McAllen’s vibrant arts district is centrally located in the heart of the city, along Main Street. Home to more than two dozen art galleries, the area is anchored by the Spanish Colonial Nuevo Santander gallery and the new Art Village, a 30,000 square foot Tuscan-style retail facility that includes four buildings that house art galleries, studios, creative firms and restaurants. The area is home to the city’s first Friday art walk that occurs monthly September to May from 6:00pm to 10:00pm the first Friday of each month . In addition to art, drinks and music, the area is home to a number of quaint specialty restaurants that cater to a range of clientele.

The arts district is also home to historic Archer Park. At over 100 years old, Archer Park is a city landmark that features a charming gazebo that was dedicated as a bandstand in 1918. Just one block west of the arts district, McAllen’s historic district is situated along 15th Street and is home to the Sam and Marjorie Miller House, built in 1937 and the Casa de Palmas Renaissance Hotel, built in 1918. Nearby, the city’s vibrant entertainment district is situated along 17th Street and is just a short walk from both the arts and historic districts and downtown.

Also, efforts on behalf of the City of McAllen’s Chamber of Commerce have made the McAllen Creative Incubator a reality. Stationed within the arts district of McAllen, it was designed with one purpose in mind: support and provide a home for local artists.