HARLINGEN — Did you know the founder of Harlingen named the city after a fishing and shipping town in the Netherlands?
Take a guided walking tour through Historic Downtown Harlingen and learn this and many other surprising facts about the events, landmarks and businesses along East Jackson Street.
Downtown Harlingen, a designated Texas Main Street district, offers the free walking tours every Saturday at 9 a.m. with the exception of the first Saturday of the month, which is Jackson Street Market Days.
The walk lasts 90 minutes, so participants are asked to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
“We encourage locals to take advantage of these free tours of the Downtown area to learn more about Harlingen history, the businesses and the murals,” said Downtown Manager Edward Meza.
“Many locals who have taken the tour are amazed about the history of Downtown and Harlingen.”
The group meets at J&B’s Café, 204 E. Jackson St., and goes through the Historic District, including stops at 10 murals and various historic buildings.
No reservation is needed, and any size group is welcome.
Schools, churches, RV parks and other large organizations are able to make special arrangements by calling (956) 216-4910.
“There are other interesting bits of Harlingen history in every corner downtown,” Meza said.
What you should know
• Free walking tours of Historic Downtown Harlingen
• Saturdays at 9 a.m., except the first Saturday of the month
• Group meets at J&B’s Café, 204 E. Jackson St.
• Tour lasts 90 minutes
• For more information, call (956) 216-4910.
