Got A Sweet Tooth? Visit These 8 McAllen Bakeries Today!

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October 14, 2021

Got A Sweet Tooth? Visit These 8 McAllen Bakeries Today!

Do you have a crazy big sweet tooth? If you eat sweets like there is no tomorrow, we highly recommend fulfilling your craving in McAllen! Many offer baked goods, donuts, ice cream, and more! We want to highlight eight sweet places for you to enjoy next!

Picture courtesy of CC’s Sweets Instagram.

CC’s Sweets

(956) 627-2420

Court Yard, 5401 N 10th St. Ste. 117

Check out their menu.

CC’s Sweets offers a unique assortment of delicious cupcakes, macarons, cookies, brownies, and pet-friend treats for your four-legged friends! They currently offer curbside and delivery.

Yummy’s Ice Cream & Mini Donuts

(956) 800-4264

705 S 10th St. Ste. A

Check out their menu.

Yummy’s Ice Cream & Mini Donuts offers, as their name suggests, scoops of ice cream and delicious mini donuts, which include banana splits, milkshakes, and ice cream sandwiches!

Photo courtesy of PJ Pies’ Instagram.

PJ Pies

(956) 627-0180

5712 N 10th St.

Check out their menu.

PJ Pies is a cafe that offers comfort foods and sweets, such as savory and dessert pies and coffee drinks. Try their Van Goght and Chunky Monkey pies!

RGV Cupcake Factory

(956) 618-9979

3300 W Expy 83 Ste. 1260

Check out their menu.

Previously featured on the Food Network’s show “Cupcake Wars,” this baker shop sells unique flavors and gives unique names for each cupcake. You purchase them as a single, 4-pack, 6-pack, or dozen!

Capricious Cake Shop

(956) 627-3964

6421 N 10th St, Suite 100

Check out their menu.

Capricious Cake Shop is the perfect place to pick up your cakes for any occasion. Try their Gansito, Milky Way, or Crunch cakes!

Photo courtesy of Keto Sweets & Treats’ Instagram.

Keto Sweets & Treats

(956)414-8913

6624 N 10th St

Check out their menu.

Keto Sweets & Treats was created by bakers with a passion for baked goods and living a healthier lifestyle! Their menu contains guilt-free sweets, such as their keto conchas!

Smallcakes Cupcakery

(956) 800-5220

3400 W Expy 83 Ste. 115

Check out their menu.

Smallcakes Cupcakery offers specialty cupcakes and ice cream flavors, such as their sweet hot fudge sundae cupcake and blue monster cookie ice cream!

Breadsmith

4105 N 10th St. – (956) 994-1294

3400 W Expressway 83 – (956) 790-0144

Check out their menu.

This national bakery features artisan bread loaves, specialty sweets, and weekly specials made from scratch!

Show us Your Favorite McAllen Restaurants

Tag us in your foodie photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! Use #McAllenEats and #RGVfoodie so we can see your pictures!

Scared Stiff: 2 Horror Legends You Can Visit Near Downtown McAllen, TX

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October 7, 2021

*This article is meant for entertainment purposes only and may or may not be accurate. Scary-story enthusiasts, beware!

Spooky season is here, which means it’s time to share our favorite scary stories with you. McAllen has two legends you may have heard about, and both are near downtown McAllen! Grab a friend to visit these places if you dare!

The Ghosts of City Hall

McAllen City Hall

1300 W Houston Ave

If you see a ghost in McAllen, who are you going to call? Probably not McAllen City Hall, because they have ghosts too! In 1928, the city of McAllen opened up its first hospital ever, located at the city hall’s current location. That hospital went through several expansions and care for many patients until its demolition in 1993 to make way for the new McAllen City Hall. It’s believed the souls of the patients who passed away there never left and roam there even now.

*Photo courtesy of South Texas Health System Facebook

Here is what has been reported:

A couple of McAllen employees have quit their jobs due to feeling haunted.
Another worker recounts they saw the elevator’s lights flash rapidly and travel up and down quickly.
One City Hall Information and Technology Department employee says they worked late one afternoon and heard typing on a keyboard but saw no one when they checked the building.

