Mission, Texas, is not only the “home of the ruby red grapefruit” and the “butterfly capital of the USA,” it’s also home to over 84,000 residents.
Mission is a community with a small-town feel, fabulous views, a year ‘round tropical climate, and friendly, bicultural diversity.
Located at the southern tip of Texas in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Mission has incredible varieties of butterflies and birds that attract thousands of tourists, nature lovers, birders, and photographers annually. It’s estimated that more than half the species of birds in the U.S. can be spotted in Mission.
It’s also a golfer’s paradise—home to four premier golf courses. Mission is a great place for outdoor activities—hiking, camping, boating, hunting and biking to name just a few.
The National Butterfly Center, and the 588-acre Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park are great sites for bird watching and wildlife viewing—as are the area’s preserves, nature parks, and the nearby National Wildlife Refuge area. In the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, more than 340 bird species have been seen, and the park offers visitors tram rides, guided nature walks, bird walks and “creatures of the night” walks.
Thousands of “Winter Texans” escape to Mission to enjoy winter temperatures that average about 72 degrees along with local music, live performances, cycling events and year ‘round festivals.
One of the most popular festivals is the gala Texas Citrus Fiesta, which has been held since 1932 and attracts over 100,000 people annually. The Texas Butterfly Festival, held in the fall during the butterfly season, brings people from around the world to enjoy the clouds of migrating butterflies.