Looking for an adventure-packed day of shopping and culinary delights? Look no further than the vibrant towns scattered along the US-Mexico border. From bustling markets to quaint boutiques, these towns offer an array of shopping experiences that will satisfy every shopper’s desires.
We have been visiting Texas border towns for about 25 years. What began as a day trip from our homes in Corpus Christi has evolved into a great girl’s weekend escape. Here is the run down on a great day of shopping and dining just south of the Mexico border.
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A Spectacular Day in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico
Our favorite spot to cross the border into Mexico is at the Weslaco-Nuevo Progreso crossing. They have a handy parking area just before the pedestrian bridge to cross the border. You can also drive into Mexico but it takes much longer to cross over by car. And why bother when it is so easy to walk!
Nuevo Progreso is a charming Mexican town known for its bustling marketplaces and affordable shopping. It is generally considered safe for tourists, with a strong police presence in the downtown shopping areas. In fact, this is one of the few border towns we don’t see featured on the news regularly.
Park and Walk
Head south on S. International Blvd. Drive 7.1 miles to the border at Progresso. Park in the lot by the bridge for a mere $4 a day and then hot foot it across the bridge. You will need to pay a $1.00 bridge toll as you enter Mexico. Take 4 US quarters for this or you will have to wait in line for service. Be sure to save $.30 for your departure. Yes, it costs less to leave than to enter. We like to time our trip to arrive in Mexico around 9:30-10:00 a.m.
If you elect to drive across it will cost $4.00 per vehicle to enter and $1.85 to exit. Plus, you will need to pay to park (or for someone to watch your car) on the Mexico side of the border. I don’t recommend driving unless you need your car to haul massive purchases (like furniture) back to the US.
Shop Till You Drop
Avenida Benito Juárez runs straight down from the border. This main street is filled with shops, pharmacies, and restaurants, offering a wide range of goods at bargain prices. Vendors line the streets eagerly awaiting the chance to show off their wares.
The numerous shops and stores offer pottery, glassware, leather goods, clothing and arts & crafts from all over Mexico. In addition to the smaller places, there are two “superstores.” Be sure to check out the deals at El Super Disco and the Canada Store! I can’t even begin to describe the amount of merchandise we have chugged back across the border from these stores!
Check out the mercado, several blocks back at the corner of Reynosa St. and Baja California. Wander through the town’s artisan markets where you’ll find a variety of handmade crafts, pottery, and souvenirs. Expect vendors to beckon you to their stall to get that special “almost FREE” bargain. Be ready to haggle a bit, it is expected. But don’t insult them by pushing too low. They need to make a living more than you need to save $2.
What to Buy
We always filled our bags with 925 silver jewelry. Take a magnet with you to ensure you don’t get scammed. Silver is NOT magnetic! We have purchased jewelry galore over the years. In fact, I don’t consider it a successful trip unless I return with 2-3 new sets of earrings. I have also purchased necklaces, charms, bracelets and rings. The quality is pretty good. I have never had anything turn green on me, but they do seem to require more silver polish than things I buy in the states.
Deidra is a real sucker for the beautiful Mexican glassware. We have “clanged” our way across the border a few times with new glassware for her kitchen. She mostly finds these at one of the big stores which have fixed pricing. We have also hauled our share of pottery and artisan items across the border. Take a few sturdy collapsible bags to carry your loot.
Progreso is also a popular place to buy duty-free alcohol, cigarettes and perfumes. There is a duty-free shop next to the bridge. If you want to buy alcohol or cigarettes you should do so as you leave the country. Keep in mind that Texans are limited in the amount of alcohol and tobacco they can bring to the US.
Dine in Style
Shopping is hard work anywhere – but in a Mexico border town it can also be hot work. So, take time to indulge in authentic cuisine at one of Nuevo Progreso’s wonderful restaurants. Check out the menu at Arturo’s which has been a Nuevo Progresso favorite since the 1970s. Or gaze through the window at La Fogato to see what’s on the grill. Both these places offer fabulous cuisine.
We have always loved to have lunch at Garcia’s Restaurant located atop the Canada Store! We arrive quite hot and sweaty from shopping to be greeted by tuxedoed waiters and first-class cuisine. I almost always order the quail as it is oh so deliciouso! The service is fabulous and there is almost always live music. You might even spy some winter Texans hitting the dance floor.
Many report that you can’t beat the food at Angel’s or Chuy’s Red Snapper. Maybe we need to try one of those places next time we go! Some people also pass on the restaurants to enjoy the many street food stalls. From tacos and tamales to churros and fresh fruit, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Medical Services and Pharmacies
Many people flock to the border for medical services. Anything from visits to the optometrist or dentist to major surgery, medical services cost less in Mexico. Neither of us have ever succumbed to the temptation of cheap medical services, but many do and live to tell the tale. When seeking care, bring a list of all prescriptions and previous x-rays. Also bring your insurance card as you might be able to claim out-of-network services.
I have been known to purchase prescription medications in Mexico. There was a time when you could buy anything and everything for a fraction of the price in the US. No prescription needed. Now you either need to bring your prescription or see their doctor (located next door for a fee of $5 to $20). Prices are not always so cheap these days so come prepared with what you would have to pay in the US or you may regret it.
Heading Home
After a long and hot day of shopping, we drag our bodies and loot back across the border. When we were younger, we would drive all the way back to Corpus Christi in the same day. Now that we tire a little faster and the cost of a hotel isn’t as difficult to face, we head to a nearby hotel for a soak in the tub and a nice soft bed. We can always face reality manana!