One employee from McAllen Public Utility says he caught a glimpse of the spirit on surveillance footage. “I saw an object walking around the lobby,” he said, “It went through the wall.” Some workers don’t believe the stories, despite the warnings from other employees. You’ll have to visit in person, to see for yourself.

*Photo courtesy of jorgeshouseofhorrors.com

The Devil at the Disco

The French Quarters Plaza

3911 N. 10th St.

One of the larger-than-life stories you might have heard is when the devil visited the humble city of McAllen. On Good Friday, April 13, 1979, a girl, approximately 18 years old, was reported to have danced with the devil at the Boccaccio 2000 club.

Several eyewitnesses say:

They saw a well-dressed and dark-clad figure dance with the girl.
They heard a shriek and saw the girl shaking and with burn marks on her arms and neck.
No one could find the mysterious man, but some saw the club’s metal doors close.
Their noses burned as they smelt the scent of sulfur in the air.
One of the stranger’s legs was a chicken leg, and the other had a hoof for a foot.

Paranormal Expert Jon Gonzalez writes that a man who claims he was a DJ that night saw the stranger drive up in a black Lincoln Continental, and as he exited the vehicle, the DJ smelt burning sulfur.

However, according to Dr. Mark Glazer, a retired UTRGV legacy professor of anthropology, the folktale has different meanings behind it.

Some believe:

It was a prank staged by the club for publicity.
The girl went insane and is waiting for one last dance with the devil.
The story is based on an actual occurrence where a girl suffered a seizure that night.

*Photo courtesy of utrgv.edu

Whatever the truth is, Boccaccio 2000 no longer exists since it burned down shortly after the incident. Now, the French Quarter Plaza stands in its place today.

CREEPY!

Show Us How You Explore McAllen

October is the perfect month to visit these iconic places. Wherever you decide to venture, be sure to show us online!

Be Sure to Visit McAllen’s Favorite Pumpkin Patches!

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October 5, 2021

Buy tickets for Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch here!

It’s fall in the Rio Grande Valley and pumpkins are taking over everything! Pumpkin-spiced drinks, pumpkin-themed decor, pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins! And our personal favorite – McAllen Pumpkin Patches.

Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch

6712 N. Bentsen Rd.
$10 per person | $125 for professional photos | $195 for the horse/ llama package

Hours of Operation: Saturday – Wednesday 8AM – 8PM | Thursday – Friday 10AM – 8PM

On the right day, you can feel the wind through your hair. String lights are hanging above the main deck where pumpkins are laid out in five piles and a large tree provides shade. You can even hear the cows mooing in the background! At Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch, you’ll experience country life in the city! This five-acre ranch is large enough to roam while taking an endless number of pictures. It’s the perfect backdrop for photographers, Instagram lovers, and families looking for a safe and alternative outing.

Melanie and Rick Vega opened Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch in dedication to Maddie, 4, who was in the ICU when she was a year old. After battling pneumonia for two weeks and being sedated the entire time because of her age, she underwent two successful surgeries that allowed her to go home for the start of fall. In honor of Maddie’s miracle, Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch was born!

St. Mark’s Pumpkin Patch

301 Pecan Blvd.
$3 per person | Pumpkin Prices Vary

Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday 2PM – 7PM & Friday – Sunday 1PM – 8PM

Every year, St. Mark’s Pumpkin Patch has brought smiles and photo ops to local families of the Rio Grande Valley. This year will mark their 24th Annual Pumpkin Patch. If you’re traveling east on Pecan, then you’re sure to catch a glimpse of the sea of pumpkins that overfill the yard at St. Mark’s.

Buy tickets for St. Mark’s Pumpkin Patch here!

