Hotel Laredo

Touted as "The Gateway to Mexico," Laredo is a town steeped in rich history. Since its founding over 250 years ago, it has grown from a small Mexican villa into the largest inlet port in the U.S. In the late nineteenth century Laredo sat as the capital of the independent Republic of the Rio Grande and was a major factor in the Mexican-American war, as the two countries fought for ownership of a great deal of land located in that region of the country. After its occupation by the infamous Texas Rangers, the Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo was signed and the area was formally and permanently ceded to the United States. Nearly one hundred years later, a whole new generation of people were introduced to the city through a network television program called, appropriately, "Laredo," which aired in the late sixties; many more can hum along to the famous cowboy ballad "Streets of Laredo," sometimes credited as "The Cowboy's Lament" and remade by such famous country-western performers as Johnny Cash, Roy Rogers and Arlo Guthrie.

But Laredo is so much more than just a dusty, picturesque old cowboy town. As a bustling hub of trade, Laredo has established itself as a crucial part of the country's import and export business. Its accessibility is a key factor in international trade, with an international airport and proximity to several major highways within Laredo's borders. In fact, nearly half of United States trade bound for Mexico passes through Laredo's port; almost as much of Mexico's trade coming into the United States does so as well. Combine this heavy volume of trade with the town's festivals and events, and of course the campus happenings of Laredo's Texas A&M International University campus, and the need for accommodations is ever on the rise. While Laredo has steadily climbed in the number of people who call it home over the years, finding its place among the top 100 cities in population in the United States, it has held tightly to a small-town feel, honoring local traditions dating back hundreds of years. Visitors will find Laredo's residents to be pleasant, hard-working people who take great pride in their city's contributions, both past and present, to making Texas such a popular, significant place to be.

Offering respite to the myriad business people, trade experts, tourists and college visitors that flock to the town, each hotel Laredo has to offer - be it a small boutique or a nationally recognized chain - adheres to Laredo's friendly, welcoming way of doing things. Whether you're in town for business and in need of the most up-to-date facilities, or visiting the Washington's Birthday Celebration (a world-famous festival held throughout the month of February that attracts hundreds of thousands of guests to Laredo hotels each year), you are sure to find a place to stay for the length of your visit, one that is able to meet each and every one of your preferences. The Spanish colonial influence blends seamlessly with enthusiastic, colorful Mexican character. Each hotel Laredo accredits is carefully positioned near a significant attraction, landmark or city center, in order to best suit its guests and their particular needs. Downtown has earned the nickname "The Strip" for its popular party scene, replete with clubs, bars, restaurants and hotels. There are a multitude of scenic spots, from historic churches to the university's acclaimed Planetarium, which encompass the blended flavor of the region's rich history and growth trends. The Laredo Entertainment Center hosts sporting events like CHL champion Laredo Bucks hockey, as well as indoor football matches, a soccer club and a popular minor league baseball team. For nearly eighty years Laredo has also been the proud home for the Border Olympics, an annual track and field competition for students, both college and high school, across the state of Texas and throughout Mexico. Not a sports fan? No problem; check out a performance at the university's Center for the Performing Arts, where you'll be able to see experimental theater, traveling Broadway shows and music from any number of bands and musicians.

All the special interests, business and leisure alike, are certain to keep you busy and on the move throughout your time in Laredo. A welcoming smile, an inviting setting and a comfortable bed are imperative to keeping you happy and hospitable. The personnel, staff and management of all lodging available to you in Laredo know this, and work hard to ensure your satisfaction. From the prestigious accommodations of a large and plush suite to the warm and welcoming rooms available for travelers on a budget, Laredo hotels aim to please.