Danielle Lopez

Nov 20, 2024 | texashighways.com | Andrea Luttrell |Danielle Lopez

First, let’s get something straight. As any Texan worth their weight in cattle knows, pecan is pronounced “peh-cahn,” not “pee-can.” We can claim this pronunciation with some authority, since archeologists have discovered evidence of pecan trees in the Rio Grande Valley as long ago as 6100 B.C.E. In more recent times, the state has honored the humble pecan by naming it our official state tree, and, with good weather on our side, Texas can produce up to 70 million pounds of pecans annually.

Sep 5, 2024 | texashighways.com | Danielle Lopez

On my first visit to South Padre Island in 1967—several years before the Queen Isabella Causeway was constructed, back when the only way onto the island was by boat—dining options were the Palmetto Inn and the Jetty Café. The only amusement for a teenager like me was renting a motorcycle at Andy’s Sand Box to drive on the beach.

Sep 4, 2024 | texashighways.com | Danielle Lopez

weslacoTim Smith has forecastedthe valley’s weatherfor 43 yearsTim Smith is as much a fixture in the Rio Grande Valley as palm trees and ruby red grapefruit. To some viewers, he’s Tío Tim: a member of the family. Growing up in the bitter winters of Indiana, Smith never imagined he would become the most trusted weatherman in South Texas. After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in broadcast journalism, he heard from a college buddy working at KRGV in Weslaco.

Sep 4, 2024 | texashighways.com | Daynara Gutierrez |Danielle Lopez

Chain hotels are as ubiquitous in the Rio Grande Valley as palm trees. Whether looking for a historic stay or a birder’s paradise, travelers seeking lodging with unique character may have to search a bit, but it’s well worth the effort. At Alpaquita Ranch, one of the RGV’s more recent novelties, guests are greeted by friendly, free-roaming alpacas adorned with bows and bandannas. Located in Monte Alto, Alpaquita offers two cabins: the Casa Suri and Casa Huacaya.

Sep 4, 2024 | texashighways.com | Ali Khan |Danielle Lopez

Texas has more burger joints than every other state besides California, so it’s safe to assume that of the 50 billion burgers eaten in this country every year (about 70 per person), Texans are responsible for a fair share of the damage. And of those burgers consumed, more and more are of the smash patty variety. The hottest trend on a bun, the style has sprouted a whole cottage industry of backyard flattop grills and $200 specialty presses and spatulas.