Other Mexico Border Towns to Consider
We have always favored Nuevo Progresso for great Mexico border shopping. It is less than 3 hours from Corpus Christi and always felt very safe. So, when we both lived here it was easy access. Once Deidra moved away, we tried out other towns, but nowhere takes the place of Nuevo Progresso. That said, consider a day trip to explore one of these other Mexico border towns.
El Paso, Texas – Ciudad Juárez, Mexico
The El Paso-Ciudad Juárez border crossing provides easy access to Mexico’s largest border city, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant shopping scene. Mercado Cuauhtémoc offers a wide selection of goods, including textiles, pottery, leather goods, and souvenirs. Bargain with local vendors for the best deals and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Ciudad Juárez has experienced security issues in the past due to drug cartel activity. However, the situation has improved in recent years, and the downtown shopping areas are considered relatively safe for tourists. Stick to well-traveled areas and avoid wandering off the beaten path.
Brownsville, Texas – Matamoros, Mexico
The Matamoros border crossing provides easy access to a charming Mexican city known for its rich history and vibrant marketplaces. But be prepared as the mercado is a 2-mile walk from the border. That said, you can always catch a taxi. They don’t run on meters but are generally pretty cheap. Located in downtown Matamoros, Mercado Juárez is a bustling market offering a wide range of goods, including clothing, accessories, home decor, and souvenirs.
Matamoros has experienced security issues related to drug cartel activity in the past. While the downtown shopping areas are generally safe for tourists during the day, it’s essential to remain vigilant and avoid walking alone at night.
Laredo, Texas – Nuevo Laredo, Mexico
The Nuevo Laredo border crossing provides easy access to Nuevo Laredo, a Mexican city known for its lively markets and authentic cuisine. Located in downtown Nuevo Laredo, Mercado Maclovio Herrera is a traditional market offering a wide range of goods, including clothing, accessories, toys, and souvenirs.
CAUTION! The last time we visited Nuevo Laredo (January 2022) we were shocked by how run down the main square appeared. Most shops and restaurants were closed for business. In fact, the only places open were pharmacies and a weird little cantina. Nuevo Laredo has experienced security concerns due to drug cartel activity in the past. It’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid confrontations if you plan to visit.
Nogales, Arizona – Nogales, Mexico
The Nogales border crossing provides easy access to the twin cities of Nogales, offering a mix of American and Mexican culture. Located in downtown Nogales, Mexico, Mercado Municipal is a vibrant market offering a diverse array of goods, including clothing, jewelry, pottery, and souvenirs. Explore the narrow aisles and haggle with vendors for the best prices.
Nogales, Mexico, has seen occasional incidents related to drug cartel violence in the past. However, the downtown shopping areas are generally safe for tourists during the day. Exercise caution and avoid displaying valuables to minimize the risk of theft.
San Diego, California – Tijuana, Mexico
The San Diego-Tijuana border crossing is one of the busiest in the world, offering a seamless transition from the US to Mexico. Located near the border, Mercado Hidalgo is a bustling market offering a wide range of goods. Avenida Revolución is famous for its eclectic shops, vibrant street art, and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to sample authentic Mexican street food while you shop for spices, clothing, and handicrafts.
If you are flying into San Diego, this is a super easy border town to visit as the airport actually contains a crossing into the Tijuana airport! Or you can take a day trip during your stay. There are even organized tours you can take so someone else takes care of the logistics.
While Tijuana is generally safe for tourists, it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Know Before You Go
It’s essential that you go prepared when you cross the border to Mexico.
- Bring your passport! Contrary to popular belief, you DO need a passport to visit Mexico.
- U.S. Dollars are good to spend but you will get pesos for change. Be sure to take small bills without any tears, writing, or stains. You can take up to $10,000 cash into Mexico and back to the U.S. Credit and debit cards are accepted with a 3-6% charge. ATMs are available with a fee.
- Mobile service is spotty and you could face international roaming charges. Either purchase an international plan or turn your phone on airplane mode.
- Haggling is the name of the game! Start your haggling at about 50% of the price quoted. Go back and forth 2-3 times. Your goal is to get the item about 20-25% off the original price. Unless you are buying multiple items. Then you should expect deeper discounts. No matter what, be kind, be respectful, be patient, and be prepared to walk away. Then again, if you are haggling over just a couple of bucks, think about which of you might need that money more.
- Take time for a decadent lunch! There is nothing better than taking a break from the Mexican heat to enjoy a multi-course meal with entertainment.
- Stay hydrated! You can bring your own or purchase bottled water. Beer and margaritas don’t count!
- Watch your alcohol consumption! Margaritas are typically much stronger south of the border!
- Key Phrases to Know When You Cross the Mexico Border
- Hello – hola
- Thank you – gracias
- No, thank you – no, gracias
- Agua – water
- Restroom – bano
Safety Tips Across the Mexico Border
While these destinations offer fantastic shopping opportunities, it’s essential to prioritize safety and remain vigilant during your visit, especially in areas with a history of drug cartel activity. With caution and awareness, you can enjoy a memorable and safe shopping experience. Keep these tips in mind:
- Stick to well-lit and populated areas.
- Time your visit to return to the US side before dark (keep in mind there may be long wait times at the border).
- Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables.
- For the least hassle, park on the US side and walk across.
- If driving into Mexico, park in well-lit and secure parking areas. Make sure you have the appropriate insurance.
- Stay informed about any travel advisories or safety concerns before your visit.
Are You Ready to Shop Till You Drop South of the Mexico Border?
From unique handicrafts to mouthwatering street food, there’s something for every shopper to discover in these dynamic Mexico Border towns. So, grab your passport and get ready to shop till you drop!
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