Nuevo Laredo

Nuevo Laredo has a semi-arid climate influenced by the Chihuahuan Desert, the Sierra Madre Mountains, and the Gulf of Mexico. Mountains block most of the Pacific moisture, so most of the rain falls from the Gulf.

The rainy season lasts from April to October, with about 35-40 rainy days per year.

Nuevo Laredo experiences hot summers with average highs of 37°C and lows around 24°C. Winters are cooler compared to other parts of Tamaulipas, with daytime highs of 19°C and overnight lows near 6°C.

The best time to visit Nuevo Laredo

The best time to visit Nuevo Laredo is from November to March when temperatures are milder and more comfortable. During these months, daytime temperatures are pleasant, and nights are cool but not extreme.

Avoid summer months (June–August) unless you can handle intense heat.

If you don’t mind occasional rain, late spring and early fall can also be good options.

Nuevo Laredo was part of the territory of the original settlement of Laredo (now in Texas, USA). The settlement was founded in 1755 and was named Villa de San Agustin de Laredo after the Spanish town of Laredo.

The origin of the name of the original Spanish town of Laredo is unclear.

Some scholars say the name stems from “glaretum” (“sandy, rocky place”). Other ones state “Laredo” stems from a Basque word meaning “beautiful pastures”. Laredo might also stem from the Latin Larida which means gull.

In 1848, was founded Nuevo Laredo (“New Laredo”) after the end of the Mexican-USA war. The settlement was founded by Laredo families who wished to remain Mexican and moved to the Mexican side of the Rio Grande.

Nicknames of Nuevo Laredo are Chuparrosa (“Hummingbird”) and Puerta a México (“Door to Mexico”)

Pre-Hispanic Period

This area was home to nomadic indigenous tribes, the most notable being the Coahuiltecan people. They survived as hunter-gatherers, using tools made of stone and leather to adapt to the harsh environment.

Over time, Apaches and Comanches arrived in the region. To defend against these northern tribes, Spaniards established outposts and settlements, including Laredo, which would later lead to the creation of Nuevo Laredo.

Colonial Period

Nuevo Laredo was originally part of Laredo, Texas, which was founded in 1755. The land was granted by the King of Spain to José de Escandón, and the settlement remained intact until the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).

Independent Mexico and the Founding of Nuevo Laredo

In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo divided Laredo, placing part of it under USA control and the other in Mexico.

On June 15, 1848, 17 families who wanted to remain Mexican citizens moved to the southern side of the Rio Grande and founded Nuevo Laredo. They even brought the remains of their ancestors so they could rest on Mexican soil.

By 1855, Nuevo Laredo had established an official customs office to manage trade and taxes along the border.

In 1858, a duty-free zone was created to help the city compete with U.S. markets. Trade between Mexico and the USA grew steadily, with Nuevo Laredo becoming a hub for cattle, gold, silver, and leather exports.

In 1881, the railway network was expanded, connecting Nuevo Laredo to central Mexico and San Antonio, Texas.

This led to economic growth, and in 1891, Nuevo Laredo officially became a city.

20th-Century Growth and Challenges

Throughout the 20th century, Nuevo Laredo was a major center for international trade.

The city saw rapid population growth, attracting people from across Mexico. Many government workers were relocated from Mexico City to manage customs operations at the international bridges, railways, and airports.

As the city expanded, development became uneven. The east side was limited by the Rio Grande, so expansion happened in the west. However, this area lacked resources and infrastructure, leading to poverty and crime.

In the 1980s and 1990s, local leaders worked to legalize informal settlements in the west, while in the 2000s and 2010s, efforts focused on paving roads and building schools. However, crime remained a challenge.

Nuevo Laredo has experienced organized crime conflicts. Its location makes it a key route for smuggling goods into the USA. Over the years, different cartels have fought for control, leading to violence and instability.

Nuevo Laredo remains an important trade and commercial hub between Mexico and the USA, with thousands of trucks crossing the border daily. It continues to grow and evolve as a key player in international commerce.

Nuevo Laredo’s economic importance is marked by one of Mexico’s Banderas Monuments, a designation given to monumental flags in key cities and state capitals. This landmark highlights economic and cultural significance.

Nuevo Laredo offers a variety of attractions for visitors.

Culture lovers can visit museums, and art galleries, including the city’s cultural center and historic sites. The Natural History Museum displays fossils and regional history, while the Reyes Mesa Museum showcases local artistic talent.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy parks, a regional zoo, and recreational facilities like El Laguito, where visitors can go boating. Sports facilities include a golf course, stadiums, and multi-purpose arenas.

The vibrant Maclovio Herrera Market offers authentic Mexican crafts and delicacies, while historic buildings like the Old Customs House and the Clock Tower reflect the city’s rich past.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

• Centro Cultural
• Museo de Historia Natural
• Museo José Reyes Meza
• Estación Palabra Gabriel García Márquez
• Casa de la Cultura
• Edificio Antigua Aduana
• Museo Antiguo Banco Longoria
• Archivo Histórico Juan E. Richer
• Espacio de Artes y Oficios “Maquila Creativa”

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

• Parque Ecológico Viveros
• Parque Narciso Mendoza
• Parque Recreativo “El Laguito”
• Parque Morelos

Sports and Recreation

• Ciudad Deportiva
• Unidad Deportiva Benito Juárez
• Club Campestre Riviera del Bravo

Entertainment Venues

• Teatro del IMSS
• Teatro de la Ciudad “Adolfo López Mateos”
• Polyfórum Dr. Rodolfo Torre Cantú
• Plaza de Toros Lauro Luis Longoria

Other Landmarks and Monuments

• Reloj Público de la Plaza Hidalgo
• Mercado Maclovio Herrera
• Hotel Best Western Plus (the tallest building in Nuevo Laredo)
• Zoológico Regional

Nightlife in Nuevo Laredo

Nuevo Laredo’s nightlife offers a mix of energy and tradition. Cantinas and bars offer a relaxed environment where visitors can enjoy tequila, mezcal, and botanas while listening to traditional norteño or banda music.