More Things to do in McAllen

McAllen is continuously bringing you things to do. If you’ve found a new spot that you want us to feature, then leave us a message on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

10 Local Restaurants in McAllen to Celebrate National Taco Day!

Eats

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September 27, 2021

10 Local Restaurants in McAllen to Celebrate National Taco Day!

What can you eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? Tacos, of course! October 4^th is National Taco Day and we want to share ten popular McAllen restaurants where you can get your grub on. Enjoy visiting the many taquerias, food trucks, and restaurants this city has to offer!

Nuri Street Fusion

(956) 627-2193

7600 N 10th St. Ste. 800 H

Check out their menu.

Nuri Street Fusion is known for its Mexican and Korean-infused Nuri Tako! This taco has carne cecina, grilled onions, cilantro, melted choriqueso, and is topped with tomatillo salsa.

Diego’s Food Truck

Photo courtesy of Diego’s Food Truck Facebook

(956) 330-5644

10 N Broadway St.

Check out their menu.

Visit Diego’s Food truck if you enjoy eating locally sourced meat or are looking for vegan taco options!

Tingy

Photo courtesy of Tingy’s Facebook

(956) 800-4482

5921 N 23rd St.

Check out their menu.

Established in 2019, Tingy serves street- tacos inspired by authentic Mexican recipes from over 40 years ago! Their top-sellers include The Birria and The Piggy-Back!

Container Taco Factory

Photo courtesy of Container Taco Factory’s Facebook

(956) 331-8064

7824 N. 23rd St.

Check out their menu.

If you’re looking for a spot with a great atmosphere and traditional bistec and chicken tacos, look no further than the Container Taco Factory!

Tacos Pepe

Photo courtesy of Tacos Pepe’s Facebook

(956) 627-5599

2901 N. 10th St. Ste. I

Check out their menu.

If you’re craving authentic Mexican meals, then try Tacos Pepe! This restaurant’s specialty is the Tacos de Birria, inspired from recipes in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico!

Ms. G’s Tacos N’ More

Photo courtesy of Ms. G’s Tacos N’ More Facebook

(956) 668-8226

2263 Pecan Blvd.

Check out their menu.

Check out Ms. G’s Taco’s N’ More if you need taco options for morning and lunch. They also offer daily specials, so don’t forget to put this restaurant on your list!

Costa Messa

Photo courtesy of Costa Messa’s Facebook

5248 N. 10th St. – (956) 618-1919

1621 N. 11th St. – (956) 618-5449

1801 S. Main St. – (956) 618-4040

Check out their menu.

Costa Messa has served foodies delicious Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine since 2002. Now, you can enjoy their meals at one of their three locations in McAllen!

El Rodeo Taco Express

Photo courtesy of El Rodeo Taco Express Facebook

(956) 661-0870

6300 N. Ware Rd.

Check out their menu.

El Rodeo Taco Express prides itself on serving taco with flavors originating from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico!

Piporro Taqueria Jalisco

Photo courtesy of Piporro Taqueria Jalisco’s Facebook

(956) 627-3177

5000 N. 23rd St. Ste. A

Check out their menu.

If you enjoy traditional street tacos, then you’ll enjoy these bistec, trompo, and chicken tacos available for single purchase or as a combo!

Taquero Mucho

Photo courtesy of Taquero Mucho’s Facebook

700 S. 23rd St.

(956) 225-5952

Check out their menu.

Want tacos made with love? Order this meal from Taquero Mucho! They offer many kinds of tacos, including taco matamoros, chorreados, and banados.

Show us Your Favorite McAllen Restaurants

Tag us in your foodie photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! Use #McAllenEats and #RGVfoodie so we can see your pictures!

Get Ready for Back-to-School Shopping in McAllen!

Shopping

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August 9, 2021

Get Ready for Back-to-School Shopping in McAllen!

School is just around the corner, and if you’re new to McAllen, then we want to share the best areas to shop for supplies, wardrobes, and accessories! Check it out!

Trenton Crossing

7600 N. 10^th St.

Located in North McAllen, Trenton Crossing offers a variety of stores for every preference and style. With main staples like Target, Best Buy, and Kohl’s, you’ll find everything you need for school supplies, tech, and clothing!

