Map of Laredo Texas Area
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Laredo, Texas, is a desert city near the border of Mexico with low taxes and affordable living. It is sunny most of the time, and there are a plethora of lovely trees throughout the city.
Entertaining Mexican celebrations occur around the city, and in February, there is a huge party to celebrate George Washington’s birth.
Though the city is steeped in Mexican culture, it is also a dangerous place to visit. Research should be done, and caution exercised before going.
History of Laredo
In honor of Saint Augustine of Hippo,Laredo got it’s name after Laredo, Cantabria, Spain, in 1755. It was then that the Colonial Settlement of Villa de San Agustin de Laredo was discovered.
Because of the Mexican American War in 1846, the town was seized by the Texas Rangers. A plea was given in which the American Government was asked if they would return Laredo to Mexico.
The plea was rejected, causing many people to move into Mexico. After many others stayed on the northern side of the river, in what would be Texas, Laredo became official in 1852.
Where is Laredo Located?
This Spanish city sits in the county of Webb, in Texas. It sits on the northern shores of the River Rio Grande, at the border of Mexico. It is towards the western end of the Rio Grande Plains, west of the Coastal Plains, and east of the Mexican Mountains.
How Big Is Laredo?
Laredo is 101.1 square land miles, and 1.5 is water. Its population is around 262,491
What is the Weather Like in Laredo?
The semi-arid climate brings hot temperatures in the summer, and it’s relatively mild in the winter. The average temperature in January is 56.5, and the average in August is 88.4, but there have been recordings of the temperature getting as high as 115.
Rainfall averages about 20.2 a year, and snow seldom happens.
Is Laredo a Nice Place to Live?
The city of Laredo has a rich heritage, and the cost of living is low compared to the rest of the country. However, the lack of diversity, subpar education, and hot weather often deter folks from moving to Laredo.
Though it is a city, it tends to feel more like a small town. Some villages even have areas where farmers still practice. Many transportation companies have a subsidiary in Laredo, and the city is equipped with all the facilities needed.
The town has also created a conducive environment for employment.
Laredo is sadly one of the unsafest cities in the United States, though border control has made it a bit safer. The national crime average is higher, and the bulk of crimes are violent. Unfortunately, there is a very high chance you fall victim to a crime, and you should never walk alone at night.
What Are the Best Areas to Live in Fort Laredo?
Laredo is characterized by much inequality, and while there are habitable zones, there are also areas that look like war zones. Where you decide to live will be the determining factor of quality of life here. Some of the better neighborhoods include:
- Plantation
- Winfield
- Alexander Estates
- Regency
- La Bota Ranch
- San Isidro
- Khaledi Heights
It is best to stay away from the neighborhoods in the southern tip of the town near the Rio Grande.
What is Laredo Known For?
Laredo is known for the flying of seven flags. Along with the flag of the Republic of the Rio Grande, the six flags of Texas fly in Laredo. It has grown to be the largest inland port at the Mexican border, and the economy is known for international trade.
Because it sits on the border of Texas and Mexico, Laredo is one of the oldest towns at the border of Mexico. Because two distinct cultures are blended, it has a colorful history.
Along with being the most famous Spanish beach resort town, there is plenty to see along the streets of Puebla Vieja Slope. It is an ideal gateway for entertainment, festivals, and the month-long celebration of George Washington’s birthday.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Laredo:
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum
In San Agustin Plaza, in downtown Laredo sits the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum. It is one of Laredo’s oldest buildings, and its 1830 Mexican vernacular architecture makes it unique and inviting.
The museum used to be the mayor’s home and served as the capital for the Republic of the Rio Grande. Today, it exhibits an authentic home in Laredo set in the 1830s and remains one of the most visited historical landmarks in the city.
Villa Antiqua Border Heritage Museum
This museum used to be a two-story brick building that was home to several Laredo merchant families. The Italianate style stands out above the rest, and it really is a wonderful site.
The Webb County Heritage Foundation bought the home in 2002, and it was the start of many renovations. Today the museum showcases the regional history, the various ethnic populations, and the city’s colorful history.
Zacate Creek
When a Union Army of 200 men attempted to invade the town to steal bales of hay during the American Civil War, Zacate Creek played an important role. At the Battle of Laredo, Colonel Santos Benavides was able to repel the Union Army three different times at the creek.
Fort McIntosh
What used to be called Camp Crawford, Fort McIntosh, was established in 1849 and soon had an essential role in The American Civil War and the Mexican American War. Several of the African American freed slaves were also stationed at Fort McIntosh.
During World War I, the fort served as a training facility, and it was used by various units like the Civil Air Patrol and the Cavalry Brigade during the second world war.
Today, Fort McIntosh is no longer used with the military, but it is a vital part of the Laredo Community College and is open year-round to visitors.
