Dog walking in Hidalgo

McAuliffe/Seguin

McAllen Dog Park is a pawfect place to let your buddy lose the leash! Located in the quietly residential yet downtown-adjacent neighborhood of McAualiffe/Seguin, the dog run takes up a whole block -- there’s plenty of space in both the large and small dog areas for even the most rambunctious fur-ball to burn off some excess energy. Bags and water are provided, so just bring your pooch and prepare to play! Careful, though -- the park doesn’t get much shade, so you might want to visit in the morning or early evening. This park is ruffly 9 miles away from Hidalgo.

De Palmas Historic District

Sandwiched between historic downtown McAllen and suburban Westway Avenue, De Palmas Historic District is eclectic, charming, and chock full of doggy dining options. For a beer or a quick bite, stop into Roosevelts on 7, where you and your pooch can chill on the patio. Or if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, check out Mama’s Pizzeria -- their seafood linguine is excellent, and they’ll put out a bowl of water for your pooch on a hot day. A special mention, though, has to go to the furrific Coffee with Companions! This friendly local joint serves up a great cup of joe, welcomes wagging tails outside, and even stocks free dog treats behind the counter.

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is a real mutts-visit! Just a twelve-minute drive away from Hidalgo, this preserve has a trail to suit everyone from the fittest furry friend to the most committed couch pup-tatoes. The paths are well-kept and lined with mature trees, but the main draw of Bentsen Valley Rio Grande State Park is the bird-watching. You and your pooch can climb up to the Hawk Observation Tower and try and spot everything from hawks to hummingbirds. You might want to keep your pup on a short leash if they have a tendency to tear after things with feathers!

South Historic McAllen

Looking for a quiet place for a sedate stroll with your pooch? Check out Fireman’s Park in South Historic McAllen! The park is kept from public view by the canal, so on the right day, you two might be able to explore this hidden gem all by yourselves. There are a couple of trails for you and your buddy to sniff out, as well as some fabulous lakeside views. Fireman’s Park even has a small beach where you two can relax and watch the ducks! After you two have worked up an appetite, consider grabbing lunch at Delia’s Tamales, where your pooch can join you at one of their outdoor tables.

Olmito

Catherine B. Stillman Dog Park might be a bit of a drive away from Hidalgo, but make no bones about it -- this off-leash area is certainly worth the trip! The park is run by the Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center, so you know your pooch is in good hands. There’s a separate area for small dogs, so your pooch can play and socialize no matter their size, and the park is well-shaded by mature trees. You’ll also find a couple of benches, so you can take a load off if you feel like your dog is walking you! Bags and water are provided on-site.