Matamoros

Understand

Matamoros faces the United States-Mexico border across the Rio Grande River from the city of Brownsville, near where the Rio Grande empties into the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of several major land crossings between the United States and Mexico. Since the 1970s, and especially during the 1990s, after the initiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, foreign investment has multiplied in Matamoros, resulting in an enormous population growth, prominently from other Mexican states, like San Luis Potosí and Veracruz. The city's economy has shifted from agriculture to maquiladora manufacturing. This industry produces technological goods like cables, electrical appliances, electrical components, vehicle parts and accessories, textiles, chemical products, machinery, and computer products.

Climate

Matamoros has a semiarid climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico accompanies cooler winds during the summers and winters, compared to its sister cities of Reynosa and Nuevo Laredo, which are farther inland. Summer temperatures range from 30 to 40 °C (86 to 104 °F). Heavy rainfall is usually seen during the months of July and August, although it is not uncommon to go about without any rain whatsoever during the "wet" season. The average temperatures during the winters usually range around 0–10 °C (32 to 50 °F); this season is usually attended with rain, drizzle, and fog.

Getting there

By foot If crossing from the U.S. by foot, all three bridges between Brownsville and Matamoros charge a US$1 toll (and a US$0.25 toll to return). The turnstile is on the right side of the vehicle lanes in either direction. You must bring a passport if you plan to return to the U.S., though you can enter the border zone of Mexico without it and will almost certainly not be asked to present documents. Mexican customs or the military or both may ask to search your bags, if you are carrying something. Note that in Brownsville U.S. customs officials do sometimes stop pedestrians heading for the bridge crossing and question them. The wait to enter Mexico is negligible, but if you are planning to walk back across the bridge to the U.S. you might want to time it so that you do not have to stand for 30 minutes in extreme heat and humidity. The bridge furthest east, the Veterans International Bridge at the end of Highway 77 on the Texas side, is not recommended for pedestrian crossing; it was designed for long-haul trucks and is a much longer bridge (and thus longer walk) than the other two. The bridge at International Blvd. is the shortest walk and more accessible to downtown Matamoros upon crossing.

By plane 1 Matamoros International Airport (MAM IATA), Fronter, Villa Hermosa (9 Km south of the border on MEX-Hwy 101, southside of town), ☏ +52 868 812-0001. It is served by the following airlines:* Aeromexico/Aeromexico Connect (non-stop service between Mexico City and Matamoros)* Aerus (Monterrey, Tampico). (updated Oct 2020) The nearest airport for onward flights into the US is in Brownsville.

By bus Matamoros is served by various bus companies with routes from major cities in northern and eastern Mexico. Bus companies in Matamoros include Grupo Senda (particularly Noreste), Transpais, ADO, ETN, and Futura (among others). Buses to Matamoros leave from Ciudad Victoria, Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey. From the United States, Tornado, Americanos and other trans-border bus companies have buses to Matamoros from major Texas cities, often connecting in Houston. Matamoros is a popular border crossing for travelers heading to southern Mexico. Many bus routes use federal highway MEX-180 which is the major highway along the Gulf of Mexico coast with stop in major cities such as Tampico, Veracruz, Coatzalcocos, Campeche, and Merida. The longest ADO bus routes from Matamoros end in Cancun, but the bus ride from Matamoros takes about 24 hours so a plane is always more practical. See Bus travel in Mexico for additional details and contact info for different bus companies

See

1 Museo Casamata (Museum of Casamata), Santos Degollado Street and Guatemala esq. S / N Colonia Modelo, ☏ +52 868 813 5929. Tu-F 08:00-16:00, Sa 09:00-14:00. Fortress of Casamata, converted into Museum Casamata in 1970, was a bastion that now guards a fine collection of prehispanic figurines and artifacts dating from central historic moments: the Spanish colonist era, the Mexican War of Independence, and the contentious Mexican Revolution. Unique and curious items are also exhibited, such as an iron casket where the remains of fearless General Canales once rested (fought against both American and French invasions) and the dark tunnels lounged beneath the construction, inevitable reference for local horror stories. (updated Oct 2020) The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Tamaulipas (MACT). Inaugurated in 1969, it is the largest and most important art museum in the city, and one of the most memorable in the state of Tamaulipas. Art and photo exhibitions are held yearlong at MACT. Artworks from Mexico City, Monterrey, New York City, Los Angeles, Milan, and Paris have been displayed at this museum. (updated Oct 2020) The central plaza is home to the Presidential Offices, the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora Villa del Refugio, and of the Casino Matamorense, along with other historical buildings. The Teatro Reforma, the most important theater in the city, is found a few blocks away.

The Cathedral of Nuestra Señora Villa del Refugio, constructed in 1831, was one of the first mayor constructions and is one of the present symbols of the city. Its neoclassical architecture, along with its rich, historical background, attracts visitors yearlong. The Casino Matamorense, constructed in 1950, is traditionally considered the center of social gatherings for the principal families of Matamoros. Also with its unique architecture, Centro Cultural Olimpico, is a historical creation built in the city. Nothing like it had been done before. The Teatro Reforma, once considered the 'House of the Opera of the 19th Century', was constructed in 1861. For decades, the theater was home to important balls held by the richest families of Matamoros and the high-ranking military officers of the state. In addition, 'Teatro Reforma' is well known for being the first place in history where the Mexican National Anthem was played.

Do

Matamoros and Brownsville are home to the Charro Days and Sombrero Festival, two-nation fiestas that commemorate the heritage of the U.S. and Mexico which are celebrated every February. Bagdad Beach (Playa Bagdad), also known as Lauro Villar Beach, is 27 km (17 mi) east of Matamoros, hosts important fishing tournaments each year. During Holy Week, the beach experiences an abundant presence of visitors, primarily from Nuevo León, when Playa Bagdad becomes the host of several concerts, sport tournaments, and festivals. Playa Bagdad has several seafood restaurants. Jet ski, surfing, motocross and off-road 4x4 racing are allowed with few area restrictions.

Eat

1 Garcia's Restaurant, Alvaro Obregón #82 Col. Jardín (Walk across Gateway Bridge and after checking in with customs continue along the same street about one block), ☏ +52 868 812-3929. Popular restaurant only one block from Gateway Bridge to Brownsville. In addition to the restaurant and bar, attached shops sell curios, crafts and clothing. There is also a liquor store and pharmacy. Along with Garcia's restaurants in Brownsville and Nuevo Progreso, the family's restaurants seeks to preserve and demonstrate Mexican culture and traditions. (updated Jun 2017)

Sleep

Budget

Mid-range 1 Best Western Hotel Plaza Matamoros, 9th Y Bravo Street 1421, ☏ +52 868 816 1696. A nice, modern hotel. Prices are about US$50-75, which includes parking and breakfast.

Splurge