Eagle Pass

A view of downtown Eagle Pass shows storefronts, parked vehicles, and Main Street stretching beneath a bright blue sky.

If you’re looking for a tranquil place to relax, do some shopping, play some golf, and perhaps try your luck at a game of chance, Eagle Pass is the place for you. Located right on the Mexican border along the Rio Grande in Maverick County, Eagle Pass is where “Yee-haw” meets “Ole!”

Discover the History of Eagle Pass

Proximity to the border is what helped give rise to this vibrant city more than 150 years ago. Originally known as “Camp at Eagle Pass”—so named for the Rio Grande hillside’s resemblance to the wings of an eagle—the settlement began as a military installation known as Fort Duncan.

The fort offered protection to travelers between Mexico and the U.S. and those heading west to California. This helped the town thrive as a center for trade and commerce, which is why it’s no coincidence that the famed Camino Real—the main north-south route between Mexico and Texas for 200 years—is located nearby.

Later, stock raising would become a dominant economic force, making the area a popular target for cattle rustlers and outlaws in the years following the Civil War. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s restored law and order to the community and, with the advent of retailers on both sides of the border, the city soon became an international tourist destination.

Explore Fort Duncan and Local Parks

Today, the Fort Duncan Museum inside Fort Duncan Park memorializes the importance of the military presence in the creation of the city of Eagle Pass. The museum is located inside what was once the compound’s headquarters building, which has been restored, along with several of the other buildings, to its former glory. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum features Native American, military, and local artifacts, as well as a children's library.

The Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel entrance in Eagle Pass is lined with palm trees beneath an overcast sky. Fort Duncan Park is just one of 16 lovely greenspaces in town where you can enjoy a picnic, walk or jog, skateboard, or simply relax. That doesn’t include the Eagle Pass Golf Club, with its nine holes of challenging play off Del Rio Boulevard.

Try Your Luck at Lucky Eagle Casino

For somewhat more grown-up entertainment, head to the Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel, the only casino in Texas.

Located on the Kickapoo Indian Reservation, the casino offers poker, craps, blackjack, slots, and many other popular games. With live entertainment, award-winning restaurants, and frequent gaming tournaments, you’ll be tempted to stay at the hotel so you don’t miss any of the action.

Visit Piedras Negras, Mexico

Of course, no trip to Eagle Pass would be complete without spending a little time south of the border. Just a short drive over the famous Camino Real International Bridge lies Eagle Pass’ sister city, Piedras Negras, known as “The Door to Mexico.” Enjoy shopping and sightseeing at the Plaza de las Culturas, then pick up an authentic sarape from El Mercado, also known as the famous Zaragoza Market.

Fajitas are on the grill and mariachi music is in the air in Eagle Pass. All that’s missing is you.