As far as neighborhoods go, we think you will enjoy Downtown McAllen, which is close to the venue. There are plenty of good eats and drinks, cafes, vintage shops, nature centers, and historic sites nearby.
We have secured a special rate at the historic Casa de Palmas hotel near the venue.
Casa de Palmas | From $89-$99/night
101 N. Main St., McAllen
You can book online here or call the hotel at 956-928-9905. To receive the special rate, mention the Van Hoang and Danielle Lopez wedding party.
About Casa de Palmas
This site was a city park with antelope, javelina, and deer before a group of businessmen decided McAllen needed a hotel to serve as a business and social center. The Casa de Palmas, a three-story structure with a red tile roof built around a center patio and twin towers, was erected here in 1918. It served as a refuge for many area residents during the severe 1919 hurricane. The hotel was rebuilt in the original style after a 1973 fire. —Texas Historical Commission
Stay
Alternate Recommended Option
If Casa de Palmas doesn’t seem right for you, we recommend the nearby DoubleTree Suites. It is a 5-minute drive away from the wedding venue.
DoubleTree Suites | Rooms starting at $112
1800 S. 2nd St., McAllen
Book here
Getting There
Flying
Mcallen International Airport (MFE)
Fly into the McAllen International Airport in downtown McAllen. It is about a 10-minute drive to the recommended hotels.
Valley International Airport (HRL), Harlingen
If flying into the VIA, you will likely need to rent a car. Harlingen is about a 40-minute drive from McAllen. (But a car means you can see more of what the Magic Valley has to offer!)
Driving
Important Note: If you’ve never been to a border town, you might be surprised by border checkpoints. You will pass one on your way into the Valley, though you won’t interact with it. On your return trip, you will be stopped in Falfurrias at a facility where border patrol will briefly check you. Just roll down your window, take off your sunglasses, and stay calm. They will ask you something along the lines of “Are you an American citizen?” You just need to say “yes.” Do not have any illegal substances on you. There are dogs on patrol.
From Austin
4.5-5 hour drive
From San Antonio
3.5-4 hour drive
From DFW
8 hour drive
Recommended gas and bathroom stops in the final stretch
— Love’s, Three Rivers: 2645 S I-37, Three Rivers, TX 78071
— Tex Best Travel Center, George West: 101 Nueces St., George West, TX 78022
From Houston
5.5-6 hour drive
Recommended gas and bathroom stop in the final stretch
— Sunoco, Falfurrias: 500 E. Rice St., Falfurrias, TX 78355