THE URBAN SANCTUARY IS AWESOME FAMILY FUN

By Colleen Hook, Executive Director, Quinta Mazatlan

Most of us wish we could spend more time outdoors to enjoy our natural treasures. Studies show that spending time in nature can reduce stress and anxiety. Step into a beautiful urban oasis in McAllen, just minutes from the airport and mall, and Be Happy!

Family Fun

Quinta Mazatlan is a great place to spend time with your family. Kids will be fascinated to see the wild birds in the Thornforest. Friendly walking trails make it easy on the young ones. Our little modern-day dinosaur, the Chachalaca, will greet you, along with other feathered friends, at the front gates. Stop in on Saturdays for STEM Stops at 11:00, 1:00, and 3:00 pm at the Discovery Center, free with park admission.

Birding

There’s a reason why the RGV is on the list of top 3 birding destinations in the country. The area has documented over 520 different kinds of birds; That is over 90% of those seen in Texas and over 50% seen in North America. Many of the Valley specialty birds call Quinta Mazatlan “home,” such as the Green Jay, Kiskadee, Olive Sparrow, Clay-colored Thrush, Long-billed Thrasher, Plain Chachalaca, Pauraque, Altamira Oriole and Buff-bellied Hummingbird. Keep your binoculars available, as migratory birds are always checking into the B&B!

Historic Adobe Home

In the middle of the Thornforest is a large adobe home built in the 1930s by Marcia & Jason Matthews. Over 10,000 adobe blocks make up the estate, with a beautiful courtyard reminiscent of the homes in Mazatlan, Mexico. Handmade Talavera Tile archways, Cedar Beams, and Saltillo Tile flooring characterize the Spanish Revival Style architecture.

Bronze Forest Sculpture Trail

The forest trail features the beautiful sculptures of local artist Douglas Clark. Over 40 bronze sculptures tell the story of our wildlife in the Rio Grande Valley. Clark prefers to work from life, but some sculptures feature rare and endangered species like the wildcats that used to roam south Texas and thus works from old photographs and sketches.

Art Gallery

The Valley has a well-known arts community filled with talented artists. Quinta Mazatlan is proud to feature the artwork of Jessica Monroe. Her work is inspired by the natural world, exploring delicate and endangered ecosystems in South Texas. Monroe has created a custom line of art pieces in small formats for sale at the Nature Gift Store.

Nature Gift Store

A unique gift store featuring the works of many local artists is located in the historic home. Shop the artist gallery featuring Dan Lopez of 956 Woodworks and Kneely Dawn of Mother Earth Equals Me, selling handmade healing jewelry. You’ll also find Crochet Cactus, Custom Scarfs, Shirts, Caps, Pins, Artist Note Cards, Books, and More.

Thursday Night Live

On Thursday evenings, enjoy a special program in the park from area educators, authors, chefs, artists, musicians, and more. Special concerts in the woods are held throughout the season, so please follow Quinta Mazatlan on social media for upcoming events in the woods.

Rooted Yoga in the Park

Bi-monthly yoga in the park takes place on Wednesday evenings under the twinkle lights of the Old Oak. The yoga classes are designed for all levels and provide your daily dose of Vitamin N-Nature!

Forest Stewards

Meet new people and form valuable connections by volunteering at Quinta Mazatlan. Forest Stewards meet on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9 am to 11 am at 600 Sunset Drive in McAllen. Also, Saturday Tiny Forest plantings are held throughout McAllen once a month—follow Quinta on social media for announcements.

Spirit Lifter

For many people, time outside brings a smile to one’s face and a warmth to one’s heart. Witnessing beauty and new growth can inspire and calm at the same time.

The beautiful mansion is also available for private rentals for corporate events, dinners, weddings, and other celebratory events. Quinta Mazatlan is open to the public on Tuesday to Saturday, 8 to 5, and Thursday nights till dark. Discover why time spent at Quinta Mazatlan is time wisely invested for you and your family. For more information, contact (956) 681-3370 and follow Quinta Mazatlan on Social Media.

Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen Wing of the World Birding Center 600 Sunset, McAllen, Texas (956) 688-3370