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

By /
Shaded structure overlooking the battlefield
The overlook gives you a great view of the battlefield
Sun rising over the battlefield
Get here when the park opens and enjoy views like this.
Sunset over the battlefield
Early sunsets during winter are a sight to behold.
Mexican 8-pounder cannon on the battlefield.
A Mexican 8-pound field gun surveys the battlefield.
Front view of Visitor Center
Stop by the Visitor Center before heading out on the trail.
Photos: National Park Service

About Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

On May 8, 1846, U.S. and Mexican troops clashed on the prairie of Palo Alto. The battle was the first in a two-year long war that changed the map of North America. Although the two countries have developed strong bonds and friendly ties since the war ended in 1848, these neighbors continue to contend with the legacy of the war.

Quick Facts

State Texas
Designation National Historical Park
State Code TX
Weather Summers are hot and humid. Tropical weather systems generally affect the area from August to October. Winters are usually mild but cold fronts can drop temperatures by up to 30…

Location & Map

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is located in Texas.

Operating Hours

Please note: Visitor Center hours of operation differ from park hours of operation and are dependent upon staffing. Park grounds are open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Park trails close to new traffic at 4:30 pm. All gates are locked at 5 pm. All vehicles must clear the park by 5 pm.

Wednesday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Monday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Thursday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Sunday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Tuesday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Friday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Activities

Arts and Culture Cultural Demonstrations Biking Road Biking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hiking Living History Historic Weapons Demonstration First Person Interpretation Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Getting There

The park is located on Brownsville's north side, near the city of Los Fresnos. It is just north of the intersection of FM 1847 (Paredes Line Rd.) and FM 511/FM 550.

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address 7200 Paredes Line Road, Brownsville, TX, 78526
Phone 9565412785
Email paal_visitor_center@nps.gov

Topics & Themes

Archeology Colonization and Settlement Forts Hispanic American Heritage Immigration Latino American Heritage Maritime Maritime - Military Migrations Military Infantry and Militia Artillery Cavalry US Army US Navy US Marines Battlefields Monuments and Memorials Presidents Schools and Education Science, Technology and Innovation Wars and Conflicts Mexican War Westward Expansion Animals Birds Tortoises and Turtles Grasslands Prairies Natural Sounds Scenic Views Thickets and Shrublands Trails Unique Species Rare Endangered Wetlands

Things To Do

Visit Resaca de la Palma Battlefield

Visit Resaca de la Palma Battlefield

Resaca de la Palma Battlefield features a half-mile circular trail with interpretive waysides. Head out to the observation deck on…

See Where it All Started - Rancho de Carricitos

See Where it All Started - Rancho de Carricitos

Visit the site of the first official combat between of the U.S. - Mexican War. On April 24, 1846 Captain…

Visiting Fort Polk

Visiting Fort Polk

When the U.S. army arrived in the Rio Grande delta in March 1846, General Taylor’s first stop was to establish…

Stand on the Grounds of General Zachary Taylor's Fort on the Rio Grande

Stand on the Grounds of General Zachary Taylor's Fort on the Rio Grande

Visit the site of the earthen fortification that became known as Fort Brown. While visiting this site you can see…

Self-guided Field Trips at Palo Alto Battlefield

Self-guided Field Trips at Palo Alto Battlefield

Take your teaching to the next level and make Palo Alto Battlefield your classroom. Visiting the site of the first…

Explore the Brownsville Historic Battlefield Trail

Explore the Brownsville Historic Battlefield Trail

Palo Alto Battlefield serves as a gateway to the Brownsville Historic Battlefield Trail. The trail provides users a healthy way…

Visitor Centers

Palo Alto Visitor Center

The visitor center features an exhibit area features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and Mexican War era military uniforms. The center also offers a 15-minute video—"War on…

Hours: Occasional, temporary closures of the Visitor Center are possible, especially during the lunch hour. Please call (956) 541-2785 ext. 333 for current Visitor Center hours.

🗺️ Guided Tours & Experiences

Discover Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park with expert-led tours

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

🏨 Find Hotels Near Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

Compare accommodation options for your visit

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

More Parks in Texas

Plan Your Trip From a Nearby City

Find national parks near these cities, including Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park.

Scroll to Top