Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park


On May 8, 1846, United States 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. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park preserves the site of this notable battle and provides an understanding of the causes, events, and consequences of the U.S.-Mexican War.

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.

  • 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

  • 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

Battlefield overlook

Shaded structure overlooking the battlefield

The overlook gives you a great view of the battlefield

Sunrise

Sun rising over the battlefield

Get here when the park opens and enjoy views like this.

Sunset over the battlefield

Sunset over the battlefield

Early sunsets during winter are a sight to behold.

Mexican 8-pounder

Mexican 8-pounder cannon on the battlefield.

A Mexican 8-pound field gun surveys the battlefield.

Visitor Center

Front view of Visitor Center

Stop by the Visitor Center before heading out on the trail.