Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum
( 956-727-3480;
www.webbheritage.org
;
1005 Zaragoza St; admission $2; 9am-4pm Tue-Sat)
Housed in
the 1840 capitol of the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande, this excellent museum
brings that turbulent period to life with displays about the confused politics plus items
from everyday life. Be sure to head (or rather, stoop) to the back, where the oldest part of
the building dates to the 1830s.
Nearby, and also operated by the Webb County Heritage Foundation, the
Border Heritage
Museum
(810 Zaragoza St)
may be open with a special exhibition; check at the main museum.
The Border Heritage Museum is housed in the restored 19th-century Villa Antigua.
MUSEUM
Sleeping
Most of Laredo's lodgings are on San Bernardo and Santa Ursula Aves, which run parallel
with I-35 right to downtown and the border.
Super 8 Motel
( 956-722-6321;
www.super8.com
;
2620 Santa Ursula Ave, at I-35 exit 2; r $50-95; )
The better of
the two properties of this ubiquitous budget chain is also closer to the center. The 71
rooms are off outside corridors over two floors and all come with microwaves and fridges.
MOTEL
$
Courtyard by Marriott
( 956-725-5555;
www.marriott.com
;
2410 Santa Ursula Ave, at I-35 exit 3; r $100-170; )
Two
miles north of downtown, this motel's amenities include a health club and whirlpool (after
a day touring in 100°F weather, there's nothing like relaxing in a vat of near-boiling wa-
ter). The 110 rooms reflect an upscale business motif, with large desks and easy chairs.
MOTEL
$$
La Posada Hotel & Suites
( 956-722-1701;
www.laposada.com
; 1000 Zaragoza St, San Agustín Plaza; r $110-200; )
Far
and away the best choice in Laredo, this hacienda-style hotel occupies a complex of build-
ings dating from 1916. (It was originally a high school.) The stylish rooms surround two
large pools and gardens; the deeply shaded verandahs are a world away from the city
bustle just outside. Some rooms have patios overlooking the action of the river and border
area.
HISTORIC HOTEL
$$
Eating