For those looking to dance, nightclubs and discos stay open late, playing everything from reggaeton and cumbia to electronic beats. Live music is a big part of the scene, with many venues featuring local and regional bands.

Some venues even offer casino-style gambling, adding to the excitement.

For a one-day trip near Nuevo Laredo, you can explore a few charming destinations.

Laredo (on the USA side), offers a vibrant downtown with historic sites like San Agustin Plaza, and the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum. Visit Lake Casa Blanca State Park, which is perfect for fishing, boating, and hiking.

Paseo de los Laredos is a scenic road along the Rio Grande that connects both Laredo cities, with plenty of places to stop, rest, and enjoy the river views. You’ll pass landmarks and enjoy the charming mix of cultures in the area.

Mission San Francisco Javier is a historic Spanish mission site in the nearby small town of Ciudad Guerrero (on the Mexican side), which preserves centuries-old architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Mier is a small town located not far from Nuevo Laredo, is rich in history, and is known for its old architecture, colorful buildings, and proximity to the Rio Grande. Learn about its past and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

These destinations provide a quick escape just a short drive from Nuevo Laredo.

Nuevo Laredo offers a rich culinary experience, blending traditional Mexican flavors with influences from its neighboring Texas culture. The city is known for its vibrant food scene, which includes a mix of hearty meats, fresh seafood, and regional specialties.

Tacos – Tacos are a staple, and Nuevo Laredo offers a wide variety. You’ll find tacos de carne asada, al pastor, and barbacoa, all served with fresh toppings like cilantro, onions, and salsas. The tacos are often accompanied by a cold beverage, like a refreshing agua fresca.

Carne asada – As a border town, the influence of Texas-style BBQ is prominent. Carne asada is a grilled beef steak that is typically served with tortillas, beans, and guacamole, offering a savory, satisfying meal.

Cabrito – A traditional dish in Nuevo Laredo, cabrito (young goat) is slow-cooked over a grill or roasted. It’s a flavorful, tender dish typically served with rice, beans, and a spicy salsa.

Tamales – A beloved dish throughout Mexico, tamales in Nuevo Laredo are often filled with meats, cheese, or chiles, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed to perfection. During special occasions, you’ll find tamales served with mole sauce.

Ceviche – Given the proximity to the coast, seafood plays an important role in the cuisine. Ceviche is a refreshing dish made with fresh fish, shrimp, or scallops, marinated in lime juice and mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and avocado.

Baleadas – This Honduran-inspired dish, popular in Nuevo Laredo, features flour tortillas filled with beans, cheese, cream, and sometimes scrambled eggs or ground beef. It’s a perfect quick and hearty meal.

Street food – The city’s streets are lined with vendors offering delicious snacks like elote (grilled corn on the cob), gorditas (thick corn tortillas filled with a variety of fillings), and churros (fried dough coated in cinnamon and sugar).

In Nuevo Laredo, you’ll also find fusion dishes that combine traditional Mexican flavors with Texan BBQ influences, like brisket tacos and chili con carne. Dining in Nuevo Laredo is a blend of cultural flavors that create a memorable experience for any food lover.

Carnaval de Nuevo Laredo

This annual celebration is one of the most significant festivals in the city, taking place before Lent.

Carnival is a time of joy and revelry, with parades, colorful costumes, traditional music, and dancing. The streets come alive with floats, live performances, and the crowning of a Carnival Queen, creating an atmosphere of excitement and festivity.

Fiesta de la Virgen de San Juan de los Lagos

This religious festival, which celebrates the Virgin of San Juan de los Lagos, takes place every February.

Pilgrims from all over the region visit the church dedicated to the Virgin, asking for blessings and making offerings. The event includes religious ceremonies, processions, and cultural activities, drawing people from across the border.

Feria y Expo Feria de Nuevo Laredo

This event is a large fair that combines fun, food, and entertainment. It features amusement rides, games, live performances, music, and traditional dances. It’s an event that gathers the community to celebrate with food, drinks, and fun.

There are three bridges in the Nuevo Laredo area:

• International Bridge #1, the oldest bridge
• International Bridge #2, also known as Juarez-Lincoln (no pedestrians)
• International Bridge #3, also known as the Free Trade (“Libre Comercio Bridge”), was inaugurated in 1999 (cargo only)

Colombia-Solidarity Bridge is located about 32 km from the city.

Cross from Laredo, U.S. to Nuevo Laredo

There are 3 bridge crossings, but 1 of them is commercial only (24 hours opened).

Both regular traffic and city crossings are difficult for RVs and large vehicles. So if you have a large vehicle or are intimidated by traffic and little parking, the Colombia crossing about 32 km away to the North is for you.

By bus

From Monterrey: 3 hours
From Reynosa: from 3 to 4,5 hours

Airport

Nuevo Laredo is served by Quetzalcoatl Airport with daily flights to Mexico City.

Laredo International Airport in Laredo (on the USA side) has daily flights to Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, three times weekly flights to Las Vegas, and twice weekly (from May to August) to Orlando.

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