La Plaza Mall

2200 S. 10^th St.

La Plaza Mall is one of the leading shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations in McAllen. Local and international shoppers come to La Plaza Mall for the latest in fashion, home décor, electronics, and more!

Take a break from shopping and stop by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Carlo’s Bakery, Buddy V’s Ristorante, or a crowd favorite, Yard House.

Las Tiendas

724 E. Expressway 83

Las Tiendas has shoes, discount clothing stores, and sporting goods. It’s the perfect spot if you have a long shopping list.

Palms Crossing

3300 US-83 Frontage Rd.

Palms Crossing is within walking distance of the Convention Center. With spots like Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree, Barnes & Noble, and more, you’ll find everything you need to complete your back-to-school shopping list.

Shop Locally!

We also have a thriving independent shopping community in McAllen. For more on local boutiques and restaurants, click here.

National Comic Book Day: Where to Find All of Your Favorite Comic Books in McAllen!

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July 26, 2021

Free Comic Book Day: Where to Find All of Your Favorite Comic Books in McAllen!

Calling all Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, Valiant, and other comic brand enthusiasts! August 14^th is National Free Comic Book Day. We want to go over some of the most popular spots in McAllen for all of you comic book readers to celebrate. Check it out!

Anime Boom

801 W. Pecan Blvd.

If you’re a face of Japanese comic books, then Anime Boom is the place to be. It showcases manga, statues, anime, snacks, apparel, and more! You can also have some great boba tea while you read!

The Flux

4613 N. 10^th St.

The Flux is the ultimate nostalgia spot with vintage gaming consoles, video games, comics, toys, and collectibles. This spot also has the biggest video game arcade in McAllen! The Flux occasionally takes to Facebook Live to show off and sell items that you can pick up at the shop later.

Hobbies & Heroes

5109 N. 10^th St.

If you’re looking for some rare and autographed sports cards along with comic books and a huge offering of Funko Pops, then you need to stop by Hobbies & Heroes.

Kaboom Comics & Collectibles

3525 N. 10^th St.

At Kaboom, you can find the latest and classic comics, card game supplies, statues, Funko Pops, and more. Kaboom is also the mastermind behind the beloved South Texas Comic Con!

Limited Editions Comics and Collectibles

137 W. Nolana Ave.

Some of the best selection of comics and pop culture merchandise can be found at Limited Editions Comics and Collectibles. Opened in 2017, this spot is just one more special offering to celebrate Free Comic Book Day!

Myth Adventures

720 W. Nolana Ave.

Myth Adventures is the grandaddy of comic book shops – not just in McAllen, but in all The Valley. This spot sells more than just newly released and classic comics. You can also find a variety of pop culture collectibles, superhero statues, movie posters, busts, t-shirts, plush toys, Funko Pops, board games, card games, and manga. Myth Adventures also hosts get-togethers for Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic: The Gathering, and Naruto.

Follow them on Facebook!

The 30th Annual Texas Hunters & Sportsman’s Expo from July 23rd Through the 25th

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July 9, 2021

The 30th Annual Texas Hunters & Sportsman’s Expo from July 23rd Through the 25th

The Texas Hunters & Sportsman’s Expo is the largest show of its kind, drawing in thousands of people from across South Texas as well as international visitors. McAllen has hosted the show for the last 25 years, and its popularity stems from the city and surrounding areas being home to thousands of affluent hunters and large ranches. Come celebrate with fellow hunting enthusiasts on Friday, July 23^rd through Sunday, July 25^th, 2021, at the McAllen Convention Center.

Over 275 Exhibits!

From the experienced sportsman to those interested in learning, this year’s expo will have something for everyone, including:

Experienced guides and outfitters
Yeti brand equipment
Featured attractions
Exotic wildlife ranches
Major boat and R.V. dealers
ATVs and RVs
Major manufacturers
Fishing guides
Major conservation groups

Some of the featured exhibits will include Joe Martin’s Diamondback Rattlesnake Pit, the World Class Whitetail Head Display, the first female taxidermist, Kristen Ottea, and so much more!

