Brownsville

Brownsville is a border city in southern Texas that stretches along the north bank of the Rio Grande, directly across from the Mexican city of Matamoros. The city covers flat terrain with wide streets, residential neighborhoods and a port that leads to the Gulf of Mexico.

The settlement began in 1849 next to a military post established during the war between the United States and Mexico. Over the following decades it grew into an important trading center between both countries.

The city takes its name from Fort Brown, which honored an officer killed in the Mexican-American War. Today residents celebrate a multi-day fiesta each February, where visitors can experience traditional costumes, music and dances from both sides of the border.

The port sits east of downtown and is accessible for visitors who want to observe activity along the water. The city has a warm climate year-round, with hot summers and mild winters.

A private space company built a rocket launch site here along the Gulf of Mexico shore. This makes the area the first facility of its kind on the Texas coast.

Location: Cameron County

Inception: 1849

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

Part of: Rio Grande Valley

Website: http://cob.us

GPS coordinates: 25.93028,-97.48444

Latest update: December 4, 2025 14:20