Hours and Admission

You won’t want to miss this great, three-day event! Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens, and children 12 and under get in FREE! Hours on Friday are 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page and official website.

Make a Splash at Doggie Day at the Pool

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July 9, 2021

One of the most popular events in McAllen is back at Los Encinos Swimming Pool. Yes, we’re talking about Doggie Day at the Pool! On Saturday, September 25^th at Los Encinos, the day will be filled with furry friends looking to make a splash. Bring your dog’s favorite toys for a party that’s sure to be off the leash!

The event will be held between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Prices will be $2.50 per person and $5.00 per dog (maximum of two dogs per owner). Please bring proof of your dogs’ rabies vaccinations.

Can Dogs Swim?

While most dogs have a natural ability to swim, others need an extra comforting nudge to step in the water. Like humans, dogs can be frightened by new experiences and may feel anxious or nervous near water.

No matter what, swimming for dogs can be a great pastime as long as you’re there with them! For extra safety, buying a doggie life jacket will help your furry companion stay afloat easier.

A few swimming benefits for your dog include:

Exercise
Playtime
Cooling down
Therapeutic motions

Ready to Jump In?

Where: Los Encinos Swimming Pool in McAllen

Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Price:

$2.50 per person.

$5 per dog with a maximum of two dogs per owner.

Additional details: Must bring proof of current rabies vaccinations for dog entry.

9 Restaurants You’ll Find at the Mercado District in McAllen!

Eats

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June 30, 2021

After some new owners and a whole lot of remodeling, Mercado District at 4400 N. 23^rd St. has transformed into a new hangout spot filled with many small businesses and restaurants. Check out the nine spots where you can grab a bite!

Sendero Texas Gastropub

Photos courtesy of Sendero Texas Gastropub on Instagram.

Sendero shines a light on Texas’ culinary landscape with game meats, local veggies, and seafood with a nod to our south-of-the-border roots.

Kabubi Tacos

Photos courtesy of Kabubi Tacos on Instagram.

Kabubi Tacos creates delicious gyros, falafels, baklava, and more! Rich with flavors, their menu will have you coming back for more!

Sticky Rice Sushi

Photos courtesy of Sticky Rice Sushi on Instagram.

If you love sushi, you’re going to love this place. Not only does it have your favorites like California and Philadelphia rolls, but it also sports Miso and Sake rolls. Friendly service and delicious sushi? Yes, please!

Pizzeria di Soria

Photos courtesy of Pizzeria di Soria on Instagram.

Looking for some authentic wood fire pizza? Pizzeria di Soria serves that and empanadas! Their flavors are an amazing fusion amplified with a wood fire oven.

Ronin Noodle Bar

Photos courtesy of Ronin Noodle Bar on Instagram.

Ronin Noodle Rice Bar specializes in Asian fusion cuisine with an RGV twist. Not only are they serving up great noodles, but they even have a Sunday brunch menu filled with breakfast noodles!

Midtown Ceviche Bar

Photos courtesy of Midtown Ceviche on Instagram.

Midtown Ceviche Bar specializes in Peruvian-style ceviche. From the moment the flavors hit your first taste bud, you’ll want more!

La Cocinita

Photos courtesy of La Cocinita on Instagram.

At this spot, Mexican cuisine is elevated to a new level of deliciousness. Enjoy traditional Mexican recipes with a modern and elegant twist.

Cocu French Bistro

Photos courtesy of Cocu French Bistro on Instagram.

Cocu French Bistro is THE go-to place for brunch, lunch, and dinner! You’ll find decadent and savory crepes, salads, and more.

Lovers Lane Café

Photos courtesy of Lovers Lane Café on Instagram.

Lovers Lane Café serves delectable coffee, pastries, and more. You can customize your favorite hot beverage just the way you like it, served with friendly smiles, and great customer service!

Check out our TikTok for more on Mercado District by clicking here!

The Ultimate Guide to McAllen’s Independence Day Celebration

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May 26, 2021